1 He who separates himself seeks [his own] desire, And rages against all sound wisdom.

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

3 When the wicked comes, there comes also contempt, And with ignominy [comes] reproach.

4 The words of a man's mouth are [as] deep waters; The wellspring of wisdom is [as] a gushing brook.

5 To respect the person of the wicked is not good, [Nor] to turn aside the righteous 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 who is slack in his work Is brother to him who is a destroyer.

10 The name of Yahweh is a strong tower; The righteous 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 [goes] 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?