Hacker News new | ask | show | jobs
by emurray 1116 days ago
I was curious to see the full text of the translated poem. Here it is via google books preview of the book in question:

Oh man, think long

before talk escapes your mouth.

Speak thoughtfully, without anger and hatred,

thus you will succeed all the better.

Listening quickly and answering slowly,

considering things carefully, that is how wise men live.

Through talk many have been overcome,

in silence few have been found dishonourable.

There is no better protection from dishonour

than being the master of your tongue.

2 comments

https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/James-1-19/

"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:"

It seems like solid advice.

I'm curious about the known exceptions. I.e., when has holding one's tongue entirely, or taking time to think before speaking, worked out badly?

Maybe don't stifle the urge to say you love someone.