My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry // Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.

Stop listening to instruction, my child, and you will stray from the words of knowledge. // To answer before listening—that is folly and shame. // Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them.

Those who have knowledge use words with restraint and those who have understanding are even-tempered.

Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. // Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.

Those who have no sense deride their neighbors, but those who have understanding hold their tongues.

Ja 1:19b; Ja 1:19, Pr 10:19; Pr 18:13, Pr 29:20; Pr 17:28; Pr 18:2, Pr 17:28; Pr 11:12

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