16 The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit Than seven men that can render a reason.
17 He that passeth by, [and] vexeth himself with strife belonging not to him, Is [like] one that taketh a dog by the ears.
18 As a madman who casteth firebrands, Arrows, and death,
19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbor, And saith, Am not I in sport?
20 For lack of wood the fire goeth out; And where there is no whisperer, contention ceaseth.
21 [As] coals are to hot embers, and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to inflame strife.
22 The words of a whisperer are as dainty morsels, And they go down into the innermost parts.