Old Testament

New Testament

Sirach 31:3-21 Common English Bible (CEB)

3. Rich people have workedto accumulate money,and when they rest,they fill themselves with their luxuries.

4. Poor people have workedto eke out a living,and when they rest,they become needy again.

5. Whoever loves gold won’t be declared just,and whoever pursues profitswill be led astray by them.

6. Many have been ruined because of gold,and their destruction has met them head-on.

7. It’s a stumbling block for thosewho are possessed by it,and it will takeevery senseless person captive.

8. Happy are the richwho are without blameand who don’t follow after gold.

9. Who are they,so that we might praise them?They have done wondersamong the people.

10. Who has been tested by wealthand been found perfect?For them it will be a reason to boast.Who had the power to sin and didn’t,and could do evil but didn’t?

11. The possessions of such peoplewill be secure,and the congregation will tellof their acts of charity.

12. Have you been seatedat a magnificent table?Don’t be greedy as you sit there,and don’t say,"Look how much food there is!"

13. Remember, a greedy eye is a bad thing.What has been created more greedythan the eye?For this reason, every face sheds tears.

14. Don’t reach out your handfor whatever you see,and don’t crowd your dinner companion by reaching into the same bowl.

15. Put yourself in your companion’s place,and be considerate in everything.

16. Eat what’s put in front of youlike a normal human being,and don’t chew rudely,or you will be hated.

17. Be the first to stop,to show your good breeding,and don’t be gluttonous;otherwise, you will offend.

18. If you have been seatedwith a lot of people,don’t help yourself before they do.

19. A little food is more than enoughfor well-educated people!They won’t gasp for breathwhen they lie down to sleep.

20. Healthy sleep dependson not stuffing yourself.Such people arise early and feel good.The gluttons suffer the pains of insomnia, nausea, and colic.

21. If you’ve overstuffed yourself,get up, vomit far away,and you will feel better.

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