Sirach 40:28
King James VersionSource notes
“My son, lead not a beggar’s life; for better it is to die than to beg.”
Context
25Gold and silver make the foot stand sure: but counsel is esteemed above them both.
26Riches and strength lift up the heart: but the fear of the Lord is above them both: there is no want in the fear of the Lord, and it needeth not to seek help.
27The fear of the Lord is a fruitful garden, and covereth him above all glory.
28My son, lead not a beggar’s life; for better it is to die than to beg.
29The life of him that dependeth on another man’s table is not to be counted for a life; for he polluteth himself with other men’s meat: but a wise man well nurtured will beware thereof.
30Begging is sweet in the mouth of the shameless: but in his belly there shall burn a fire.