Like vinegar to the teeth and like smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to those who send him.

Like cutting off the feet or drinking violence, so is sending a message by the hand of a fool.

Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to those who send him, for he refreshes the heart of his masters.

to show you true and reliable words, so that you may give accurate answers to those who sent you?

Like a madman who shoots firebrands and deadly arrows,

Laziness brings on a deep sleep, and the idle person will go hungry.

Drive out the scorner and contention will leave; strife and insults will cease.

If only you will respond to my rebuke, then I will pour out my thoughts to you and I will make my words known to you.

With his speech the godless person destroys his neighbor, but by knowledge the righteous will be delivered.

A crooked witness scorns justice, and the mouth of the wicked devours iniquity.

Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.

Do not lie in wait like the wicked against the place where the righteous live; do not assault his home.

for suddenly their destruction will overtake them, and who knows the ruinous judgment both the Lord and the king can bring?