Sirach 32 - UPDV Updated Bible Version

^32:1 Have they made you ruler [of the feast], Do not be lifted up, Be to them as one of themselves; Consider them [first], and then take your seat;
^32:2 Prepare for their wants [first], and then recline, That you may rejoice on their account, And enjoy honor for organizing it.
^32:3 Speak, O elder, for this is your part, Yet with discerning discretion, and do not hinder the singing;
^32:4 When the music begins do not pour forth talk, And do not display your wisdom when it is not wanted.
^32:5 As a ruby signet in a work of gold, So is good music at a banquet of wine.
^32:6 A setting of gold with an emerald signet Is the melody of music at pleasant wine-drinking.
^32:7 Speak, young man, if you are constrained [to do so], If asked twice or even thrice;
^32:8 Sum up your speech, say much in little, Be as one who knows and can keep silent.
^32:9 Among elders do not assert yourself, And among the noble do not be perpetually talking.
^32:10 Before hail speeds the lightning, And before the modest speeds favor.
^32:11 At the time of departure do not be the last, Depart home and be done with your pleasure.
^32:12 But if anything comes into your heart, speak, In the fear of God, and not in senselessness.
^32:13 For all these things bless your Maker, Who satisfies you with his goodness.
^32:14 He who seeks God receives discipline, And he who seeks him early obtains favor.
^32:15 He who seeks the law will gain it, But the hypocrite will be ensnared by it.
^32:16 He who fears the Lord discerns judgement, And causes guiding lights to go forth from darkness;
^32:17 The violent man shuns reproofs, And wrests the law to suit his need.
^32:18 A man of counsel does not hide his understanding, But the proud and scornful man will not accept the law.
^32:19 Do nothing without counsel, That you do not repent your act.
^32:20 Do not walk in a path set with snares, That you do not stumble twice at an obstacle.
^32:21 Do not be confident on a journey regarding robbers,
^32:22 And in your paths be wary.
^32:23 In whatsoever you do take heed to your soul, For he who does this keeps the commandment.
^32:24 He who keeps the law guards himself, And he who trusts in the Lord will not be ashamed.

Sirach, Chapter 32