18:1 The MT is ambiguous and the meaning uncertain. The NIV understands it as a description of the conduct of an unfriendly (lit. “separated”) and foolish person.

18:2 Antithetic. Without understanding, the fool lacks the sense to be silent or to learn, and instead reveals an (empty) mind.

18:3 Synonymous. The saying describes the sad effects of wicked and shameful conduct.

18:4 Antithetic? Juxtapositional. The NIV implies an antithesis between a and b. The disjunctive but, which is not in the MT, is inserted. In that case, deep waters stands for something unreachable (stagnant? obscure? and perhaps the waters of chaos, hence unruly and in need of discipline). In contrast is the availability and freshness of the source of wisdom in verse 4b (cf. NRSV). However, the relationship could be…