For [skillful and godly] wisdom will enter your heart And knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

And they will be life to your soul (your inner self) And a gracious adornment to your neck (your outer self).

But whoever commits adultery with a woman lacks common sense and sound judgment and an understanding [of moral principles]; He who would destroy his soul does it.

The merciful and generous man benefits his soul [for his behavior returns to bless him], But the cruel and callous man does himself harm.

The fruit of the [consistently] righteous is a tree of life, And he who is wise captures and wins souls [for God—he gathers them for eternity].

The soul (appetite) of the lazy person craves and gets nothing [for lethargy overcomes ambition], But the soul (appetite) of the diligent [who works willingly] is rich and abundantly supplied.

Desire realized is sweet to the soul; But it is detestable to fools to turn away from evil [which they have planned].

The highway of the upright turns away and departs from evil; He who guards his way protects his life (soul).

Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweet and delightful to the soul and healing to the body.

A fool’s mouth is his ruin, And his lips are the snare of his soul.

He who gains wisdom and good sense loves (preserves) his own soul; He who keeps understanding will find good and prosper.

The soul of the wicked desires evil [like an addictive substance]; His neighbor finds no compassion in his eyes.

If you [claim ignorance and] say, “See, we did not know this,” Does He not consider it who weighs and examines the hearts and their motives? And does He not know it who guards your life and keeps your soul? And will He not repay [you and] every man according to his works?

Know that [skillful and godly] wisdom is [so very good] for your life and soul; If you find wisdom, then there will be a future and a reward, And your hope and expectation will not be cut off.

Like cold water to a thirsty soul, So is good news from a distant land.

He who is satisfied loathes honey, But to the hungry soul any bitter thing is sweet.

Correct your son, and he will give you comfort; Yes, he will delight your soul.