3. Even when he who is a fool walks along the road, his heart and understanding fail him, and he says of everyone and to everyone that he is a fool.
4. If the temper of the ruler rises up against you, do not leave your place [or show a resisting spirit]; for gentleness and calmness prevent or put a stop to great offenses.
5. There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, like an error which proceeds from the ruler:
6. Folly is set in great dignity and in high places, and the rich sit in low places.
7. I have seen slaves on horses, and princes walking like slaves on the earth.
8. He who digs a pit [for others] will fall into it, and whoever breaks through a fence or a [stone] wall, a serpent will bite him. [Ps. 57:6.]
9. Whoever removes [landmark] stones or hews out [new ones with similar intent] will be hurt with them, and he who fells trees will be endangered by them. [Prov. 26:27.]
10. If the ax is dull and the man does not whet the edge, he must put forth more strength; but wisdom helps him to succeed.
11. If the serpent bites before it is charmed, then it is no use to call a charmer [and the slanderer is no better than the uncharmed snake].
12. The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious and win him favor, but the lips of a fool consume him.