20
A proverb from a fool's lips will be rejected, for he does not tell it at its proper time.
21
A man may be prevented from sinning by his poverty, so when he rests he feels no remorse.
22
A man may lose his life through shame, or lose it because of his foolish look.
23
A man may for shame make promises to a friend, and needlessly make him an enemy.
24
A lie is an ugly blot on a man; it is continually on the lips of the ignorant.
25
A thief is preferable to a habitual liar, but the lot of both is ruin.
26
The disposition of a liar brings disgrace, and his shame is ever with him.
27
He who speaks wisely will advance himself, and a sensible man will please great men.
28
Whoever cultivates the soil will heap up his harvest, and whoever pleases great men will atone for injustice.
29
Presents and gifts blind the eyes of the wise; like a muzzle on the mouth they avert reproofs.
30
Hidden wisdom and unseen treasure, what advantage is there in either of them?