His words were smoother than cream, but there was hatred in his heart; his words were as soothing as oil, but they cut like sharp swords.

A gentle answer quiets anger, but a harsh one stirs it up.

When the poor speak, they have to be polite, but when the rich answer, they are rude.

Patient persuasion can break down the strongest resistance and can even convince rulers.

They tell the prophets to keep quiet. They say, "Don't talk to us about what's right. Tell us what we want to hear. Let us keep our illusions.