Sirach 29:1-13
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
On Lending and Borrowing
29 The merciful lend to their neighbors;
by holding out a helping hand they keep the commandments.(A)
2 Lend to your neighbor in his time of need;
repay your neighbor when a loan falls due.(B)
3 Keep your word and be honest with him,
and on every occasion you will find what you need.
4 Many regard a loan as a windfall
and cause trouble to those who help them.(C)
5 One kisses another’s hands until he gets a loan
and is deferential in speaking of his neighbor’s money,
but at the time for repayment he delays
and pays back with empty promises
and finds fault with the time.
6 If he can pay, his creditor[a] will hardly get back half
and will regard that as a windfall.
If he cannot pay, the borrower[b] has robbed the other of his money,
and he has needlessly made him an enemy;
he will repay him with curses and reproaches
and instead of glory will repay him with dishonor.(D)
7 Many refuse to lend, not because of meanness,
but from fear[c] of being defrauded needlessly.(E)
8 Nevertheless, be patient with someone in humble circumstances,
and do not keep him waiting for your alms.(F)
9 Help the poor for the commandment’s sake,
and in their need do not send them away empty-handed.(G)
10 Lose your silver for the sake of a brother or a friend,
and do not let it rust under a stone and be lost.
11 Lay up your treasure according to the commandments of the Most High,
and it will profit you more than gold.(H)
12 Store up almsgiving in your treasury,
and it will rescue you from every disaster;(I)
13 better than a stout shield and a sturdy spear,
it will fight for you against the enemy.
New Revised Standard Version, Updated Edition. Copyright © 2021 National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.