17
The merciful man does good for his own soul, But he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.
18
The wicked man does deceptive work, But he who sows righteousness will have a sure reward.
19
As righteousness leads to life, So he who pursues evil pursues it to his own death.
20
Those who are of a perverse heart are an abomination to the Lord, But the blameless in their ways are His delight.
21
Though they join forces, the wicked will not go unpunished; But the posterity of the righteous will be delivered.
22
As a ring of gold in a swine's snout, So is a lovely woman who lacks discretion.
23
The desire of the righteous is only good, But the expectation of the wicked is wrath.
24
There is one who scatters, yet increases more; And there is one who withholds more than is right, But it leads to poverty.
25
The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.
26
The people will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it.
27
He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, But trouble will come to him who seeks evil.