18 A slip on a pavement is better than a slip with the tongue.

So the fall of the wicked will come speedily.

19 A man without grace is a tale out of season.

It will be continually in the mouth of the ignorant.

20 A parable from a fool’s mouth will be rejected;

for he won’t tell it at the proper time.

21 There is one who is hindered from sinning through lack.

When he rests, he will not be troubled.

22 There is one who destroys his soul through bashfulness.

By a foolish countenance, he will destroy it.

23 There is one who for bashfulness makes promises to his friend;

and he makes him his enemy for nothing.

24 A lie is an ugly blot on a person.

It will be continually in the mouth of the ignorant.

25 A thief is better than a man who is continually lying,

but they both will inherit destruction.

26 The destination of a liar is dishonour.

His shame is with him continually.

27 He who is wise in words will advance himself.

And one who is prudent will please great men.

28 He who tills his land will raise his harvest high.

He who pleases great men will get pardon for iniquity.

29 Favours and gifts blind the eyes of the wise,

and as a muzzle on the mouth, turn away reproofs.

30 Wisdom that is hidden, and treasure that is out of sight—

what profit is in either of them?

31 Better is a man who hides his folly

than a man who hides his wisdom. 32 [fn]