Ben Sira 40:19

19 Children and the building of a city establish one's name, but better than either is the one who finds wisdom. Cattle and orchards make one prosperous; but a blameless wife is accounted better than either.

Ben Sira 40:19 In-Context

17 but kindness is like a garden of blessings, and almsgiving endures forever.
18 Wealth and wages make life sweet, but better than either is finding a treasure.
19 Children and the building of a city establish one's name, but better than either is the one who finds wisdom. Cattle and orchards make one prosperous; but a blameless wife is accounted better than either.
20 Wine and music gladden the heart, but the love of friends is better than either.
21 The flute and the harp make sweet melody, but a pleasant voice is better than either.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Heb Syr: Gk lacks [but better . . . prosperous]
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.