Proverbs 17:7-21

7Arrogant lips are not fitting for a fool, much less lying lips for a ruler.

8A bribe is a charm in the eyes of its owner. Wherever he turns, he succeeds.

9Whoever covers up an offense seeks love. Whoever repeats a matter separates close friends.

10A rebuke makes a greater impression on a discerning person than a hundred lashes on a fool.

11An evil man seeks only rebellion, and so a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

12Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than to deal with a fool in his folly.

13Whoever rewards evil for good— evil will never leave his house.

14The beginning of strife is like letting out water— so stop a quarrel before it breaks out.

15Acquitting the wicked and condemning the righteous: both are an abomination to Adonai.

16Of what use is money in the hand of a fool since he has no intention of acquiring wisdom?

17A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

18A man lacking judgment shakes hands on a deal and puts up financial security for his neighbor.

19He who loves sin loves strife. One who builds a high gate invites destruction.

20A perverse heart finds nothing good a devious tongue falls into trouble.

21Whoever fathers a fool gets grief. There is no joy for the father of a disgraceful son.