[1] Unfriendly people look out for themselves; they bicker with sensible people. [2] Fools find no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing their opinion. [3] When the wicked arrive, so does contempt; with shame comes insult. [4] The words of a person’s mouth are deep waters, a bubbling stream, a fountain of wisdom. [5] Favoring the wicked isn’t good; it denies justice to the righteous. [6] The lips of fools make accusations; their mouths elicit beatings. [7] The mouth of fools is their ruin; their lips are a trap for their lives. [8] The words of gossips are like choice snacks; they go down to the inmost parts. [9] Those who are lazy in their work are brothers to thugs. [10] The LORD’s name is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and find refuge. [11] The riches of the wealthy are a strong city and like a high wall in their imagination. [12] Pride comes before a disaster, but humility comes before respect. [13] Those who answer before they listen are foolish and disgraceful. [14] The human spirit sustains a sick person, but who can bear a broken spirit? [15] An understanding mind gains knowledge; the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. [16] A gift opens the way for access to important people. [17] The first person to testify seems innocent, until the other comes and cross-examines him. [18] The dice settle conflicts and keep strong opponents apart. [19] An offended ally is more formidable than a city; such quarreling is like the bars of a castle. [20] The stomach is satisfied by the fruit of the mouth; one’s lips can earn a satisfying income. [21] Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit. [22] He who finds a wife finds what is good, gaining favor from the LORD. [23] The poor plead for help, but the wealthy answer harshly. [24] There are persons for companionship, but then there are friends who are more loyal than family.
