20
It turns every thought to feasting and mirth, and forgets all sorrow and debt.
21
It makes all hearts feel rich, forgets kings and satraps, and makes every one talk in millions.
22
When men drink they forget to be friendly with friends and brothers, and before long they draw their swords.
23
And when they recover from the wine, they do not remember what they have done.
24
Gentlemen, is not wine the strongest, since it forces men to do these things?" When he had said this, he stopped speaking.
1Esdr.4
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.