Sirach 32

32^〈If thou hast been appointed ⁽banquet-⁽master, do not exalt thyself^〈;

Be to them as one of themselves;

Take thought for them, and afterwards be seated.

Supply their needs, and afterwards recline;

That thou mayst rejoice on their account,

And receive considerationfor politeness.

Speak, O elder, for it is thy privilege:

But be discreet in understanding, and hinder not song.

In a place of music pour not forth talk,

And at an unseasonable timedisplay not thy wisdom

As a signet-stone of carnelianon a necklace ⁽?⁽ of gold

Is a concert of song at a banquet of wine.

Settings of fine gold and a seal of carbuncle

Is the sound of music with the pleasance of wine.

Speak, O young man, if thou art compelled—

It thou art asked twice or thrice.

Sum up thy speech, say much in little,

And be like one that knoweth and can keep silence.

Among eldersassert not thyself,

And ply not eminent persons overmuch.

In front of hail speedeth the lightning,

And in front of the shamefast speedeth favour.

At the time of departure be not last,

Depart home and linger not;

And ⁽there⁽ whatsoever cometh up in thy mind, speak,

In the fear of God and not in foolishness.

And for all these things bless thy Maker,

Who satisfieth thee with His bounty.

He that seeketh God will receive discipline,

And he that resorteth to Him diligently shall obtain favour.

He that seeketh out the Law shall gain her,

But the hypocrite shall be snared thereby.

They that fear Jahveh discern His judgement,

And elicit guidance from the darkness.

The man of violencewresteth reproofs,

Ạnd forceth the Law to suit his necessity.

A wise manwill not conceal understanding,

And a scornerwill not receive instruction.

Without counsel carry out nothing;

And after the deed, rue it not.

In a way set with snares walk not,

And stumble not at an obstacle twice.

Be not carelessin a way …

.

In all thy works guard thyself,

For he that so doeth keepeth the commandment.

He that observeth the Law guardeth himself,

And he that trusteth in Jahveh shall not be brought to shame.