8A friend will not be known in prosperity,
nor will an enemy be hidden in adversity.
9A man's enemies are grieved when he prospers,
and in his adversity even his friend will separate from him.
10Never trust your enemy,
for like the rusting of copper, so is his wickedness.
11Even if he humbles himself and goes about cringing,
watch yourself, and be on your guard against him;
and you will be to him like one who has polished a mirror,
and you will know that it was not hopelessly tarnished.
12Do not put him next to you,
lest he overthrow you and take your place;
do not have him sit at your right,
lest he try to take your seat of honour,
and at last you will realize the truth of my words,
and be stung by what I have said.
13Who will pity a snake charmer bitten by a serpent,
or any who go near wild beasts?
14So no one will pity a man who associates with a sinner
and becomes involved in his sins.
15He will stay with you for a time, but if you falter,
he will not stand by you.
16An enemy will speak sweetly with his lips,
but in his mind he will plan to throw you into a pit;
an enemy will weep with his eyes,
but if he finds an opportunity
his thirst for blood will be insatiable.
17If calamity befalls you, you will find him there ahead of you;
and while pretending to help you, he will trip you by the heel;
18he will shake his head,
and clap his hands,
and whisper much, and change his expression.
| << | Sir:12 | >> |
|---|