Nothing is more dangerous and destructive than a gossiping tongue because it can destroy peace (13:16) and ruin the tranquility and happiness of men (14) and women (15). A tongue used for gossip causes situations worse than even death can bring. The wise person’s approach is to ignore the gossip and “curse” him (13), that is, to remove him from his path; the author praises those who know how to protect themselves from this harmful influence on society (19).