Sirach 21:11–17

11 Whoever keeps the law controls his thoughts,

and wisdom is the fulfilment of the fear of the Lord.

12 He who is not clever cannot be taught,

but there is a cleverness which increases bitterness.

13 The knowledge of a wise man will increase like a flood,

and his counsel like a flowing spring.

14 The mind of a fool is like a broken jar;

it will hold no knowledge.

15 When a man of understanding hears a wise saying,

he will praise it and add to it;

when a reveler hears it, he dislikes it

and casts it behind his back.

16 A fool’s narration is like a burden on a journey,

but delight will be found in the speech of the intelligent.

17 The utterance of a sensible man will be sought in the assembly,

and they will ponder his words in their minds.