11 Weep for the dead,for they have left the light behind;and weep for fools,for they haveleft understanding behind.Weep sweetly over the dead,because they are at rest,but the life of a fool is worsethan death.
12 Mourn for the dead for seven days,but mourn for the foolish and the ungodly all the days of their lives.
13 Don’t talk a lot with fools,and don’t go to the unintelligent.Be on guard against themso that you don’t have troubleand don’t get dirtywhen they shake themselves off.Stay away from themand you will find rest,and their senselessnesswon’t make you weary.
14 What’s heavier than lead?And what name does it have but "Fool"?
15 Sand, salt, and a lump of ironare easier to bearthan an unintelligent person.
16 A wooden beam fastened into a buildingwon’t be loosened by an earthquake.So a heart firmly seton thoughtful counselwon’t be afraid at any time.
17 A heart fixed on thoughtful understandingis like an engraved ornamenton a smooth wall.