Sirach 8

1Do not quarrel with a powerful man, lest you fall into his hands.

2Do not quarrel with one harder than you, lest you fall into his hand.

3Do not quarrel with a man who has a sharp tongue, and do not pile wood on his fire.

4For many has gold ruined, and it leads astray the heart of nobles.

5Do not quarrel with a man of tongue, and do not put wood on the fire.

6Do not become familiar with a foolish man, lest he show contempt for nobles.

7Do not shame a man who turns back from transgression; remember that we all are guilty.

8Do not shame an old man; remember that you too will be numbered among the elders.

9Do not boast over one who is dying; remember that all of us are being gathered.

10Do not abandon the discourse of the wise, and occupy yourself with their riddles.

11Do not despise even his ordinary conversation, for from him you will learn instruction for standing before rulers.

12Do not despise hearing from those who have returned, who have heard from their fathers.

13For from him you will gain understanding, at a time of need to answer a saying.

14Do not prosper in the inheritance of a wicked man, lest you be burned by the sparks of his fire.

15Do not move aside before a scoffer, lest he seat him as one lying in wait before you.

16Do not lend to a man stronger than you; and if you do lend, regard it as lost.

17Do not pledge yourself for one stronger than you; and if you have pledged yourself, act as one who must pay.

18Do not contend with a judge, for he will judge according to his own will.

19Do not go with a cruel man, lest you add weight to your own trouble.