Ben Sira 27:23-30

23 When he's with you, his talk is so nice! He compliments you on every word you say. But behind your back it's a different story; he will take what you have said and turn it against you.
24 There is nothing in the world that I hate as much as a person like that - and the Lord hates him too.
25 Throw a stone straight up in the air and it will come down on your head. Strike a blow, and you yourself will be wounded.
26 People who set traps fall into them themselves.
27 People who hurt others will be hurt by their own actions and will have no idea why.
28 Arrogant people insult others and make fun of them, but someone is waiting like a lion for a chance to take revenge on them.
29 Those who are happy to witness the downfall of devout people are going to fall into a trap and die a painful death.
30 Anger and a hot temper are horrible things, but sinners have both.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. insult others . . . them; [or] will be insulted and mocked.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.