19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words,
    but the prudent hold their tongues.(A)

Read full chapter

19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking,
    but the prudent are restrained in speech.(A)

Read full chapter

23 The prudent keep their knowledge to themselves,(A)
    but a fool’s heart blurts out folly.(B)

Read full chapter

23 One who is clever conceals knowledge,
    but the mind of a fool[a] broadcasts folly.(A)

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. 12.23 Heb the heart of fools

Those who guard their lips(A) preserve their lives,(B)
    but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.(C)

Read full chapter

Those who guard their mouths preserve their lives;
    those who open wide their lips come to ruin.(A)

Read full chapter

28 Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
    and discerning if they hold their tongues.(A)

Read full chapter

28 Even fools who keep silent are considered wise;
    when they close their lips, they are deemed intelligent.(A)

Read full chapter

13 To answer before listening—
    that is folly and shame.(A)

Read full chapter

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

Read full chapter

23 Those who guard their mouths(A) and their tongues
    keep themselves from calamity.(B)

Read full chapter

23 To watch over mouth and tongue
    is to keep out of trouble.(A)

Read full chapter