¹² He who lacks sense^[a] belittles his neighbor,
    but a person of intelligence will remain silent.

¹⁸ There is one who speaks rashly, like the thrust of a sword,
    but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

⁴ Gentleness^[a] of tongue is a tree of life,
    but perverseness in it^[b] causes a break in spirit.

²⁷ A man of wickedness concocts evil,
    and his lips are like a scorching fire.

²³ The wind of the north produces rain,
    and a backbiting tongue, angry faces.