16The work of the upright gives life: the increase of the evil-doer is a cause of sin.
17He who takes note of teaching is a way of life, but he who gives up training is a cause of error.
18Hate is covered up by the lips of the upright man, but he who lets out evil about another is foolish.
19Where there is much talk there will be no end to sin, but he who keeps his mouth shut does wisely.
20The tongue of the upright man is like tested silver: the heart of the evil-doer is of little value.
21The lips of the upright man give food to men, but the foolish come to death for need of sense.
22The blessing of the Lord gives wealth: hard work makes it no greater.
23It is sport to the foolish man to do evil, but the man of good sense takes delight in wisdom.
24The thing feared by the evil-doer will come to him, but the upright man will get his desire.