Ben Sira 28:5-15

5 If he himself, being flesh, maintains wrath, who will make expiation for his sins?
6 Remember the end of your life, and cease from enmity, remember destruction and death, and be true to the commandments.
7 Remember the commandments, and do not be angry with your neighbor; remember the covenant of the Most High, and overlook ignorance.
8 Refrain from strife, and you will lessen sins; for a man given to anger will kindle strife,
9 and a sinful man will disturb friends and inject enmity among those who are at peace.
10 In proportion to the fuel for the fire, so will be the burning, and in proportion to the obstinacy of strife will be the burning; in proportion to the strength of the man will be his anger, and in proportion to his wealth he will heighten his wrath.
11 A hasty quarrel kindles fire, and urgent strife sheds blood.
12 If you blow on a spark, it will glow; if you spit on it, it will be put out; and both come out of your mouth.
13 Curse the whisperer and deceiver, for he has destroyed many who were at peace.
14 Slander has shaken many, and scattered them from nation to nation, and destroyed strong cities, and overturned the houses of great men.
15 Slander has driven away courageous women, and deprived them of the fruit of their toil.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the 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.