Catholic Public Domain Version

Sirach 32:2-15 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

2. Have concern for them, and in this way sit down with them, and when you have explained all your concerns, sit back.

3. Then you may rejoice because of them, and you may receive a crown as an adornment of grace, and so obtain the dignity of the assembly.

4. Speak, you who are greater by birth. For it is fitting for you

5. to speak the first word with careful knowledge. But you should not hinder the music.

6. Where no one is listening, you should not pour out words. And do not choose to be extolled improperly for your wisdom.

7. A gemstone of garnet is set amid an ornament of gold, and a concert of music is set amid a banquet of wine.

8. Just as a signet of emerald is set amid a work of gold, so is a melody of music set amid delightful and moderate wine.

9. Listen silently, and for your reverence, good graces will be added to you.

10. Young man, speak in your own case only reluctantly.

11. If you have been asked twice, let your response be concise.

12. In many matters, be as if you lack knowledge, and listen silently as well as intently.

13. In the midst of great men, you should not be presumptuous. And where the elders are present, you should not speak much.

14. Lightning goes before a hailstorm, and grace goes before modesty. And so, for your reverence, good graces will be added to you.

15. And at the hour for rising, you should not be lax. Later, be the first to run ahead to your house, and there withdraw, and there take your pastime.