Sirach 33:25-30

Good News Translation

²⁵ If you make your slave work, you can set your mind at ease. If you don't keep him busy, he will be looking for freedom. ²⁶ You can use a harness and yoke to tame an animal, and a slave can be tortured in the stocks. ²⁷ Keep him at work, and don't let him be idle; idleness can only teach him how to make trouble. ²⁸ Work is what he needs. If he won't obey you, put him in chains.

²⁹ But don't be too severe with anyone, and never be unfair. ³⁰ If you have a slave, treat him as you would want to be treated; you bought him with your hard-earned money.