1People who prefer isolation often pursue selfish goals; and, against better judgement, meddle and start quarrels. 2A fool has no pleasure in understanding, but loves to voice his opinions. 3When wickedness comes, so does disgrace, and scandalous behavior with contempt for correction. 4A wise man's words are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom like a flowing brook. 5It is not good to justify a wicked person, or to deny justice to the innocent. 6A fool's mouth brings them into strife, and begs for a beating. 7The mouths of fools are their destruction; they trap themselves with their lips. 8The words of a gossip are like deeps wounds. 9He who is slack in his work is brother to him that wastes resources. 10The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to Him for safety. 11The rich man, in his conceit, regards his wealth as his stronghold, like a high wall of defense. 12Before his downfall, the heart of man is haughty, and the requisite for honor is humility. 13He that answers a matter before he hears the facts is an embarrassment to himself. 14The human spirit can withstand sickness; but who can bear a wounded spirit? 15The heart of the prudent seeks knowledge; and the ear of the wise listens for it. 16A gift opens doors for the giver, and brings him before great men. 17In a lawsuit, he that is first to present his own cause seems just, until another comes forward and cross-examines him. 18Casting lots settles disputes between powerful and opposing sides. 19A friend that has been wronged is harder to be won back than capturing a fortified city, and his contentions are like the bars of a castle. 20A man's wise words satisfy, like good food fills and satisfies the belly. 21The tongue has the power of life and death, and they that love to talk shall eat its fruit. 22He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and receives favor from the LORD. 23The poor plead for mercy with smooth words; but the rich often respond with insults. 24There are ‘friends’ who destroy each other; but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.