E.D. Reymond, «Sirach 40,18-27 as ‘T@o=b-Spruch’», Vol. 82 (2001) 84-92

Although the series of comparisons that make up Sirach 40,18-27 are often characterized as ‘better-than’ proverbs or t@o=b-Sprüche, they do not convey a generic idea of degree, but rather express the superiority of items in the specific context of verbs’ semantic fields. This construction emphasizes the tangible benefit of the ‘superior’ elements, a nuance that the more typical t@o=b-Sprüche would not express. In addition, Ben Sira describes each superior item as unambiguously virtuous, implying a connection between righteous behavior and a joyous, satisfying and successful life.

18 A life of plenty⁹ (a life) of wages is sweet,
        but even more so¹⁰, finding¹¹ [treasure¹²].
¹⁹ Child and [city insure] a legacy (lit. will establish a name),
        but even more so, finding¹³ [wisdom].
[Flocks and vineyards allow] a family¹⁴ [to flourish],
        [but even more so, a devoted wife.]
²⁰ [Wine and strong drink bring joy to the heart (lit. cause the heart to rejoice),]
        [but even more so, the love of friends.]
²¹ [Flute and harp sweeten the song,]
        [but even more so, a pure tongue.]
²² [Beauty and (good) form delight the eye¹⁵,]
        [but even more so, the field’s produce.]
²³ [Friend and neighbor¹⁶ at (the proper) time¹⁷ behave themselves¹⁸,]
        [but even more so, a prudent wife.]
²⁴ [Brother and helper¹⁹ proffer aid²⁰ (in) time(s) of distress,]
        [but even more so, righteousness ²¹ (that) delivers.]
²⁵ [Gold and silver set one on firm ground (lit.: make the foot stand)²²,]
        [but even more so, good counsel²³.]
²⁶ [Wealth and power gladden²⁴ the heart,]
        [but even] more so, [the fear of God.]
[Nothing is absent in the fear of the Lord,]
        [and] one need not seek support outside of it (lit.: with it).