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A fool’s proud talk becomes a rod that beats him,
    but the words of the wise keep them safe.

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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

Stay away from fools,
    for you won’t find knowledge on their lips.

The prudent understand where they are going,
    but fools deceive themselves.

Fools make fun of guilt,
    but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation.

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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

15 Only simpletons believe everything they’re told!
    The prudent carefully consider their steps.

16 The wise are cautious[a] and avoid danger;
    fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence.

17 Short-tempered people do foolish things,
    and schemers are hated.

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Footnotes

  1. 14:16 Hebrew The wise fear.

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