²³ From a wise mind comes wise speech;
    the words of the wise are persuasive.

²⁴ Kind words are like honey—
    sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

²⁷ Scoundrels create trouble;
    their words are a destructive blaze.

⁵ Those who mock the poor insult their Maker;
    those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished.

⁷ Eloquent words are not fitting for a fool;
    even less are lies fitting for a ruler.

⁹ Love prospers when a fault is forgiven,
    but dwelling on it separates close friends.

²⁷ A truly wise person uses few words;
    a person with understanding is even-tempered.

²⁸ Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent;
    with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.

⁴ Wise words are like deep waters;
    wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.

¹³ Spouting off before listening to the facts
    is both shameful and foolish.

¹⁷ The first to speak in court sounds right—
    until the cross-examination begins.