“When, because of hunger, one is constrained to beg and because of his begging he is compelled to act shamefully, and then because of acting shamefully he endures reproach—then the weight of despondency becomes rather complex and is accompanied by a darkness that settles on the soul. The one who takes care of such peop…”
John Chrysostom, 5th c. — ON THE PRIESTHOOD 3:306-7
Original
15My son, blemish not thy good deeds, neither use uncomfortable words when thou givest any thing.
Modern
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In 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.
— Sirach 18:15 —
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.