Proverbs

¹¹By the blessing of the influence of the upright and God's favor [because of them] the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. ¹²He who belittles and despises his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding keeps silent. ¹³He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy and faithful in spirit keeps the matter hidden. ¹⁴Where no wise guidance is, the people fall, but in the multitude of counselors there is safety. ¹⁵He who becomes security for an outsider shall smart for it, but he who hates suretyship is secure [from its penalties]. ¹⁶A gracious and good woman wins honor [for her husband], and violent men win riches but a woman who hates righteousness is a throne of dishonor for him. ¹⁷The merciful, kind, and generous man benefits himself [for his deeds return to bless him], but he who is cruel and callous [to the wants of others] brings on himself retribution.