So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; who taketh away the life of its owners.

For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain of it than fine gold.

Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?

Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?

For the good-man is not at home, he is gone a long journey:

He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?

Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?

It is naught, it is naught, saith the buyer: but when he is gone, then he boasteth.

Man's goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way?

The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.

He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.

Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.