Ben Sira 20:1-11

1 There is a reproof that is not comely; again, some man holdeth his tongue, and he is wise.
2 It is much better to reprove than to be angry secretly, and he that confesseth his fault shall be preserved from hurt.
3 How good is it, when thou art reproved, to show repentance! For so shalt thou escape willful sin.
4 As is the lust of a eunuch to deflower a virgin, so is he that executeth judgment with violence.
5 There is one that keepeth silence and is found wise, and another by much babbling becometh hateful.
6 Some man holdeth his tongue, because he hath not the answer; and some keepeth silence, knowing his time.
7 A wise man will hold his tongue till he see opportunity, but a babbler and a fool will regard no time.
8 He that useth many words shall be abhorred, and he that taketh to himself authority therein shall be hated.
9 There is a sinner that hath good success in evil things, and there is a gain that turneth to loss.
10 There is a gift that shall not profit thee, and there is a gift whose recompense is double.
11 There is an abasement because of glory, and there is one that lifteth up his head from a low estate.
Third Millennium Bible (TMB), New Authorized Version, Copyright 1998 by Deuel Enterprises, Inc., Gary, SD 57237. All rights reserved.