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?