Catholic Public Domain Version

Sirach 30:16-23 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

16. There is no revenue above the revenue of a healthy body. And there is no delight above a joyful heart.

17. Death is better than a bitter life. And eternal rest is better than continual sickness.

18. Good things hidden in a closed mouth are like seats at a feast placed around a grave.

19. What benefit is there in an offering to an idol? For it can neither eat, nor smell.

20. So is he who flees from the Lord, carrying the wages of his iniquity.

21. He sees with his eyes and groans, like a eunuch who embraces a virgin and sighs.

22. You should not give your soul to sadness, and you should not afflict yourself by your own counsel.

23. The gladness of the heart is the life of a man, and it is a treasure of sanctity without defect. And the exultation of a man is length of life.