Ben Sira 3:24-30

24 For their conceit has led many astray, and wrong opinion has impaired their judgment.
25 Without eyes there is no light; without knowledge there is no wisdom.
26 A stubborn mind will fare badly at the end, and whoever loves danger will perish in it.
27 A stubborn mind will be burdened by troubles, and the sinner adds sin to sins.
28 When calamity befalls the proud, there is no healing, for an evil plant has taken root in him.
29 The mind of the intelligent appreciates proverbs, and an attentive ear is the desire of the wise.
30 As water extinguishes a blazing fire, so almsgiving atones for sin.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Heb: Other ancient authorities lack verse 25
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.