Proverbs

⁷Criticize a person who is rude and shows no respect, and you will only get insults. Correct the wicked, and you will only get hurt. ⁸Don’t correct such people, or they will hate you. But correct those who are wise, and they will love you. ⁹Teach the wise, and they will become wiser. Instruct those who live right, and they will gain more knowledge. ¹⁰Wisdom begins with fear and respect for the Lord. Knowledge of the Holy One leads to understanding. ¹¹Wisdom will help you live longer; she will add years to your life. ¹²If you become wise, it will be for your own good. If you are rude and show no respect, you are the one who will suffer. ¹³Foolishness is that other woman, who is loud, stupid, and knows nothing.