1
He that separateth himself seeketh [his own] desire, And rageth against all sound wisdom.
2
A fool hath no delight in understanding, But only that his heart may reveal itself.
3
When the wicked cometh, there cometh also contempt, And with ignominy [cometh] reproach.
4
The words of a man's mouth are [as] deep waters; The wellspring of wisdom is [as] a flowing brook.
5
To respect the person of the wicked is not good, [Nor] to turn aside the righteous in judgment.
6
A fool's lips enter into contention, And his mouth calleth for stripes.
7
A fool's mouth is his destruction, And his lips are the snare of his soul.
8
The words of a whisperer are as dainty morsels, And they go down into the innermost parts.
9
He also that is slack in his work Is brother to him that is a destroyer.
10
The name of Jehovah is a strong tower; The righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
11
The rich man's wealth is his strong city, And as a high wall in his own imagination.
12
Before destruction the heart of man is haughty; And before honor [goeth] humility.
13
He that giveth answer before he heareth, It is folly and shame unto him.
14
The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; But a broken spirit who can bear?
15
The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; And the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
16
A man's gift maketh room for him, And bringeth him before great men.
17
He that pleadeth his cause first [seemeth] just; But his neighbor cometh and searcheth him out.