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[1] Strive not with a mighty man' lest thou fall into his hands.
[2] Be not at variance with a rich man, lest he overweigh thee: for gold hath destroyed many, and perverted the hearts of kings.
[3] Strive not with a man that is full of tongue, and heap not wood upon his fire.
[4] Jest not with a rude man, lest thy ancestors be disgraced.
[5] Reproach not a man that turneth from sin, but remember that we are all worthy of punishment.
[6] Dishonour not a man in his old age: for even some of us wax old.
[7] Rejoice not over thy greatest enemy being dead, but remember that we die all.
[8] Despise not the discourse of the wise, but acquaint thyself with their proverbs: for of them thou shalt learn instruction, and how to serve great men with ease.
[9] Miss not the discourse of the elders: for they also learned of their fathers, and of them thou shalt learn understanding, and to give answer as need requireth.
[10] Kindle not the coals of a sinner, lest thou be burnt with the flame of his fire.
[11] Rise not up [in anger] at the presence of an injurious person, lest he lie in wait to entrap thee in thy words
[12] Lend not unto him that is mightier than thyself; for if thou lendest him, count it but lost.
[13] Be not surety above thy power: for if thou be surety, take care to pay it.
[14] Go not to law with a judge; for they will judge for him according to his honour.
[15] Travel not by the way with a bold fellow, lest he become grievous unto thee: for he will do according to his own will, and thou shalt perish with him through his folly.
[16] Strive not with an angry man, and go not with him into a solitary place: for blood is as nothing in his sight, and where there is no help, he will overthrow thee.
[17] Consult not with a fool; for he cannot keep counsel.
[18] Do no secret thing before a stranger; for thou knowest not what he will bring forth.
[19] Open not thine heart to every man, lest he requite thee with a shrewd turn.
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