¹⁹ A gossip reveals secrets;
    therefore do not associate with a babbler.^(A)

⁹ Argue your case with your neighbor directly,
    and do not disclose another’s secret,^(A)
10 or else someone who hears you will bring shame upon you,
    and your ill repute will have no end.

²³ The north wind produces rain,
    and a backbiting tongue, angry looks.^(A)

²⁰ For lack of wood the fire goes out,
    and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases.^(A)
21 As charcoal is to hot embers and wood to fire,
    so is a quarrelsome person for kindling strife.^(B)
22 The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels;
    they go down into the inner parts of the body.^(C)