Further Sayings of the Wise

23 These also are sayings of the wise:

To show partiality in judgment

is not good.

24 Whoever tells the guilty, “You are innocent”—

peoples will curse him, and nations will denounce him;

25 but it will go well with those who convict the guilty,

and rich blessing will come upon them.

26 An honest answer given

is like a kiss on the lips.

27 Complete your outdoor work and prepare your field

after that, you may build your house.

28 Do not testify against your neighbor without cause,

and do not deceive with your lips.

29 Do not say, “I will do to him as he has done to me;

I will repay the man according to his work.”

30 I went past the field of a slacker

and by the vineyard of a man lacking judgment.

31 Thorns had grown up everywhere,

thistles had covered the ground,

and the stone wall was broken down.

32 I observed and took [it] to heart;

I looked and received instruction:

33 A little sleep, a little slumber,

a little folding of the hands to rest,

34 and poverty will come [upon you] like a robber,

and need like a bandit.