Old Testament

New Testament

Sirach 6:11-24 World English Bible (WEB)

11. And in your prosperity he will be as yourself, And will be bold over your servants:

12. If you shall be brought low, he will be against you, And will hide himself from your face.

13. Separate yourself from your enemies; And beware of your friends.

14. A faithful friend is a strong defence; And he that has found him has found a treasure.

15. There is nothing that can be taken in exchange for a faithful friend; And his excellency is beyond price.

16. A faithful friend is a medicine of life; And they that fear the Lord shall find him.

17. He that fears the Lord directs his friendship aright; For as he is, so is his neighbor also.

18. My son, gather instruction from your youth up: And even to hoar hairs you shall find wisdom.

19. Come to her as one that plows and sows, And wait for her good fruits; For your toil shall be little in the tillage of her, And you shall eat of her fruits right soon.

20. How exceeding harsh is she to the unlearned! And he that is without understanding will not abide in her.

21. As a mighty stone of trial shall she rest upon him; And he will not delay to cast her from him.

22. For wisdom is according to her name; and she is not manifest to many.

23. Give ear, my son, and accept my judgement, And refuse not my counsel,

24. And bring your feet into her fetters, And your neck into her chain.

Read complete chapter Sirach 6