Old Testament

New Testament

Sirach 31:9-28 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

9. Who is he? For we should praise him. For he has done wonderful things in his life.

10. He has been tested by it, and has become perfect; he will have eternal glory. He was able to transgress, but he has not transgressed. He was able to do evil, but he has not done evil.

11. Therefore, his good things are established in the Lord, and the entire Church of the saints will proclaim his almsgiving.

12. Are you seated at a great table? You should not open your mouth over it first.

13. You should not speak in this way: "There are many things that are upon it."

14. Remember that a wicked eye is evil.

15. What has been made more wicked than the eye? Therefore, when it sees, it will shed tears over the entire face.

16. You should not extend your hand first, for then, having been corrupted by envy, you would be ashamed.

17. You should not press forward at a feast.

18. Understand which things are your neighbor's and not your own.

19. Make use of the things that are set before you, just as a frugal man would. Otherwise, if you eat much, you will be hated.

20. Cease eating first, for the sake of discipline. And do not eat to excess, lest you offend.

21. And if you sit in the midst of many, you should not extend your hand before they do, and you should not be the first to ask for a drink.

22. How sufficient is a little wine for a well-taught man! For in sleep, you will not labor because of it, and you will not feel pain.

23. Worry, and disease, and torment are with an intemperate man.

24. A healthy sleep is with a temperate man. He will sleep until morning, and his soul will be delighted with him.

25. And if you have been coaxed into eating too much, rise up, go outside, and vomit. And it will refresh you, and you will not bring sickness upon your body.

26. Listen to me, son, for you should not spurn me. And in the very end, you will discover my words.

27. In all your works, be prompt, and then no infirmity will befall you.

28. The lips of many will bless the splendid in bread. For the testimony of his truthfulness is faithful.

Read complete chapter Sirach 31