18
Hear me, O ye great men of the people, and hearken with your ears, ye rulers of the congregation.
19
Give not thy son and wife, thy brother and friend, power over thee while thou livest, and give not thy goods to another, lest thou repent, and thou entreat for the same again.
20
As long as thou livest and hast breath in thee, give not thyself over to any.
21
For better it is that thy children should seek from thee, than that thou shouldest stand on their courtesy.
22
In all thy works keep to thyself the preeminence; leave not a stain upon thine honor.
23
At the time when thou shalt end thy days and finish thy life, distribute thine inheritance.
24
Fodder, a wand, and burdens are for the ass; and bread, correction, and work for a servant.
25
If thou set thy servant to labor, thou shalt find rest; but if thou let him go idle, he shall seek liberty.
26
A yoke and a collar do bow the neck; so are tortures and torments for an evil servant.
27
Send him to labor, that he be not idle, for idleness teacheth much evil.
28
Set him to work, as is fit for him; if he be not obedient, put on more heavy fetters.