| 8 | Ecclesiasticus | ||
| 1 | Do not contend with a powerful man, lest you fall into his hands. | Common sense. Sir.8.1-19 | |
| 2 | Do not quarrel with a rich man, lest his resources outweigh yours; for gold has ruined many, and has perverted the minds of kings. | ||
| 3 | Do not argue with a chatterer, nor heap wood on his fire. | ||
| 4 | Do not jest with an ill-bred person, lest your ancestors be disgraced. | ||
| 5 | Do not reproach a man who is turning away from sin; remember that we all deserve punishment. | ||
| 6 | Do not disdain a man when he is old, for some of us are growing old. | ||
| 7 | Do not rejoice over any one's death; remember that we all must die. | ||
| 8 | Do not slight the discourse of the sages, but busy yourself with their maxims; because from them you will gain instruction and learn how to serve great men. | ||
| 9 | Do not disregard the discourse of the aged, for they themselves learned from their fathers; because from them you will gain understanding and learn how to give an answer in time of need. | ||
| 10 | Do not kindle the coals of a sinner, lest you be burned in his flaming fire. | ||
| 11 | Do not get up and leave an insolent fellow, lest he lie in ambush against your words. | ||
| 12 | Do not lend to a man who is stronger than you; but if you do lend anything, be as one who has lost it. | ||
| 13 | Do not give surety beyond your means, but if you give surety, be concerned as one who must pay. | ||
| 14 | Do not go to law against a judge, for the decision will favour him because of his standing. | ||
| 15 | Do not travel on the road with a foolhardy fellow, lest he be burdensome to you; for he will act as he pleases, and through his folly you will perish with him. | ||
| 16 | Do not fight with a wrathful man, and do not cross the wilderness with him; because blood is as nothing in his sight, and where no help is at hand, he will strike you down. | ||
| 17 | Do not consult with a fool, for he will not be able to keep a secret. | ||
| 18 | In the presence of a stranger do nothing that is to be kept secret, for you do not know what he will divulge. | ||
| 19 | Do not reveal your thoughts to every one, lest you drive away your good luck. | ||
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