Proverbs 11:12-21

King James Version

¹²He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.

¹³A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.

¹⁴Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

¹⁵He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.

¹⁶A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.

¹⁷The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

¹⁸The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.

¹⁹As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.

²⁰They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the Lord: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.

²¹Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.

Proverbs 11:12-21

New International Version

¹²Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense,^(A)
but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.^(B)

¹³A gossip betrays a confidence,^(C)
but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.^(D)

¹⁴For lack of guidance a nation falls,^(E)
but victory is won through many advisers.^(F)

¹⁵Whoever puts up security^(G) for a stranger will surely suffer,
but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.^(H)

¹⁶A kindhearted woman gains honor,^(I)
but ruthless men gain only wealth.

¹⁷Those who are kind benefit themselves,
but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.

¹⁸A wicked person earns deceptive wages,
but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.^(J)

¹⁹Truly the righteous attain life,^(K)
but whoever pursues evil finds death.^(L)

²⁰The Lord detests those whose hearts are perverse,^(M)
but he delights^(N) in those whose ways are blameless.^(O)

²¹Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished,
but those who are righteous will go free.^(P)

King James Version (KJV)

Public Domain

New International Version (NIV)