Further Sayings of the Wise

23These also are sayings of the wise:

To show partiality in judgment

is not good.

24Whoever tells the guilty, “You are innocent”—

peoples will curse him, and nations will denounce him;

25but it will go well with those who convict the guilty,

and rich blessing will come upon them.

26An honest answer given

is like a kiss on the lips.

27Complete your outdoor work and prepare your field;

after that, you may build your house.

28Do not testify against your neighbor without cause,

and do not deceive with your lips.

29Do not say, “I will do to him as he has done to me;

I will repay the man according to his work.”

30I went past the field of a slacker

and by the vineyard of a man lacking judgment.

31Thorns had grown up everywhere,

thistles had covered the ground,

and the stone wall was broken down.

32I observed and took it to heart;

I looked and received instruction:

33A little sleep, a little slumber,

a little folding of the hands to rest,

34and poverty will come upon you like a robber,

and need like a bandit.