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Sirach 8, RSV

8:1 Do not contend with a powerful man, lest you fall into his hands.

8:2 Do not quarrel with a rich man, lest his resources outweigh yours; for gold has ruined many, and has perverted the minds of kings.

8:3 Do not argue with a chatterer, nor heap wood on his fire.

8:4 Do not jest with an ill-bred person, lest your ancestors be disgraced.

8:5 Do not reproach a man who is turning away from sin; remember that we all deserve punishment.

8:6 Do not disdain a man when he is old, for some of us are growing old.

8:7 Do not rejoice over any one's death; remember that we all must die.

8:8 Do not slight the discourse of the sages, but busy yourself with their maxims; because from them you will gain instruction and learn how to serve great men.

8:9 Do not disregard the discourse of the aged, for they themselves learned from their fathers; because from them you will gain understanding and learn how to give an answer in time of need.

8:10 Do not kindle the coals of a sinner, lest you be burned in his flaming fire.

8:11 Do not get up and leave an insolent fellow, lest he lie in ambush against your words.

8:12 Do not lend to a man who is stronger than you; but if you do lend anything, be as one who has lost it.

8:13 Do not give surety beyond your means, but if you give surety, be concerned as one who must pay.

8:14 Do not go to law against a judge, for the decision will favor him because of his standing.

8:15 Do not travel on the road with a foolhardy fellow, lest he be burdensome to you; for he will act as he pleases, and through his folly you will perish with him.

8:16 Do not fight with a wrathful man, and do not cross the wilderness with him; because blood is as nothing in his sight, and where no help is at hand, he will strike you down.

8:17 Do not consult with a fool, for he will not be able to keep a secret.

8:18 In the presence of a stranger do nothing that is to be kept secret, for you do not know what he will divulge.

8:19 Do not reveal your thoughts to every one, lest you drive away your good luck.

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