1
Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.
2
For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well.
3
Now if we put the bits into the horses' mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well.
4
Look at the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot desires.
5
So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire!