Ben Sira 34:25

25 If you touch a dead body and then purify yourself by washing, but then go and touch it again, what good did the washing do?

Ben Sira 34:25 In-Context

23 When one person builds and somebody else tears down, has anything been accomplished but hard work?

24 When one person blesses and somebody else curses, which one is the Lord going to listen to?

25 If you touch a dead body and then purify yourself by washing, but then go and touch it again, what good did the washing do?

26 If you fast because of your sins, and then go out and commit the same sins over again, what have you gained by going without food? Who do you think is going to listen to your prayers?