Ben Sira 38:25

25 How can a farm hand gain knowledge, when his only ambition is to drive the oxen and make them work, when all he knows to talk about is livestock?

Ben Sira 38:25 In-Context

23 When the dead have been laid to rest, let the memory of them fade. Once they are gone, take courage.

24 Scholars must have time to study if they are going to be wise; they must be relieved of other responsibilities.

25 How can a farm hand gain knowledge, when his only ambition is to drive the oxen and make them work, when all he knows to talk about is livestock?

26 He takes great pains to plow a straight furrow and will work far into the night to feed the animals.

27 It is the same with the artist and the craftsman, who work night and day engraving precious stones, carefully working out new designs. They take great pains to produce a lifelike image, and will work far into the night to finish the work.