Chapter 20 _{21 There is that is hindered from sinning through want: and when he taketh rest, he shall not be troubled.22 There is that destroyeth his own soul through bashfulness, and by accepting of persons overthroweth himself.23 There is that for bashfulness promiseth to his friend, and maketh him his enemy for nothing.24 A lie is a foul blot in a man, yet it is continually in the mouth of the untaught.25 A thief is better than a man that is accustomed to lie: but they both shall have destruction to heritage.26 The disposition of a liar is dishonourable, and his shame is ever with him.27 A wise man shall promote himself to honour with his words: and he that hath understanding will please great men.28 He that tilleth his land shall increase his heap: and he that pleaseth great men shall get pardon for iniquity.29 Presents and gifts blind the eyes of the wise, and stop up his mouth that he cannot reprove.30 Wisdom that is hid, and treasure that is hoarded up, what profit is in them both?31 Better is he that hideth his folly than a man that hideth his wisdom.32 Necessary patience in seeking ing the Lord is better than he that leadeth his life without a guide.}

Chapter 21 _{1 My son, hast thou sinned? do so no more, but ask pardon for thy former sins.2 Flee from sin as from the face of a serpent: for if thou comest too near it, it will bite thee: the teeth thereof are as the teeth of a lion, slaying the souls of men.3 All iniquity is as a two edged sword, the wounds whereof cannot be healed.4 To terrify and do wrong will waste riches: thus the house of proud men shall be made desolate.5 A prayer out of a poor man's mouth reacheth to the ears of God, and his judgment cometh speedily.6 He that hateth to be reproved is in the way of sinners: but he that feareth the Lord will repent from his heart.7 An eloquent man is known far and near; but a man of understanding knoweth when he slippeth.8 He that buildeth his house with other men's money is like one that gathereth himself stones for the tomb of his burial.9 The congregation of the wicked is like tow wrapped together: and the end of them is a flame of fire to destroy them.10 The way of sinners is made plain with stones, but at the end thereof is the pit of hell.11 He that keepeth the law of the Lord getteth the understanding thereof: and the perfection of the fear of the Lord is wisdom.12 He that is not wise will not be taught: but there is a wisdom which multiplieth bitterness.13 The knowledge of a wise man shall abound like a flood: and his counsel is like a pure fountain of life.14 The inner parts of a fool are like a broken vessel, and he will hold no knowledge as long as he liveth.15 If a skilful man hear a wise word, he will commend it, and add unto it: but as soon as one of no understanding heareth it, it displeaseth him, and he casteth it behind his back.16 The talking of a fool is like a burden in the way: but grace shall be found in the lips of the wise.17 They enquire at the mouth of the wise man in the congregation, and they shall ponder his words in their heart.18 As is a house that is destroyed, so is wisdom to a fool: and the knowledge of the unwise is as talk without sense.19 Doctrine unto fools is as fetters on the feet, and like manacles on the right hand.20 A fool lifteth up his voice with laughter; but a wise man doth scarce smile a little.21 Learning is unto a wise man as an ornament of gold, and like a bracelet upon his right arm.22 A foolish man's foot is soon in his [neighbour's] house: but a man of experience is ashamed of him.23 A fool will peep in at the door into the house: but he that is well nurtured will stand without.}