Ben Sira 5:12

12 If you know what to say, answer your neighbor; but if not, put your hand over your mouth.

Ben Sira 5:12 In-Context

10 Stand firm for what you know, and let your speech be consistent.

11 Be quick to hear, but deliberate in answering.

12 If you know what to say, answer your neighbor; but if not, put your hand over your mouth.

13 Honor and dishonor come from speaking, and the tongue of mortals may be their downfall.

14 Do not be called double-tongued and do not lay traps with your tongue; for shame comes to the thief, and severe condemnation to the double-tongued.