Ben Sira 37:17

17 The mind is the root of all conduct;

Ben Sira 37:17 In-Context

15 But above all pray to the Most High that he may direct your way in truth.

16 Discussion is the beginning of every work, and counsel precedes every undertaking.

17 The mind is the root of all conduct;

18 it sprouts four branches, good and evil, life and death; and it is the tongue that continually rules them.

19 Some people may be clever enough to teach many, and yet be useless to themselves.