Sirach 42:1–8

¹Of the following things do not be ashamed,

and do not let partiality lead you to sin:

²of 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 much discipline of children,

and of whipping a wicked servant severely.^v

⁶Where there is an evil wife, a seal is a good thing;

and where there are many hands, lock things up.

⁷Whatever you deal out, let it be by number and weight,

and make a record of all that you give out or take in.

⁸Do not be ashamed to instruct the stupid or foolish

or the aged man who quarrels with the young.

Then you will be truly instructed,

and will be approved before all men.