The Powered Access Bible:
Passage Lookup

Sirach 32, RSV

32:1 If they make you master of the feast, do not exalt yourself; be among them as one of them; take good care of them and then be seated;

32:2 when you have fulfilled your duties, take your place, that you may be merry on their account and receive a wreath for your excellent leadership.

32:3 Speak, you who are older, for it is fitting that you should, but with accurate knowledge, and do not interrupt the music.

32:4 Where there is entertainment, do not pour out talk; do not display your cleverness out of season.

32:5 A ruby seal in a setting of gold is a concert of music at a banquet of wine.

32:6 A seal of emerald in a rich setting of gold is the melody of music with good wine.

32:7 Speak, young man, if there is need of you, but no more than twice, and only if asked.

32:8 Speak concisely, say much in few words; be as one who knows and yet holds his tongue.

32:9 Among the great do not act as their equal; and when another is speaking, do not babble.

32:10 Lightning speeds before the thunder, and approval precedes a modest man.

32:11 Leave in good time and do not be the last; go home quickly and do not linger.

32:12 Amuse yourself there, and do what you have in mind, but do not sin through proud speech.

32:13 And for these things bless him who made you and satisfies you with his good gifts.

32:14 He who fears the Lord will accept his discipline, and those who rise early to seek him will find favor.

32:15 He who seeks the law will be filled with it, but the hypocrite will stumble at it.

32:16 Those who fear the Lord will form true judgments, and like a light they will kindle righteous deeds.

32:17 A sinful man will shun reproof, and will find a decision according to his liking.

32:18 A man of judgment will not overlook an idea, and an insolent and proud man will not cower in fear.

32:19 Do nothing without deliberation; and when you have acted, do not regret it.

32:20 Do not go on a path full of hazards, and do not stumble over stony ground.

32:21 Do not be overconfident on a smooth way,

32:22 and give good heed to your paths.

32:23 Guard yourself in every act, for this is the keeping of the commandments.

32:24 He who believes the law gives heed to the commandments, and he who trusts the Lord will not suffer loss.

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Terms of Use