Ben Sira 27:5

5 The kiln tests the potter's vessels; so the test of a man is in his reasoning.

Ben Sira 27:5 In-Context

3 If a man is not steadfast and zealous in the fear of the Lord, his house will be quickly overthrown.

4 When a sieve is shaken, the refuse remains; so a man's filth remains in his thoughts.

5 The kiln tests the potter's vessels; so the test of a man is in his reasoning.

6 The fruit discloses the cultivation of a tree; so the expression of a thought discloses the cultivation of a man's mind.

7 Do not praise a man before you hear him reason, for this is the test of men.