Ben Sira 26:4-14

4 Whether rich or poor, his heart is content, and at all times his face is cheerful.
5 Of three things my heart is frightened, and of a fourth I am in great fear: Slander in the city, the gathering of a mob, and false accusation -- all these are worse than death.
6 But it is heartache and sorrow when a wife is jealous of a rival, and a tongue-lashing makes it known to all.
7 A bad wife is a chafing yoke; taking hold of her is like grasping a scorpion.
8 A drunken wife arouses great anger; she cannot hide her shame.
9 The haughty stare betrays an unchaste wife; her eyelids give her away.
10 Keep strict watch over a headstrong daughter, or else, when she finds liberty, she will make use of it.
11 Be on guard against her impudent eye, and do not be surprised if she sins against you.
12 As a thirsty traveler opens his mouth and drinks from any water near him, so she will sit in front of every tent peg and open her quiver to the arrow.
13 A wife's charm delights her husband, and her skill puts flesh on his bones.
14 A silent wife is a gift from the Lord, and nothing is so precious as her self-discipline.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Syr: Meaning of Gk uncertain
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.