16
Discussion is the beginning of every work,
and counsel precedes every undertaking.
17
The mind is the root of all conduct;
18
it sprouts four branches, 1
good and evil, life and death;
and it is the tongue that continually rules them.
19
Some people may be clever enough to teach many,
and yet be useless to themselves.
20
A skillful speaker may be hated;
he will be destitute of all food,
21
for the Lord has withheld the gift of charm,
since he is lacking in all wisdom.
22
If a person is wise to his own advantage,
the fruits of his good sense will be praiseworthy. 2
23
A wise person instructs his own people,
and the fruits of his good sense will endure.
24
A wise person will have praise heaped upon him,
and all who see him will call him happy.
25
The days of a person's life are numbered,
but the days of Israel are without number.
26
One who is wise among his people will inherit honor, 3
and his name will live forever.