1 H e who separates himself seeks his own desire, He quarrels against all sound wisdom.

2 A fool does not delight in understanding, But only in revealing his own mind.

3 W hen a wicked man comes, contempt also comes, And with dishonor comes scorn.

4 T he words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.

5 T o show partiality to the wicked is not good, Nor to thrust aside the righteous in judgment.

6 A fool’s lips bring strife, And his mouth calls for blows.

7 A fool’s mouth is his ruin, And his lips are the snare of his soul.

8 T he words of a whisperer are like dainty morsels, And they go down into the innermost parts of the body.

9 H e also who is slack in his work Is brother to him who destroys.

10 T he name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.

11 A rich man’s wealth is his strong city, And like a high wall in his own imagination.

12 B efore destruction the heart of man is haughty, But humility goes before honor.

13 H e who gives an answer before he hears, It is folly and shame to him.

14 T he spirit of a man can endure his sickness, But as for a broken spirit who can bear it?

15 T he mind of the prudent acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

16 A man’s gift makes room for him And brings him before great men.

17 T he first to plead his case seems right, Until another comes and examines him.

18 T he cast lot puts an end to strife And decides between the mighty ones.

19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city, And contentions are like the bars of a citadel.

20 W ith the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach will be satisfied; He will be satisfied with the product of his lips.

21 D eath and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.

22 H e who finds a wife finds a good thing And obtains favor from the Lord.

23 T he poor man utters supplications, But the rich man answers roughly.

24 A man of too many friends comes to ruin, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.