[1] Whoever pulls away from others to focus solely on his own desires disregards any sense of sound judgment. [2] A fool never delights in true knowledge but only wants to express what's on his mind. [3] When wrongdoers arrive, disgrace is right there with them, for shame is the companion of dishonor. [4] Words bubble up from waters deep within a person; a stream gushes from the fountain of wisdom. [5] It is wrong for a judge to show partiality to the guilty or to rob the innocent of justice. [6] When a fool's lips move, a fight breaks out; it's as if his mouth is begging for a beating. [7] The mouths of fools are their destruction, and their lips entrap their very souls. [8] Whispered gossip is like a delicious first course: it is devoured with pleasure and penetrates deeply. [9] Those who slack off at work are no different from vandals. [10] The Eternal is known to be like a sturdy watchtower; those who do right flee to Him for protection. [11] The rich think their wealth is their sturdy fortress; they imagine it to be an invincible wall of security. [12] A proud heart precedes destruction, and before honor is humility. [13] To respond to a matter before you hear about it shows foolishness and brings shame. [14] The human spirit can endure a long illness, but who can survive a crushed spirit? [15] Clever people go after knowledge to obtain it, and wise people attune their ears to hear it. [16] The right gift at the right time can open up new opportunities and gains access to influential people. [17] The first ones to tell their side of a story seem right until cross-examined by their peers. [18] Casting lots can settle conflicts and decide between powerful opponents. [19] Winning over an offended brother is harder than breaching a strong city's defenses; such fights are as tough as the iron gates of a castle. [20] Good words satisfy like a fine meal; yes, good conversations are sure to satisfy. [21] Words have power in matters of life and death, and those who love them will savor their fruit. [22] The man who finds a wife finds something good, and the favor of the Eternal is indeed his. [23] The poor plead for help, but the rich respond harshly. [24] Someone with many so-called friends may end up friendless, but a true friend is closer than a brother.
