Do not be swayed by every wind nor try to walk by every path, as does the sinner who is accustomed to lie.
Remain firm in your convictions, and be consistent in your speech.
Be ready to listen, and know how to wait before giving your reply.
If you know what you are saying, answer your neighbor; if not, it is better to say nothing.
Your words can bring you honor and dishonor; a man’s tongue brings about his down fall.
Do not let yourself be known as a scandalmonger or a deceiver. For if shame is the lot of the robber, severe condemnation is the lot of the liar.
Do not sin in big things nor in little things, and from being a friend do not turn into an enemy. An evil reputation brings in its train shame and disgrace; such is the lot of the sinner who is accustomed to lying.
Sirach 5:9-15