Sirach 28:7-12
Revised Standard Version
7 Remember the commandments, and do not be angry with your neighbor;
remember the covenant of the Most High, and overlook ignorance.
8 Refrain from strife, and you will lessen sins;
for a man given to anger will kindle strife,
9 and a sinful man will disturb friends
and inject enmity among those who are at peace.
10 In proportion to the fuel for the fire, so will be the burning,
and in proportion to the obstinacy of strife will be the burning;[a]
in proportion to the strength of the man will be his anger,
and in proportion to his wealth he will heighten his wrath.
11 A hasty quarrel kindles fire,
and urgent strife sheds blood.
The Evil Tongue
12 If you blow on a spark, it will glow;
if you spit on it, it will be put out;
and both come out of your mouth.
Footnotes
- Sirach 28:10 Other authorities place this line at the end of the verse, or omit it
Sirach 8:16
Revised Standard Version
16 Do not fight with a wrathful man,
and do not cross the wilderness with him;
because blood is as nothing in his sight,
and where no help is at hand, he will strike you down.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1946, 1952, and 1971 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.