Ecclesiasticus

Ecclesiasticus or Sirach is a book of the Apocrypha included by some churches in the Bible. (Not to be confused with Ecclesiastes.)

Quotes

The fear of the Lord gladdens the heart, giving happiness, joy and long life. Or those who fear the Lord, all will end well: on their dying day they will be blessed.
- NRSV, 1:12-13
The crown of wisdom is to fear the Lord: she makes peace and health flourish. The Lord has seen and assessed her, he has showered down knowledge and intelligence, he has exalted the renown of those who possess her.
- NRSV, 1:18-19
Do not act a part in public, keep watch over your lips.
- NRSV, 1:29
He that diggeth a pit, shall fall into it: and he that setteth a stone for his neighbour, shall stumble upon it: and he that layeth a snare for another, shall perish in it.
- xxvii:xxvi

Two things bring grief to my heart, and a third arouses my anger: The wealthy reduced to want, the intelligent held in contempt, And those who pass from righteousness to sin— the Lord prepares them for the sword.
- 26:28 (New American Bible Revised Edition)

The conversation of the godly is always wisdom, but the fool changes like the moon.
- 27:11 (New American Bible Revised Edition)

Many refuse to lend, not out of meanness, but from fear of being cheated needlessly. But with those in humble circumstances be patient; do not keep them waiting for your alms. Because of the commandment, help the poor, and in their need, do not send them away empty-handed. Lose your money for relative or friend; do not hide it under a stone to rot. Dispose of your treasure according to the commandments of the Most High, and that will profit you more than the gold.
- 29:7-11 (New American Bible Revised Edition)

Envy and anger shorten one’s days, and anxiety brings on premature old age.
- 30:24 (New American Bible Revised Edition)

Beware of a counsellor. And know before what need he hath: for he will devise to his own mind.
- 37:9 DRB

The wisdom of a scribe cometh by his time of leisure: and he that is less in action, shall receive wisdom.
- 38:25 DRB

Wikisource

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Ecclesiasticus

Wikisource

Wikisource has original text related to:

Wisdom of Sirach