21 The wise in heart will be called prudent,
And sweetness of the lips increases learning.

22 Understanding is a wellspring of life to him who has it.
But the correction of fools is folly.

23 The heart of the wise teaches his mouth,
And adds learning to his lips.

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21 Anyone with a wise heart is called discerning,
and pleasant speech[a] increases learning.(A)

22 Insight is a fountain of life(B) for its possessor,
but the discipline of fools is folly.

23 The heart of a wise person instructs his mouth;
it adds learning to his speech.[b](C)

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Footnotes

  1. 16:21 Lit and sweetness of lips
  2. 16:23 Lit learning upon his lips