[1] Contend not with a mighty man, Lest haply you fall into his hands.
[2] Strive not with a rich man, lest haply he overweigh you: For gold has destroyed many, And turned aside the hearts of kings.
[3] Contend not with a man that is full of tongue, And heap not wood upon his fire.
[4] Jest not with a rude man, Lest your ancestors be dishonored.
[5] Reproach not a man when he turns from sin: Remember that we are all worthy of punishment.
[6] Dishonour not a man in his old age; For some of us also are waxing old.
[7] Rejoice not over one that is dead: Remember that we die all.
[8] Neglect not the discourse of the wise, And be conversant with their proverbs; For of them you shall learn instruction, And how to minister to great men.
[9] Miss not the discourse of the aged; For they also learned of their fathers: Because from them you shall learn understanding, And to give answer in time of need.
[10] Kindle not the coals of a sinner, Lest you be burned with the flame of his fire.
[11] Rise not up from the presence of an insolent man, Lest he lie in wait as an ambush for your mouth.
[12] Lend not to a man that is mightier than thyself; And if you lend, be as one that has lost.
[13] Be not surety above your power: And if you be surety, take thought as one that will have to pay.
[14] Go not to law with a judge; For according to his honor will they give judgement for him.
[15] Go not in the way with a rash man, Lest he be aggrieved with you; For he will do according to his own will, And you shall perish with his folly.
[16] Fight not with a wrathful man, And travel not with him through the desert: For blood is as nothing in his sight; And where there is no help, he will overthrow you.
[17] Take not counsel with a fool; For he will not be able to conceal the matter.
[18] Do no secret thing before a stranger; For you know not what he will bring forth.
[19] Open not your heart to every man; And let him not return you a favor.