Sirach 22:22-24

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

²²If you open your mouth against your friend,
do not worry, for reconciliation is possible.
But as for reviling, arrogance, disclosure of secrets, or a treacherous blow—
in these cases any friend will take to flight.

²³Gain the trust of your neighbor in his poverty,
    so that you may rejoice with him in his prosperity.
Stand by him in time of distress,
    so that you may share with him in his inheritance.^[a]
²⁴The vapor and smoke of the furnace precede the fire;
    so insults precede bloodshed.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

Sirach 22:23 Other ancient authorities add For one should not always despise restricted circumstances, or admire a rich person who is stupid.

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE)

New Revised Standard Version Bible: Catholic Edition, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.