Catholic Public Domain Version

Sirach 33:19-31 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

19. Listen to me, you great ones, with all the peoples. And incline your ears, you rulers of the Church.

20. You should not give authority over yourself to a son or wife, to a brother or friend, in your life. And you should not give your estate to another, lest perhaps you may regret it, and then you would be begging for the same.

21. While you are still living and breathing, let no one among all flesh change you.

22. For it is better if your children petition you, than if you look toward the hands of your children.

23. In all your works, be pre-eminent.

24. You should not allow a blemish upon your glory. On the day of the consummation of the days of your life, at the time of your passing, distribute your inheritance.

25. Fodder and a rod and a burden are for a donkey; bread and discipline and work are for a servant.

26. He works under discipline, and he seeks rest. Allow his hands to be idle, and he seeks liberty.

27. The yoke and the strap bend a stiff neck, and continual labors bend a servant.

28. Torture and chains are for a malevolent servant; send him to work, so that he may not be idle.

29. For idleness has taught much evil.

30. Appoint him to a task. For this is fitting for him. And if he will not be obedient, bend him with chains. But you should do no more than any flesh can bear. Truly, you should do nothing grievous without judgment.

31. If you have a faithful servant, let him be to you like your own soul. Treat him like a brother. For you have obtained him by the blood of your soul.