Sirach 18:16
King James VersionSource notes
“Shall not the dew asswage the heat? so is a word better than a gift.”
Context
13The mercy of man is toward his neighbour; but the mercy of the Lord is upon all flesh: he reproveth, and nurtureth, and teacheth and bringeth again, as a shepherd his flock.
14He hath mercy on them that receive discipline, and that diligently seek after his judgments.
15My son, blemish not thy good deeds, neither use uncomfortable words when thou givest any thing.
16Shall not the dew asswage the heat? so is a word better than a gift.
17Lo, is not a word better than a gift? but both are with a gracious man.
18A fool will upbraid churlishly, and a gift of the envious consumeth the eyes.
19Learn before thou speak, and use physick or ever thou be sick.