Ben Sira 26:5

5 There are four things that scare me: vicious rumors spread around town, a gathering mob, false accusations - these are all worse than death.

Ben Sira 26:5 In-Context

3 A good wife is among the precious blessings given to those who fear the Lord.
4 Whether such men are rich or poor, they will be happy and always look cheerful.
5 There are four things that scare me: vicious rumors spread around town, a gathering mob, false accusations - these are all worse than death.
6 But a woman jealous of another woman causes heartache and grief; her tongue lashes out at everyone.
7 A bad wife is like a yoke that doesn't fit. Trying to control her is like holding a scorpion.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.