CHAPTER 5
Against Presumption*
or say, “I have the power.”a
in following the desires of your heart.
for the LORD will exact punishment.
for the LORD is slow to anger!
that you add sin upon sin.
my many sins he will forgive.”
For mercy and anger alike are with him;
his wrath comes to rest on the wicked.
do not put it off day after day.
For suddenly his wrath will come forth;
at the time of vengeance, you will perish.
for it will be no help on the day of wrath.b
Use and Abuse of the Tongue*
nor walk in every path.*
and let your speech be consistent.
but slow to answer.c
if not, place your hand over your mouth!
The tongue can be your downfall.
and with your tongue do not slander a neighbor.
For shame has been created for the thief,
and sore disgrace for the double-tongued.
* [5:1–8] The vices of the rich are pride and independence (vv. 1–2), presumption (v. 3), false security (vv. 4–6), and impenitence (v. 7), which cannot escape the divine wrath (vv. 7–8). Cf. Prv 18:23; 19:1; 28:6.
* [5:9–6:1] Proper use of the tongue requires constancy in speech (v. 10), prudence (vv. 11–12), good judgment (v. 13), charity (5:15; 6:1); detraction, calumny (v. 14), and double-talk bring shame and disgrace (5:14; 6:1).
* [5:9] The metaphors indicate careless behavior.
a. [5:1] Sir 11:24; Prv 27:1; Lk 12:19; 1 Tm 6:17.
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