5
Of three things my heart is frightened,
and of a fourth I am in great fear: 1
Slander in the city, the gathering of a mob,
and false accusation--all these are worse than death.
6
But it is heartache and sorrow when a wife is jealous of a rival,
and a tongue-lashing makes it known to all.
7
A bad wife is a chafing yoke;
taking hold of her is like grasping a scorpion.
8
A drunken wife arouses great anger;
she cannot hide her shame.
9
The haughty stare betrays an unchaste wife;
her eyelids give her away.
10
Keep strict watch over a headstrong daughter,
or else, when she finds liberty, she will make use of it.
11
Be on guard against her impudent eye,
and do not be surprised if she sins against you.
12
As a thirsty traveler opens his mouth
and drinks from any water near him,
so she will sit in front of every tent peg
and open her quiver to the arrow.