The proud speech of a fool brings a rod of discipline,[a]
but the lips of the wise protect them.(A)

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Footnotes

  1. 14:3 Some emend to In the mouth of a fool is a rod for his back

Pride sprouts in the mouth of a fool,[a]
    but the lips of the wise protect them.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 14:3 Heb uncertain

Stay away from a foolish person;
you will gain no knowledge from his speech.(A)

The sensible person’s wisdom is to consider his way,
but the stupidity of fools deceives them.

Fools mock at making reparation,[a]
but there is goodwill among the upright.

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Footnotes

  1. 14:9 Or at guilt offerings

Stay away from fools,
    for you won’t learn wise speech there.
By their wisdom the prudent understand their way,
    but the stupidity of fools deceives them.
Fools mock a compensation offering,
    but favor is with those who do right.

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15 The inexperienced one believes anything,(A)
but the sensible one watches[a] his steps.

16 A wise person is cautious and turns from evil,(B)
but a fool is easily angered and is careless.[b]

17 A quick-tempered person acts foolishly,
and one who schemes is hated.(C)

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Footnotes

  1. 14:15 Lit the prudent understands
  2. 14:16 Or and falls

15 The naive believe anything,
    but the prudent give thought to their steps.
16 The wise are careful and avoid evil,
    but fools become excited and overconfident.
17 Short-tempered people make stupid mistakes,
    and schemers are hated.

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