Ben Sira 8:9-19

9 Miss not the discourse of the elders, for they also learned from their fathers; and from them thou shalt learn understanding, and to give answer as need requireth.
10 Kindle not the coals of a sinner, lest thou be burned with the flame of his fire.
11 Rise not up in anger at the presence of an injurious person, lest he lie in wait to entrap thee in thy words.
12 Lend not unto him that is mightier than thyself; for if thou lendest to him, count it but lost.
13 Be not surety beyond thy power; for if thou be surety, take care to pay it.
14 Go not to law against a judge, for they will judge for him according to his honor.
15 Travel not by the way with a bold fellow, lest he become grievous unto thee; for he will do according to his own will, and thou shalt perish with him through his folly.
16 Strive not with an angry man, and go not with him into a solitary place; for blood is as nothing in his sight, and where there is no help, he will overthrow thee.
17 Consult not with a fool, for he cannot keep counsel.
18 Do no secret thing before a stranger, for thou knowest not what he will bring forth.
19 Open not thine heart to every man, lest he requite thee with an evil turn.
Third Millennium Bible (TMB), New Authorized Version, Copyright 1998 by Deuel Enterprises, Inc., Gary, SD 57237. All rights reserved.