⁴ Wholesome speech is a tree of life,
    but dishonest talk breaks the spirit.

²³ To give an appropriate answer is a joy;
    how good is a word at the right time!

²³ The mind of the wise makes their speech insightful
    and enhances the teaching of their lips.
²⁴ Pleasant words are flowing honey,
    sweet to the taste and healing to the bones.

⁴ The words of a person’s mouth are deep waters,
    a bubbling stream, a fountain of wisdom.

²¹ Death and life are in the power of the tongue;
    those who love it will eat its fruit.

²³ Smooth^[a] lips and an evil heart
    are like silver coating on clay.