17 He that passeth by, and meddlethg with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.

18 As a mad man who casteth firebrandsh, arrows, and death, 19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?

20 Where noi wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. 21 As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife. 22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

23 Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.

24 He that hateth dissemblethj with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him; 25 When he speakethk fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart. 26 Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.

27 Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.

28 A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.