OET-RV by section SIR 20:1

⌂ ← SIR 20:1–20:8 → ‴ ║ ═ ©

This OET Readers’ Version was designed to be used with the Literal Version alongside, so you won’t get the best understanding from this single viewpoint. This is still an early look into the drafted text of the Open English Translation of the Bible. Please double-check the text in advance before using in public.

Knowing when to speak and when to be silent

20:1 Knowing when to speak and when to be silent

20 There is a reproof that is not timely;

and there is a person who is wise enough to keep silent.

2 How good is it to reprove, rather than to be angry.

He who confesses will be kept back from harm. 3 [fn]

4 As is the lust of a eunuch to deflower a virgin,

so is he who executes judgements with violence.

5 There is one who keeps silent and is found wise;

and there is one who is hated for his much talk.

6 There is one who keeps silent, for he has no answer to make;

And there is one who keeps silent, knowing when to speak.

7 A wise man will be silent until his time has come,

but the braggart and fool will miss his time.

8 He who uses many words will be abhorred.

He who takes authority for himself will be hated in it.

20:3 Verse 3 is omitted by the best authorities.