Ben Sira 30:18-25

18 Good things poured out upon a mouth that is closed are like offerings of food placed upon a grave.

19 Of what use to an idol is a sacrifice? For it can neither eat nor smell. So is the one punished by the Lord;

20 he sees with his eyes and groans as a eunuch groans when embracing a girl.

21 Do not give yourself over to sorrow, and do not distress yourself deliberately.

22 A joyful heart is life itself, and rejoicing lengthens one's life span.

23 Indulge yourself and take comfort, and remove sorrow far from you, for sorrow has destroyed many, and no advantage ever comes from it.

24 Jealousy and anger shorten life, and anxiety brings on premature old age.

25 Those who are cheerful and merry at table will benefit from their food.

Footnotes

• [a]. Other ancient authorities add [So is the person who does right under compulsion]
• [b]. Other ancient authorities read [Beguile yourself]