12. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire is fulfilled, it is a tree of life.
13. Whoever despises the word and counsel [of God] brings destruction upon himself, but he who [reverently] fears and respects the commandment [of God] is rewarded.
14. The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may avoid the snares of death.
15. Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the transgressor is hard [like the barren, dry soil or the impassable swamp].
16. Every prudent man deals with knowledge, but a [self-confident] fool exposes and flaunts his folly.
17. A wicked messenger falls into evil, but a faithful ambassador brings healing.
18. Poverty and shame come to him who refuses instruction and correction, but he who heeds reproof is honored.
19. Satisfied desire is sweet to a person; therefore it is hateful and exceedingly offensive to [self-confident] fools to give up evil [upon which they have set their hearts].