8
1The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into 2the inner parts of the body.
9
Whoever is slack in his work is a 3brother to him who destroys.
10
4The name of the LORD is 5a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and 6is safe.
11
7A rich man's wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his imagination.
12
8Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but 9humility comes before honor.
13
If one gives an answer 10before he hears, it is his folly and shame.
14
A man's spirit will endure sickness, but 11a crushed spirit who can bear?
15
An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
16
A man's 12gift makes room for him and brings him before the great.
17
The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.
18
13The lot puts an end to quarrels and decides between powerful contenders.
19
A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city, and quarreling is like the bars of a castle.
20
14From the fruit of a man's mouth his stomach is satisfied; he is satisfied by the yield of his lips.
21
15Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
22
He who finds 16a wife finds 17a good thing and 18obtains favor 19from the LORD.
23
The poor use entreaties, but 20the rich answer roughly.
24
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but 21there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.