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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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By the mouth of a fool comes (A)a rod for his back,[a]
    (B)but the lips of the wise will preserve them.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 14:3 Or In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride

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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Leave the presence of a fool,
    for there you do not meet words of knowledge.
The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way,
    but the folly of fools is deceiving.
(A)Fools mock at the guilt offering,
    but the upright enjoy acceptance.[a]

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 14:9 Hebrew but among the upright is acceptance

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 (A)The simple believes everything,
    but the prudent gives thought to his steps.
16 (B)One who is wise is cautious[a] and (C)turns away from evil,
    but a fool is reckless and careless.
17 A man of (D)quick temper acts foolishly,
    and a man of evil devices is hated.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 14:16 Or fears [the Lord]