As a Dog That Returneth — Proverbs 26:17–26

He that passeth by, and vexeth himself with strife belonging not to him, Is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.

As a madman who casteth firebrands, Arrows, and death,

So is the man that deceiveth his neighbor, And saith, Am not I in sport?

For lack of wood the fire goeth out; And where there is no whisperer, contention ceaseth.

As coals are to hot embers, and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to inflame strife.

The words of a whisperer are as dainty morsels, And they go down into the innermost parts.

Fervent lips and a wicked heart Are like an earthen vessel overlaid with silver dross.

He that hateth dissembleth with his lips; But he layeth up deceit within him:

When he speaketh fair, believe him not; For there are seven abominations in his heart:

Though his hatred cover itself with guile, His wickedness shall be openly showed before the assembly.