Sirach 6:1

1 Don't become an enemy instead of a friend. If you get a bad name, you will also inherit shame and reproach, as is the case with the deceitful sinner.

Sirach 6:1 In-Context

1 Don't become an enemy instead of a friend. If you get a bad name, you will also inherit shame and reproach, as is the case with the deceitful sinner.

2 Don't be enamored of your own intelligence lest your strength be taken captive like a bull.

3 You will devour your leaves, destroy your fruit, and leave yourself like a withered tree.

4 If you have a bad soul, it will destroy you; it will make you a joke to your enemies.

5 Pleasant speech gains more friends for itself, and a sweet-speaking tongue will multiply pleasant exchanges.

Footnotes

• [a] LXX double-tongued