New American Bible, Revised Edition

Ben Sira 11:1-7 New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)

1. The wisdom of the poor lifts their head highand sets them among princes.

2. Do not praise anyone for good looks;or despise anyone because of appearance.

3. The bee is least among winged creatures,but it reaps the choicest of harvests.

4. Do not mock the one who wears only a loin-cloth,or scoff at a person’s bitter day.For strange are the deeds of the Lord,hidden from mortals his work.

5. Many are the oppressed who rise to the throne;some that none would consider wear a crown.

6. Many are the exalted who fall into utter disgrace,many the honored who are given into the power of the few.

7. Before investigating, do not find fault;examine first, then criticize.