12. Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.
13. To answer before listening— that is folly and shame.
14. The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?
15. The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.
16. A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.
17. In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines.
18. Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart.
19. A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.
20. From the fruit of their mouth a person’s stomach is filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied.
21. The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.