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For it is better to be told, “Come up closer,”
    than to be humiliated in the presence of the prince.

Observations and Recommendations[a]

What your eyes have witnessed,
    do not hastily testify to at the trial;
for what will you do at the end
    when your neighbor puts you to shame?
Argue your case with your neighbor
    but do not disclose another’s secret,

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 25:8 In these varied sayings, one will find many considerations about human relations: trials, the true word, fidelity. There is also a less current idea that recommends going to the aid of enemies (vv. 21-22), which is cited by Paul in Rom 12:20 to inculcate love of enemies; the coals may signify the remorse that leads to repentance.

it is better for him to say to you, “Come up here,”(A)
    than for him to humiliate you before his nobles.

What you have seen with your eyes
    do not bring[a] hastily to court,
for what will you do in the end
    if your neighbor puts you to shame?(B)

If you take your neighbor to court,
    do not betray another’s confidence,

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 25:8 Or nobles / on whom you had set your eyes. / Do not go