Sirach 4:17
King James VersionSource notes
“For at the first she will walk with him by crooked ways, and bring fear and dread upon him, and torment him with her discipline, until she may trust his soul, and try him by her laws.”
Context
14They that serve her shall minister to the Holy One: and them that love her the Lord doth love.
15Whoso giveth ear unto her shall judge the nations: and he that attendeth unto her shall dwell securely.
16If a man commit himself unto her, he shall inherit her; and his generation shall hold her in possession.
17For at the first she will walk with him by crooked ways, and bring fear and dread upon him, and torment him with her discipline, until she may trust his soul, and try him by her laws.
18Then will she return the straight way unto him, and comfort him, and shew him her secrets.
19But if he go wrong, she will forsake him, and give him over to his own ruin.
20Observe the opportunity, and beware of evil; and be not ashamed when it concerneth thy soul.