Sirach
Chapter 5
Against False Securities
Do not depend on your wealth. Do not say, “I am self-sufficient.”
Do not let yourself be carried away by greed and violence; they will enslave you, their slave.
Do not say, “Who can stop me?” because the Lord has the power to punish you.
Do not say, “I have sinned and nothing has happened!” because the Lord waits patiently.
Do not be so confident of forgiveness when you keep adding sin to sin.
Do not say, “His compassion is great! He will forgive my many sins!” because with him is mercy, but also anger; his fury will be unleashed on sinners.
Do not delay returning to the Lord, and do not put it off day after day. Suddenly, the Lord’s anger will flare up, and you will perish on the day of judgment.
Do not rely on riches obtained unjustly because they will be useless on the day of wrath.
On Speaking
Do not be influenced by every wind nor try to walk every path, like the sinner who is used to lying.
Stand firm in your beliefs, and be consistent in what you say.
Be willing to listen, and know how to wait before responding.
If you know what you’re talking about, answer your neighbor; if not, it’s better to stay silent.
Your words can bring you respect or shame; a man’s tongue can lead to his downfall.
Do not let yourself be known as someone who stirs up trouble or deceives others. For if shame is the punishment for the thief, severe judgment awaits the liar.
Do not sin in small or big things, and from being a friend, do not turn into an enemy. A bad reputation brings shame and disgrace; such is the fate of the sinner who is used to lying.
Commentaries
Against False Securities.
A warning against trusting wealth more than God. Elevating wealth and material possessions diminishes the importance of God and everything related to our relationship with Him: His forgiveness, mercy, presence, and guidance. A life that depends on wealth for security is headed for destruction, especially if that wealth has been gained unjustly.
On Speaking.
Another lesson of wisdom is exercising discretion in interpersonal relationships. An uncontrolled tongue causes more harm than good because those who are quick to speak are usually slow to think and discern. This passage encourages us to think before we speak and to carefully evaluate each situation.