Sirach 22:15-17

New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised

¹⁵Sand, salt, and a piece of iron
are easier to bear than a stupid person.

¹⁶A wooden beam firmly bonded into a building
    is not loosened by an earthquake;
so the mind firmly resolved after due reflection
    will not be afraid in a crisis.
¹⁷A mind settled on an intelligent thought
    is like stucco decoration that makes a wall smooth.

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New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised (NRSVA)

New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicised Edition, copyright © 1989, 1995 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.