13  If one gives an answer before he hears,

it is his folly and shame.

14  A man’s spirit will endure sickness,

but a crushed spirit who can bear?

15  An intelligent heart acquires knowledge,

and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

16  ^yA man’s gift makes room for him

and brings him before the great.

17  The one who states his case first seems right,

until the other comes and examines him.

18  ^zThe lot puts an end to quarrels

and decides between powerful contenders.

19  A brother offended is more unyielding than a strong city,

and quarreling is like the bars of a castle.

20  ^aFrom the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach is satisfied;

he is satisfied by the yield of his lips.

21  Death and life are in the power of the tongue,

and those who love it will eat its fruits.

22  He who ^bfinds a wife finds a good thing

and obtains favor from the Lord.

23  The poor use entreaties,

but the rich answer roughly.

24  A man of many companions may come to ruin,

^cbut there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.