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20 Watch for the opportune time, and beware of evil,
    and do not be ashamed to be yourself.
21 For there is a shame that leads to sin,
    and there is a shame that is glory and favor.
22 Do not show partiality, to your own harm,
    or deference, to your downfall.
23 Do not refrain from speaking at the proper moment,[a]
    and do not hide your wisdom.[b]
24 For wisdom becomes known through speech,
    and education through the words of the tongue.
25 Never speak against the truth,
    but be ashamed of your ignorance.

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Footnotes

  1. Sirach 4:23 Heb: Gk at a time of salvation
  2. Sirach 4:23 So some Gk Mss and Heb Syr Lat: Other Gk Mss lack and do not hide your wisdom

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