Ben Sira 32:3-13

3 If you are older than most of the guests, you may talk; that is your right. But you should know what you are talking about and not interrupt the music.
4 If entertainment is being provided, don't keep up a steady conversation; it's the wrong time to show off your wit.
5 Music at a banquet where wine is served is like a ruby set in gold.
6 Good music and good wine - an emerald set in gold.
7 If you are young, don't speak unless you have to, but never more than twice, and only if someone speaks to you first.
8 Come to the point and say it all in a few words. Show that you are well-informed, but stay quiet.
9 Don't treat important people as if you were their equal and don't make a nuisance of yourself by asking them a lot of questions.
10 The reputation of a modest person goes before him, as lightning before thunder.
11 Leave the party at the right time and never be the last to go. Don't linger at the door; just go straight home.
12 There you can enjoy yourself as you wish, but don't commit the sin of bragging.
13 And don't forget to thank your Creator for letting you enjoy so many good things.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. [Hebrew] make . . . questions; [Greek] keep talking when someone else is speaking.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.