Ben Sira 7:17-27

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.
24 Do you have daughters? Be concerned for their chastity, and do not show yourself too indulgent with them.
25 Give a daughter in marriage, and you complete a great task; but give her to a sensible man.
26 Do you have a wife who pleases you? Do not divorce her; but do not trust yourself to one whom you detest.
27 With all your heart honor your father, and do not forget the birth pangs of your mother.

Footnotes 6

  • [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]
  • [e]. Gk [body]
  • [f]. Heb Syr lack [who pleases you]
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.