Sirach 4:1-10
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
Duties toward the Poor and the Oppressed
4 My child, do not cheat the poor of their living,
and do not keep needy eyes waiting.(A)
2 Do not grieve the hungry
or anger one in need.
3 Do not add to the troubles of the angry
or delay giving to the needy.(B)
4 Do not reject a suppliant in distress
or turn your face away from the poor.(C)
5 Do not avert your eye from the needy,
and give no one reason to curse you,(D)
6 for if in bitterness of soul some should curse you,
their Creator will hear their prayer.(E)
7 Endear yourself to the congregation;
bow your head low to the great.
8 Give a hearing to the poor,
and return their greeting kindly.
9 Rescue the oppressed from the oppressor,
and do not be hesitant in giving a verdict.(F)
10 Be a father to orphans,
and be like a husband to their mother;
you will then be like a son of the Most High,
and he will love you more than does your mother.(G)
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.