16
My child, let your tears fall for the dead, and as one in great pain begin the lament. Lay out the body with due ceremony, and do not neglect the burial.
17
Let your weeping be bitter and your wailing fervent; make your mourning worthy of the departed, for one day, or two, to avoid criticism; then be comforted for your grief.
18
For grief may result in death, and a sorrowful heart saps one's strength.
19
When a person is taken away, sorrow is over; but the life of the poor weighs down the heart.
20
Do not give your heart to grief; drive it away, and remember your own end.
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.