1. And instead of a friend become not an enemy; For an evil name shall inherit shame and reproach: Even so shall the sinner that has a double tongue.
2. Exalt not yourself in the counsel of your soul; That your soul be not torn in pieces as a bull:
3. You shall eat up your leaves, and destroy your fruits, And leave yourself as a dry tree.
4. A wicked soul shall destroy him that has gotten it, And shall make him a laughing stock to his enemies.
5. Sweet words will multiply a man’s friends; And a fair-speaking tongue will multiply courtesies.
6. Let those that are at peace with you be many; But your counselors one of a thousand.
7. If you would get you a friend, get him by proving, And be not in haste to trust him.
8. For there is a friend that is so for his own occasion; And he will not continue in the day of your affliction.
9. And there is a friend that turns to enmity; And he will discover strife to your reproach.
10. And there is a friend that is a companion at the table; And he will not continue in the day of your affliction.
11. And in your prosperity he will be as yourself, And will be bold over your servants:
12. If you shall be brought low, he will be against you, And will hide himself from your face.
13. Separate yourself from your enemies; And beware of your friends.
14. A faithful friend is a strong defence; And he that has found him has found a treasure.
15. There is nothing that can be taken in exchange for a faithful friend; And his excellency is beyond price.
16. A faithful friend is a medicine of life; And they that fear the Lord shall find him.