19 When there are many words, sin is unavoidable,
but the one who controls his lips is wise.(A)

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19 In many words, transgression is not lacking,
    but he who restrains his lips is prudent.

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23 A shrewd person conceals knowledge,
but a foolish heart publicizes stupidity.(A)

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23 A clever person conceals knowledge,
    but the heart[a] of a fool[b] announces folly.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 12:23 Or “mind”
  2. Proverbs 12:23 Hebrew “fools”

The one who guards his mouth protects his life;(A)
the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin.(B)

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He who keeps his mouth guards his life;[a]
    he who opens his lips, ruin belongs to him.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 13:3 Or “soul,” or “inner self”

28 Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent,
discerning when he seals his lips.(A)

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28 Even a fool who keeps silent shall be considered wise;[a]
    he who closes his lips is intelligent.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 17:28 Literally “wise, he shall be considered”

13 The one who gives an answer before he listens—
this is foolishness and disgrace for him.(A)

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13 He who returns a word before he will hear,
    folly itself belongs to him as well as[a] shame.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 18:13 Hebrew “and”

23 The one who guards his mouth and tongue
keeps himself out of trouble.(A)

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23 He who guards his mouth and his tongue,
    he guards his life[a] from danger.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 21:23 Or “soul,” or “inner self”