Ben Sira 33:27

27 Keep him at work, and don't let him be idle; idleness can only teach him how to make trouble.

Ben Sira 33:27 In-Context

25 If you make your slave work, you can set your mind at ease. If you don't keep him busy, he will be looking for freedom.

26 You can use a harness and yoke to tame an animal, and a slave can be tortured in the stocks.

27 Keep him at work, and don't let him be idle; idleness can only teach him how to make trouble.

28 Work is what he needs. If he won't obey you, put him in chains.

29 But don't be too severe with anyone, and never be unfair.