1A man, having separated himself, seeks his own desire, and rages against all sound wisdom. 2A fool has no delight in understanding, but that his heart may express itself. 3When the wicked comes, then comes also contempt, and with dishonor comes reproach. 4The words of a man's mouth are like deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom like a flowing brook. 5It is not good to be partial to the wicked, or to overthrow the righteous in judgment. 6A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calls for blows. 7A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. 8The words of a talebearer are like tasty morsels, and they go down into the innermost parts of the body. 9He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster. 10The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runs into it, and is safe. 11The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his own esteem. 12Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honor is humility. 13He that answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame unto him. 14The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness; but a wounded spirit who can bear? 15The heart of the prudent gets knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. 16A man's gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men. 17He that speaks first in his own cause seems just; until his neighbor comes and examines him. 18The lot causes contentions to cease, and decides between the mighty. 19A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and contentions are like the bars of a castle. 20A man's stomach shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. 21Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. 22Whosoever finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor of the LORD. 23The poor uses entreaties; but the rich answers roughly. 24A man that has friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.