Sirach
Chapter 12
Caution When Favoring Others
If you do good, know who you are doing it for, and you will receive thanks for your kindness.
Do good to the godly man, and you will be rewarded—if not by the man himself, then at least by the Most High.
Blessings are not for those who continue in evil deeds, nor for those who refuse to show compassion.
Give to the godly man; do not help the sinner.
Do good to the humble, but do not give to the ungodly. Deny him bread; do not give it to him, lest he eventually dominate you. He will repay you with a double evil for all the good you have done for him.
For the Most High Himself detests sinners and carries out his vengeance on the ungodly.
Give to the good man, but do not assist the sinner.
The Enemy
A friend does not become an enemy in times of prosperity, nor does an enemy stay hidden during adversity.
When someone is doing well, his enemies feel sad; when he faces misfortune, even his friends may abandon him.
Never trust an enemy, for his malice is like rusted bronze.
Even if he appears humble and bows his head, stay alert and be cautious of him. Treat him as you would polish a bronze mirror—know that the rust will not last forever.
Keep him at a distance so he cannot overthrow you or take your place, and avoid letting him sit at your right hand, lest he covet your seat. May you remember my words and regret neglecting this advice.
Who pities a snake-charmer bitten by a snake or those who approach wild beasts?
It’s the same with a person who associates with a sinner and gets involved in his wrongdoing.
The sinner may sit with you quietly for a while, but when your attention is elsewhere, he will remove his mask.
The enemy is charming in speech but secretly plans to harm you. He may seem tearful and friendly, but when given the chance, he craves your downfall.
If misfortune strikes you, you’ll find him there first, pretending to help but secretly scheming against you.
He will mock you with a nod, clap his hands, whisper constantly, and reveal his true nature.
Commentaries
Caution When Favoring Others.
Contrast this teaching with that of Jesus of Nazareth, who said, “do good and do not look at whom” or “do not distribute your goods among those who can return them to you…” It is clear that the parameters outlined by Ben Sirach, which were preached in a specific social setting, are more focused on reciprocity: I give to you so that you will give back to me. Jesus goes further; he is much more interested in the practice of true justice. He calls to break away from the “normal” and the established, and to share generously without expecting anything in return.
The Enemy.
This emphasizes a contrast between Ben Sirach’s views and the ideal presented by Jesus, which urges us to love our enemies and to bless those who curse us (cf. Mt 5:43-48; Lk 6:27-36). Most importantly, love and mercy toward everyone must come first.