Ben Sira 7:13-23

13 Refuse to utter any lie, for it is a habit that results in no good.
14 Do not babble in the assembly of the elders, and do not repeat yourself when you pray.
15 Do not hate hard labor or farm work, which was created by the Most High.
16 Do not enroll in the ranks of sinners; remember that retribution does not delay.
17 Humble yourself to the utmost, for the punishment of the ungodly is fire and worms.
18 Do not exchange a friend for money, or a real brother for the gold of Ophir.
19 Do not dismiss a wise and good wife, for her charm is worth more than gold.
20 Do not abuse slaves who work faithfully, or hired laborers who devote themselves to their task.
21 Let your soul love intelligent slaves; do not withhold from them their freedom.
22 Do you have cattle? Look after them; if they are profitable to you, keep them.
23 Do you have children? Discipline them, and make them obedient from their youth.

Footnotes 4

  • [a]. Heb [for the expectation of mortals is worms]
  • [b]. Heb: Gk [deprive yourself of]
  • [c]. Heb [Love a wise slave as yourself]
  • [d]. Gk [bend their necks]
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.