Ben Sira 14:11-13
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
11 [a]My son, if you have the means, treat yourself well,
and enjoy life as best you can.(A)
12 Remember that death does not delay,
and you have not been told the grave’s appointed time.
13 Before you die, be good to your friends;
give them a share in what you possess.(B)
Footnotes
- 14:11–19 Three realities govern Ben Sira’s attitude toward a proper use of wealth: the inevitability and uncertainty of death, the ephemeral nature of human accomplishments, the lack of reward or punishment after death. He advises generous enjoyment of God’s gift of wealth before death.
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