6. The righteousness of the upright delivers them,but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires.
7. Hopes placed in mortals die with them;all the promise of their power comes to nothing.
8. The righteous person is rescued from trouble,and it falls on the wicked instead.
9. With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbours,but through knowledge the righteous escape.
10. When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices;when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.
11. Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted,but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.
12. Whoever derides their neighbour has no sense,but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.
13. A gossip betrays a confidence,but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.
14. For lack of guidance a nation falls,but victory is won through many advisors.
15. Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer,but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.
16. A kind-hearted woman gains honour,but ruthless men gain only wealth.
17. Those who are kind benefit themselves,but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.
18. A wicked person earns deceptive wages,but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.