Ben Sira 37:1-6

1 Anyone can claim to be your friend, but some people are friends in name only.

2 The grief caused when a close friendship turns sour is as bad as death.

3 This evil impulse we have! Why was it ever formed? How did it manage to cover the earth with deceit?

4 Some people will be your friend as long as things are going well, but they will turn against you when trouble comes.

5 A real friend will help you against your enemies and protect you in the fight.

6 Never forget such companions in battle; share the results of your victory with them.

Footnotes

• [a]. [Hebrew] real; [Greek does not have this word.]
• [b]. [Hebrew] against your enemies; [Greek] hoping to get a meal.
• [c]. [Hebrew] in battle; [Greek] in your soul.