[1] One who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound wisdom. [2] A fool does not delight in understanding, but only wants to show off his opinions. [3] When a wicked person comes, contempt also comes, and along with dishonor, derision. [4] The words of a person's mouth are deep waters, a flowing river, a fountain of wisdom. [5] It is not good to show partiality to the guilty, denying an innocent person justice. [6] A fool's lips lead to strife, and his mouth provokes a beating. [7] A fool's mouth is his devastation, and his lips are a trap for his life. [8] A gossip's words are like choice food that goes down to one's innermost being. [9] The one who is lazy in his work is brother to a vandal. [10] The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are protected. [11] The wealth of the rich is his fortified city; in his imagination it is like a high wall. [12] Before his downfall a person's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor. [13] The one who gives an answer before he listens- this is foolishness and disgrace for him. [14] A person's spirit can endure sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit? [15] The mind of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it. [16] A person's gift opens doors for him and brings him before the great. [17] The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him. [18] Casting the lot ends quarrels and separates powerful opponents. [19] An offended brother is harder to reach than a fortified city, and quarrels are like the bars of a fortress. [20] From the fruit of a person's mouth his stomach is satisfied; he is filled with the product of his lips. [21] Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. [22] A man who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD. [23] The poor person pleads, but the rich one answers roughly. [24] One with many friends may be harmed, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.
