²⁰ For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, contention ceases.

²¹ As coals are to hot embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man to inflame strife.^(A)

²² The words of a whisperer or slanderer are like dainty morsels or words of sport [to some, but to others are like deadly wounds]; and they go down into the innermost parts of the body [or of the victim’s nature].

²³ Burning lips [uttering insincere words of love] and a wicked heart are like an earthen vessel covered with the scum thrown off from molten silver [making it appear to be solid silver].

²⁴ He who hates pretends with his lips, but stores up deceit within himself.

²⁵ When he speaks kindly, do not trust him, for seven abominations are in his heart.

²⁶ Though his hatred covers itself with guile, his wickedness shall be shown openly before the assembly.

²⁷ Whoever digs a pit [for another man’s feet] shall fall into it himself, and he who rolls a stone [up a height to do mischief], it will return upon him.^(B)

²⁸ A lying tongue hates those it wounds and crushes, and a flattering mouth works ruin.