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18:1 The one who lives alone is self-indulgent, showing contempt for all who have sound judgment. 18:2 A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing personal opinion. 18:3 When wickedness comes, contempt comes also; and with dishonor comes disgrace. 18:4 The words of the mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a gushing stream. 18:5 It is not right to be partial to the guilty, or to subvert the innocent in judgment. 18:6 A fool's lips bring strife, and a fool's mouth invites a flogging. 18:7 The mouths of fools are their ruin, and their lips a snare to themselves. 18:8 The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body. 18:9 One who is slack in work is close kin to a vandal. 18:10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe. 18:11 The wealth of the rich is their strong city; in their imagination it is like a high wall. 18:12 Before destruction one's heart is haughty, but humility goes before honor. 18:13 If one gives answer before hearing, it is folly and shame. 18:14 The human spirit will endure sickness; but a broken spirit-- who can bear? 18:15 An intelligent mind acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. 18:16 A gift opens doors; it gives access to the great. 18:17 The one who first states a case seems right, until the other comes and cross-examines. 18:18 Casting the lot puts an end to disputes and decides between powerful contenders. 18:19 An ally offended is stronger than a city; such quarreling is like the bars of a castle. 18:20 From the fruit of the mouth one's stomach is satisfied; the yield of the lips brings satisfaction. 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. 18:22 He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD. 18:23 The poor use entreaties, but the rich answer roughly. 18:24 Some friends play at friendship but a true friend sticks closer than one's nearest kin.