Proverbs 18:13-24

New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹³ If one gives answer before hearing,
    it is folly and shame.
¹⁴ The human spirit will endure sickness;
    but a broken spirit—who can bear?
¹⁵ An intelligent mind acquires knowledge,
    and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
¹⁶ A gift opens doors;
    it gives access to the great.
¹⁷ The one who first states a case seems right,
    until the other comes and cross-examines.
¹⁸ Casting the lot puts an end to disputes
    and decides between powerful contenders.
¹⁹ An ally offended is stronger than a city;^[a]
    such quarreling is like the bars of a castle.
²⁰ From the fruit of the mouth one’s stomach is satisfied;
    the yield of the lips brings satisfaction.
²¹ Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
    and those who love it will eat its fruits.
²² He who finds a wife finds a good thing,
    and obtains favor from the Lord.
²³ The poor use entreaties,
    but the rich answer roughly.
²⁴ Some^[b] friends play at friendship^[c]
    but a true friend sticks closer than one’s nearest kin.