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15 A soft answer turns away wrath,
    but a harsh word stirs up anger.(A)
The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge,
    but the mouths of fools pour out folly.(B)

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How to Live Wisely

15 A gentle response diverts anger,
but a harsh statement incites fury.
The wise speak, presenting[a] knowledge appropriately,
    but fools spout foolishness.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 15:2 Lit. The tongues of the wise present

A gentle tongue is a tree of life,
    but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

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A gentle statement[a] is a tree of life,
    but perverted speech shatters the spirit.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 15:4 Lit. tongue

The lips of the wise spread knowledge;
    not so the minds of fools.

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What the wise have to say disseminates[a] knowledge,
    but it’s not in the heart of fools to do so.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 15:7 Lit. The lips of the wise spread

23 To make an apt answer is a joy to anyone,
    and a word in season, how good it is!(A)

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23 An appropriate answer brings joy to a person,
    and a well-timed word is a good thing.

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26 Evil plans are an abomination to the Lord,
    but gracious words are pure.(A)

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26 To the Lord evil plans are detestable,
    but pleasant words are pure.

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