²³ The mind of the wise makes their speech judicious
    and adds persuasiveness to their lips.
²⁴ Pleasant words are like a honeycomb,
    sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

²⁷ Scoundrels concoct evil,
    and their speech is like a scorching fire.^(A)

⁵ Those who mock the poor insult their Maker;
    those who are glad at calamity will not go unpunished.^(A)

⁷ Excess speech is not becoming to a fool;
    still less is false speech to a ruler.^[a]

⁹ One who forgives an affront fosters friendship,
    but one who dwells on disputes will alienate a friend.^(A)

²⁷ One who spares words is knowledgeable;
    one who is cool in spirit has understanding.^(A)
28 Even fools who keep silent are considered wise;
    when they close their lips, they are deemed intelligent.^(B)

⁴ The words of the mouth are deep waters;
    the fountain of wisdom is a gushing stream.^(A)

¹³ If one gives answer before hearing,
    it is folly and shame.^(A)

¹⁷ The one who first states a case seems right,
    until the other comes and cross-examines.

²⁰ From the fruit of the mouth one’s stomach is satisfied;
    the yield of the lips brings satisfaction.^(A)
21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
    and those who love it will eat its fruits.^(B)