^(A)There is a just man who perishes in his righteousness,
And there is a wicked man who prolongs life in his wickedness.

^16 (B)Do not be overly righteous,
^(C)Nor be overly wise:
Why should you destroy yourself?
¹⁷ Do not be overly wicked,
Nor be foolish:
^(D)Why should you die before your time?
¹⁸ It is good that you grasp this,
And also not remove your hand from the other;
For he who ^(E)fears God will ^[a]escape them all.