Bible, Revised Standard Version
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Sir.8
[1] Do not contend with a powerful man,
lest you fall into his hands.
[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 favor 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.