Sirach 37:1–9
1Every friend will say, “I also am his friend”; but there is a friend which is only a friend in name.↗
2Isn’t there a grief in it even to death when a companion and friend is turned into an enemy?↗
3O wicked imagination, why were you formed to cover the dry land with deceit?↗
4There is a companion who rejoices in the gladness of a friend, but in time of affliction will be against him.↗
5There is a companion who for the belly’s sake labors with his friend, yet in the face of battle will carry his buckler.↗
6Don’t forget a friend in your soul. Don’t be unmindful of him in your riches.↗
7Every counselor extols counsel, but some give counsel in their own interest.↗
8Let your soul beware of a counselor, and know in advance what is his interest (for he will take counsel for himself), lest he cast the lot against you,↗
9and say to you, “Your way is good.” Then he will stand near you, to see what will happen to you.↗
Source: World English Bible (Catholic), public domain. Text is taken directly from the source. Headings are editorial, not biblical verses.
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