Ben Sira 30:1-11

1 He that loveth his son causeth him oft to feel the rod, that he may have joy in him in the end.

2 He that chastiseth his son shall have joy in him, and shall rejoice in him among his acquaintances.

3 He that teacheth his son grieveth the enemy, and before his friends he shall rejoice in him.

4 Though his father die, yet he is as though he were not dead, for he hath left one behind him that is like himself.

5 While he lived, he saw and rejoiced in him; and when he died, he was not sorrowful.

6 He left behind him an avenger against his enemies, and one that shall requite kindness to his friends.

7 He that maketh too much of his son shall bind up his wounds, and his conscience will be troubled at every cry.

8 A horse not broken becometh headstrong, and a child left to himself will be willful.

9 Pamper thy child, and he shall make thee afraid; play with him, and he will bring thee to heaviness.

10 Laugh not with him, lest thou have sorrow with him, and lest thou gnash thy teeth in the end.

11 Give him no liberty in his youth, and wink not at his follies.