MSB PROV Chapter 18

The Selfishness of the Unfriendly

He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires;

he rebels against all sound judgment.

2 

A fool does not delight in understanding,

but only in airing his opinions.

3 

With a wicked [man] comes contempt as well

and shame is accompanied by disgrace.

4 

The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters;

the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.

5 

Showing partiality vvv[fn] to the wicked is not good,

nor is depriving the innocent of justice.

6 

A fool’s lips bring him strife,

and his mouth invites a beating.

7 

A fool’s mouth is his ruin

and his lips [are] a snare to his soul.

8 

The words of a gossip are like choice morsels

that go down into the inmost being

9 

Whoever is slothful in his work

is brother to him who destroys.

10 

The name of the LORD is a strong tower;

the righteous run to it[fn] and are safe.

11 

A rich man’s wealth is his fortified city;

it is like a high wall in his imagination.

12 

Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud,

but humility comes before honor.

13 

He who answers a matter before he hears [it]—

this [is] folly and disgrace to him.

14 

The spirit of a man can endure his sickness,

but who can survive a broken spirit?

15 

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge,

and the ear of the wise seeks it out.

16 

A man’s gift opens doors for him,

and brings him before great men.

17 

The first to state his case seems right

until another comes and cross-examines him.

18 

Casting the lot ends quarrels

and separates strong opponents.

19 

An offended brother [is harder to win] than a fortified city,

and disputes are like the bars of a castle.

20 

From the fruit of his mouth a man’s belly is filled;

with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied.

21 

Life and death are in the power of the tongue,

and those who love [it] will eat its fruit.

22 

He who finds a wife finds a good thing

and obtains favor from the LORD.

23 

The poor man pleads for mercy

but the rich man answers harshly.

24 

A man of many companions may come to ruin,

but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother.