18 Good things poured out upon a mouth that is closed Are as messes of meat laid upon a grave.
19 What does an offering profit an idol? For neither shall it eat nor smell: So is he that is afflicted of the Lord,
20 Seeing with his eyes and groaning, As an eunuch embracing a virgin and groaning.
21 Give not over your soul to sorrow; And afflict not yourself in your own counsel.
22 Gladness of heart is the life of a man; And the joyfulness of a man is length of days.
23 Love your own soul, and comfort your heart: And remove sorrow far from you; For sorrow has destroyed many, And there is no profit therein.
24 Envy and wrath shorten a man’s days; And care brings old age before the time.