15. Now there is a wisdom which abounds in evil. But there is no understanding where there is bitterness.
16. The knowledge of the wise will increase like a flood, and his counsel will continue like a fountain of life.
17. The heart of the foolish is like a broken vessel, for it will not hold any wisdom.
18. A knowledgeable man will praise any wise word he hears, and he will apply it to himself. The self-indulgent man has heard it, and it displeases him, and so he casts it behind his back.
19. The talk of the foolish is like a burden on a journey. But in the lips of the understanding, grace will be found.
20. The mouth of the prudent is sought in the Church, and they will consider his words in their hearts.
21. Like a house which has been demolished, so is wisdom to the foolish. And the knowledge of the unwise is like meaningless words.
22. Doctrine to the senseless is like fetters on the feet, and like chains on the right hand.
23. A foolish man lifts up his voice in laughter. But a wise man will not even laugh quietly to himself.
24. Doctrine is to the prudent like a gold ornament, and like an armband on the right arm.
25. The feet of the foolish step easily into his neighbor's house. But an experienced man will be apprehensive in the presence of the powerful.
26. A senseless man will gaze through a window into the house. But a man who has been well-taught will stand outside.