12
Some he blessed and exalted, and some he made holy and brought near to himself; but some he cursed and brought low, and turned them out of their place.
13
Like clay in the hand of the potter, to be molded as he pleases, so all are in the hand of their Maker, to be given whatever he decides.
14
Good is the opposite of evil, and life the opposite of death; so the sinner is the opposite of the godly.
15
Look at all the works of the Most High; they come in pairs, one the opposite of the other.
16
Now I was the last to keep vigil; I was like a gleaner following the grape-pickers;
17
by the blessing of the Lord I arrived first, and like a grape-picker I filled my wine press.
18
Consider that I have not labored for myself alone, but for all who seek instruction.
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Hear me, you who are great among the people, and you leaders of the congregation, pay heed!
20
To son or wife, to brother or friend, do not give power over yourself, as long as you live; and do not give your property to another, in case you change your mind and must ask for it.
21
While you are still alive and have breath in you, do not let anyone take your place.
22
For it is better that your children should ask from you than that you should look to the hand of your children.