Proverbs 15:1–9

A gentle answer turns away anger,v

but a harsh word stirs up wrath.w

2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge attractive,

but the mouth of fools blurts out foolishness.x

3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,

observing the wicked and the good.y

4 The tongue that heals is a tree of life,z

but a devious tongueA breaks the spirit.

5 A fool despises his father’s discipline,

but a person who accepts correction is sensible.aa

6 The house of the righteous has great wealth,

but trouble accompanies the income of the wicked.

7 The lips of the wise broadcast knowledge,

but not so the heart of fools.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to the Lord,a

but the prayer of the upright is his delight.b

9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked,

but he loves the one who pursues righteousness.c