Old Testament

New Testament

Ben Sira 3:1-14 New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)

1. Children, listen to me, your father;act accordingly, that you may be safe.

2. For the Lord sets a father in honor over his childrenand confirms a mother’s authority over her sons.

3. Those who honor their father atone for sins;

4. they store up riches who respect their mother.

5. Those who honor their father will have joy in their own children,and when they pray they are heard.

6. Those who respect their father will live a long life;those who obey the Lord honor their mother.

7. Those who fear the Lord honor their father,and serve their parents as masters.

8. In word and deed honor your father,that all blessings may come to you.

9. A father’s blessing gives a person firm roots,but a mother’s curse uproots the growing plant.

10. Do not glory in your father’s disgrace,for that is no glory to you!

11. A father’s glory is glory also for oneself;they multiply sin who demean their mother.

12. My son, be steadfast in honoring your father;do not grieve him as long as he lives.

13. Even if his mind fails, be considerate of him;do not revile him because you are in your prime.

14. Kindness to a father will not be forgotten;it will serve as a sin offering—it will take lasting root.

Read complete chapter Ben Sira 3