Proverbs
Introduction to the Book
1:1The Proverbs1 of2 Solomon3 son of David,4 king of Israel:5
1:2 To6 learn7 wisdom8 and moral instruction,9
and to discern10 wise counsel.11
1:3 To receive12 moral instruction13 in skillful living,14
in15 righteousness,16 justice,17 and equity.18
1:4 To impart19 shrewdness20 to the morally naive,21
and22 a discerning23 plan24 to the young person.25
1:5 (Let the wise also26 hear27 and gain28 instruction,
and let the discerning29 acquire30 guidance!31)
1:6 To discern32 the meaning of33 a proverb and a parable,34
the sayings of the wise35 and their36 riddles.37
Introduction to the Theme of the Book
1:7 Fearing the LORD38 is the beginning39 of moral knowledge;40
but41 fools42 despise43 wisdom and instruction.44
1:8 Listen,45 my child,46 to the instruction47 from48 your father,
and do not forsake the teaching49 from50 your mother.
1:9 For they will be like51 an elegant52 garland53 on54 your head,
and like55 pendants around56 your neck.
Admonition to Avoid Easy but Unjust Riches
1:10 My child, if sinners57 try to entice58 you,
do not consent!59
1:11 If they say, "Come with us!
We will60 lie in wait61 to shed blood;62
we will ambush63 an innocent person64 capriciously.65
1:12 We will swallow them alive66 like Sheol,67
those full of vigor68 like those going down to the Pit.
1:13 We will seize69 all kinds70 of precious wealth;
we will fill our houses with plunder.71
1:14 Join with us!72
We will all share73 equally in what we steal."74
1:15 My child, do not go down75 their way,76
withhold yourself77 from their path;78
1:16 for they79 are eager80 to inflict harm,81
and they hasten82 to shed blood.83
1:17 Surely it is futile to spread84 a net
in view of85 any bird;86
1:18 but these men lie in wait for their own blood,87
they ambush their own lives!88
1:19 Such89 are the ways90 of all who gain profit unjustly;91
it92 takes away the life93 of those who obtain it.94
Warning Against Disregarding Wisdom
1:20 Wisdom95 calls out96 in the street,
she shouts loudly97 in the plazas;98
1:21 at the head of the noisy99 streets she calls,
in the entrances of the gates in the city100 she utters her words:101
1:22 "How long will you simpletons102 love naiveté?103
How long104 will mockers105 delight106 in mockery107
and fools108 hate knowledge?
1:23 If only109 you will respond110 to my rebuke,111
then112 I will pour113 out my thoughts114 to you
and115 I will make116 my words known to you.
1:24 However,117 because118 I called but you refused to listen,119
because120 I stretched out my hand121 but no one paid attention,
1:25 because122 you neglected123 all my advice,
and did not comply124 with my rebuke,
1:26 so125 I myself will laugh126 when disaster strikes you,127
I will mock when what you dread128 comes,
1:27 when what you dread129 comes like a whirlwind,130
and disaster strikes you131 like a devastating storm,132
when distressing trouble133 comes on you.
1:28 Then they will call to me, but I will not answer;
they will diligently seek134 me, but they will not find me.
1:29 Because135 they hated moral knowledge,136
and did not choose to fear the LORD,137
1:30 they did not comply with my advice,
they spurned138 all my rebuke.
1:31 Therefore139 they will eat from the fruit140 of their way,141
and they will be stuffed full142 of their own counsel.
1:32 For the waywardness143 of the simpletons will kill144 them,
and the careless ease145 of fools will destroy them.
1:33 But the one who listens146 to me will live in security,147
and will be at ease148 from the dread of harm.
Benefits of Seeking Wisdom149
2:1 My child,1 if2 you receive my words,
and store up3 my commands within you,
2:2 by making4 your ear5 attentive to wisdom,
and6 by turning7 your heart8 to understanding,
2:3 indeed, if9 you call out for10 understanding,11
and12 raise your voice13 for understanding,
2:4 if14 you seek15 it like silver,16
and search for it17 like hidden treasure,
2:5 then you will understand18 how to fear the LORD,19
and you will discover20 knowledge21 about God.22
2:6 For23 the LORD gives24 wisdom,
and from his mouth25 comes26 knowledge and understanding.
2:7 He stores up27 effective counsel28 for the upright,29
and is like30 a shield31 for those who live32 with integrity,33
2:8 to guard34 the paths of the righteous35
and to protect36 the way of his pious ones.37
2:9 Then you will understand38 righteousness and justice
and equity--every39 good40 way.41
2:10 For wisdom will enter your heart,42
and moral knowledge43 will be attractive44 to you.45
2:11 Discretion46 will protect you,47
understanding will guard you,
2:12 to deliver48 you from the way of the wicked,49
from those50 speaking perversity,51
2:13 who leave52 the upright53 paths
to walk on the dark54 ways,
2:14 who delight55 in doing56 evil,57
they rejoice in perverse evil;58
2:15 whose paths59 are morally crooked,60
and who are devious61 in their ways;
2:16 to deliver you62 from the adulteress,63
from the sexually loose woman64 who speaks flattering65 words;66
2:17 who leaves67 the husband68 from her youth,69
and forgets her marriage covenant70 made before God.71
2:18 For her house72 sinks73 down to death,
and her paths lead74 to the place of the departed spirits.75
2:19 None who go in to her will return,76
nor will they reach the paths of life.77
2:20 So78 you will walk in the way of good people,79
and will keep on the paths of the righteous.80
2:21 For the upright will reside in the land,
and those with integrity81 will remain in it;
2:22 but the wicked82 will be cut off83 from the land,
and the treacherous84 will be torn away85 from it.
Exhortations to Seek Wisdom and Walk with the LORD86
3:1 My child,1 do not forget my teaching,
but let your heart keep2 my commandments,
3:2 for they will provide3 a long and full life,4
and they will add well-being5 to you.
3:3 Do not let truth and mercy6 leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.7
3:4 Then you will find8 favor and good understanding,9
in the sight of God and people.10
3:5 Trust11 in the LORD with all your heart,12
and do not rely13 on your own understanding.14
3:6 Acknowledge15 him in all your ways,16
and he will make your paths straight.17
3:7 Do not be wise in your own estimation;18
fear the LORD and turn away from evil.19
3:8 This will bring20 healing to your body,21
and refreshment22 to your inner self.23
3:9 Honor24 the LORD from your wealth
and from the first fruits of all your crops;25
3:10 then your barns will be filled completely,26
and your vats27 will overflow28 with new wine.
3:11 My child,29 do not despise discipline from the LORD,30
and do not loathe31 his rebuke.
3:12 For the LORD disciplines32 those he loves,
just as a father33 disciplines34 the son in whom he delights.
Blessings of Obtaining Wisdom
3:13 Blessed35 is the one36 who finds37 wisdom,
and the one38 who obtains39 understanding.
3:14 For her40 benefit41 is more profitable42 than silver,
and her43 gain44 is better45 than gold.
3:15 She is more precious than rubies,
and none of the things46 you desire47 can compare48 with her.49
3:16 Long life50 is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
3:17 Her ways are very pleasant,51
and all her paths are peaceful.
3:18 She is like52 a tree of life53 to those who obtain her;54
and everyone who grasps hold of her will be blessed.55
3:19 The LORD by wisdom laid the foundation of the earth;56
he established the heavens by understanding.57
3:20 By his knowledge the primordial sea58 was broken open,59
and the clouds drip down dew.60
3:21 My child,61 do not let them62 escape from your sight;
safeguard sound wisdom and discretion.63
3:22 So64 they will give65 life to you,66
and grace to adorn67 your neck.68
3:23 Then you will walk on your way69 with security,
and you70 will not stumble.71
3:24 When72 you lie down you will not be filled with fear,73
and when74 you lie down your sleep will be pleasant.75
3:25 You will not be afraid76 of sudden77 disaster,78
or when destruction comes79 on the wicked;80
3:26 for the LORD will be81 the source of your confidence,82
and he will guard your foot83 from being ensnared.84
Wisdom Demonstrated in Relationships with People
3:27 Do not withhold good from those who need it,85
when86 you87 have the ability88 to do it.89
3:28 Do not say to your neighbor, "Go! Return tomorrow
and I will give it"--when90 you have it with you at the time.91
3:29 Do not plot92 evil against your neighbor
when93 he dwells by you unsuspectingly.
3:30 Do not accuse94 anyone95 without legitimate cause,96
if he has not treated you wrongly.
3:31 Do not envy a violent man,97
and do not choose any of his ways;
3:32 for one who goes astray98 is an abomination99 to the LORD,
but he reveals100 his intimate counsel101 to the upright.
3:33 The LORD's curse102 is on the household103 of the wicked,104
but he blesses105 the home106 of the righteous.107
3:34 Although108 he is scornful to arrogant scoffers,109
yet110 he shows favor to the humble.111
3:35 The wise inherit honor,
but he holds fools up112 to public contempt.113
Admonition to Follow Righteousness and Avoid Wickedness114
4:1 Listen, children,1 to a father's instruction,2
and pay attention so that3 you may gain4 discernment.
4:2 Because I give5 you good instruction,6
do not forsake my teaching.
4:3 When I was a son to my father,7
a tender only child8 before my mother,
4:4 he taught me, and he said to me:
"Let your heart lay hold of my words;
keep my commands so that9 you will live.
4:5 Acquire wisdom, acquire understanding;
do not forget and do not turn aside from the words I speak.10
4:6 Do not forsake her,11 and she will protect you;
love her, and she will guard you.
4:7 Wisdom is supreme12--so13 acquire wisdom;
and whatever you acquire,14 acquire understanding!15
4:8 Esteem her highly16 and she will exalt you;
she will honor you if you embrace her.
4:9 She will place a fair17 garland on your head;
she will bestow18 a beautiful crown19 on you."
4:10 Listen, my child,20 and accept my words,
so that21 the years of your life will be many.22
4:11 I will guide you23 in the way of wisdom
and I will lead you in upright paths.24
4:12 When you walk, your steps25 will not be hampered;26
and when you run,27 you will not stumble.
4:13 Hold on to instruction,28 do not let it go;
protect it,29 because it is your life.
4:14 Do not enter the path of the wicked
or walk30 in the way of those who are evil.
4:15 Avoid it, do not go on it;
turn away from it, and go on.31
4:16 For they cannot sleep unless they cause harm;32
they are robbed of sleep33 until they make someone fall.34
4:17 For they eat bread35 gained from wickedness36
and drink wine obtained from violence.37
4:18 But the path of the righteous is like the bright morning light,38
growing brighter and brighter39 until full day.40
4:19 The way of the wicked is like gloomy darkness;41
they do not know what causes them to stumble.42
4:20 My child,43 pay attention to my words;
listen attentively44 to my sayings.
4:21 Do not let them depart45 from your sight,
guard46 them within your heart;47
4:22 for they are life to those who find them
and healing to one's entire body.48
4:23 Guard your heart with all vigilance,49
for from it are the sources50 of life.
4:24 Remove perverse speech51 from your mouth;52
keep devious talk far from your lips.53
4:25 Let your eyes look directly54 in front of you
and let your gaze55 look straight before you.
4:26 Make the path for your feet56 level,57
so that58 all your ways may be established.59
4:27 Do not turn60 to the right or to the left;
turn yourself61 away from evil.62
Admonition to Avoid Seduction to Evil63
5:1 My child,1 be attentive to my wisdom,
pay close attention2 to my understanding,
5:2 in order to safeguard3 discretion,4
and that your lips may guard knowledge.
5:3 For the lips5 of the adulterous woman drip honey,
and her seductive words6 are smoother than oil;
5:4 but in the end7 she is bitter8 as wormwood,9
sharp as a two-edged10 sword.
5:5 Her feet go down to death;
her steps lead straight to the grave.11
5:6 Lest12 she should make level the path leading to life,13
her paths are unstable14 but she does not know it.15
5:7 So now, children,16 listen to me;
do not turn aside from the words I speak.17
5:8 Keep yourself18 far19 from her,
and do not go near the door of her house,
5:9 lest you give your vigor20 to others
and your years to a cruel person,
5:10 lest strangers devour21 your strength,22
and your labor23 benefit24 another man's house.
5:11 And at the end of your life25 you will groan26
when your flesh and your body are wasted away.27
5:12 And you will say, "How I hated discipline!
My heart spurned reproof!
5:13 For28 I did not obey my teachers29
and I did not heed30 my instructors.31
5:14 I almost32 came to complete ruin33
in the midst of the whole congregation!"34
5:15 Drink water from your own cistern
and running water from your own well.35
5:16 Should your springs be dispersed36 outside,
your streams of water in the wide plazas?
5:17 Let them be for yourself37 alone,
and not for strangers with you.38
5:18 May your fountain be blessed,39
and may you rejoice40 in your young wife41--
5:19 a loving doe,42 a graceful deer;
may her breasts satisfy you at all times,
may you be captivated43 by her love always.
5:20 But why should you be captivated,44 my son, by an adulteress,
and embrace the bosom of a different woman?45
5:21 For the ways of a person46 are in front of the eyes of the LORD,
and the LORD47 weighs48 all that person's49 paths.
5:22 The wicked50 will be captured by his51 own iniquities,52
and he will be held53 by the cords of his own sin.54
5:23 He will die because55 there was no discipline;
because of the greatness of his folly56 he will reel.57
Admonitions and Warnings against Dangerous and Destructive Acts58
6:1 My child, if you have made a pledge1 for your neighbor,
and2 have become a guarantor3 for a stranger,4
6:2 if5 you have been ensnared6 by the words you have uttered,7
and have been caught by the words you have spoken,8
6:3 then, my child, do this in order to deliver yourself,9
because you have fallen10 into your neighbor's power:11
go, humble yourself,12
and appeal firmly13 to your neighbor.
6:4 Do not give sleep to your eyes14
or slumber to your eyelids.
6:5 Deliver yourself like a gazelle from a snare,15
and like a bird from the trap16 of the fowler.
6:6 Go to the ant, you sluggard;17
observe its ways and be wise!
6:7 It has no commander,
overseer, or18 ruler,
6:8 yet it prepares its food in the summer;
it gathers at the harvest what it will eat.19
6:9 How long, you sluggard, will you lie there?
When will you rise from your sleep?20
6:10 A little sleep, a little slumber,
a little folding of the hands to relax,21
6:11 and your poverty will come like a robber,22
and your need like an armed man.23
6:12 A worthless and wicked person24
walks around saying perverse25 things;26
6:13 he winks with his eyes,
signals with his feet,
and points with his fingers;27
6:14 he plots evil with perverse thoughts28 in his heart,
he spreads contention29 at all times.
6:15 Therefore, his disaster will come suddenly;
in an instant30 he will be broken, and there will be no remedy.
6:16 There are six things that the LORD hates,
even31 seven32 things that are an abomination to him:33
6:17 haughty eyes,34 a lying tongue,35
and hands that shed innocent blood,36
6:18 a heart that devises wicked plans,37
feet that are swift to run38 to evil,
6:19 a false witness who pours out lies,39
and a person who spreads discord40 among family members.41
6:20 My child, guard the commands of your father
and do not forsake the instruction of your mother.
6:21 Bind them42 on your heart continually;
fasten them around your neck.
6:22 When you walk about,43 they44 will guide you;
when you lie down, they will watch over you;
when you wake up,45 they will talk46 to you.
6:23 For the commandments47 are like48 a lamp,49
instruction is like a light,
and rebukes of discipline are like50 the road leading to life,51
6:24 by keeping52 you from the evil woman,53
from the smooth tongue of54 the loose woman.55
6:25 Do not lust56 in your heart for her beauty,
and do not let her captivate you with her alluring eyes;57
6:26 for on account58 of a prostitute one is brought down to a loaf of bread,
but the wife of another59 man preys on your precious life.60
6:27 Can a man hold61 fire62 against his chest63
without64 burning his clothes?
6:28 Can65 a man walk on hot coals
without scorching his feet?
6:29 So it is with66 the one who has sex with67 his neighbor's wife;
no one68 who touches69 her will escape70 punishment.71
6:30 People72 do not despise a thief when he steals
to fulfill his need73 when he is hungry.
6:31 Yet74 if he is caught75 he must repay76 seven times over,
he might even have to give77 all the wealth of his house.
6:32 A man who commits adultery with a woman lacks wisdom,78
whoever does it destroys his own life.79
6:33 He will be beaten and despised,80
and his reproach will not be wiped away;81
6:34 for jealousy kindles82 a husband's83 rage,
and he will not show mercy84 when he takes revenge.
6:35 He will not consider85 any compensation;86
he will not be willing, even if you multiply the compensation.87
Admonition to Avoid the Wiles of the Adulteress88
7:1 My child,1 keep my words
and treasure up my commands within your own keeping.2
7:2 Keep my commands3 so that you may live,4
and obey5 my instruction as your most prized possession.6
7:3 Bind them on your forearm;7
write them on the tablet of your heart.8
7:4 Say to wisdom, "You are my sister,"9
and call understanding a close relative,
7:5 so that they may keep you10 from the adulterous11 woman,
from the loose woman12 who flatters you13 with her words.14
7:6 For at the window of my house
through my window-lattice I looked out
7:7 and I saw among the naive,
I discerned among the youths,15
a young man16 who lacked wisdom.17
7:8 He was passing by the street near her corner,
making his way18 along the road to her house19
7:9 in the twilight, the evening,20
in the dark of the night.21
7:10 All of a sudden22 a woman came out to meet him!
She was dressed like a prostitute23 and with secret intent.24
7:11 (She is loud and rebellious,
she25 does not remain26 at home--
7:12 at one time outside, at another27 in the wide plazas,
and by every corner she lies in wait.)
7:13 So she grabbed him and kissed him,
and with a bold expression28 she said to him,
7:14 "I have29 fresh meat at home;30
today I have fulfilled my vows!
7:15 That is why I came out to meet you,
to look for you,31 and I found you!
7:16 I have spread my bed with elegant coverings,32
with richly colored fabric33 from Egypt.
7:17 I have perfumed my bed
with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.
7:18 Come, let's drink deeply34 of lovemaking35 until morning,
let's delight ourselves36 with sexual intercourse.37
7:19 For my husband38 is not at home;39
he has gone on a journey of some distance.
7:20 He has taken a bag of money with him;40
he will not return until41 the end of the month."42
7:21 She persuaded him43 with persuasive words;44
with her smooth speech45 she compelled him.46
7:22 Suddenly he went47 after her
like an ox that goes to the slaughter,
like a stag prancing into a trapper's snare48
7:23 till an arrow pierces his liver49--
like a bird hurrying into a trap;
and he does not know that it will cost him his life.50
7:24 So now, sons,51 listen to me;
and pay attention to the words I speak.52
7:25 Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways;
do not wander into her pathways;
7:26 for she has brought down53 many fatally wounded;
and all those she has slain are many.54
7:27 Her house is the way to the grave,55
going down56 to the chambers57 of death.
The Appeal Of Wisdom58
8:1 Does not wisdom call out?
Does not understanding raise her voice?
8:2 At the top1 of the elevated places along the way,
at the juncture2 of the paths she takes her stand;
8:3 beside the gates opening into3 the city,
at the entrance of the doorways she cries out:4
8:4 "To you, O people,5 I call out,
and my voice calls6 to all mankind.7
8:5 You who are naive, discern8 wisdom!
And you fools, understand discernment!9
8:6 Listen, for I will speak excellent things;10
and my lips will utter11 what is right.
8:7 For my mouth12 speaks truth,13
and my lips14 hate wickedness.15
8:8 All the words of my mouth are righteous;16
there is nothing in them twisted17 or crooked.
8:9 All of them are clear18 to the discerning
and upright to those who find knowledge.
8:10 Receive my instruction19 rather than20 silver,
and knowledge rather than choice gold.
8:11 For wisdom is better than rubies,
and desirable things cannot be compared21 to her.
8:12 "I, wisdom, live with prudence,22
and I find23 knowledge and discretion.
8:13 The fear of the LORD is to hate24 evil;
I hate arrogant pride25 and the evil way
and perverse utterances.26
8:14 Counsel and sound wisdom belong to me;27
I possess understanding and might.
8:15 Kings reign by means of me,
and potentates28 decree29 righteousness;
8:16 by me princes rule,
as well as nobles and30 all righteous judges.31
8:17 I love32 those who love me,
and those who seek me find me.
8:18 Riches and honor are with me,
long-lasting wealth and righteousness.
8:19 My fruit is better than pure gold,33
and what I produce34 is better than choice silver.
8:20 I walk in the path of righteousness,
in the midst of the pathway of justice,
8:21 that I may cause35 those who love me to inherit righteousness,
and fill36 their treasuries.37
8:22 The LORD created38 me as the beginning39 of his way,40
before his works of old.
8:23 From eternity I was appointed,41
from the beginning, from before the world existed.42
8:24 When there were no deep oceans43 I was given birth,44
when there were no springs abounding45 with water;
8:25 before the mountains were settled,
before the hills, I was brought forth,
8:26 before he made the earth and its fields,46
or the beginning47 of the dust of the world.
8:27 When he established the heavens, I was there;
when he marked out the horizon48 over the face of the deep,
8:28 when he established the clouds above,
when the fountains of the deep grew strong,49
8:29 when he gave the sea his decree
that the waters should not pass over his command,50
when he marked out the foundations of the earth,
8:30 then I was51 beside him as a master craftsman,52
and I was his delight53 day by day,
rejoicing before him at all times,
8:31 rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth,54
and delighting55 in the human beings.56
8:32 "So now, children, listen to me;
blessed are those who keep my ways.
8:33 Listen to my instruction57 so that you may be wise,58
and do not neglect it.
8:34 Blessed is the one59 who listens to me,
watching60 at my doors day by day,
waiting61 at the posts of my doorway.
8:35 For the one who finds me finds62 life
and receives63 favor from the LORD.
8:36 But the one who does not find me64 brings harm65 to himself;66
all who hate me67 love death."
The Consequences of Accepting Wisdom or Folly68
9:1 Wisdom has built her house;
she has carved out its seven pillars.1
9:2 She has prepared her meat,2 she has mixed her wine;
she also has arranged her table.3
9:3 She has sent out her female servants;
she calls out on the highest places4 of the city.
9:4 "Whoever is naive, let him turn in here,"
she says5 to those6 who lack understanding.7
9:5 "Come, eat8 some of my food,
and drink some of the wine I have mixed.9
9:6 Abandon your foolish ways,10 so that you may live;11
and proceed12 in the way of understanding."
9:7 Whoever corrects13 a mocker is asking for14 insult;15
whoever reproves a wicked person receives16 abuse.
9:8 Do not reprove17 a mocker or18 he will hate you;
reprove a wise person and he will love you.
9:9 Give instruction19 to a wise person,20 and he will become wiser still;
teach21 a righteous person and he will add to his22 learning.
9:10 The beginning23 of wisdom to fear the LORD,24
and acknowledging25 the Holy One26 is understanding.
9:11 For because27 of me your days will be many,
and years will be added28 to your life.
9:12 If you are wise, you are wise to your own advantage;29
but if you are a mocker,30 you alone must31 bear it.32
9:13 The woman called Folly33 is brash,34
she is naive35 and does not know36 anything.37
9:14 So she sits at the door of her house,
on a seat at the highest point of the city,
9:15 calling out38 to those who are passing by her39 in the way,40
who go straight41 on their way.
9:16 "Whoever is simple, let him turn in here,"
she says to those who lack understanding.42
9:17 "Stolen waters43 are sweet,
and food obtained in secret44 is pleasant!"
9:18 But they do not know45 that the dead46 are there,
that her guests are in the depths of the grave.47
The First Collection of Solomonic Proverbs48
10:1The Proverbs of Solomon:
A wise child1 makes a father rejoice,2
but a foolish child3 is a grief to his mother.4
10:2 Treasures gained by wickedness5 do not profit,
but righteousness6 delivers from mortal danger.7
10:3 The LORD satisfies8 the appetite9 of the righteous,
but he thwarts10 the craving11 of the wicked.
10:4 The one who is lazy12 becomes poor,13
but the one works diligently14 becomes wealthy.15
10:5 The one who gathers crops16 in the summer is a wise17 son,
but the one who sleeps18 during the harvest is a son who brings shame to himself.19
10:6 Blessings20 are on the head of the righteous,
but the speech21 of the wicked conceals22 violence.23
10:7 The memory24 of the righteous is a blessing,
but the reputation25 of the wicked will rot.26
10:8 The wise person27 person accepts instructions,28
but the one who speaks foolishness29 will come to ruin.30
10:9 The one who conducts himself31 in integrity32 will live33 securely,
but the one who behaves perversely34 will be found out.
10:10 The one who winks35 his36 eye causes37 trouble,
and the one who speaks foolishness38 will come to ruin.
10:11 The teaching39 of the righteous is a fountain of life,40
but the speech41 of the wicked conceals42 violence.43
10:12 Hatred44 stirs up dissension,
but love covers all transgressions.45
10:13 Wisdom is found in the speech46 of the discerning person,47
but the one who lacks wisdom48 will be disciplined.49
10:14 Those who are wise50 store up51 knowledge,
but foolish speech52 leads to imminent53 destruction.
10:15 The wealth of a rich person is like54 a strong city,55
but the poor are brought to ruin56 by57 their poverty.
10:16 The reward58 which the righteous receive59 is life;
the recompense60 which the wicked receive61 is judgment.62
10:17 The one who heeds instruction63 is on the way to64 life,
but the one who rejects65 rebuke goes astray.
10:18 The one who conceals hatred utters lies,66
and the one who spreads67 slander68 is certainly69 a fool.
10:19 When words abound, transgression is inevitable;70
but the one who restrains71 his words72 is wise.
10:20 What the righteous say73 is like74 the best75 silver,
but what the wicked think76 is of little value.77
10:21 The teaching78 of the righteous feeds79 many,
but fools die80 for lack of wisdom.81
10:22 The blessing82 from the LORD83 makes a person rich,84
and he adds no sorrow85 to86 it.
10:23 Carrying out a wicked scheme87 is enjoyable88 to a fool,
and so is wisdom for the one who has discernment.89
10:24 What the wicked fears90 will come on him;
what the righteous desire91 will be granted.92
10:25 When the storm93 passes through, the wicked are swept away,94
but the righteous are an everlasting foundation.95
10:26 Like vinegar to the teeth and like smoke to the eyes,96
so is the sluggard to those97 who send him.
10:27 Fearing the LORD98 prolongs life,99
but the life span100 of the wicked will be shortened.101
10:28 The hope102 of the righteous is joy,
but the expectation of the wicked will remain unfulfilled.103
10:29 The way of the LORD104 is like105 a stronghold for the upright,106
but it is destruction107 to evildoers.108
10:30 The righteous will never be moved,
but the wicked will not inhabit the land.109
10:31 The speech110 of the righteous bears the fruit of wisdom,111
but the one who speaks perversion112 will be destroyed.113
10:32 The lips of the righteous know114 what is pleasing,115
but the speech116 of the wicked is perverse.
11:1 The LORD abhors1 dishonest scales,2
but a perfect weight3 is his delight.
11:2 When pride4 comes,5 then comes disgrace,6
but with humility7 comes8 wisdom.
11:3 The integrity of the upright guides them,9
but the crookedness of the unfaithful destroys them.10
11:4 Wealth does not profit in the day of wrath,11
but righteousness delivers from mortal danger.12
11:5 The righteousness of the blameless will make straight their way,13
but the wicked person will fall by his own wickedness.14
11:6 The righteousness of the upright will deliver them,15
but the faithless ones will be captured16 by their desires.17
11:7 When a wicked person dies, his expectation perishes,18
and the hope of his strength19 perishes.20
11:8 The righteous person is delivered21 out of trouble,
and the wicked turns up in his stead.22
11:9 With his speech23 the godless person24 destroys25 his neighbor,
but by knowledge26 the righteous will be delivered.
11:10 When the righteous do well,27 the city rejoices;28
when the wicked perish, there is joy.
11:11 A city is exalted by the blessing provided from29 the upright,
but it is destroyed by the counsel30 of the wicked.31
11:12 The one who denounces32 his neighbor lacks wisdom,33
but the one who has discernment34 keeps silent.35
11:13 The one who goes about slandering others36 reveals37 secrets,
but the one who is trustworthy38 conceals a matter.
11:14 When there is no guidance39 a nation falls,
but there is success40 in the abundance of counselors.
11:15 The one who puts up security for a stranger41 will surely have trouble,42
but whoever avoids43 shaking hands44 will be secure.
11:16 A generous woman45 gains honor,
and ruthless men46 seize wealth.47
11:17 A kind person48 benefits49 himself,50
but a cruel person brings himself trouble.51
11:18 The wicked person52 earns53 deceitful wages,54
but the one who sows55 righteousness reaps56 a genuine57 reward.58
11:19 True59 righteousness leads to60 life,
but the one who pursues evil pursues it61 to his own death.62
11:20 The LORD abhors63 those who are perverse in heart,64
but those who are blameless in their ways65 are his delight.66
11:21 Be assured that67 the evil person will certainly be punished,68
but the descendants of the righteous69 will not suffer unjust judgment.70
11:22 Like a gold ring71 in a pig's snout,72
so is73 a beautiful woman who rejects74 discretion.75
11:23 What the righteous desire76 leads77 only to good,
but what the wicked hope for78 leads79 to wrath.
11:24 One person is generous80 and yet grows more wealthy,81
but another withholds more than he ought82 and comes to poverty.83
11:25 A generous person84 will be enriched,85
and the one who provides water86 for others87 will himself be satisfied.88
11:26 People will curse89 the one who withholds grain,90
but they will praise91 the one who sells it.92
11:27 The one who diligently seeks93 good seeks favor,
but the one who searches94 for evil--it will come to him.95
11:28 The one who trusts in his riches will fall,
but the righteous96 will flourish like a green leaf.97
11:29 The one who troubles98 his family99 will inherit nothing,100
and the fool101 will be a servant to the wise person.102
11:30 The fruit of the righteous is like103 a tree producing life,104
and the one who wins souls105 is wise.106
11:31 If the righteous are recompensed on earth,107
how much more108 the wicked sinner!109
12:1 The one who loves discipline loves knowledge,1
but the one who hates reproof is stupid.2
12:2 A good person obtains favor from the LORD,
but the LORD3 condemns a person with wicked schemes.4
12:3 No one5 can be established6 through wickedness,
but a righteous root7 cannot be moved.
12:4 A noble wife8 is the crown9 of her husband,
but the wife10 who acts shamefully is like rottenness in his bones.11
12:5 The plans12 of the righteous are just;
the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.
12:6 The words of the wicked lie in wait13 to shed innocent blood,14
but the words15 of the upright will deliver them.
12:7 The wicked are overthrown16 and perish,17
but the righteous household18 will stand.
12:8 A person19 is praised in accordance with20 his wisdom,
but the one who has a twisted mind21 is despised.
12:9 Better is a person of humble standing22 who nevertheless has a servant,23
than one who pretends to be somebody important24 yet has no food.
12:10 A righteous person cares for25 the life of his animal,
but even the most compassionate acts26 of the wicked are cruel.
12:11 The one who works27 his field will have plenty28 of food,
but whoever chases daydreams29 lacks wisdom.30
12:12 The wicked person desires a stronghold,31
but the righteous root32 endures.33
12:13 The evil person is ensnared34 by the transgression of his speech,35
but the righteous person escapes out of trouble.36
12:14 A person will be satisfied with good from the fruit of his words,37
and the work of his hands38 will be rendered to39 him.
12:15 The way of a fool40 is right41 in his own opinion,42
but the one who listens to advice is wise.43
12:16 A fool's vexation44 is known at once,45
but the prudent46 overlooks47 an insult.
12:17 The faithful witness48 tells what is right,49
but a false witness50 speaks51 deceit.
12:18 Speaking recklessly52 is like the thrusts of a sword,
but the words53 of the wise bring54 healing.55
12:19 The one who tells the truth56 will endure forever,
but the one who lies57 will last only for a moment.58
12:20 Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil,59
but those who promote peace60 have joy.
12:21 The righteous do not encounter61 any harm,62
but the wicked are filled with calamity.63
12:22 The LORD64 abhors a person who lies,65
but those who deal truthfully66 are his delight.67
12:23 The shrewd person68 conceals69 knowledge,
but foolish people70 publicize folly.71
12:24 The diligent72 person73 will rule,
but the slothful74 will become a slave.75
12:25 Anxiety76 in a person's heart77 weighs him down,78
but an encouraging79 word brings him joy.80
12:26 The righteous person is cautious in his friendship,81
but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
12:27 The lazy person does not roast82 his prey,
but personal possessions83 are precious to the diligent.
12:28 In the path of righteousness there is life,
but another path leads to death.84
13:1 A wise son accepts1 his father's discipline,2
but a scoffer3 does not listen to rebuke.
13:2 From the fruit of his speech4 a person eats good things,5
but the faithless6 desire7 the fruit of violence.8
13:3 The one who guards his words9 guards his life,
but10 whoever is talkative11 will come to ruin.12
13:4 The appetite13 of the sluggard14 craves15 but gets nothing;
but the desire16 of the diligent will be abundantly satisfied.17
13:5 The righteous person hates anything false,18
but the wicked person acts in shameful disgrace.19
13:6 Righteousness20 guards the one who lives with integrity,21
but wickedness22 overthrows the sinner.
13:7 There is one who pretends to be rich23 and yet has nothing;
another pretends to be poor24 and yet possesses great wealth.25
13:8 The ransom26 of a person's27 life is his wealth,
but the poor person hears no threat.28
13:9 The light29 of the righteous shines brightly,30
but the lamp31 of the wicked goes out.32
13:10 With pride33 comes only34 contention,
but wisdom is with the well-advised.35
13:11 Wealth gained quickly36 will dwindle away,37
but the one who gathers it little by little38 will become rich.39
13:12 Hope40 deferred41 makes the heart sick,42
but a longing fulfilled43 is like44 a tree of life.
13:13 The one who despises instruction45 will pay the penalty,46
but whoever esteems instruction47 will48 be rewarded.49
13:14 Instruction50 from the wise51 is like52 a life-giving fountain,53
to turn54 a person55 from deadly snares.56
13:15 Keen insight57 wins58 favor,
but the conduct59 of the unfaithful is harsh.60
13:16 Every shrewd61 person acts with knowledge,
but a fool displays62 his folly.
13:17 An unreliable63 messenger falls64 into trouble,65
but a faithful envoy66 brings67 healing.
13:18 The one who neglects68 discipline comes to69 poverty and shame,
but the one who accepts reproof is honored.70
13:19 A desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul,
but fools abhor71 turning away from evil.
13:20 The one who associates72 with the wise grows wise,
but a companion of fools suffers harm.73
13:21 Calamity74 pursues sinners,
but prosperity rewards the righteous.75
13:22 A benevolent76 person leaves an inheritance77 for his grandchildren,78
but the wealth of a sinner is stored up for the righteous.79
13:23 There is abundant food in the field80 of the poor,
but it is swept away by injustice.81
13:24 The one who spares his rod82 hates83 his child,84
but the one who loves his child85 is diligent86 in disciplining87 him.
13:25 The righteous has enough food to satisfy his appetite,88
but the belly of the wicked lacks food.89
14:1 Every wise woman1 builds2 her household,3
but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.
14:2 The one who walks in his uprightness fears the LORD,4
but the one who is perverted in his ways5 despises him.
14:3 In6 the mouth7 of a fool is a rod for the back,8
but the words9 of the wise protect them.
14:4 Where there are no oxen, the feeding trough is clean;
but an abundant harvest is produced by strong oxen.10
14:5 A truthful witness11 does not lie,
but a false witness12 breathes out lies.13
14:6 The scorner14 seeks wisdom but finds none,15
but understanding is easy16 for a discerning person.
14:7 Leave the presence of a foolish person,17
or18 you will not understand19 wise counsel.20
14:8 The wisdom of the shrewd person21 is to discern22 his way,
but the folly of fools is deception.23
14:9 Fools mock24 at reparation,25
but among the upright there is favor.26
14:10 The heart knows its own bitterness,27
and with its joy no one else28 can share.29
14:11 The household30 of the wicked will be destroyed,
but the tent31 of the upright will flourish.
14:12 There is a way that seems right to a person,32
but its end is the way of death.33
14:13 Even in laughter the heart may ache,34
and the end35 of joy may be36 grief.
14:14 The backslider37 will have his fill38 from his own ways,
but a good person will be rewarded39 for his.
14:15 A naive person40 believes everything,
but the shrewd person discerns his steps.41
14:16 A wise person is cautious42 and turns from evil,
but a fool throws off restraint43 and is overconfident.44
14:17 A person who has a quick temper45 does foolish things,
and a person with crafty schemes46 is hated.47
14:18 The naive inherit48 folly,
but the shrewd49 are crowned50 with knowledge.
14:19 Those who are evil will bow51 before those who are good,
and the wicked will bow52 at the gates53 of the righteous.
14:20 A poor person is disliked54 even by his neighbors,
but those who love the rich are many.
14:21 The one who despises his neighbor sins,
but whoever is kind to the needy is blessed.
14:22 Do not those who devise55 evil go astray?
but those who plan good exhibit56 faithful covenant love.57
14:23 In all hard work58 there is profit,
but merely talking about it59 only brings60 poverty.61
14:24 The crown of the wise is their riches,62
but the folly63 of fools is folly.
14:25 A truthful witness64 rescues lives,65
but the one who breathes lies brings66 deception.67
14:26 In the fear of the LORD one has68 strong confidence,69
and it will be a refuge70 for his children.
14:27 The fear of the LORD71 is like72 a life-giving fountain,73
to turn74 people75 from deadly snares.76
14:28 A king's glory is77 the abundance of people,
but the lack of people is the ruin78 of a ruler.
14:29 The one who is slow to anger has great understanding,
but the one who has a quick temper79 exalts80 folly.
14:30 A tranquil spirit81 revives the body,82
but envy83 is rottenness to the bones.84
14:31 The one who oppresses85 the poor insults86 his Creator,
but whoever shows favor87 to the needy honors him.
14:32 The wicked will be thrown down in his trouble,88
but the righteous have refuge89 even in the threat of death.90
14:33 Wisdom rests in the heart of the discerning;
it is known91 even in the heart92 of fools.
14:34 Righteousness exalts93 a nation,
but sin is a disgrace94 to any people.
14:35 The king shows favor95 to a wise96 servant,
but his wrath falls97 on one who acts shamefully.
15:1 A gentle response1 turns away anger,
but a harsh word2 stirs up wrath.3
15:2 The tongue of the wise4 treats knowledge correctly,5
but the mouth of the fool spouts out6 folly.
15:3 The eyes of the LORD7 are in every place,
keeping watch8 on those who are evil and those who are good.
15:4 Speech9 that heals10 is like11 a life-giving tree,12
but perversion in it13 breaks the spirit.
15:5 A fool rejects his father's discipline,
but whoever heeds reproof shows good sense.14
15:6 In the house15 of the righteous is abundant wealth,16
but the income of the wicked brings trouble.17
15:7 The lips of the wise spread18 knowledge,
but not so the heart of fools.19
15:8 The LORD abhors20 the sacrifices21 of the wicked,22
but the prayer23 of the upright pleases him.24
15:9 The LORD abhors25 the way of the wicked,
but he loves those26 who pursue27 righteousness.
15:10 Severe discipline28 is for the one who abandons the way;
the one who hates reproof29 will die.
15:11 Death and Destruction30 are before the LORD--
how much more31 the hearts of humans!32
15:12 The scorner does not love33 one who corrects him;34
he will not go to35 the wise.
15:13 A joyful heart36 makes the face cheerful,37
but by a painful heart the spirit is broken.
15:14 The discerning heart seeks knowledge,
but the mouth of fools feeds on folly.38
15:15 All the days39 of the afflicted40 are bad,41
but one with42 a cheerful heart has a continual feast.43
15:16 Better44 is little with the fear of the LORD
than great wealth with turmoil45 in it.46
15:17 Better a meal of vegetables where there is love47
than a fattened ox where there is hatred.48
15:18 A quick-tempered person49 stirs up dissension,
but one who is slow to anger50 calms51 a quarrel.52
15:19 The way of the sluggard is like a hedge of thorns,53
but the path of the upright is like54 a highway.55
15:20 A wise child56 brings joy to his father,
but a foolish person57 despises58 his mother.
15:21 Folly is a joy to one who lacks sense,59
but one who has understanding60 follows an upright course.61
15:22 Plans fail62 when there is no counsel,
but with abundant advisors they are established.63
15:23 A person64 has joy in giving a proper answer,65
and a word at the right time66--how good it is!
15:24 The path of life is upward67 for the wise person,68
to69 keep him from going downward to Sheol.70
15:25 The LORD tears down the house of the proud,71
but he maintains the boundaries of the widow.72
15:26 The LORD abhors73 the plans74 of the wicked,75
but pleasant words76 are pure.77
15:27 The one who is greedy for gain78 troubles79 his household,80
but whoever hates bribes81 will live.
15:28 The heart of the righteous considers82 how83 to answer,84
but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.85
15:29 The LORD is far86 from the wicked,
but he hears87 the prayer of the righteous.88
15:30 A bright look89 brings joy to the heart,
and good news gives health to the body.90
15:31 The person91 who hears the reproof that leads to life92
is at home93 in the midst of the wise.94
15:32 The one who refuses correction despises himself,95
but whoever hears96 reproof acquires understanding.97
15:33 The fear of the LORD provides wise instruction,98
and before honor comes humility.99
16:1 The intentions of the heart1 belong to a man,2
but the answer of the tongue3 comes from4 the LORD.5
16:2 All the ways of a person6 seem right7 in his own opinion,8
but the LORD weighs9 the motives.10
16:3 Commit11 your works12 to the LORD,
and your plans will be established.13
16:4 The LORD works14 everything for its own ends15--
even the wicked for the day of disaster.16
16:5 The LORD abhors17 every arrogant person;18
one can be sure19 that they will not go unpunished.20
16:6 Through loyal love and truth21 iniquity is appeased;22
through fearing the LORD23 one avoids24 evil.25
16:7 When a person's26 ways are pleasing to the LORD,27
he28 even reconciles his enemies to himself.29
16:8 Better to have a little with righteousness30
than to have abundant income without justice.31
16:9 A person32 plans his course,33
but the LORD directs34 his steps.35
16:10 The divine verdict36 is in the words37 of the king,
his pronouncements38 must not act treacherously39 against justice.
16:11 Honest scales and balances40 are from the LORD;
all the weights41 in the bag are his making.
16:12 Doing wickedness42 is an abomination to kings,
because a throne43 is established in righteousness.44
16:13 The delight of kings45 is righteous counsel,46
and they love the one who speaks47 uprightly.48
16:14 A king's wrath49 is like50 a messenger of death,51
but a wise person appeases it.52
16:15 In the light of the king's face53 there is life,
and his favor is like the clouds54 of the spring rain.55
16:16 How much better it is to acquire56 wisdom than gold;
to acquire understanding is more choice57 than silver.
16:17 The highway58 of the upright is to turn59 away from evil;
the one who guards60 his way safeguards his life.61
16:18 Pride62 goes63 before destruction,
and a haughty spirit before a fall.64
16:19 It is better to be lowly in spirit65 with the afflicted
than to share the spoil66 with the proud.
16:20 The one who deals wisely67 in a matter68 will find success,69
and blessed70 is the one who trusts in the LORD.71
16:21 The one who is wise in heart72 is called73 discerning,
and the kind speech74 increases persuasiveness.75
16:22 Insight76 is like77 a life-giving fountain78 to the one who has wisdom,79
but folly leads to the discipline of fools.80
16:23 The heart of a wise person makes his speech wise81
and it adds persuasiveness82 to his words.83
16:24 Pleasant words are like84 a honeycomb,85
sweet to the heart86 and healing87 to the bones.
16:25 There is a way that seems right to a person,88
but its end is the way of death.89
16:26 The appetite90 of a laborer91 works on his behalf,92
for his hunger93 urges him to work.94
16:27 A wicked scoundrel95 digs up96 evil,
and his slander97 is like a scorching fire.98
16:28 A perverse person99 spreads dissension,
and a gossip separates close friends.100
16:29 A violent person101 entices102 his neighbor,
and leads him down a path that is terrible.103
16:30 The one who winks his eyes104 devises perverse things,
and105 one who compresses his lips106 brings about107 evil.
16:31 Gray hair is like108 a crown of glory;109
it is attained110 in the path of righteousness.111
16:32 Better to be slow to anger112 than to be a mighty warrior,
and one who rules his temper113 is better than114 one who captures a city.115
16:33 The dice are thrown into the lap,116
but every decision117 is from the LORD.118
17:1 Better is a dry crust of bread1 where there is quietness2
than a house full of feasting with strife.3
17:2 A servant who acts wisely4 will rule over5 an heir6 who behaves shamefully,7
and will share the inheritance along with the relatives.8
17:3 The crucible9 is for refining10 silver and the furnace11 is for gold,
likewise12 the LORD tests13 hearts.
17:4 One who acts wickedly14 pays attention to evil counsel;15
a liar listens16 to a malicious tongue.17
17:5 The one who mocks the poor18 insults19 his Creator;
whoever rejoices over disaster will not go unpunished.
17:6 Grandchildren20 are like21 a crown22 to the elderly,
and the glory23 of children is their parents.24
17:7 Excessive25 speech26 is not becoming for a fool;27
how much less are lies28 for a ruler.29
17:8 A bribe works like30 a charm31 for the one who offers it;32
in whatever he does33 he succeeds.34
17:9 The one who forgives35 an offense seeks36 love,
but whoever repeats a matter separates close friends.37
17:10 A rebuke makes a greater impression on38 a discerning person
than a hundred blows on a fool.39
17:11 An evil person seeks only rebellion,40
and so41 a cruel messenger42 will be sent against him.
17:12 It is better for a person to encounter43 a mother bear being robbed of her cubs,
than44 to meet45 a fool in his folly.46
17:13 As for the one who repays47 evil for good,
evil will not leave48 his house.49
17:14 Starting a quarrel50 is like letting out water;51
stop it before strife breaks out!52
17:15 The one who acquits the guilty and condemns the innocent53--
both of them are an abomination to the LORD.54
17:16 Of what55 use is money in the hand of a fool,56
since he has no intention57 of acquiring wisdom?58
17:17 A friend59 loves at all times,
and a relative60 is born to help in adversity.61
17:18 The one who lacks wisdom62 strikes hands in pledge,63
and puts up financial security64 for his neighbor.65
17:19 The one who loves a quarrel loves transgression;66
whoever builds his gate high seeks destruction.67
17:20 The one who has a perverse heart68 does not find good;69
and the one who is deceitful in speech70 falls into trouble.
17:21 Whoever brings a fool71 into the world72 does so73 to his grief,
and the father of a fool has no joy.74
17:22 A cheerful heart75 brings good healing,76
but a crushed spirit77 dries up the bones.78
17:23 A wicked person receives a bribe secretly79
to pervert80 the ways of justice.
17:24 Wisdom is before81 the discerning person,
but the eyes of a fool run82 to the end of the earth.83
17:25 A foolish child is a grief84 to his father,
and bitterness to the mother who bore him.85
17:26 It is terrible86 to punish87 a righteous person,
and to strike88 honorable men is wrong.89
17:27 The wise person90 restrains91 his words,
and the one who keeps his cool92 is a discerning person.
17:28 Even a fool who remains silent is considered93 wise,
and the one who holds his tongue is deemed discerning.94
18:1 One who has isolated himself1 seeks his own desires;2
he rejects3 all sound judgment.
18:2 A fool takes no pleasure4 in understanding
but only in disclosing5 what is on his mind.6
18:3 When a wicked person7 arrives, contempt8 shows up with him;
and with shame comes9 a reproach.
18:4 The words of a person's mouth are like10 deep waters,11
and12 the fountain of wisdom13 is like14 a flowing brook.15
18:5 It is terrible16 to show partiality17 to the wicked,
by depriving18 a righteous man of justice.
18:6 The lips of a fool19 enter into strife,20
and his mouth invites21 a flogging.22
18:7 The mouth of a fool is his ruin,
and his lips are a snare for his life.23
18:8 The words of a gossip24 are like choice morsels;25
they go down into the person's innermost being.26
18:9 The one who27 is slack28 in his work
is a brother29 to one who destroys.30
18:10 The name of the LORD31 is like32 a strong tower;33
the righteous person runs34 to it and is set safely on high.35
18:11 The wealth36 of a rich person is like37 a38 strong city,39
and it is like a high wall in his imagination.40
18:12 Before destruction the heart of a person is proud,41
but humility comes42 before honor.43
18:13 The one who gives an answer44 before he listens45--
that is his folly and his shame.46
18:14 A person's spirit47 sustains him in sickness--
but who can bear48 a crushed spirit?49
18:15 The discerning person50 acquires knowledge,
and the wise person51 seeks52 knowledge.
18:16 A person's gift53 makes room for him,
and leads him54 before great people.
18:17 The first to state his case55 seems56 right,
until his opponent57 comes58 and cross-examines him.59
18:18 A toss of a coin60 ends61 disputes,
and settles the issue62 between strong opponents.63
18:19 A relative offended64 is harder to reach than65 a strong city,
and disputes are like the bars of a fortified citadel.66
18:20 From the fruit of a person's mouth67 his stomach is satisfied,68
with the product of his lips is he satisfied.
18:21 Death and life are in the power69 of the tongue,70
and those who love its use71 will eat its fruit.
18:22 The one who finds72 a wife finds what is enjoyable,73
and receives a pleasurable gift74 from the LORD.75
18:23 A poor person makes supplications,76
but a rich man answers harshly.77
18:24 A person who has friends78 may be harmed by them,79
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
19:1 Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity1
than one who is perverse in his speech2 and is a fool.3
19:2 It is dangerous4 to have zeal5 without knowledge,6
and the one who acts hastily7 makes poor choices.8
19:3 A person's folly9 subverts10 his way,
and11 his heart rages12 against the LORD.
19:4 Wealth adds many friends,
but a poor person is separated13 from his friend.14
19:5 A false witness15 will not go unpunished,
and the one who pours out lies will not escape punishment.16
19:6 Many people entreat the favor17 of a generous person,18
and everyone is the friend19 of the one who gives gifts.20
19:7 All the relatives21 of a poor person hate him;22
how much more do his friends go far from him--
he pursues them23 with words, but they do not respond.24
19:8 The one who acquires wisdom25 loves himself;26
the one who preserves understanding will prosper.27
19:9 A false witness will not go unpunished,
and the one who pours out28 lies will perish.29
19:10 Luxury is not appropriate30 for a fool;31
how much less for a servant to rule over princes!32
19:11 A person's wisdom33 makes him slow to anger,34
and it is his glory35 to overlook36 an offense.
19:12 A king's wrath is like37 the roar of a lion,38
but his favor is like dew on the grass.39
19:13 A foolish child40 is the ruin of his father,
and a contentious wife41 is like42 a constant dripping.43
19:14 A house and wealth are the inheritance from parents,44
but a prudent wife45 is from the LORD.
19:15 Laziness brings on46 a deep sleep,47
and the idle person48 will go hungry.49
19:16 The one who obeys commandments guards50 his life;
the one who despises his ways51 will die.52
19:17 The one who is gracious53 to the poor lends54 to the LORD,
and the LORD55 will repay him56 for his good deed.57
19:18 Discipline your child while58 there is hope,
but do not set your heart59 on causing his death.60
19:19 A person with great anger bears the penalty;61
but if you deliver him from it, you will have to do it again.62
19:20 Listen to advice63 and receive discipline,
that64 you may become wise65 by the end of your life.66
19:21 There are many plans67 in a person's mind,68
but it69 is the counsel70 of the LORD which will stand.
19:22 What is desirable71 for a person is to show loyal love;72
and a poor person is better than a liar.73
19:23 Fearing the LORD74 leads75 to life,76
and one who does so will live77 satisfied; he will not be afflicted78 by calamity.
19:24 The sluggard buries his hand in the dish
and he will not even bring it back to his mouth!79
19:25 Beat80 a scorner, and as a result the simpleton81 will learn prudence;82
correct a discerning person, and as a result he will understand knowledge.83
19:26 The one who robs84 his father85 and drives out his mother
is a son86 who brings shame and disgrace.
19:27 If you stop listening to87 instruction, my child,
you will stray88 from the words of knowledge.
19:28 A crooked witness89 scorns justice,
and the mouth of the wicked devours90 iniquity.
19:29 Judgments91 are prepared for scorners,
and floggings for the backs of fools.
20:1 Wine1 is a mocker2 and strong drink is a brawler;
whoever goes astray by them is not wise.3
20:2 The king's terrifying anger4 is like5 the roar of a lion;
whoever provokes him6 sins against himself.7
20:3 It is an honor for a person8 to cease9 from strife,
but every fool quarrels.10
20:4 The sluggard will not plow11 during the planting season,12
so at the harvest time he looks13 for the crop14 but has nothing.
20:5 Counsel15 in a person's heart16 is like17 deep water,18
but an understanding person19 draws it out.
20:6 Many people profess their loyalty,20
but a faithful person21--who can find?22
20:7 The righteous person23 behaves in integrity;24
blessed are his children after him.25
20:8 A king sitting on the throne to judge26
separates out27 all evil with his eyes.28
20:9 Who can say,29 "I have kept my heart clean;30
I am pure31 from my sin"?
20:10 Diverse weights and diverse measures32--
the LORD abhors33 both of them.
20:11 Even a young man34 is known35 by his actions,
whether his activity is pure and whether it is right.36
20:12 The ear that hears and the eye that sees37--
the LORD has made them both.38
20:13 Do not love sleep,39 lest you become impoverished;
open your eyes so that40 you might be satisfied with food.41
20:14 "It's worthless! It's worthless!"42 says the buyer,43
but when he goes on his way, he boasts.44
20:15 There is gold, and an abundance of rubies,
but45 words of knowledge46 are like47 a precious jewel.
20:16 Take a man's48 garment49 when he has given security for a stranger;50
and when he gives surety for strangers,51 hold him52 in pledge.
20:17 Bread gained by deceit53 is sweet to a person,54
but afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.55
20:18 Plans56 are established by counsel,
so57 make war58 with guidance.
20:19 The one who goes about gossiping59 reveals secrets;
therefore do not associate60 with one who is always opening his mouth.61
20:20 The one who curses62 his father and his mother,
his lamp63 will be put out in the blackest64 darkness.
20:21 An inheritance gained easily65 in the beginning
will not be blessed66 in its end.
20:22 Do not say,67 "I will pay back68 evil!"
Wait69 for the LORD, so that he may vindicate you.70
20:23 The LORD abhors71 differing weights,
and dishonest scales are wicked.72
20:24 The steps of a person73 are ordained by74 the LORD--
so how can anyone75 understand his way?
20:25 It is a snare76 for a person77 to rashly cry,78 "Holy!"
and only afterward to consider79 what he has vowed.80
20:26 A wise king separates out81 the wicked;
he turns the threshing wheel over them.82
20:27 The human spirit83 is like84 the lamp85 of the LORD,
searching all the innermost parts.86
20:28 Loyal love and truth87 preserve a king,
and his throne is upheld by loyal love.88
20:29 The glory89 of young men is their strength,
and the splendor90 of old men is gray hair.91
20:30 Beatings and wounds cleanse away92 evil,
and floggings cleanse93 the innermost being.94
21:1 The king's heart1 is in the hand2 of the LORD like channels of water;3
he turns it wherever he wants.
21:2 All of a person's ways seem right in his own opinion,4
but the LORD evaluates5 the motivations.6
21:3 To do righteousness and justice
is more acceptable7 to the LORD than8 sacrifice.
21:4 Haughty eyes and a proud heart--
the agricultural product9 of the wicked is sin.
21:5 The plans of the diligent10 lead11 only to plenty,12
but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.13
21:6 Making a fortune14 by a lying tongue is like15 a vapor driven back and forth;16
they seek death.17
21:7 The violence18 done by the wicked19 will drag them away
because20 they refuse to do what is right.21
21:8 The way of the guilty person22 is devious,23
but as for the pure,24 his way is upright.
21:9 It is better to live on a corner of the housetop25
than in a house in company26 with a quarrelsome wife.27
21:10 The appetite28 of the wicked desires29 evil;
his neighbor is shown no favor30 in his eyes.
21:11 When a scorner is punished, the naive31 becomes wise;
when a wise person is instructed,32 he gains knowledge.
21:12 The Righteous One33 considers34 the house35 of the wicked;
he overthrows the wicked to their ruin.36
21:13 The one who shuts his ears37 to the cry38 of the poor,
he too will cry out and will not be answered.39
21:14 A gift given40 in secret subdues41 anger,
and a bribe given secretly42 subdues43 strong wrath.44
21:15 Doing45 justice brings46 joy to the righteous
and terror47 to those who do evil.
21:16 The one who wanders48 from the way of wisdom49
will rest50 in the company of the departed.51
21:17 The one who loves52 pleasure53 will be54 a poor person;55
whoever loves wine and anointing oil56 will not be rich.
21:18 The wicked become57 a ransom58 for the righteous,
and the faithless59 are taken60 in the place of the upright.
21:19 It is better to live61 in a desert land62
than with a quarrelsome and easily provoked63 woman.
21:20 There is desirable treasure and olive oil64 in the dwelling of the wise,
but a foolish person65 devours all he has.66
21:21 The one who pursues righteousness and love67
finds life, bounty,68 and honor.
21:22 The wise person69 can scale70 the city of the mighty
and bring down the stronghold71 in which they trust.72
21:23 The one who guards his mouth and his tongue73
keeps his life74 from troubles.75
21:24 A proud76 and arrogant77 person, whose name is "Scoffer,"78
acts79 with overbearing pride.80
21:25 What the sluggard desires81 will kill him,82
for his hands83 refuse to work.
21:26 All day long he craves greedily,84
but the righteous gives and does not hold back.85
21:27 The wicked person's sacrifice86 is an abomination;
how much more87 when he brings it with evil intent!88
21:28 A lying witness89 will perish,90
but the one who reports accurately speaks forever.91
21:29 A wicked person92 shows boldness with his face,93
but as for the upright,94 he discerns95 his ways.
21:30 There is no wisdom and there is no understanding,
and there is no counsel against96 the LORD.97
21:31 A horse is prepared for the day of battle,
but the victory is from the LORD.98
22:1 A good name1 is to be chosen2 rather than great wealth,
good favor3 more than silver or gold.
22:2 The rich and the poor meet together;4
the LORD is the Creator of them both.5
22:3 A shrewd person6 sees danger7 and hides himself,
but the naive keep right on going8 and suffer for it.9
22:4 The reward10 for humility11 and fearing the LORD12
is riches and honor and life.
22:5 Thorns and snares13 are in the path of perverse,
but the one who guards himself keeps far from them.
22:6 Train14 a child15 in the way that he should go16
and when he is old he will not turn from it.17
22:7 The rich rule over18 the poor
and the borrower is servant to the lender.
22:8 The one who sows19 iniquity will reap trouble,
and the rod of his fury20 will end.
22:9 A generous person21 will be blessed,22
for he gives some of his food23 to the poor.
22:10 Drive out the scorner24 and contention will leave;
strife and insults will cease.25
22:11 The one who loves a pure heart26
and whose speech is gracious27--the king will be his friend.28
22:12 The eyes of the LORD29 guard knowledge,30
but he overthrows the words of the faithless person.31
22:13 The sluggard says, "There is a lion32 outside!
I will be killed in the middle of the streets!"33
22:14 The mouth34 of an adulteress is like35 a deep pit;36
the one against whom the LORD is angry37 will fall into it.38
22:15 Folly is bound up39 in the heart of a child,40
but the rod of discipline41 will drive it far from him.
22:16 The one who oppresses the poor to gain his own increase
and the one who gives to the rich42--both end up only in poverty.
The Sayings of the Wise43
22:17 Incline your ear44 and listen to the words of the wise,
and apply your heart to my knowledge.
22:18 For it is pleasing if45 you keep these sayings46 within you,
and47 they are ready on your lips.48
22:19 So that49 your confidence may be in the LORD,
I make them known to you today50--even you.
22:20 Have I not written thirty sayings51 for you,
sayings52 of counsel and knowledge,
22:21 to show you true and reliable words,53
so that you may give accurate answers54 to those who sent you?
22:22 Do not exploit55 a poor person because he is poor
and do not crush the needy in court,56
22:23 for the LORD will plead their case57
and will rob those who are robbing58 them.
22:24 Do not make friends with an angry person,59
and do not associate with a wrathful person,
22:25 lest you learn60 his ways
and entangle yourself in a snare.61
22:26 Do not be one who strikes hands in pledge
or who puts up security for debts.
22:27 If you do not have enough to pay,
your bed62 will be taken63 right out from under you!64
22:28 Do not move an ancient boundary stone65
which was put in place by your ancestors.66
22:29 Do you see a person skilled67 in his work?
He will take his position before kings;
he will not take his position68 before obscure people.69
23:1When you sit down to eat with a ruler,
consider carefully1 what2 is before you,
23:2 and put a knife to your throat3
if you possess a large appetite.4
23:3 Do not crave that ruler's5 delicacies,
for6 that food is deceptive.7
23:4 Do not wear yourself out to become rich;
be wise enough to restrain yourself.8
23:5 When you gaze upon riches,9 they are gone,
for they surely make wings for themselves,
and fly off into the sky like an eagle!10
23:6 Do not eat the food of a stingy person,11
do not crave his delicacies;
23:7 for he is12 like someone calculating the cost13 in his mind.14
"Eat and drink," he says to you,
but his heart is not with you;
23:8 you will vomit up15 the little bit you have eaten,
and will have wasted your pleasant words.16
23:9 Do not speak in the ears of a fool,17
for he will despise the wisdom of your words.18
23:10 Do not move an ancient boundary stone,
or take over19 the fields of the fatherless,
23:11 for their Protector20 is strong;
he will plead their case against you.21
23:12 Apply22 your heart to instruction
and your ears to the words of knowledge.
23:13 Do not withhold discipline from a child;
even if you strike him with the rod, he will not die.
23:14 If you strike23 him with the rod,
you will deliver his life24 from death.25
23:15 My child,26 if your heart is wise,
then my heart also will be glad;
23:16 my soul27 will rejoice
when your lips speak what is right.28
23:17 Do not let your heart envy29 sinners,
but rather be zealous in fearing the LORD30 all the time.
23:18 For surely there is a future,31
and your hope will not be cut off.32
23:19 Listen, my child,33 and be wise,
and guide your heart on the right way.
23:20 Do not be among those who drink too much wine,34
among those who eat too much35 meat,
23:21 because drunkards and gluttons become impoverished,
and drowsiness36 clothes them with rags.37
23:22 Listen to your father who begot you,
and do not despise your mother when she is old.
23:23 Acquire38 truth and do not sell it--
wisdom, and discipline, and understanding.
23:24 The father of a righteous person will rejoice greatly;39
whoever fathers a wise child40 will have joy in him.
23:25 May your father and your mother have joy;
may she who bore you rejoice.41
23:26 Give me your heart, my child,42
and let your eyes observe my ways;
23:27 for a prostitute is like43 a deep pit;
a harlot44 is like45 a narrow well.46
23:28 Indeed, she lies in wait like a robber,47
and increases the unfaithful48 among men.49
23:29 Who has woe?50 Who has sorrow?
Who has contentions? Who has complaints?
Who has wounds without cause? Who has dullness51 of the eyes?
23:30 Those who linger over wine,
those who go looking for mixed wine.52
23:31 Do not look on the wine when it is red,
when it sparkles53 in the cup,
when it goes down smoothly.54
23:32 Afterwards55 it bites like a snake,
and stings like a viper.
23:33 Your eyes will see strange things,56
and your mind will speak perverse things.
23:34 And you will be like one who lies down in the midst57 of the sea,
and like one who lies down on the top of the rigging.58
23:35 You will say,59 "They have struck me, but I am not harmed!
They beat me, but I did not know it!60
When will I awake? I will look for another drink."61
24:1Do not envy evil people,1
do not desire2 to be with them;
24:2 for their hearts contemplate violence,
and their lips speak harm.3
24:3 By4 wisdom a house is built,5
and through understanding it is established;
24:4 by knowledge its rooms are filled
with all kinds of precious and pleasing treasures.
24:5 A wise warrior6 is strong,7
and a man of knowledge makes his strength stronger;
24:6 for with guidance you wage your war,
and with numerous advisors there is victory.8
24:7 Wisdom is unattainable9 for a fool;
in court10 he does not open his mouth.11
24:8 The one who plans to do evil
will be called a scheming person.12
24:9 A foolish scheme13 is sin,
and the scorner is an abomination to people.14
24:10 If you faint15 in the day of trouble,16
your strength is small!17
24:11 Deliver those being taken away to death,
and hold back those slipping to the slaughter.18
24:12 If you say, "But we did not know about this,"
does not the one who evaluates19 hearts consider?
Does not the one who guards your life know?
Will he not repay each person according to his work?20
24:13 Eat honey,21 my child, for it is good,
and honey from the honeycomb is sweet to your taste.
24:14 Likewise, know22 that wisdom is sweet23 to your soul;
if you find it,24 you will have a future,25
and your hope will not be cut off.
24:15 Do not lie in wait like the wicked26 against the place where the righteous live;
do not assault27 his home.
24:16 Although28 a righteous person may fall seven times, he gets up again,
but the wicked will be brought down29 by calamity.
24:17 Do not rejoice when your enemy falls,30
and when he stumbles do let your heart rejoice,
24:18 lest the LORD see, and it displease him,31
and he turn his wrath away from him.32
24:19 Do not fret because of evil people
or be envious of wicked people,
24:20 for the evil person has no future,33
and the lamp of the wicked will be put out.34
24:21 Fear the LORD, my child,35 as well as the king,
and do not associate36 with rebels,37
24:22 for suddenly their destruction will come,38
and who knows the ruinous judgment both the LORD and the king can bring?39
Further Sayings of the Wise
24:23 These sayings also are from the wise:
To show partiality40 in judgment is terrible:41
24:24 The one who says to the guilty,42 "You are innocent,"43
peoples will curse him, and nations will denounce44 him.
24:25 But there will be delight45 for those who rebuke46 them,47
and a pleasing blessing48 will come on them.
24:26 Like a kiss on the lips49
is the one who gives an honest answer.50
24:27 Establish your work outside and get your fields ready;
afterward build51 your house.52
24:28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause,53
and do not deceive with your words.54
24:29 Do not say, "I will do to him just as he has done to me;
I will deal with55 him56 in accordance with what he has done."57
24:30 I passed by the field of a sluggard,
by the vineyard of one who lacks wisdom.58
24:31 I saw59 that thorns had grown up all over it,
the ground60 was covered with weeds,
and its stone wall was broken down.
24:32 When I saw this, I applied my heart;61
I received instruction from what I saw:62
24:33 "A little sleep, a little slumber,
a little folding of the hands to relax,
24:34 and your poverty will come like a robber,
and your need like an armed man."63
Proverbs of Solomon Collected by Hezekiah
25:1 These also are proverbs of Solomon,
which the men of King Hezekiah of Judah copied:1
25:2 It is the glory of God2 to conceal3 a matter,
and it is the glory of a king to search out a matter.
25:3 As the heaven is high4 and the earth deep
so the hearts of kings are unsearchable.5
25:4 Remove the dross from the silver,
and material6 for the silversmith will emerge;
25:5 remove the wicked from before the king,7
and his throne8 will be established in righteousness.9
25:6 Do not honor yourself before the king,
and do not stand in the place of great men;
25:7 for it is better for him10 to say to you, "Come up here,"11
than to put you lower12 before a prince,
whom your eyes have seen.13
25:8 Do not go out hastily to litigation,14
or15 what will you do after it
when your neighbor puts you to shame?
25:9 When you argue a case16 with your neighbor,
do not reveal the secret of another person,17
25:10 lest the one who hears it put you to shame
and your infamy18 will never go away.
25:11 Like apples of gold in settings of silver,19
so is a word skillfully spoken.20
25:12 Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold,21
so is a wise reprover to the ear of the one who listens.22
25:13 Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest,23
so is a faithful messenger to those who send him,
for he refreshes the heart24 of his masters.
25:14 Like clouded skies and wind without rain,25
so is the one who boasts26 of a gift not given.27
25:15 Through patience28 a ruler can be persuaded,29
and a soft tongue30 can break a bone.31
25:16 When you find32 honey, eat what is sufficient for you,
lest you should become filled33 with it and vomit it up.34
25:17 Make your foot rare35 in your neighbor's house,
lest he become weary36 of you and hate you.
25:18 Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow,37
so is the one who testifies against38 his neighbor as a false witness.39
25:19 Like a bad tooth or a foot out of joint,40
so is confidence41 in an unfaithful person at the time of trouble.42
25:20 Like one who takes off a garment on a cold day,43
or like vinegar poured in soda,44
so is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.45
25:21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat,
and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink,
25:22 for you will heap coals of fire on his head,46
and the LORD will reward you.47
25:23 The north wind48 brings forth rain,
and a sly tongue49 brings forth50 an angry look.51
25:24 It is better to live on a corner of the housetop
than in a house in company with a quarrelsome wife.
25:25 Like cold water to a weary person,52
so is good news from a distant land.53
25:26 Like a muddied54 spring and a polluted55 well,
so is a righteous person who gives way56 before the wicked.
25:27 It is not good57 to eat too much honey,
nor is it honorable for people to seek their own glory.58
25:28 Like a city that is broken down and without a wall,
so is a person who cannot control his temper.59
26:1 Like snow in summer or rain in harvest,
so honor1 is not fitting for a fool.2
26:2 Like a fluttering bird or like a flying swallow,
so a causeless3 curse does not come to rest.4
26:3 A whip for the horse and a bridle for the donkey,
and a rod for the backs of fools!5
26:4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly,6
lest you yourself also be like him.7
26:5 Answer a fool according to his folly,8
lest he be wise in his own estimation.9
26:6 Like cutting off the feet or drinking violence,10
so is sending11 a message in the hand of a fool.12
26:7 Like legs that hang limp13 from the lame,
so14 is a proverb15 in the mouth of fools.
26:8 Like tying a stone in a sling,16
so is giving honor to a fool.
26:9 Like a thorn17 that goes into the hand of a drunkard,
so is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.18
26:10 Like an archer who wounds at random,19
so is the one who hires20 a fool or hires any passer-by.
26:11 Like a dog that returns to its vomit,21
so a fool repeats his folly.22
26:12 Do you see23 a man wise in his own eyes?24
There is more hope for a fool25 than for him.
26:13 The sluggard26 says, "There is a lion in the road!
A lion in the streets!"27
26:14 Like28 a door that turns on its hinges,29
so a sluggard turns30 on his bed.
26:15 The sluggard buries his hand in the dish;
he is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth.31
26:16 The sluggard is wiser in his own estimation32
than seven people who respond with good sense.33
26:17 Like one who grabs a wild dog by the ears,34
so is the person passing by who becomes furious35 over a quarrel not his own.
26:18 Like a madman36 who shoots
firebrands and deadly arrows,37
26:19 so is a person38 who deceives his neighbor,
and says, "Was I not only joking?"39
26:20 Where there is no wood, a fire goes out,
and where there is no gossip,40 contention dies down.41
26:21 Like charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire,
so is a contentious person42 to kindle strife.43
26:22 The words of a gossip are like delicious morsels;
they go down into a person's innermost being.44
26:23 Like a coating of glaze45 over earthenware
are fervent lips with an evil heart.46
26:24 The one who hates others disguises47 it with his lips,
but he keeps48 deceit within him.49
26:25 When50 he speaks graciously,51 do not believe him,52
for there are seven53 abominations54 within him.
26:26 Though his55 hatred may be concealed56 by deceit,
his evil will be uncovered57 in the assembly.
26:27 The one who digs a pit58 will fall into it;
the one who rolls a stone--it will come back on him.
26:28 A lying tongue59 hates those crushed by it,
and a flattering mouth works ruin.60
27:1 Do not boast1 about tomorrow;2
for you do not know3 what a day may bring forth.
27:2 Let another4 praise you, and not your own mouth;5
someone else,6 and not your own lips.
27:3 A stone is heavy and sand is weighty,
but vexation7 by a fool more burdensome8 than the two of them.
27:4 Wrath is cruel and anger is overwhelming,9
but who can stand before jealousy?10
27:5 Better is open11 rebuke
than hidden12 love.
27:6 Faithful13 are the wounds of a friend,
but the kisses14 of an enemy are excessive.15
27:7 The one whose appetite16 is satisfied loathes honey,
but to the hungry mouth17 every bitter thing is sweet.
27:8 Like a bird that wanders18 from its nest,
so is a person who wanders from his place.19
27:9 Ointment and incense make the heart rejoice,20
likewise the sweetness of one's friend from sincere counsel.21
27:10 Do not forsake your friend and the friend of your father,
and do not enter the house of your brother in the day of your disaster;
a neighbor nearby is better than a brother far away.22
27:11 Be wise, my child,23 and make my heart glad,
so that I may answer24 anyone who taunts me.25
27:12 A shrewd person sees danger and hides himself,
but the naive keep right on going26 and suffer for it.
27:13 Take his garment that is security for a stranger
and hold him in pledge that is surety for strangers.
27:14 If someone blesses27 his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning,28
it will be counted as a curse to him.29
27:15 A continual dripping on a rainy day
and a contentious wife30 are alike.31
27:16 Whoever hides her hides the wind32
or grasps33 oil with his right hand.34
27:17 As35 iron sharpens36 iron,
so one person37 sharpens his friend.38
27:18 The one who tends a fig tree39 will eat its fruit,40
and whoever takes care of41 his master will be honored.
27:19 As in water the face is reflected as a face,42
so a person's heart43 reflects the person.
27:20 As44 Death and Destruction are never satisfied,45
so the eyes of a person46 are never satisfied.47
27:21 As the crucible is for silver and the furnace is for gold,48
so a person49 is proved50 by the praise he receives.51
27:22 If you should pound52 the fool in the mortar
among the grain53 with the pestle,
his foolishness would not depart from him.54
27:23 Pay careful attention to55 the condition of your flocks,56
give careful attention57 to your herds,
27:24 for riches do not last58 forever,
nor does a crown last59 from generation to generation.
27:25 When the hay is removed and new grass appears,
and the grass from the hills is gathered in,
27:26 the lambs will be for your clothing,
and the goats will be for the price of a field.60
27:27 And there will be enough goat's milk for your food,61
for the food of your household,
and for the maintenance62 of your servant girls.
28:1 The wicked person flees when there is no one pursuing,1
but the righteous person is as confident2 as a lion.
28:2 When a country is rebellious3 it has many princes,4
but by someone who is discerning and knowledgeable5 order continues.6
28:3 A poor person7 who oppresses the weak
is like8 a driving rain without food.9
28:4 Those who forsake the law10 praise the wicked,11
but those who keep the law contend12 with them.
28:5 Evil people13 do not understand justice,14
but those who seek the LORD15 understand it all.
28:6 A poor person16 who walks in his integrity is better
than one who is perverse in his ways17 even though18 he is rich.19
28:7 The one who keeps the law20 is a discerning child,21
but a companion of gluttons brings shame22 to his father.
28:8 The one who increases his wealth by increasing interest23
gathers it for someone who is gracious24 to the needy.
28:9 The one who turns away his ear25 from hearing the law,
even his prayer26 is an abomination.27
28:10 The one who leads the upright astray in an evil way
will himself fall into his own pit,28
but the blameless will inherit what is good.29
28:11 A rich person30 is wise in his own eyes,31
but a discerning poor person can evaluate him properly.32
28:12 When the righteous rejoice,33 great is the glory,34
but when the wicked rise to power, people are sought out.35
28:13 The one who covers36 his transgressions will not prosper,37
but whoever confesses and abandons them will find mercy.38
28:14 Blessed is the one who is always cautious,39
but whoever hardens his heart40 will fall into evil.
28:15 Like41 a roaring lion or a roving bear,42
so is a wicked ruler over a poor people.43
28:16 The prince who is a great oppressor lacks wisdom,44
but the one who hates45 unjust gain will prolong his days.
28:17 The one who is tormented46 by the murder47 of another will flee to the pit;48
let no one support him.
28:18 The one who walks blamelessly will be delivered,49
but whoever is perverse in his ways will fall50 at once.51
28:19 The one who works his land will be satisfied with food,52
but whoever chases daydreams53 will have his fill54 of poverty.
28:20 A faithful person55 will have an abundance of blessings,
but the one who hastens56 to gain riches will not go unpunished.
28:21 To show partiality57 is terrible,58
for a man will transgress over the smallest piece of bread.59
28:22 The stingy person60 hastens after riches
and does not know that poverty will come on him.61
28:23 The one who reproves62 another63 will in the end64 find more favor
than the one who flatters65 with the tongue.
28:24 The one who robs66 his father and mother and says, "There is no transgression,"
the same is a companion67 to the one68 who destroys.
28:25 The greedy person69 stirs up dissension,70
but the one who trusts71 in the LORD will prosper.72
28:26 The one who trusts in his own heart73 is a fool,
but the one who walks in wisdom74 will escape.75
28:27 The one who gives to the poor will not lack,76
but whoever hides his eyes77 will receive78 many curses.79
28:28 When the wicked rise,80 people81 hide themselves,82
but when they perish,83 the righteous increase.
29:1 The one who hardens his neck1 after numerous rebukes2
will suddenly be destroyed3 without remedy.4
29:2 When the righteous become numerous,5 the people rejoice;
when the wicked rule, the people groan.6
29:3 The one7 who loves wisdom brings joy to his father,8
but whoever associates9 with prostitutes wastes10 his wealth.11
29:4 A king brings stability12 to a land13 by justice,14
but one who exacts tribute15 tears it down.
29:5 The one16 who flatters17 his neighbor
spreads a net18 for his steps.19
29:6 In the transgression of an evil person there is a snare,20
but a righteous person can sing21 and rejoice.22
29:7 The righteous person cares for23 the legal rights24 of the poor;
the wicked does not understand such25 knowledge.
29:8 Scornful people26 inflame27 a city,28
but those who are wise turn away wrath.
29:9 If a wise person29 goes to court30 with a foolish person,
there is no rest31 whether he is angry or laughs.32
29:10 Bloodthirsty people33 hate someone with integrity;34
as for the upright, they seek his life.35
29:11 A fool lets out all his temper,36
but a wise person keeps it back.37
29:12 If a ruler listens to38 lies,39
all his ministers40 will be wicked.41
29:13 The poor person and the oppressor42 have this in common:43
the LORD gives light44 to the eyes of them both.
29:14 If a king judges the poor in truth,45
his throne46 will be established forever.
29:15 A rod and reproof47 imparts48 wisdom,
but a child who is unrestrained49 brings shame50 to his mother.51
29:16 When the wicked increase,52 transgression increases;
but the righteous will see53 their downfall.
29:17 Discipline your child, and he will give you rest;54
he will give pleasure55 to you.56
29:18 When there is no vision57 the people cast off restraint,58
but the one who keeps the law,59 blessed is he!60
29:19 A servant61 cannot be corrected62 by words,
for although63 he understands, there is no answer.64
29:20 Do you see someone65 who is hasty in his words?66
There is more hope for a fool than for him.67
29:21 If68 someone pampers his servant from youth,
he will be a weakling69 in the end.
29:22 An angry person70 stirs up dissension,
and a wrathful one71 is abounding in transgression.72
29:23 A person's73 pride will bring him low,74
but one who has a lowly spirit75 will gain honor.
29:24 Whoever shares with a thief76 is his own enemy;77
he hears the adjuration,78 but does not talk.
29:25 The fear of people79 becomes80 a snare,81
but whoever trusts in the LORD will be set on high.82
29:26 Many people seek the face83 of a ruler,
but it is from the LORD that one receives justice.84
29:27 An unjust person is an abomination to the righteous;
and the one who is upright in the way is an abomination to the wicked.85
The Words of Agur86
30:1 The words of Agur, the son of Jakeh; an oracle;1
This2 man says3 to Ithiel, to Ithiel and to Ukal:4
30:2 Surely5 I am more brutish6 than any other man,7
and I do not have human understanding;8
30:3 I have not learned wisdom,
nor do I have knowledge9 of the Holy One.10
30:4 Who has ascended into heaven, and then descended?11
Who has gathered up the winds in his fists?12
Who has bound up the waters in his cloak?13
Who has established all the ends of the earth?14
What is his name, and what is the name of his son?15 --if you know!
30:5 Every word of God is purified;16
he is like17 a shield for those who take refuge in him.18
30:6 Do not add to his words,
lest he reprove you, and prove you a liar.19
30:7 Two things20 I ask from you;21
do not refuse me before I die:
30:8 Remove falsehood and lies22 far from me;
do not give me poverty or riches,
feed me with my allotted23 bread,24
30:9 lest I become satisfied and act deceptively25
and say, "Who is the LORD?"
or lest I become poor and steal
and harm26 the name of my God.
30:10 Do not slander27 a servant to his master,
lest he curse you, and you are found guilty.28
30:11 There is a generation29 who curse their fathers
and do not bless their mothers;30
30:12 there is a generation who are pure in their own eyes
and yet are not washed31 from their filthiness;32
30:13 there is a generation whose eyes are so lofty,33
and whose eyelids are lifted up;34
30:14 there is a generation whose teeth are like35 swords36
and whose great teeth are like swords
to devour37 the poor from the earth
and the needy from among the human race.
30:15 The leech38 has two daughters:39
"Give! Give!"40
There are three things that are never satisfied,
four41 that never say, "Enough"42--
30:16 the grave,43 the barren womb,44
land that is not satisfied with water,
and fire that never says, "Enough!"45
30:17 The eye46 that mocks at a father
and despises obeying47 a mother--
the ravens of the valley will peck it out
and the young vultures will eat it.48
30:18 There are three things that are too wonderful for me,49
four that I do not understand:
30:19 the way50 of an eagle in the sky,
the way of a snake on a rock,
the way of a ship in the sea,
and the way of a man with a young woman.51
30:20 This is the way52 of an adulterous53 woman:
she eats and wipes her mouth54
and says, "I have not done wrong."55
30:21 Under three things the earth trembles,56
and under four things it cannot bear up:
30:22 under a servant57 who becomes king,
under a fool who is filled with food,58
30:23 under an unloved59 woman who is married,
and under a female servant who dispossesses60 her mistress.
30:24 There are four things on earth that are small,61
but they are exceedingly wise:62
30:25 ants are creatures with little strength,
but they prepare63 their food in the summer;
30:26 rock badgers64 are creatures with little power,
but they make their homes in the crags;
30:27 locusts have no king,
but they all go forth by ranks;65
30:28 a lizard66 you can seize with the hand,
but it is in the palaces of the king.67
30:29 There are three things that are magnificent68 in their step,
four things that move about magnificently:69
30:30 a lion, mightiest70 of the beasts,
who does not retreat from anything;
30:31 a strutting rooster,71 a male goat,
and a king with his army around him.72
30:32 If you have done foolishly in exalting yourself73
or if you have planned evil,
put74 your hand over your mouth!
30:33 For as the churning75 of milk produces butter
and as punching the nose produces blood,
so stirring up anger76 produces strife.77
The Words of Lemuel
31:1 The words of King Lemuel,1
an oracle that his mother taught him:
31:2 O2 my son, O son of my womb,
O son3 of my vows,
31:3 Do not give your strength4 to women,
nor your ways5 to that which ruins6 kings.
31:4 It is not for kings,7 O Lemuel,
it is not for kings to drink wine,8
or for rulers to crave9 strong drink,
31:5 lest they drink and forget what is decreed,
and remove10 from all the poor11 their rights.12
31:6 Give strong drink to the one who is perishing,13
and wine to those who are distressed;14
31:7 let them15 drink and forget16 their poverty,
and remember their misery no more.
31:8 Open your mouth17 on behalf of those unable to speak,18
for the legal rights of all the dying.19
31:9 Open your mouth, judge in righteousness,20
and plead the cause21 of the poor and needy.
The Wife of Noble Character22
31:10 Who can find23 a wife24 of noble character?25
For her value26 is far more than rubies.
31:11 The heart of her husband has confidence27 in her,
and he has no lack of gain.28
31:12 She brings him29 good and not evil30
all the days of her life.
31:13 She obtains31 wool and flax,
and she is pleased to work with her hands.32
31:14 She is like33 the merchant ships;34
she brings her food from afar.
31:15 She also gets up35 while it is still night,
and provides food36 for her household and a portion37 to her female servants.
31:16 She considers38 a field and buys it;
from her own income39 she plants a vineyard.
31:17 She begins40 her work vigorously;
and she strengthens41 her arms.
31:18 She knows42 that her merchandise is good;
and her lamp43 does not go out in the night.
31:19 Her hands44 take hold45 of the distaff,
and her hands grasp the spindle.
31:20 She extends46 her hand47 to the poor,
and reaches out her hand to the needy.
31:21 She is not48 afraid of the snow49 for her household,
for all of her household are clothed with scarlet.50
31:22 She makes for herself coverlets;51
her clothing is fine linen and purple.52
31:23 Her husband is well-known53 in the city gate54
when he sits with the elders55 of the land.
31:24 She makes linen garments56 and sells them,
and supplies the merchants57 with sashes.
31:25 She is clothed58 with strength59 and honor,60
and she can laugh61 at the time62 to come.
31:26 She opens her mouth63 with wisdom,
and loving instruction64 is on her tongue.
31:27 She watches over65 the ways of her household,
and does not eat the bread of idleness.66
31:28 Her children rise up67 and call her blessed,
her husband68 also praises her:
31:29 "Many69 daughters70 have done valiantly,71
but you surpass them all."
31:30 Charm is deceitful72 and beauty is fleeting,73
but a woman who fears the LORD74 will be praised.
31:31 Give75 her credit for what she has accomplished,76
and let her works praise her77 in the city gates.78