Common English Bible

Sirach 30:4-17 Common English Bible (CEB)

4. When their father passes away,it is as if he hadn’t died,because he left behind sonswho are like him.

5. When he was alive,he saw them and was glad,and at his end, he wasn’t grieved.

6. He was survived by thosewho would avenge himagainst his enemiesand who would repay kindnessto his friends.

7. A parent who spoils children nowwill end up tending to their wounds,and will experience heartacheat every outcry.

8. A horse that is unbrokenturns out stubborn,and a child, when given free rein,turns out reckless.

9. Indulge children,and they will terrorize you;play with them,and they will grieve you.

10. Don’t laugh together with them,so that you don’t suffer togetherand in the endgrind your teeth in regret.

11. Don’t give them free rein in their youth.

12. Bruise their sideswhile they are still young,or else they will become stubbornand disobey you.

13. Educate your children, and work on them,so that you don’t end up offendedby their shameful behavior.

14. It is better to be poor,but healthy and strong,than a rich personwhose body is afflicted.

15. Being healthy and fitis better than any gold,and a strong spiritis better than untold riches.

16. No wealth is better than a healthy body,and no gladness is better than happiness in one’s heart.

17. Death is better than a bitter life,and eternal rest isbetter than chronic illness.