1 He who desires to separate himself seeks excuses, and rages against all sound wisdom.

2 A fool has no delight in understanding, but only that his heart may reveal itself.

3 When a wicked man comes, contempt also comes, and with disgrace, reproach.

4 The words of a man's mouth are deep waters. The wellspring of wisdom is a flowing brook.

5 To respect the person of a wicked man is not good, [nor] to turn aside a righteous man in judgment.

6 A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calls for stripes.

7 A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.

8 The words of a whisperer are as dainty morsels, and they go down into the innermost parts.

9 He also that is slack in his work is brother to him that is a destroyer.

10 The name of LORD is a strong tower. A righteous man runs into it, and is safe.

11 The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as a high wall in his own imagination.

12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honor [is] humility.

13 He who gives answer before he hears, it is folly and shame to him.

14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity, but a broken spirit who can bear?