My son, if you have become surety (guaranteed a debt or obligation) for your neighbor,
If you have given your pledge for [the debt of] a stranger or another [outside your family],

There is one who pretends to be rich, yet has nothing at all;
Another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.

A man lacking common sense gives a pledge
And becomes guarantor [for the debt of another] in the presence of his neighbor.

Differing weights [one for buying and another for selling] and differing measures,
Both of them are detestable and offensive to the Lord.

Do not be among those who give pledges [involving themselves in others’ finances],
Or among those who become guarantors for others’ debts.

Argue your case with your neighbor himself [before you go to court];
And do not reveal another’s secret,

Whoever digs a pit [for another man’s feet] will fall into it,
And he who rolls a stone [up a hill to do mischief], it will come back on him.

Let another praise you, and not your own mouth;
A stranger, and not your own lips.