Sirach 11:1-6

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

11 The wisdom of the humble lifts their heads high
    and seats them among the great.^(A)
2 Do not praise individuals for their good looks
    or loathe anyone because of appearance alone.^(B)
3 The bee is small among flying creatures,
    but what it produces is the origin of sweet things.^(C)
4 Do not mock those wearing only a loincloth
    or make fun of those whose day is bitter,^[a]
for the works of the Lord are wonderful
    and his works are concealed from humans.^(D)
5 Many oppressed have sat upon a throne,^[b]
    and one whom no one expected has worn a crown.^(E)
6 Many rulers have been utterly disgraced,
    and the honored have been handed over to others.^(F)