18 Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death,

19 Is the man who deceives his neighbor,
And says, ^a“I was only joking!” ‡

20 Where there is no wood, the fire goes out;
And where there is no¹ talebearer, strife ceases. ‡

21 ^aAs charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire,
So is a contentious man to kindle strife. ‡

22 The words of a¹ talebearer are like tasty trifles,
And they go down into the¹ inmost body. ‡

23 Fervent lips with a wicked heart
Are like earthenware covered with silver dross.

24 He who hates, disguises it with his lips,
And lays up deceit within himself;

25 ^aWhen¹ he speaks kindly, do not believe him,
For there are seven abominations in his heart; ‡

26 Though his hatred is covered by deceit,
His wickedness will be revealed before the assembly.

27 ^aWhoever digs a pit will fall into it,
And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him. ‡

28 A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it,
And a flattering mouth works ^aruin. ‡