²³ The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,^(A)
    and their lips promote instruction.^[a](B)

²⁴ Gracious words are a honeycomb,^(C)
    sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.^(D)

²⁷ A scoundrel^(A) plots evil,
    and on their lips it is like a scorching fire.^(B)

⁵ Whoever mocks the poor^(A) shows contempt for their Maker;^(B)
    whoever gloats over disaster^(C) will not go unpunished.^(D)

⁷ Eloquent lips are unsuited to a godless fool—
    how much worse lying lips to a ruler!^(A)

⁹ Whoever would foster love covers over an offense,^(A)
    but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.^(B)