⁵ An honest witness does not lie;
    a false witness breathes lies.

15 A gentle answer deflects anger,
    but harsh words make tempers flare.

² The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing,
    but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.

⁴ Gentle words are a tree of life;
    a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

⁷ The lips of the wise give good advice;
    the heart of a fool has none to give.

²³ Everyone enjoys a fitting reply;
    it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!

²⁶ The Lord detests evil plans,
    but he delights in pure words.

²⁸ The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking;
    the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.

16 We can make our own plans,
    but the Lord gives the right answer.

¹⁰ The king speaks with divine wisdom;
    he must never judge unfairly.

¹³ The king is pleased with words from righteous lips;
    he loves those who speak honestly.