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. Lit to uncover his heart 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. Or waters; a fountain of wisdom is a flowing river 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. Lit to the chambers of the belly 9 The one who is lazy in his work is brother to a vandal. Lit master of destruction 10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are protected. Lit raised high 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 Lit gift makes room 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 LXX, Syr, Tg, Vg read is stronger 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, Some LXX mss, Syr, Tg, Vg read friends must be friendly but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.