Ben Sira 32:3-13

3 Speak, thou that art the elder, for it becometh thee, but with sound judgment; and hinder not music.
4 Pour not out words where there is a musician, and show not forth wisdom out of time.
5 A concert of music in a banquet of wine is as a signet of ruby set in gold.
6 As a signet of an emerald set in a work of gold, so is the melody of music with pleasant wine.
7 Speak, young man, if there be need of thee, and yet scarcely when thou art twice asked.
8 Let thy speech be short, comprehending much in few words; be as one that knoweth and yet holdeth his tongue.
9 If thou be among great men, make not thyself equal with them; and when aged men are in place, use not many words.
10 Before the thunder goeth lightning, and before a shamefaced man shall go favor.
11 Rise up in good time, and be not the last, but get thee home without delay.
12 There take thy pastime, and do what thou wilt, but sin not by proud speech.
13 And for these things bless Him that made thee, and hath replenished thee with His good things.
Third Millennium Bible (TMB), New Authorized Version, Copyright 1998 by Deuel Enterprises, Inc., Gary, SD 57237. All rights reserved.