15 A gentle answer^(A) turns away wrath,^(B)
    but a harsh word stirs up anger.

²³ A person finds joy in giving an apt reply^(A)—
    and how good is a timely word!^(B)

²⁸ The heart of the righteous weighs its answers,^(A)
    but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.^(B)

16 To humans belong the plans of the heart,
    but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.^(A)

¹³ To answer before listening—
    that is folly and shame.^(A)

¹¹ A person’s wisdom yields patience;^(A)
    it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.