New American Bible, Revised Edition

Ben Sira 42:12-22 New American Bible, Revised Edition (NABRE)

12. Do not let her reveal her beauty to any male,or spend her time with married women;

13. For just as moths come from garments,so a woman’s wickedness comes from a woman.

14. Better a man’s harshness than a woman’s indulgence,a frightened daughter than any disgrace.

15. Now will I recall God’s works;what I have seen, I will describe.By the Lord’s word his works were brought into being;he accepts the one who does his will.

16. As the shining sun is clear to all,so the glory of the Lord fills all his works;

17. Yet even God’s holy ones must failin recounting the wonders of the Lord,Though God has given his hosts the strengthto stand firm before his glory.

18. He searches out the abyss and penetrates the heart;their secrets he understands.For the Most High possesses all knowledge,and sees from of old the things that are to come.

19. He makes known the past and the future,and reveals the deepest secrets.

20. He lacks no understanding;no single thing escapes him.

21. He regulates the mighty deeds of his wisdom;he is from all eternity one and the same,With nothing added, nothing taken away;no need of a counselor for him!

22. How beautiful are all his works,delightful to gaze upon and a joy to behold!