[1] He who keeps himself separate for his private purpose goes against all
good sense. [2] A foolish man has no pleasure in good sense, but only to
let what is in his heart come to light. [3] When the evil-doer comes, a low
opinion comes with him, and with the loss of honour comes shame. [4] The
words of a man's mouth are like deep waters: the fountain of wisdom is like
a flowing stream. [5] To have respect for the person of the evil-doer is
not good, or to give a wrong decision against the upright. [6] A foolish
man's lips are a cause of fighting, and his mouth makes him open to blows.
[7] The mouth of a foolish man is his destruction, and his lips are a net
for his soul. [8] The words of one who says evil of his neighbour secretly
are like sweet food, and go down into the inner parts of the stomach. [9]
He who does not give his mind to his work is brother to him who makes
destruction. [10] The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the upright man
running into it is safe. [11] The property of a man of wealth is his strong
town, and it is as a high wall in the thoughts of his heart. [12] Before
destruction the heart of man is full of pride, and before honour goes a
gentle spirit. [13] To give an answer before hearing is a foolish thing and
a cause of shame. [14] The spirit of a man will be his support when he is
ill; but how may a broken spirit be lifted up? [15] The heart of the man of
good sense gets knowledge; the ear of the wise is searching for knowledge.
[16] A man's offering makes room for him, letting him come before great
men. [17] The man who first puts his cause before the judge seems to be in
the right; but then his neighbour comes and puts his cause in its true
light. [18] The decision of chance puts an end to argument, parting the
strong. [19] A brother wounded is like a strong town, and violent acts are
like a locked tower. [20] With the fruit of a man's mouth his stomach will
be full; the produce of his lips will be his in full measure. [21] Death
and life are in the power of the tongue; and those to whom it is dear will
have its fruit for their food. [22] Whoever gets a wife gets a good thing,
and has the approval of the Lord. [23] The poor man makes requests for
grace, but the man of wealth gives a rough answer. [24] There are friends
who may be a man's destruction, but there is a lover who keeps nearer than
a brother.