1 Dead¹ flies putrefy the perfumer’s ointment,
And cause it to give off a foul odor;
So does a little folly to one respected for wisdom and honor. ‡

2 A wise man’s heart is at his right hand,
But a fool’s heart at his left.

3 Even when a fool walks along the way,
He lacks wisdom,
^aAnd he shows everyone that he is a fool. ‡

4 If the spirit of the ruler rises against you,
^aDo not leave your post;
For ^bconciliation pacifies great offenses. ‡