2A fool has no delight in wisdom, because his mind devises folly.

3When the wicked reaches the depths of evil, then folly comes upon him, iniquity, disgrace, and shame.

4The words of a man's mouth are like deep waters; and the fountain of wisdom is like a flowing brook.

5It is not good to respect the person of the wicked, nor to pervert justice against the righteous.

6A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth brings him to death,

7A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.

8The words of a slothful man bring evil to him, and they cause him to go down into the inner chambers of Sheol.

9He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him who is a destroyer.

10The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous and the mighty run into it.

11The rich man's wealth is his strong city; and his dwelling place is fenced by a strong wall.

12Before destruction the heart of a man is haughty; and before honor is humility.

13He who gives answer before he hears is a fool and a reviler.

14The spirit of a man will endure his suffering; but a distressing spirit, who can bear?

15The heart of the prudent acquires wisdom; and the ear of the wise listens to knowledge.

16A man's gifts make room for him and bring him before great men.

17A man is deemed innocent in his lawsuit; but when his neighbor comes he examines him.

18Casting lots causes contentions to cease and decides between mighty men.

19A brother helped by a brother is like a city helped by its fortifications; and his helpers are like the bars of a castle.

20A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruits of his mouth; and with the fruits of his lips shall he be filled.

21Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and those who love it shall eat the fruits thereof.

22He who finds a good wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD. And he who puts out a good wife, puts out good from his house.

23The poor speak humbly; but the rich talk of great things.

24There are friends who are merely friends; and there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.