Wisdom of Sirach 32
1If you be made the master of a feast, lift not yourself up, but be among them as one of the rest; take diligent care for them, and so sit down.
2And when you have done all your office, take your place, that you may be merry with them, and receive a crown for your well ordering of the feast.
3Speak, you that are the elder, for it becomes you, but with sound judgment; and hinder not musick.
4Pour not out words where there is a musician, and show not forth wisdom out of time.
5A concert of musick in a banquet of wine is as a signet of carbuncle set in gold.
6As a signet of an emerald set in a work of gold, so is the melody of musick with pleasant wine.
7Speak, young man, if there be need of you: and yet scarcely when you are twice asked.
8Let your speech be short, comprehending much in few words; be as one that knows and yet holds his tongue.
9If you be among great men, make not yourself equal with them; and when ancient men are in place, use not many words.
10Before the thunder goes lightning; and before a shamefaced man shall go favor.
11Rise up betimes, and be not the last; but get you home without delay.
12There take your pastime, and do what you will: but sin not by proud speech.
13And for these things bless him that made you, and has replenished you with his good things.
14Whoso fears the Lord will receive his discipline; and they that seek him early shall find favor.
15He that seeks the law shall be filled therewith: but the hypocrite will be offended thereat.
16They that fear the Lord shall find judgment, and shall kindle justice as a light.
17A sinful man will not be reproved, but finds an excuse according to his will.
18A man of counsel will be considerate; but a strange and proud man is not daunted with fear, even when of himself he has done without counsel.
19Do nothing without advice; and when you have once done, repent not.
20Go not in a way wherein you may fall, and stumble not among the stones.
21Be not confident in a plain way.
22And beware of your own children.
23In every good work trust your own soul; for this is the keeping of the commandments.
24He that believes in the Lord takes heed to the commandment; and he that trusts in him shall fare never the worse.
Commentaries for Wisdom of Sirach 32:0