Old Testament

New Testament

Sirach 35:14-21 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

14. Do not be willing to offer corrupt gifts. For he will not accept them.

15. And do not be willing to consider an unjust sacrifice. For the Lord is the judge, and with him there is no favoritism toward anyone.

16. The Lord will not accept favoritism against the poor, but he will heed the prayer of one who has been harmed.

17. He will not despise the prayers of the orphan, nor of the widow, if she utters a lamenting complaint.

18. Do a widow's tears not run down her cheek? And will her outcry not cause their downfall?

19. For from her cheek, her tears ascend even to heaven. And the Lord, the One who listens, will not take delight in them.

20. Whoever adores God with joy will be accepted, and his prayer will reach even to the clouds.

21. The prayer of one who humbles himself will pierce the clouds. And it will not be consoled until it draws near; and it will not withdraw until the Most High beholds.

Read complete chapter Sirach 35