1A loner is out to get what he wants for himself. He opposes all sound reasoning.

2A fool does not find joy in understanding but only in expressing his own opinion.

3When wickedness comes, contempt also comes, and insult comes along with disgrace.

4The words of a person's mouth are like deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is an overflowing stream.

5It is not good to be partial toward a wicked person, thereby depriving an innocent person of justice.

6By talking, a fool gets into an argument, and his mouth invites a beating.

7A fool's mouth is his ruin. His lips are a trap to his soul.

8The words of a gossip are swallowed greedily, and they go down into a person's innermost being.

9Whoever is lazy in his work is related to a vandal.

10The name of the LORD is a strong tower. A righteous person runs to it and is safe.

11A rich person's wealth is his strong city and is like a high wall in his imagination.

12Before destruction a person's heart is arrogant, but humility comes before honor.

13Whoever gives an answer before he listens is stupid and shameful.

14A person's spirit can endure sickness, but who can bear a broken spirit?

15The mind of a person who has understanding acquires knowledge. The ears of wise people seek knowledge.

16A gift opens doors for the one who gives it and brings him into the presence of great people.

17The first to state his case seems right [until] his neighbor comes to cross-examine him.

18Flipping a coin ends quarrels and settles [issues] between powerful people.

19An offended brother is more [resistant]than a strong city, and disputes are like the locked gate of a castle tower.

20A person's speaking ability provides for his stomach. His talking provides him a living.

21The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love to talk will have to eat their own words.

22Whoever finds a wife finds something good and has obtained favor from the LORD.

23A poor person is timid when begging, but a rich person is blunt when replying.

24Friends can destroy one another, but a loving friend can stick closer than family.