Sirach 31:25-31

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

²⁵ Do not try to prove your strength by wine-drinking,
    for wine has destroyed many.^(A)
26 As the furnace tests the work of the smith,^[a]
    so wine tests hearts when the insolent quarrel.^(B)
27 Wine is very life to humans
    if taken in moderation.
What is life to one who is without wine?
    It has been created to make people happy.^(C)
28 Wine drunk at the proper time and in moderation
    is rejoicing of heart and gladness of soul.^(D)
29 Wine drunk to excess leads to bitterness of spirit,
    to quarrels and stumbling.^(E)
30 Drunkenness increases the anger of fools to their own hurt,
    reducing their strength and adding wounds.^(F)
31 Do not reprove your neighbors at a banquet of wine,
    and do not despise them in their merrymaking;
speak no word of reproach to them,
    and do not distress them by making demands of them.^(G)