Old Testament

New Testament

Ben Sira 22:9-15 New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)

9. Teaching a fool is like gluing a broken pot,or rousing another from deep sleep.

10. Whoever talks with a fool talks to someone asleep;when it is over, he says, “What was that?”

11. Weep over the dead, for their light has gone out;weep over the fool, for sense has left him.Weep but less bitterly over the dead, for they are at rest;worse than death is the life of a fool.

12. Mourning for the dead, seven days—but for the wicked fool, a whole lifetime.

13. Do not talk much with the stupid,or visit the unintelligent.Beware of them lest you have troubleand be spattered when they shake themselves off.Avoid them and you will find restand not be wearied by their lack of sense.

14. What is heavier than lead?What is its name but “Fool”?

15. Sand, salt, and an iron weightare easier to bear than the stupid person.

Read complete chapter Ben Sira 22