Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) 26
1The husband of a good wife is a fortunate man; he will live twice as long because of her. 2A fine wife is a joy to her husband, and he can live out his years in peace. 3A good wife is among the precious blessings given to those who fear the Lord. 4Whether such men are rich or poor, they will be happy and always look cheerful.
5There are four things that scare me; vicious rumours spread around town, a gathering mob, false accusations — these are all worse than death. 6But a woman jealous of another woman causes heartache and grief; her tongue lashes out at everyone.
7A bad wife is like a yoke that doesn't fit. Trying to control her is like holding a scorpion. 8A drunken woman is an infuriating sight; she can't conceal her shameless behaviour. 9You can tell an unfaithful wife by the bold and flirting look in her eyes.
10If your daughter is determined to have her own way, keep a close watch on her. If you don't, she'll take advantage of any chance she gets. 11If she is too self-willed, be on guard, and don't be surprised if she disappoints you. 12She'll spread her legs anywhere for any man who wants her, just as a thirsty traveller will drink whatever water is available.
13A gracious wife is her husband's delight; her abilities make him a stronger man. 14A wife who doesn't talk too much is a gift from the Lord. Such restraint is admirable beyond words. 15A modest wife has endless charm; it is a quality too precious to measure. 16The beauty of a good wife in her well-kept home is like the noonday sun shining in the Lord's sky. 17Her beautiful face and attractive figure are as lovely as the light from the sacred lampstand in the Temple, 18and like its gold shaft set on its silver base are her shapely legs and strong ankles.
Sad Observations
28There are two things that make me sad, and a third that makes me angry:
a soldier who has become poor,
intelligent people who are not respected,
and a righteous person who turns to evil.
The Lord will punish such a person with death!
29A merchant can hardly avoid doing wrong; every salesman is guilty of sin.
Good News Translation® with Deuterocanonicals/Apocrypha (Today’s English Version, Second Edition) © 1992 American Bible Society. All rights reserved.
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