1 A loner is out to get what he wants for himself. He opposes all sound reasoning.
2 A fool does not find joy in understanding but only in expressing his own opinion.
3 When wickedness comes, contempt also comes, and insult comes along with disgrace.
4 The words of a person's mouth are like deep waters. The fountain of wisdom is an overflowing stream.
5 It is not good to be partial toward a wicked person, thereby depriving an innocent person of justice.
6 By talking, a fool gets into an argument, and his mouth invites a beating.
7 A fool's mouth is his ruin. His lips are a trap to his soul.
8 The words of a gossip are swallowed greedily, and they go down into a person's innermost being.
9 Whoever is lazy in his work is related to a vandal.
10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower. A righteous person runs to it and is safe.
11 A rich person's wealth is his strong city and is like a high wall in his imagination.
12 Before destruction a person's heart is arrogant, but humility comes before honor.
13 Whoever gives an answer before he listens is stupid and shameful.
14 A person's spirit can endure sickness, but who can bear a broken spirit?
15 The mind of a person who has understanding acquires knowledge. The ears of wise people seek knowledge.
16 A gift opens doors for the one who gives it and brings him into the presence of great people.
17 The first to state his case seems right [until] his neighbor comes to cross-examine him.
18 Flipping a coin ends quarrels and settles [issues] between powerful people.
19 An offended brother is more [resistant]than a strong city, and disputes are like the locked gate of a castle tower.
20 A person's speaking ability provides for his stomach. His talking provides him a living.
21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love to talk will have to eat their own words.
22 Whoever finds a wife finds something good and has obtained favor from the LORD.
23 A poor person is timid when begging, but a rich person is blunt when replying.
24 Friends can destroy one another, but a loving friend can stick closer than family.