³ A fool’s proud talk becomes a rod that beats him,
    but the words of the wise keep them safe.

⁸ The prudent understand where they are going,
    but fools deceive themselves.

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.

¹⁸ Simpletons are clothed with foolishness,^[a]
    but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

²⁴ Wealth is a crown for the wise;
    the effort of fools yields only foolishness.