11As a dog returns to its vomit,

so a fool repeats his foolishness.

12There is more hope for fools

than for people who think they are wise.

13The lazy person claims, “There’s a lion on the road!

Yes, I’m sure there’s a lion out there!”

14As a door swings back and forth on its hinges,

so the lazy person turns over in bed.

15Lazy people take food in their hand

but don’t even lift it to their mouth.

16Lazy people consider themselves smarter

than seven wise counselors.

17Interfering in someone else’s argument

is as foolish as yanking a dog’s ears.

18Just as damaging

as a madman shooting a deadly weapon

19is someone who lies to a friend

and then says, “I was only joking.”

20Fire goes out without wood,

and quarrels disappear when gossip stops.