Proverbs

1 One who isolates himself pursues *selfish desires; he rebels against all sound judgment.

2 A fool does not delight in understanding, but only wants to show off his opinions.

3 When a wicked man comes, shame does also, and along with dishonor, disgrace.

4 The words of a man's mouth are deep waters, a flowing river, a fountain of wisdom.

5 It is not good to show partiality to the guilty by perverting the justice due the innocent.

6 A fool's lips lead to strife, and his mouth provokes a beating.

7 A fool's mouth is his devastation, and his lips are a trap for his life.

8 A gossip's words are like choice food that goes down to one's innermost being.

9 The one who is truly lazy in his work is brother to a vandal.

10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are protected.

11 A rich man's wealth is his fortified city; in his imagination it is like a high wall.

12 Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but before honor comes humility.

13 The one who gives an answer before he listens-- this is foolishness and disgrace for him.

14 A man's spirit can endure sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit?

15 The mind of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it.

16 A gift opens doors for a man and brings him before the great.

17 The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.

18 *Casting the lot ends quarrels and separates powerful opponents.

19 An offended brother is *harder to reach than a fortified city, and quarrels are like the bars of a fortress.

20 From the fruit of his mouth a man's stomach is satisfied; he is filled with the product of his lips.

21 Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

22 A man who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.

23 The poor man pleads, but the rich one answers roughly.

24 A man with many friends may be harmed, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.

English Bible[BR]