24The sluggard buries his hand in the dish,
         But will not even bring it back to his mouth.

25Strike a scoffer and the naive may become shrewd,
         But reprove one who has understanding and he will gain knowledge.

26He who assaults his father and drives his mother away
         Is a shameful and disgraceful son.

27Cease listening, my son, to discipline,
         And you will stray from the words of knowledge.

28A rascally witness makes a mockery of justice,
         And the mouth of the wicked spreads iniquity.

29Judgments are prepared for scoffers,
         And blows for the back of fools.

NASB ©1995