Then they will call me, but I won’t answer;
they will search for me, but won’t find me.

A gentle answer turns away anger,
but a harsh word stirs up wrath.

A man takes joy in giving an answer;
and a timely word—how good that is!

The reflections of the heart belong to man,
but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.

The one who gives an answer before he listens—
this is foolishness and disgrace for him.

He who gives an honest answer
gives a kiss on the lips.

Don’t answer a fool according to his foolishness
or you’ll be like him yourself.

Answer a fool according to his foolishness
or he’ll become wise in his own eyes.

In his own eyes, a slacker is wiser
than seven men who can answer sensibly.

Be wise, my son, and bring my heart joy,
so that I can answer anyone who taunts me.