24
A lie is an ugly blot on a person;
it is continually on the lips of the ignorant.
25
A thief is preferable to a habitual liar,
but the lot of both is ruin.
26
A liar's way leads to disgrace,
and his shame is ever with him.
27
The wise person advances himself by his words,
and one who is sensible pleases the great.
28
Those who cultivate the soil heap up their harvest,
and those who please the great atone for injustice.
29
Favors and gifts blind the eyes of the wise;
like a muzzle on the mouth they stop reproofs.
30
Hidden wisdom and unseen treasure,
of what value is either?
31
Better are those who hide their folly
than those who hide their wisdom. 1