Sirach 32 (Interlinear Apocrypha)

1Have they made you ruler of a feast?

Don’t be lifted up.

Be among them as one of them.

Take care of them first, and then sit down.

2And when you have done all your duties, take your place,

that you may be gladdened on their account,

and receive a wreath for your good service.

3Speak, you who are older, for it’s your right, but with sound knowledge;

and don’t interrupt the music.

4Don’t pour out talk where there is a performance of music.

Don’t display your wisdom at the wrong time.

5As a ruby signet in a setting of gold,

so is a music concert at a wine banquet.

6As an emerald signet in a work of gold,

so is musical melody with pleasant wine.

7Speak, young man, if you are obliged to,

but no more than twice, and only if asked.

8Sum up your speech, many things in few words.

Be as one who knows and yet holds his tongue.

9When among great men, don’t behave as their equal.

When another is speaking, don’t babble.

10Lightning speeds before thunder.

Approval goes before one who is modest.

11Rise up in good time, and don’t be last.

Go home quickly and don’t loiter

12Amuse yourself there and do what is in your heart.

Don’t sin by proud speech.

13For these things bless your Maker,

who gives you to drink freely of his good things.

14He who fears the Lord will receive discipline.

Those who seek him early will find favor.

15He who seeks the law shall be filled with it,

but the hypocrite will stumble at it.

16Those who fear the Lord will find true judgment,

and will kindle righteous acts like a light.

17A sinful man shuns reproof,

and will find a judgment according to his will.

18A sensible person won’t neglect a thought.

An insolent and proud man won’t crouch in fear,

even after he has done a thing by himself without counsel.

19Do nothing without counsel,

but when you have acted, don’t regret it.

20Don’t go in a way of conflict.

Don’t stumble in stony places.

21Don’t be overconfident on a smooth road.

22Beware of your own children.

23In every work guard your own soul,

for this is the keeping of the commandments.

24He who believes the law gives heed to the commandment.

He who trusts in the Lord will suffer no loss.

Sirach 32 (Interlinear Apocrypha)

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