23 These also are for the wise: -- To discern faces in judgment is not good. 24 Whoso is saying to the wicked, `Thou [art] righteous,' Peoples execrate him -- nations abhor him. 25 And to those reproving it is pleasant, And on them cometh a good blessing. 26 Lips he kisseth who is returning straightforward words.
27 Prepare in an out-place thy work, And make it ready in the field -- go afterwards, Then thou hast built thy house.
28 Be not a witness for nought against thy neighbour, Or thou hast enticed with thy lips. 29 Say not, `As he did to me, so I do to him, I render to each according to his work.'
30 Near the field of a slothful man I passed by, And near the vineyard of a man lacking heart. 31 And lo, it hath gone up -- all of it -- thorns! Covered its face have nettles, And its stone wall hath been broken down. 32 And I see -- I -- I do set my heart, I have seen -- I have received instruction, 33 A little sleep -- a little slumber -- A little folding of the hands to lie down. 34 And thy poverty hath come [as] a traveller, And thy want as an armed man!