Old Testament

New Testament

Sirach 28:1-14 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

1. Whoever wishes for vengeance will find vengeance from the Lord, and he will surely be attentive to his sins.

2. Forgive your neighbor, if he has harmed you, and then your sins will be forgiven you when you pray.

3. A man holds on to anger against another man, and does he then seek a remedy from God?

4. He has no mercy on a man like himself, and does he then entreat for his own sins?

5. He who is but flesh holds on to anger, and does he then request forgiveness from God? Who can obtain pardon for his sins in this way?

6. Remember your very end, and let animosities cease.

7. For corruption and death are suspended over his commandments.

8. Remember the fear of God, and do not be angry with your neighbor.

9. Remember the covenant of the Most High, and overlook the ignorant offenses of your neighbor.

10. Refrain from strife, and you will diminish your sins.

11. For a ill-tempered man enflames conflict, and a sinful man troubles his friends, and he casts hostility into the midst of those who have peace.

12. For the fire burns according to the wood of the forest. And the anger of a man burns according to the strength of the man. And according to his resources, he will exalt his anger.

13. A hasty contention kindles a fire. And a hasty quarrel sheds blood. And an accusatory tongue brings death.

14. If you blow on a spark, it will increase to a fire. But if you spit on it, it will be extinguished. Both of these proceed from the mouth.

Read complete chapter Sirach 28