16 Let reason be the beginning of every work. Let counsel go before every action. (WEB)
Sirach 37:16
Semantically similar passages
Sirach 32:18–20
18 A sensible person won’t neglect a thought. An insolent and proud man won’t crouch in fear, even after he has done a thing by himself without counsel. (WEB) 19 Do nothing without counsel, but when you have acted, don’t regret it. (WEB) 20 Don’t go in a way of conflict. Don’t stum… (WEB)
Sirach 7:35–36
35 Don’t be slow to visit a sick man, for by such things you will gain love. (WEB) 36 In all your words, remember eternity, and you will never sin. (WEB)
Proverbs 20:17–19
17 Food gained by fraud is sweet to a man, but later his mouth is full of gravel. 18 Set plans by consultation, and wage war under sound guidance. 19 He who reveals secrets is a constant gossip; avoid the one who babbles with his lips.
Sirach 4:28–30
28 Strive for the truth to death, and the Lord God will fight for you. (WEB) 29 Don’t be hasty with your tongue, or slack and negligent in your deeds. (WEB) 30 Don’t be like a lion in your house, or suspicious of your servants. (WEB)
Sirach 18:18–20
18 A fool is ungracious and abusive. The gift of a grudging person consumes the eyes. (WEB) 19 Learn before you speak. Take care of your health before you get sick. (WEB) 20 Before judgment, examine yourself, and in the hour of scrutiny you will find forgiveness. (WEB)
Tobit 4:17–19
17 Pour out your bread on the burial of the just, and give nothing to sinners. (WEB) 18 Ask counsel of every man who is wise, and don’t despise any counsel that is profitable. (WEB) 19 Bless the Lord your God at all times, and ask of him that your ways may be made straight, and tha… (WEB)
Proverbs 4:25–27
25 Let your eyes look forward; fix your gaze straight ahead. 26 Make a level path for your feet, and all your ways will be sure. 27 Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your feet away from evil.
Sirach 5:14–15
14 Don’t be called a whisperer. Don’t lie in wait with your tongue; for shame is on the thief, and an evil condemnation is on him who has a double tongue. (WEB) 15 Don’t be ignorant in a great or small matter. (WEB)
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