[1] Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment. [2] A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. [3] When wickedness comes, contempt comes also, and with dishonor comes disgrace. [4] The words of a man's mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. [5] It is not good to be partial to the wicked or to deprive the righteous of justice. [6] A fool's lips walk into a fight, and his mouth invites a beating. [7] A fool's mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul. [8] The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body. [9] Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys. [10] The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe. [11] A rich man's wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his imagination. [12] Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor. [13] If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame. [14] A man's spirit will endure sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? [15] An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. [16] A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great. [17] The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him. [18] The lot puts an end to quarrels and decides between powerful contenders. [19] A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle. [20] From the fruit of a man's mouth his stomach is satisfied; he is satisfied by the yield of his lips. [21] Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. [22] He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD. [23] The poor use entreaties, but the rich answer roughly. [24] A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
