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)

²⁷ The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,^(A)
    and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.^(B)

²⁸ Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
    and discerning if they hold their tongues.^(C)

⁴ The words of the mouth are deep waters,^(A)
    but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream.

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

¹⁷ In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right,
    until someone comes forward and cross-examines.

²⁰ From the fruit of their mouth a person’s stomach is filled;
    with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied.^(A)

²¹ The tongue has the power of life and death,^(B)
    and those who love it will eat its fruit.^(C)

³ It is to one’s honor to avoid strife,
    but every fool^(A) is quick to quarrel.^(B)

³ It is to one’s honor to avoid strife,
    but every fool^(A) is quick to quarrel.^(B)