Sirach
As found in the Greek Septuagint
GNB
Chapter 32
Behavior at Dinner Parties (Continued from chapter 31)
Sirach 32:1 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.
Sirach 32:2 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.
Sirach 32:3 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.
Sirach 32:4 If entertainment is being provided, don't keep up a steady conversation; it's the wrong time to show off your wit.
Sirach 32:5 Music at a banquet where wine is served is like a ruby set in gold.
Sirach 32:6 Good music and good wine-an emerald set in gold.
Sirach 32:7 If you are young, don't speak unless you have to, but never more than twice, and only if someone speaks to you first.
Sirach 32:8 Come to the point and say it all in a few words. Show that you are well-informed, but stay quiet.
Sirach 32:9 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.
Sirach 32:10 The reputation of a modest person goes before him, as lightning before thunder.
Sirach 32:11 Leave the party at the right time and never be the last to go. Don't linger at the door; just go straight home.
Sirach 32:12 There you can enjoy yourself as you wish, but don't commit the sin of bragging.
Sirach 32:13 And don't forget to thank your Creator for letting you enjoy so many good things.
Sirach 32:14 If you fear the Lord, you will accept his correction. He will bless those who get up early in the morning to pray.
Sirach 32:15 Study his Law, and you will master it, unless you are insincere about it, in which case you will fail.
Sirach 32:16 If you fear the Lord, you will know what is right, and you will be famous for your fairness.
Sirach 32:17 Sinners have no use for correction, and will interpret the Law to suit themselves.
Sirach 32:18 Sensible people will consider every opinion, but arrogant people will let nothing stand in their way.
Sirach 32:19 Never do anything without thinking it through, and once you have done something, don't look back and wish you had done something else.
Sirach 32:20 Don't take a course of action that is dangerous, and don't make the same mistake twice.
Sirach 32:21 Don't be too sure of yourself, even when the way looks easy.
Sirach 32:22 Always watch where you are going.
Sirach 32:23 Whatever you do be careful; this is keeping the Lord's commands.
Sirach 32:24 Believing in the Law means keeping the Lord's commands. If you trust the Lord, you cannot lose.