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15 Guaranteeing a loan for a stranger leads to trouble,
but one who hates to shake hands[a] remains secure.
16 A gracious woman takes hold of honor,
but ruthless men take hold of riches.[b]
17 A merciful man benefits his own soul,
but a cruel man brings trouble on his own flesh.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 11:15 Or make a deal
  2. Proverbs 11:16 The Greek text has a longer double proverb here: A gracious woman takes hold of honor, ⎣and she who hates virtue sets up a throne for dishonor. The lazy become destitute,⎦ but ruthless men take hold of riches.