Sirach 42:1–8

⁴²Be ashamed of repeating what you hear

and of betraying secrets.

Then you will show proper shame

and will find favor with everyone.

Of the following things do not be ashamed,

and do not sin by showing partiality:^*

²Do not be ashamed of the law of the Most High and his covenant

and of rendering judgment to acquit the ungodly;^*

³of keeping accounts with a partner or with traveling companions

and of dividing the inheritance of friends;

⁴of accuracy with scales and weights

and of acquiring much or little;^*

⁵of profit from dealing with merchants

and of frequent disciplining of children

and of drawing blood from the back of a wicked slave.^*

⁶Where there is an untrustworthy wife, a seal is a good thing,

and where there are many hands, lock things up.

⁷When you make a deposit, be sure it is counted and weighed,

and when you give or receive, put it all in writing.

⁸Do not be ashamed to correct the stupid or foolish

or the aged who are guilty of sexual immorality.

Then you will show your sound training

and will be approved by all.