Chapter 32

Be wise and thoughtful in fulfilling your duties. Be restrained and respectful toward your elders. Do nothing without sound reflection.

Sirach 32:1. – If you have been set as a leader at a feast, do not exalt yourself; be among others as one of them: 2. – care for them first, then sit down. And when you have completed all your duties, take your place, 3. – so that you may rejoice with them and receive a crown for your good management. 4. – You, as the elder, should lead the conversation – for this is fitting for you – 5. – with sound knowledge, and do not hinder the music. 6. – When there is music, do not multiply speech, and do not display wisdom at an inopportune time. 6. When table music is heard (see verses 5 and 7), – refrain from talking.

Sirach 32:7. – As a ruby seal set in gold is the melodious sound of music at a wine feast; 8. – as an emerald seal set in a gold mounting is the pleasant sound of songs over fine wine. 9. – Speak, young man, if you must, just barely a word, when you are asked, 10. – speak to the point, much in few words. Be as one who knows, and yet knows how to be silent. 11. – Among the great do not set yourself equal to them, and when another is speaking, do not speak much. 12. – Lightning precedes thunder, and modesty precedes favor. 12. The modesty of a young man and the goodwill of society toward him are so closely connected as lightning and thunder.

Sirach 32:13. – Rise at the right time and do not be the last; hurry home and do not linger. 14. – There enjoy yourself and do as you please; but do not sin with proud speech. 15. – And for this bless the One who created you and feeds you with His blessings. 16. – The one who fears the Lord will receive instruction, and those who seek Him early will find His favor. 17. – The one who seeks the law will be satisfied by it, but the hypocrite will stumble in it. 18. – Those who fear the Lord will find justice and will kindle righteousness like a light. 19. – A sinful man shuns correction and finds an excuse according to his desire. 20. – A prudent man does not neglect reflection, but a foolish and proud man does not tremble with fear even after doing something without thought. 21. – Do nothing without reflection, and when you act, do not regret. 22. – Do not walk on a path full of ruins, so that you do not stumble over a stone; 23. – do not rely even on a smooth path; be wary even of your own children. 24. – In all your affairs trust your soul: and this is keeping the commandments. 24. See Sir 17:5-8. The natural law of faith and morality is placed by the Creator in the heart of each person. And the purer a person, – the clearer in him is the voice of this law – the reason and conscience of man.

Sirach 32:25. – One who believes the law pays heed to the commandments, and one who trusts in the Lord will not suffer harm.