Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) 6:1-5 Good News Bible Anglicised (GNBDC)

1. and do not be an enemy when you should be a friend. A bad reputation brings you the disgrace that lying sinners deserve.

2. Do not let your passions carry you away; this can tear your soul to pieces like a bull.

3. You will be left like a dead tree without any leaves or fruit.

4. Evil desire will destroy you and make you a joke to your enemies.

5. If you are polite and courteous, you will enjoy the friendship of many people.

10-11. Others will sit at your table as long as things are going well; they will stick to you like your shadow and give orders to your servants, but they will not stand by you in trouble.

29-30. The signs of slavery you wear will become signs of royal majesty. Her chains will be your protection, and you will wear her yoke like a magnificent robe.

Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) 6