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21 The wise of heart is esteemed for discernment,
    and pleasing speech gains a reputation for learning.
22 Good sense is a fountain of life to those who have it,
    but folly is the training of fools.
23 The heart of the wise makes for eloquent speech,
    and increases the learning on their lips.

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21 The wise in heart are called discerning,
    and gracious words promote instruction.[a](A)

22 Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent,(B)
    but folly brings punishment to fools.

23 The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,(C)
    and their lips promote instruction.[b](D)

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 16:21 Or words make a person persuasive
  2. Proverbs 16:23 Or prudent / and make their lips persuasive