Ben Sira 40:19-29

19 Children and the building of a city continue a man's name, but a blameless wife is counted above them both.
20 Wine and music rejoice the heart, but the love of wisdom is above them both.
21 The pipe and the psaltery make sweet melody, but a pleasant tongue is above them both.
22 Thine eye desireth favor and beauty, but more than both corn while it is green.
23 A friend and companion never meet amiss, but above both is a wife with her husband.
24 Brethren and help are against time of trouble, but alms shall deliver more than them both.
25 Gold and silver make the foot stand sure, but counsel is esteemed above them both.
26 Riches and strength lift up the heart, but the fear of the Lord is above them both. There is no want in the fear of the Lord, and it needeth not to seek help.
27 The fear of the Lord is a fruitful garden, and covereth him above all glory.
28 My son, lead not a beggar's life, for better it is to die than to beg.
29 The life of him that dependeth on another man's table is not to be counted for a life, for he polluteth himself with other men's meat; but a wise man well-nurtured will beware thereof.
Third Millennium Bible (TMB), New Authorized Version, Copyright 1998 by Deuel Enterprises, Inc., Gary, SD 57237. All rights reserved.