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21 The wise of heart is called perceptive,
    and pleasant speech increases persuasiveness.
22 Wisdom is a fountain of life to one who has it,
    but folly is the punishment of fools.(A)
23 The mind of the wise makes their speech judicious
    and adds persuasiveness to their lips.

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21 The wise-hearted person is told to be discerning,
    and that pleasant speech promotes instruction.
22 Anyone who has understanding is a fountain of life,
    but foolishness brings punishment to fools.

23 A wise person’s thoughts[a] control his words,
    and his speech promotes instruction.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 16:23 Lit. heart