12 Before disaster the heart is haughty,but before honor is humility.
13 Whoever answers before listening,theirs is folly and shame.
14 One’s spirit supports one when ill,but a broken spirit who can bear?
15 The heart of the intelligent acquires knowledge,and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
16 Gifts clear the way for people,winning access to the great.
17 Those who plead the case first seem to be in the right;then the opponent comes and cross-examines them.
18 The lot puts an end to disputes,and decides a controversy between the mighty.