²³ 
The heart of the wise instructs his mouth [in wisdom]
And adds persuasiveness to his lips.
²⁴ 
Pleasant words are like a honeycomb,
Sweet and delightful to the soul and healing to the body.

²⁷ 
A worthless man devises and digs up evil,
And the words on his lips are like a scorching fire.

⁵ 
Whoever mocks the poor taunts his Maker,
And he who rejoices at [another’s] disaster will not go unpunished.^(A)

⁷ 
Excellent speech does not benefit a fool [who is spiritually blind],
Much less do lying lips benefit a prince.