Ben Sira 8:2-12

2 Do not quarrel with a rich man, lest his resources outweigh yours; for gold has ruined many, and has perverted the minds of kings.
3 Do not argue with a chatterer, nor heap wood on his fire.
4 Do not jest with an ill-bred person, lest your ancestors be disgraced.
5 Do not reproach a man who is turning away from sin; remember that we all deserve punishment.
6 Do not disdain a man when he is old, for some of us are growing old.
7 Do not rejoice over any one's death; remember that we all must die.
8 Do not slight the discourse of the sages, but busy yourself with their maxims; because from them you will gain instruction and learn how to serve great men.
9 Do not disregard the discourse of the aged, for they themselves learned from their fathers; because from them you will gain understanding and learn how to give an answer in time of need.
10 Do not kindle the coals of a sinner, lest you be burned in his flaming fire.
11 Do not get up and leave an insolent fellow, lest he lie in ambush against your words.
12 Do not lend to a man who is stronger than you; but if you do lend anything, be as one who has lost it.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the 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.