Ben Sira 29:21

21 The chief thing for life is water and bread and clothing, and a house to cover shame.

Ben Sira 29:21 In-Context

19 A wicked man, transgressing the commandments of the Lord, shall fall into suretyship, and he that undertaketh and followeth other men's business for gain shall fall into suits.

20 Help thy neighbor according to thy power, and beware that thou thyself fall not into the same.

21 The chief thing for life is water and bread and clothing, and a house to cover shame.

22 Better is the life of a poor man in a mean cottage, than delicate fare in another man's house.

23 Be it little or much, hold thee contented, that thou hear not the reproach of thy house.