Appendix to the Second Collection of Proverbs

23 These also belong to the wise men:

It is wrong to be partial in giving of judgment.

24 All men will curse and all people will execrate

him who pronounces the guilty man innocent.

25 But those whose decisions are just will fare pleasantly;

blessings of fortune will rest upon them.

26 As one who kisses the lips

is he who returns a straight answer.

27 Set your business in order without,

make all ready in your fields:

after that you may build up your house.

28 Bear not false witness against your neighbour,

nor let your lips be deceitful.

29 Do not threaten to treat him as he treated you,

and to visit his deed with retribution.

On the Sluggard

30 By the field of the sluggard I passed.

by the vineyard of one that was foolish.

31 It was all overgrown with thistles;

its surface was covered with nettles;

its wall of stone was in ruins.

32 As I looked, I thought upon it,

and I drew from the sight a lesson.

33 ‘Just a little more sleep, a little more slumber,

a little more lying with folded hands.’

34 So will poverty come upon you like a robber,

and want like an armed man.