Sirach 8:1-10

Circumstances to avoid

1 Don't fight with powerful people, or you might fall into their hands.
2 Don't argue with rich people, since they might outmatch your resources; for gold has destroyed many, and it has turned aside the hearts of kings.
3 Don't fight with talkative people, adding fuel to their fire.
4 Don't make fun of the uneducated, or your ancestors might be insulted. turning away from sin; remember that we are all worthy of punishment.
5 Don't reproach someone
6 Don't dishonor people in their old age; some of us are growing old as well.
7 Don't celebrate because someone has died; remember that we all will pass away.
8 Don't neglect the conversation of the wise, but keep returning to their proverbs, because you will learn instruction from them, how to minister to dignitaries.
9 Don't reject the words of the aged, because they also learned from their elders, and you will learn understanding from them and how to give an answer when it is necessary. and don't let his fire set you ablaze.
10 Don't stoke up the coals of a sinner,
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