Proverbs 18

Those who isolate themselves pursue their desires; They disdain all competence.

Fools do not desire understanding, But only to air their thoughts.

Along with the wicked comes derision, And with rogues, contempt.

The words a person speaks are deep waters, A flowing stream, a fountain of wisdom.

It is not right to be partial to the guilty And subvert the innocent in judgment.

The words of fools lead to strife; Their speech invites blows.

The fools’ speech is their ruin; Their words are a trap for them.

The words of a grumbler are bruising; They penetrate one’s inmost parts.

One who is slack at work Is akin to a vandal.

GOD’s name is a tower of strength To which the righteous run and are safe.

The wealth of the rich is their fortress; In their fancy it is a protective wall.

Before ruin a person’s heart is proud; Humility goes before honor.

To answer before listening— This is foolish and disgraceful.

A person’s spirit can endure an illness; But low spirits—who can bear them?

The mind of an intelligent person acquires knowledge; The ears of the wise seek out knowledge.

A gift eases a person’s way And gives access to the great.

The first to speak in court seems right Till the other party cross-examines.

The lot puts an end to strife And separates those locked in dispute.

A sibling offended is more formidable than a stronghold; Such strife is like the bars of a fortress.

A man’s belly is filled by the fruit of his mouth; He will be filled by the produce of his lips.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue; Those who love it will eat its fruit.

He who finds a wife has found happiness And has won GOD’s favor.

The pauper speaks in terms of mercy; The rich person’s answer is harsh.

There are companions to keep one company, And there is a friend more devoted than a sibling.