Sirach 12:10-12

Common English Bible

¹⁰ Don’t ever trust your enemies;
    for just as copper corrodes,
    so their wickedness does as well.
¹¹ If they are humbled
and walk away stooped over,
    look after yourself,
    and keep up your guard against them.
        You will be to them
        as one who polishes a mirror,
        and you will know that it won’t be completely tarnished.
¹² Don’t put them next to you;
        they might overthrow you
        and take your place.
    Don’t sit them on your right side,
        since they might seek your seat.
    In the end you will understand my words,
    and you will be pierced by what I’ve said.