¹⁵ The way of fools seems right to them,^(A)
    but the wise listen to advice.^(B)

¹⁶ Fools^(C) show their annoyance at once,^(D)
    but the prudent overlook an insult.^(E)

¹⁷ An honest witness tells the truth,
    but a false witness tells lies.^(F)

¹⁸ The words of the reckless pierce like swords,^(G)
    but the tongue of the wise brings healing.^(H)

¹⁹ Truthful lips endure forever,
    but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

²⁰ Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil,
    but those who promote peace have joy.^(I)

²¹ No harm overtakes the righteous,^(J)
    but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

²² The Lord detests lying lips,^(K)
    but he delights^(L) in people who are trustworthy.^(M)

²³ The prudent keep their knowledge to themselves,^(N)
    but a fool’s heart blurts out folly.^(O)

²⁴ Diligent hands will rule,
    but laziness ends in forced labor.^(P)

²⁵ Anxiety weighs down the heart,^(Q)
    but a kind word cheers it up.

²⁶ The righteous choose their friends carefully,
    but the way of the wicked leads them astray.^(R)

²⁷ The lazy do not roast^[a] any game,
    but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.

²⁸ In the way of righteousness there is life;^(S)
    along that path is immortality.