Proverbs

⁷Fine or arrogant speech does not befit [an empty-headed] fool–much less do lying lips befit a prince. ⁸A bribe is like a bright, precious stone that dazzles the eyes and affects the mind of him who gives it; [as if by magic] he prospers, whichever way he turns. ⁹He who covers and forgives an offense seeks love, but he who repeats or harps on a matter separates even close friends. ¹⁰A reproof enters deeper into a man of understanding than a hundred lashes into a [self-confident] fool. [Isa. 32:6.] ¹¹An evil man seeks only rebellion; therefore a stern and pitiless messenger shall be sent against him. ¹²Let [the brute ferocity of] a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man rather than a [self-confident] fool in his folly [when he is in a rage]. [Hos. 13:8.] ¹³Whoever rewards evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house. [Ps. 109:4, 5; Jer. 18:20.]