Sirach 29:1-13

Revised Standard Version

29 He that shows mercy will lend to his neighbor,
    and he that strengthens him with his hand keeps the commandments.
² Lend to your neighbor in the time of his need;
    and in turn, repay your neighbor promptly.
³ Confirm your word and keep faith with him,
    and on every occasion you will find what you need.
⁴ Many persons regard a loan as a windfall,
    and cause trouble to those who help them.
⁵ A man will kiss another’s hands until he gets a loan,
    and will lower his voice in speaking of his neighbor’s money;
but at the time for repayment he will delay,
    and will pay in words of unconcern,
    and will find fault with the time.
⁶ If the lender^[a] exert pressure, he will hardly get back half,
    and will regard that as a windfall.
If he does not, the borrower^[b] has robbed him of his money,
    and he has needlessly made him his enemy;
he will repay him with curses and reproaches,
    and instead of glory will repay him with dishonor.
⁷ Because of such wickedness, therefore,^[c] many have refused to lend;
    they have been afraid of being defrauded needlessly.