Proverbs 18:7-17

7 A fool's mouth is destruction to him, and his lips are a snare to his soul.

8 The words of a talebearer are as dainty morsels, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

9 He also who is indolent in his work is brother of the 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 honour [goeth] humility.

13 He that giveth answer before he heareth, it is folly and shame unto him.

14 The spirit of a man sustaineth his infirmity; but a broken spirit who can bear?

15 The heart of an intelligent [man] 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 is first in his own cause [seemeth] just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.

Footnotes

• [a]. Or 'into the depths (lit. 'chambers') of the soul;' and so chs. 20.27,30; 26.22.
• [b]. Or 'unapproachable;' lit. 'set in a high retreat:' see Ps. 20.1.
• [c]. Or 'can raise it up.'