12 Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense,(A)
    but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.(B)

Read full chapter

12 It is foolish to belittle one’s neighbor;
    a sensible person keeps quiet.

Read full chapter

18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords,(A)
    but the tongue of the wise brings healing.(B)

Read full chapter

18 Some people make cutting remarks,
    but the words of the wise bring healing.

Read full chapter

The soothing tongue(A) is a tree of life,(B)
    but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.(C)

Read full chapter

Gentle words are a tree of life;
    a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

Read full chapter

27 A scoundrel(A) plots evil,
    and on their lips it is like a scorching fire.(B)

Read full chapter

27 Scoundrels create trouble;
    their words are a destructive blaze.

Read full chapter

23 Like a north wind that brings unexpected rain
    is a sly tongue—which provokes a horrified look.

Read full chapter

23 As surely as a north wind brings rain,
    so a gossiping tongue causes anger!

Read full chapter

Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow,
    an undeserved curse does not come to rest.(A)

Read full chapter

Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow,
    an undeserved curse will not land on its intended victim.

Read full chapter