Ben Sira 31:1-7 New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)

1. Wakefulness over wealth wastes away the flesh,and anxiety over it drives away sleep.

2. Wakeful anxiety banishes slumber;more than a serious illness it disturbs repose.

3. The rich labor to pile up wealth,and if they rest, it is to enjoy pleasure;

4. The poor labor for a meager living,and if they ever rest, they become needy.

5. The lover of gold will not be free from sin;whoever pursues money will be led astray by it.

6. Many have come to ruin for the sake of gold,yet destruction lay before their very eyes;

7. It is a stumbling block for fools;any simpleton will be ensnared by it.

Ben Sira 31