Proverbs 18

1 A man who wants to separate from friends seeks excuses, and he will be open to reproach at every moment.

2 Someone lacking good sense has no need of wisdom, for foolishness leads him instead.

3 When an ungodly person reaches the depth of evils, he shows contempt, but dishonor and disgrace come upon him.

4 A word in a man’s heart is deep water, and a river and fountain of life spring up.

5 It is not good to admire the face of an ungodly person or holy to turn righteousness aside in judgment.

6 A fool’s lips lead him into evils, and his bold mouth calls on death.

7 A fool’s mouth brings crushing upon him, and his lips are a trap for his soul.

8 Fear brings down the lazy, and the souls of effeminate men will hunger.

9 Whoever does not heal himself through his works is brother to the one who ruins himself.

10 The Lord’s name comes from greatness of strength, and the righteous who run to it are exalted.

11 A rich man’s possessions are a fortified city, and its glory casts a great shadow.

12 Before crushing, a man’s heart is exalted, and before glory it is humbled.

13 Whoever answers a word before listening finds foolishness and disgrace.

14 A discerning servant calms a man’s anger, but who can endure a fainthearted man?

15 A discerning person’s heart acquires perception, and the ears of the wise seek reflection.

16 A person’s gift makes room for him and seats him beside rulers.

17 A righteous person accuses himself in his opening statement, but when the opponent begins, he is exposed.

18 A lot puts an end to disputes and decides between powerful people.

19 A brother helped by a brother is like a strong and high city; he is as strong as a firmly founded palace.

20 A man fills his belly from the fruits of his mouth and is satisfied from the fruits of his lips.

21 Death and life are in the tongue’s hand, and those who master it will eat its fruits.

22 Whoever found a good wife found favors and received gladness from God. Whoever sends away a good wife sends away good things, but whoever keeps an adulteress is foolish and ungodly.