Sirach
Chapter 32
Banquets
Have you been chosen to host a party? Do not act arrogantly! Just behave like everyone else in the crowd; help with their needs and then sit down.
When you have done what’s expected, take your seat and enjoy yourself with others. They will praise you for a job well done.
If you are older, speak appropriately for your age, but make sure you know what you are talking about and do not interrupt the music.
If there is a concert, stay quiet; it is not the time to act wise.
A musical concert at a wine banquet is like a ruby set in gold.
Music is like an emerald signet set in gold, just as good wine is.
If you are young, speak only if necessary, and no more than twice, unless asked.
Stay concise and comprehensive. Show that you are well-informed but not overly anxious to speak.
Do not try to match the accomplishments of prominent people, and avoid talking when someone else is speaking.
Just as lightning appears before thunder, the reputation of a humble man precedes him.
Leave the party at the right time and do not be slow about it; no lingering, go straight home!
There, you can relax and do as you wish, but do not sin by bragging.
And be thankful to your Creator for enjoying all good things.
Fear of God
Whoever fears the Lord will accept his correction, and those who rise at dawn will earn his favor.
The person who follows his law will be nourished by it, but the hypocrite will find it a stumbling block.
Those who fear the Lord will please Him, and their good deeds will shine like a light.
The sinner refuses correction and excuses himself for doing what he wants.
A person of judgment thinks things through first; the stubborn and proud person proceeds without worrying about anything.
Never act without first thinking, and you will have no regrets.
Do not walk down a rough road lest you stumble on stones.
And do not be too confident in a smooth path.
Beware even of your own children.
Be careful in everything you do. By doing so, you keep the commandments.
Those who trust in the law will keep the commandments, and those who obey the Lord will not come to harm.
Commentaries
Guest – Wine – Banquets.
Another way to show a person’s character is by maintaining a respectful, civilized attitude at the table. 31:12-24 discusses manners related to food; the guiding principle is always to consider what might upset your neighbor. Verses 25-31 emphasize moderation in drinking; this can have very positive and healthy effects, but overdoing it can lead to extremes that may cause rejection. Finally, 32:1-13 offers guidance for those hosting a banquet (32:1-2) or speaking at one, whether they are elders (3-6) or young people (7-10); both should be talented and wise in their speeches. The section concludes with instructions for exiting the banquet and the importance of giving thanks to the Creator (11-13).
Fear of God.
There are two ways to relate to the Law: those who accept it and, through it, gain instruction and wisdom, understanding that the goal is to live in fear and respect of the Lord. And those who reject it, thereby denying themselves instruction and correction, and as a result, wisdom. In this way, they do not realize that to keep the Law is to preserve themselves.