20. A proverb spoken by a fool is unwelcome,for he does not tell it at the proper time.
21. There is a person whose poverty prevents him from sinning,but when he takes his rest he has no regrets.
22. There is a person who is destroyed through shame,and ruined by foolish posturing.
23. There is one who promises a friend out of shame,and so makes an enemy needlessly.
24. A lie is a foul blot in a person,yet it is always on the lips of the ignorant.
25. A thief is better than an inveterate liar,yet both will suffer ruin.
26. A liar’s way leads to dishonor,and his shame remains ever with him.
27. The wise gain promotion with few words,the prudent please the great.
28. Those who work the land have abundant crops,and those who please the great are pardoned their faults.
29. Favors and gifts blind the eyes;like a muzzle over the mouth they silence reproofs.
30. Hidden wisdom and unseen treasure—what value has either?