Sirach 21:1-3

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

21 Have you sinned, my child? Do so no more,
    but ask forgiveness for your past sins.
² Flee from sin as from a snake;
    for if you approach sin, it will bite you.
Its teeth are lion’s teeth,
    and can destroy human lives.
³ All lawlessness is like a two-edged sword;
    there is no healing for the wound it inflicts.