Ben Sira 4:22-30

22 Do not let others have their way at your expense; do not bring on your own ruin by giving up your rights.

23 Never hesitate to speak out when the occasion calls for it. Don't hide your wisdom.

24 Your wisdom and education can be known only by what you say.

25 Do not, however, go against the truth, and remember that you do not know everything.

26 Don't be ashamed to confess your sins; there's no point in trying to stop a river from flowing.

27 Don't allow yourself to be dominated by someone who is stupid or show partiality to influential people.

28 Stand up for what is right, even if it costs you your life; the Lord God will be fighting on your side.

29 Don't be quick to speak or lazy and negligent in your work.

30 Don't act like a lion at home or be suspicious of your servants.

Footnotes

• [a]. [Probable text] the occasion; [Greek] safety.
• [b]. [Hebrew] Don't hide your wisdom; [most Greek manuscripts do not have these words; other Greek manuscripts] Don't hide your wisdom for the sake of appearances.