Ben Sira 18:16

16 Does not the dew assuage the scorching heat? So a word is better than a gift.

Ben Sira 18:16 In-Context

14 He has compassion on those who accept his discipline and who are eager for his judgments.
15 My son, do not mix reproach with your good deeds, nor cause grief by your words when you present a gift.
16 Does not the dew assuage the scorching heat? So a word is better than a gift.
17 Indeed, does not a word surpass a good gift? Both are to be found in a gracious man.
18 A fool is ungracious and abusive, and the gift of a grudging man makes the eyes dim.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the 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.