Sincerity in Speech Sirach 5:11-17;6:1-4

11 Be quick to hear, and be deliberate in answering.

12 If you have understanding, answer your neighbor; but if not, put your hand on your mouth.

13 Glory and dishonor come from speaking, and a man’s tongue is his downfall.

14 Do not be called a slanderer, and do not lie in ambush with your tongue; for shame comes to the thief, and severe condemnation to the double-tongued.

15 In great or small matters do not act amiss, and do not become an enemy instead of a friend;

6:1 for a bad name incurs shame and reproach: so fares the double-tongued sinner.

2 Do not exalt yourself through your soul’s counsel, lest your soul be torn in pieces like a bull. 

3 You will devour your leaves and destroy your fruit, and will be left like a withered tree.

4 An evil soul will destroy him who has it, and make him the laughingstock of his enemies.