12 Before destruction the heart of man is proud,but before honor is humility.
13 He who answers before he hears,that is folly and shame to him.
14 A man’s spirit will sustain him in sickness,but a crushed spirit, who can bear?
15 The heart of the discerning gets knowledge.The ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
16 A man’s gift makes room for him,and brings him before great men.
17 He who pleads his cause first seems right;until another comes and questions him.
18 The lot settles disputes,and keeps strong ones apart.