1 Unfriendly people care only about themselves;they lash out at common sense.
2 Fools have no interest in understanding;they only want to air their own opinions.
3 Doing wrong leads to disgrace,and scandalous behavior brings contempt.
4 Wise words are like deep waters;wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.
5 It is not right to acquit the guiltyor deny justice to the innocent.
6 Fools’ words get them into constant quarrels;they are asking for a beating.
7 The mouths of fools are their ruin;they trap themselves with their lips.
8 Rumors are dainty morselsthat sink deep into one’s heart.
9 A lazy person is as bad assomeone who destroys things.
10 The name of the lord is a strong fortress;the godly run to him and are safe.
11 The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense;they imagine it to be a high wall of safety.
12 Haughtiness goes before destruction;humility precedes honor.
13 Spouting off before listening to the factsis both shameful and foolish.
14 The human spirit can endure a sick body,but who can bear a crushed spirit?
15 Intelligent people are always ready to learn.Their ears are open for knowledge.
16 Giving a gift can open doors;it gives access to important people!
17 The first to speak in court sounds right—until the cross-examination begins.
18 Flipping a coin can end arguments;it settles disputes between powerful opponents.
19 An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city.Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars.
20 Wise words satisfy like a good meal;the right words bring satisfaction.
21 The tongue can bring death or life;those who love to talk will reap the consequences.
22 The man who finds a wife finds a treasure,and he receives favor from the lord.
23 The poor plead for mercy;the rich answer with insults.
24 There are “friends” who destroy each other,but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.