²⁷ Scoundrels concoct evil,
    and their speech is like a scorching fire.^(A)
28 A perverse person spreads strife,
    and a whisperer separates close friends.^(B)
29 The violent entice their neighbors
    and lead them in a way that is not good.^(C)
30 One who winks the eyes plans^[a] perverse things;
    one who compresses the lips brings evil to pass.

⁴ An evildoer listens to wicked lips,
    and a liar gives heed to a mischievous tongue.

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

¹⁹ One who loves transgression loves strife;
    one who builds a high threshold invites broken bones.^(A)
20 The crooked of mind do not prosper,
    and the perverse of tongue fall into calamity.^(B)