Proverbs 18:1–8

One who isolates himself pursues selfish desires;

he rebels against all sound wisdom.

2 A fool does not delight in understanding,

but only wants to show off his opinions.C,m

3 When a wicked person comes, contempt also comes,

and along with dishonor, derision.

4 The words of a person’s mouth are deep waters,n

a flowing river, a fountain of wisdom.D

5 It is not good to show partiality to the guilty,o

denying an innocent person justice.p

6 A fool’s lips lead to strife,

and his mouth provokes a beating.q

7 A fool’s mouth is his devastation,

and his lips are a trap for his life.r

8 A gossip’s words are like choice food

that goes down to one’s innermost being.E,s