New American Bible, Revised Edition

Ben Sira 33:20b-32 New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)

20b. Do not give your wealth to another,lest you must plead for support yourself.

22. Far better that your children plead with youthan that you should look for a handout from them.

23. Keep control over all your affairs;bring no stain on your honor.

24. When your few days reach their limit,at the time of death distribute your inheritance.

25. Fodder and whip and loads for a donkey;food, correction and work for a slave.

26. Make a slave work, and he will look for rest;let his hands be idle and he will seek to be free.

27. The yoke and harness will bow the neck;and for a wicked slave, punishment in the stocks.

28. Force him to work that he be not idle,

29. for idleness teaches much mischief.

30. Put him to work, as is fitting for him;and if he does not obey, load him with chains.But never lord it over any human being,and do nothing unjust.

31. If you have but one slave, treat him like yourself,for you have acquired him with your life’s blood;If you have but one slave, deal with him as a brother,for you need him as you need your life.

32. If you mistreat him and he runs away,