Ben Sira 37:5

5 A real friend will help you against your enemies and protect you in the fight.

Ben Sira 37:5 In-Context

3 This evil impulse we have! Why was it ever formed? How did it manage to cover the earth with deceit?
4 Some people will be your friend as long as things are going well, but they will turn against you when trouble comes.
5 A real friend will help you against your enemies and protect you in the fight.
6 Never forget such companions in battle; share the results of your victory with them.
7 Anyone can give advice, but some people do so only in their own interest.

Footnotes 2

  • [a]. [Hebrew] real; [Greek does not have this word.]
  • [b]. [Hebrew] against your enemies; [Greek] hoping to get a meal.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.