Proverbs 26:2-4

Expanded Bible

² Curses ·will not harm someone who is innocent [that are undeserved never stick];
they are like ·darting [flitting] birds or flying swallows.

³ Whips are for horses, and ·harnesses [bridles] are for donkeys,
·so paddles are good for fools [^Land rods for the backs of fools].

⁴ Don’t answer fools when they speak foolishly,
or you will be just like them.