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

The talk of fools is a rod for their backs,[a]
    but the lips of the wise preserve them.(A)

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Footnotes

  1. 14.3 Cn: Heb a rod of pride

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

Leave the presence of a fool,
    for there you do not find words of knowledge.
It is the wisdom of the clever to understand where they go,
    but the folly of fools misleads.(A)
Fools mock at the guilt offering,[a]
    but the upright enjoy God’s favor.

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Footnotes

  1. 14.9 Meaning of Heb uncertain

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 simple believe everything,
    but the clever consider their steps.
16 The wise are cautious and turn away from evil,
    but the fool throws off restraint and is careless.(A)
17 One who is quick-tempered acts foolishly,
    and the schemer is hated.(B)

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