Bible Browser

Relations with Others

¹⁸ Do not exchange a friend for money,
   or a real brother for the gold of Ophir.
¹⁹ Do not dismiss^* a wise and good wife,
   for her charm is worth more than gold.
²⁰ Do not abuse slaves who work faithfully,
   or hired labourers who devote themselves to their task.
²¹ Let your soul love intelligent slaves;^*
   do not withhold from them their freedom.

²² Do you have cattle? Look after them;
   if they are profitable to you, keep them.
²³ Do you have children? Discipline them,
   and make them obedient^* from their youth.
²⁴ Do you have daughters? Be concerned for their chastity,^*
   and do not show yourself too indulgent with them.
²⁵ Give a daughter in marriage, and you complete a great task;
   but give her to a sensible man.
²⁶ Do you have a wife who pleases you?^* Do not divorce her;
   but do not trust yourself to one whom you detest.

²⁷ With all your heart honour your father,
   and do not forget the birth pangs of your mother.
²⁸ Remember that it was of your parents^* you were born;
   how can you repay what they have given to you?

²⁹ With all your soul fear the Lord,
   and revere his priests.
³⁰ With all your might love your Maker,
   and do not neglect his ministers.
³¹ Fear the Lord and honour the priest,
   and give him his portion, as you have been commanded:
the first fruits, the guilt-offering, the gift of the shoulders,
   the sacrifice of sanctification, and the first fruits of the holy things.

³² Stretch out your hand to the poor,
   so that your blessing may be complete.
³³ Give graciously to all the living;
   do not withhold kindness even from the dead.
³⁴ Do not avoid those who weep,
   but mourn with those who mourn.
³⁵ Do not hesitate to visit the sick,
   because for such deeds you will be loved.
³⁶ In all you do, remember the end of your life,
   and then you will never sin.