18 Keep yourself far from a man having the power to kill, and then you will not have the fear of death suspended over you.
19 But if you do approach him, do nothing to offend, lest perhaps he may take away your life.
20 Know that this is a communion with death. For you would be entering the midst of snares, and walking upon the arms of the grieving.
21 According to your ability, be cautious of your neighbor, and treat him as the wise and prudent would.
22 Let just men be your companions, and let your glory be in the fear of God.
23 And let the thought of God be in your mind, and let all your discourse be on the precepts of the Most High.
24 Works will be praised for the hands of the artists, and a leader of the people will be praised for the wisdom of his words, yet truly, the word of the elders will be praised for its understanding.