23. These sayings also are from the wise:To show partiality in judgment is terrible:
24. The one who says to the guilty, “You are innocent,”peoples will curse him, and nations will denounce him.
25. But there will be delight for those who convict the guilty,and a pleasing blessing will come on them.
26. Like a kiss on the lipsis the one who gives an honest answer.
27. Establish your work outside and get your fields ready;afterward build your house.
28. Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause,and do not deceive with your words.
29. Do not say, “I will do to him just as he has done to me;I will pay him back according to what he has done.”
30. I passed by the field of a sluggard,by the vineyard of one who lacks wisdom.
31. I saw that thorns had grown up all over it, the ground was covered with weeds,and its stone wall was broken down.
32. When I saw this, I gave careful consideration to it;I received instruction from what I saw: