15
My son, do not mix reproach with your good deeds, nor cause grief by your words when you present a gift.
16
Does not the dew assuage the scorching heat? So a word is better than a gift.
17
Indeed, does not a word surpass a good gift? Both are to be found in a gracious man.
18
A fool is ungracious and abusive, and the gift of a grudging man makes the eyes dim.
19
Before you speak, learn, and before you fall ill, take care of your health.
20
Before judgment, examine yourself, and in the hour of visitation you will find forgiveness.
21
Before falling ill, humble yourself, and when you are on the point of sinning, turn back.
22
Let nothing hinder you from paying a vow promptly, and do not wait until death to be released from it.
23
Before making a vow, prepare yourself; and do not be like a man who tempts the Lord.
24
Think of his wrath on the day of death, and of the moment of vengeance when he turns away his face.
25
In the time of plenty think of the time of hunger; in the days of wealth think of poverty and need.