Proverbs 17:25-18:6

New International Version

²⁵ A foolish son brings grief to his father
    and bitterness to the mother who bore him.^(A)

²⁶ If imposing a fine on the innocent is not good,^(B)
    surely to flog honest officials is not right.

²⁷ The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,^(C)
    and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.^(D)

²⁸ Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,
    and discerning if they hold their tongues.^(E)

18 An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends
    and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.

² Fools find no pleasure in understanding
    but delight in airing their own opinions.^(F)

³ When wickedness comes, so does contempt,
    and with shame comes reproach.

⁴ The words of the mouth are deep waters,^(G)
    but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream.

⁵ It is not good to be partial to the wicked^(H)
    and so deprive the innocent of justice.^(I)

⁶ The lips of fools bring them strife,
    and their mouths invite a beating.^(J)