Ben Sira 37:1-8

1 Anyone can claim to be your friend, but some people are friends in name only.

2 The grief caused when a close friendship turns sour is as bad as death.

3 This evil impulse we have! Why was it ever formed? How did it manage to cover the earth with deceit?

4 Some people will be your friend as long as things are going well, but they will turn against you when trouble comes.

5 A real friend will help you against your enemies and protect you in the fight.

6 Never forget such companions in battle; share the results of your victory with them.

7 Anyone can give advice, but some people do so only in their own interest.

8 Be careful when somebody offers you advice. Find out first what his interest in the matter is, because you can be sure that he is thinking primarily of himself. Why should he come out on top instead of you?

Footnotes

• [a]. [Hebrew] real; [Greek does not have this word.]
• [b]. [Hebrew] against your enemies; [Greek] hoping to get a meal.
• [c]. [Hebrew] in battle; [Greek] in your soul.
• [d]. [Hebrew] Why . . . you?; [Greek] He may use his influence against you.