17. He that passes by, and meddles with a quarrel not belonging to him, is like one that takes a dog by the ears.
18. As a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death,
19. So is the man that deceives his neighbor, and says, Am I not jesting?
20. Where no wood is, there the fire goes out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceases.
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 tasty morsels, and they go down into the innermost parts of the body.
23. Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
24. He that hates disguises it with his lips, and lays up deceit within himself;
25. When he speaks graciously, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.