New American Bible, Revised Edition

Ben Sira 20:15-22 New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)

15. He gives little, criticizes often,and opens his mouth like a town crier.He lends today and asks for it tomorrow;such a person is hateful.

16. A fool says, “I have no friendsnor thanks for my generosity.”Those who eat his bread have a mocking tongue.

17. How many will ridicule him, and how often!

18. A slip on the floor is better than a slip of the tongue;in like manner the downfall of the wicked comes quickly.

19. A coarse person, an untimely story;the ignorant are always ready to offer it.

20. A proverb spoken by a fool is unwelcome,for he does not tell it at the proper time.

21. There is a person whose poverty prevents him from sinning,but when he takes his rest he has no regrets.

22. There is a person who is destroyed through shame,and ruined by foolish posturing.