⁸ The end of a matter is better than its beginning,
    and patience^(A) is better than pride.
⁹ Do not be quickly provoked^(B) in your spirit,
    for anger resides in the lap of fools.^(C)

¹⁰ Do not say, “Why were the old days^(D) better than these?”
    For it is not wise to ask such questions.

¹¹ Wisdom, like an inheritance, is a good thing^(E)
    and benefits those who see the sun.^(F)
12 Wisdom is a shelter
    as money is a shelter,
but the advantage of knowledge is this:
    Wisdom preserves those who have it.

Who can straighten
    what he has made crooked?^(H)
14 When times are good, be happy;
    but when times are bad, consider this:
God has made the one
    as well as the other.^(I)
Therefore, no one can discover
    anything about their future.

the righteous perishing in their righteousness,
    and the wicked living long in their wickedness.^(K)
16 Do not be overrighteous,
    neither be overwise—
    why destroy yourself?
¹⁷ Do not be overwicked,
    and do not be a fool—
    why die before your time?^(L)
18 It is good to grasp the one
    and not let go of the other.
    Whoever fears God^(M) will avoid all extremes.^[a]