Sirach 9:10-16
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
Choice of Friends
10 Do not abandon old friends,
for new ones cannot equal them.
A new friend is like new wine;
when it has aged, you will drink it with pleasure.(A)
11 Do not envy the notoriety of sinners,
for you do not know what their end will be like.(B)
12 Do not delight in what pleases the ungodly;[a]
remember that they will not be held guiltless until Hades.(C)
13 Keep far from those who have power to kill,
and you will not be haunted by the fear of death.
But if you approach them, make no misstep,
or they may rob you of your life.
Know that you are stepping among snares
and that you are walking on the city battlements.
14 As much as you can, aim to know your neighbors,
and consult with the wise.(D)
15 Let your conversation be with intelligent people,
and let all your discussion be about the law of the Most High.(E)
16 Let the righteous be your dinner companions,
and let your boast be in the fear of the Lord.(F)
Footnotes
- 9.12 Gk: Heb the success of the arrogant
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.