Sirach 32
32
1If 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;
2when you have fulfilled your duties,
take your place, that you may be merry on their account
and receive a wreath for your excellent leadership.
3Speak, you who are older, for it is fitting that you should,
but with accurate knowledge, and do not interrupt the music.
4Where there is entertainment, do not pour out talk;
do not display your cleverness out of season.
5A ruby seal in a setting of gold
is a concert of music at a banquet of wine.
6A seal of emerald in a rich setting of gold
is the melody of music with good wine.
7Speak, young man, if there is need of you,
but no more than twice, and only if asked.
8Speak concisely, say much in few words;
be as one who knows and yet holds his tongue.
9Among the great do not act as their equal;
and when another is speaking, do not babble.
10Lightning speeds before the thunder,
and approval precedes a modest man.
11Leave in good time and do not be the last;
go home quickly and do not linger.
12Amuse yourself there, and do what you have in mind,
but do not sin through proud speech.
13And for these things bless him who made you
and satisfies you with his good gifts.
14He who fears the Lord will accept his discipline,
and those who rise early to seek him#32.14 Other authorities omit to seek him will find favor.
15He who seeks the law will be filled with it,
but the hypocrite will stumble at it.
16Those who fear the Lord will form true judgments,
and like a light they will kindle righteous deeds.
17A sinful man will shun reproof,
and will find a decision according to his liking.
18A man of judgment will not overlook an idea,
and an insolent#32.18 Heb: Gk alien and proud man will not cower in fear.#32.18 The meaning of this line is uncertain. Other authorities add the phrases and after acting, with him, without deliberation
19Do nothing without deliberation;
and when you have acted, do not regret it.
20Do not go on a path full of hazards,
and do not stumble over stony ground.
21Do not be overconfident on a smooth#32.21 Or an unexplored way,
22and give good heed to your paths.#32.22 Syr Vg: Gk and beware of your children
23Guard#32.23 Heb Syr: Gk Trust yourself in every act,
for this is the keeping of the commandments.
24He who believes the law gives heed to the commandments,
and he who trusts the Lord will not suffer loss.
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Sirach 32: RSV-C
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Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America