17 Do not be excessively wicked, and do not be a fool. Why should you die before your time? 18 It is good to grasp the one and not let the other slip from your hand. For he who fears God will follow both warnings. 19 Wisdom makes the wise man stronger than ten rulers in a city.
Ecclesiastes 7:17–19
Semantically similar passages
Sirach 19:23–25
23 There is a wickedness, and it is an abomination. There is a fool lacking in wisdom. (WEB) 24 Better is one who has little understanding, and fears God, than one who has much intelligence and transgresses the law. (WEB) 25 There is an exquisite subtlety, and it is unjust. And the… (WEB)
Sirach 21:10–12
10 The way of sinners is paved with stones; and at the end of it is the pit of Hades. (WEB) 11 He who keeps the law becomes master of its intent. The fulfilment of the fear of the Lord is wisdom. (WEB) 12 He who is not clever will not be instructed. There is a cleverness which make… (WEB)
Proverbs 23:3–5
3 Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive. 4 Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself. 5 When you glance at wealth, it disappears, for it makes wings for itself and flies like an eagle to the sky.
Ecclesiastes 9:17–18
17 The calm words of the wise are heeded over the shouts of a ruler among fools. 18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good.
Sirach 18:26–28
26 From morning until evening, the time changes. All things are speedy before the Lord. (WEB) 27 A wise man is cautious in everything. In days of sinning, he will beware of offense. (WEB) 28 Every man of understanding knows wisdom. He will give thanks to him who found her. (WEB)
Proverbs 28:13–15
13 He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy. 14 Blessed is the man who is always reverent, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble. 15 Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a help…
Proverbs 9:5–7
5 “Come, eat my bread and drink the wine I have mixed. 6 Leave your folly behind, and you will live; walk in the way of understanding.” 7 He who corrects a mocker brings shame on himself; he who rebukes a wicked man taints himself.
Proverbs 28:25–27
25 A greedy man stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper. 26 He who trusts in himself is a fool, but one who walks in wisdom will be safe. 27 Whoever gives to the poor will not be in need, but he who hides his eyes will receive many curses.
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