The Wisdom of ben Sira (Ecclesiasticus) contains the sayings and teachings of Ben Sira, written circa 180–175 BCE

Fear Not Death

Fear not death; we are destined to die.  We share this with all other mortals, with all who ever lived, with all who ever will be.  Bewail the dead, hide not your grief, do not restrain your mourning. But remember that continuing sorrow is worse than death. When the dead are at rest, let their memory rest, and be consoled when the soul departs.

Seek  not  to  understand what   is  too  difficult  for you,  search  not  for  what  is  hidden from  you.  Be not over occupied with what is beyond you, for you have been shown more than you can understand.

As a drop of water in the sea, as a grain of sand on the shore are man’s few days in eternity. The good things in life last for limited days, but a good name endures forever.

0 God,  our  Father,  You  redeem  our  souls  from  the grave, You are the Rock of our salvation. Forsake us not in time of trouble, in days of distress and desolation. Help us to endure, 0 Lord, for we have placed our hope in You.

Adapted from Ben Sira