Open English Translation SIR Chapter 8

8 Don’t contend with a mighty man,

or you might fall into his hands.

2 Don’t strive with a rich man, or he might overpower you;

for gold has destroyed many,

and turned away the hearts of kings.

3 Don’t argue with a loudmouthed man.

Don’t heap wood on his fire.

4 Don’t make fun of a rude man,

or your ancestors might be dishonoured.

5 Don’t reproach a man when he turns from sin.

Remember that we’re all worthy of punishment.

6 Don’t dishonour a man in his old age,

for some of us are also growing old.

7 Don’t rejoice over anyone’s death.

Remember that we all die.

8 Don’t neglect the discourse of the wise.

Be conversant with their proverbs;

for from them you’ll learn discipline

and how to serve great men.

9 Don’t miss the discourse of the aged,

for they also learnt from their parents,

because from them you’ll learn understanding,

and to give an answer in time of need.

10 Don’t kindle the coals of a sinner,

or you might be burnt with the flame of his fire.

11 Don’t rise up from the presence of an insolent man,

or he might lie in wait to trap you by what you say.

12 Don’t lend to a man who’s stronger than you;

and if you lend, count it as a loss.

13 Don’t be surety beyond your means.

If you give surety, think as one who’ll have to pay.

14 Don’t go to law with a judge;

for according to his honour they’ll give judgement for him.

15 Don’t travel with a reckless man,

or he might become a burden to you;

for he’ll do as he pleases,

and you’ll perish with his folly.

16 Don’t fight with a wrathful man.

Don’t travel with him through the desert,

for blood is as nothing in his sight.

Where there’s no help, he’ll overthrow you.

17 Don’t consult with a fool,

for he won’t be able to keep a secret.

18 Do no secret thing before a stranger,

for you don’t know what it’ll cause.

19 Don’t open your heart to every man.

Don’t let him return you a favour.