32 If you are chosen to preside at a banquet, don't put on airs. Just be like everyone else. Look after the guests before you sit down. ² After you have performed your duties, you can sit down and enjoy yourself with the others. They will respect you for doing a good job.

³ If you are older than most of the guests, you may talk; that is your right. But you should know what you are talking about and not interrupt the music. ⁴ If entertainment is being provided, don't keep up a steady conversation; it's the wrong time to show off your wit. ⁵ Music at a banquet where wine is served is like a ruby set in gold. ⁶ Good music and good wine—an emerald set in gold.

⁷ If you are young, don't speak unless you have to, but never more than twice, and only if someone speaks to you first. ⁸ Come to the point and say it all in a few words. Show that you are well-informed, but stay quiet. ⁹ Don't treat important people as if you were their equal and don't make a nuisance of yourself by asking them a lot of questions.^{[a] 10} The reputation of a modest person goes before him, as lightning before thunder.

¹¹ Leave the party at the right time and never be the last to go. Don't linger at the door; just go straight home. ¹² There you can enjoy yourself as you wish, but don't commit the sin of bragging. ¹³ And don't forget to thank your Creator for letting you enjoy so many good things.