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26 As the furnace tests the work of the smith,[a]
    so wine tests hearts when the insolent quarrel.
27 Wine is very life to human beings
    if taken in moderation.
What is life to one who is without wine?
    It has been created to make people happy.
28 Wine drunk at the proper time and in moderation
    is rejoicing of heart and gladness of soul.

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Footnotes

  1. Sirach 31:26 Heb: Gk tests the hardening of steel by dipping

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