Proverbs 18:3-13

3 When a wicked man comes, shame does also, and along with dishonor, disgrace.

4 The words of a man's mouth are deep waters,^[a] a flowing river, a fountain of wisdom.

5 It is not good to show partiality to the guilty by perverting the justice due the innocent.^[b]

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.^[c]

8 A gossip's words are like choice food that goes down to one's innermost being.^{[d] [e]}

9 The one who is truly lazy in his work is brother to a vandal.^{[f] [g]}

10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are protected.^{[h] [i]}

11 A rich man's wealth is his fortified city; in his imagination it is like a high wall.^[j]

12 Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but before honor comes humility.^[k]

13 The one who gives an answer before he listens- this is foolishness and disgrace for him.^[l]

Footnotes

• [a] Pr 20:5
• [b] Pr 24:23-24; Lv 19:15; Dt 24:17; Ps 15:5
• [c] Pr 10:14; 12:13; 13:3
• [d] Lit to the chambers of the belly
• [e] Pr 26:22
• [f] Lit master of destruction
• [g] Pr 28:24
• [h] Lit raised high
• [i] Pr 29:25
• [j] Pr 10:15
• [k] Pr 11:2; 16:18; 29:23
• [l] Pr 15:28