Proverbs

³When the wicked comes in [to the depth of evil], he becomes a contemptuous despiser [of all that is pure and good], and with inner baseness comes outer shame and reproach. ⁴The words of a [discreet and wise] man's mouth are like deep waters [plenteous and difficult to fathom], and the fountain of skillful and godly Wisdom is like a gushing stream [sparkling, fresh, pure, and life-giving]. ⁵To respect the person of the wicked and be partial to him, so as to deprive the [consistently] righteous of justice, is not good. ⁶A [self-confident] fool's lips bring contention, and his mouth invites a beating. ⁷A [self-confident] fool's mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to himself. ⁸The words of a whisperer or talebearer are as dainty morsels; they go down into the innermost parts of the body. ⁹He who is loose and slack in his work is brother to him who is a destroyer and he who does not use his endeavors to heal himself is brother to him who commits suicide.