Sirach 22:14-16

Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹⁴What is heavier than lead?
And what is its name except “Fool”?
¹⁵Sand, salt, and a piece of iron
are easier to bear than a stupid man.

¹⁶A wooden beam firmly bonded into a building
will not be torn loose by an earthquake;
so the mind firmly fixed on a reasonable counsel
will not be afraid in a crisis.

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Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE)

The Revised Standard Version of the Bible: Catholic Edition, copyright © 1965, 1966 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.