Ecclesiasticus

“He that diggeth a pit, shall fall into it: and he that setteth a stone for his neighbour, shall stumble upon it: and he that layeth a snare for another, shall perish in it.”

“Two things bring grief to my heart, and a third arouses my anger: The wealthy reduced to want, the intelligent held in contempt, And those who pass from righteousness to sin— the Lord prepares them for the sword.”

“The conversation of the godly is always wisdom, but the fool changes like the moon.”

“Many refuse to lend, not out of meanness, but from fear of being cheated needlessly. But with those in humble circumstances be patient; do not keep them waiting for your alms. Because of the commandment, help the poor, and in their need, do not send them away empty-handed. Lose your money for relative or friend; do not hide it under a stone to rot. Dispose of your treasure according to the commandments of the Most High, and that will profit you more than the gold.”

“Envy and anger shorten one’s days, and anxiety brings on premature old age.”

“Beware of a counsellor. And know before what need he hath: for he will devise to his own mind.”

“The wisdom of a scribe cometh by his time of leisure: and he that is less in action, shall receive wisdom.”