Proverbs

^(1,1)The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel:

^(1,2)to know wisdom and instruction;: to discern the words of understanding;
^(1,3)to receive instruction in wise dealing,: in righteousness, justice, and equity;
^(1,4)to give prudence to the simple,: knowledge and discretion to the young man:
^(1,5)that the wise man may hear, and increase in learning;: that the man of understanding may attain to sound counsel:
^(1,6)to understand a proverb, and parables,: the words and riddles of the wise.

^(1,7)The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge;: but the foolish despise wisdom and instruction.
^(1,8)My son, listen to your father’s instruction,: and don’t forsake your mother’s teaching:
^(1,9)for they will be a garland to grace your head,: and chains around your neck.
^(1,10)My son, if sinners entice you, don’t consent.
^(1,11)If they say, “Come with us,: Let’s lay in wait for blood;; let’s lurk secretly for the innocent without cause;
^(1,12)let’s swallow them up alive like Sheol,: and whole, like those who go down into the pit.
^(1,13)We’ll find all valuable wealth.: We’ll fill our houses with spoil.
^(1,14)You shall cast your lot among us.: We’ll all have one purse.”
^(1,15)My son, don’t walk in the way with them.: Keep your foot from their path,
^(1,16)for their feet run to evil.: They hurry to shed blood.
^(1,17)For in vain is the net spread in the sight of any bird:
^(1,18)but these lay wait for their own blood.: They lurk secretly for their own lives.
^(1,19)So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain.: It takes away the life of its owners.

^(1,20)Wisdom calls aloud in the street.: She utters her voice in the public squares.
^(1,21)She calls at the head of noisy places.: At the entrance of the city gates, she utters her words:
^(1,22)“How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity?: How long will mockers delight themselves in mockery,; and fools hate knowledge?
^(1,23)Turn at my reproof.: Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you.; I will make known my words to you.
^(1,24)Because I have called, and you have refused;: I have stretched out my hand, and no one has paid attention;
^(1,25)but you have ignored all my counsel,: and wanted none of my reproof;
^(1,26)I also will laugh at your disaster.: I will mock when calamity overtakes you;
^(1,27)when calamity overtakes you like a storm,: when your disaster comes on like a whirlwind;; when distress and anguish come on you.
^(1,28)Then will they call on me, but I will not answer.: They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me;
^(1,29)because they hated knowledge,: and didn’t choose the fear of Yahweh.
^(1,30)They wanted none of my counsel.: They despised all my reproof.
^(1,31)Therefore they will eat of the fruit of their own way,: and be filled with their own schemes.
^(1,32)For the backsliding of the simple will kill them.: The careless ease of fools will destroy them.
^(1,33)But whoever listens to me will dwell securely,: and will be at ease, without fear of harm.”

and store up my commandments within you;
^(2,2)So as to turn your ear to wisdom,: and apply your heart to understanding;
^(2,3)Yes, if you call out for discernment,: and lift up your voice for understanding;
^(2,4)If you seek her as silver,: and search for her as for hidden treasures:
^(2,5)then you will understand the fear of Yahweh,: and find the knowledge of God.
^(2,6)For Yahweh gives wisdom.: Out of his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.
^(2,7)He lays up sound wisdom for the upright.: He is a shield to those who walk in integrity;
^(2,8)that he may guard the paths of justice,: and preserve the way of his saints.
^(2,9)Then you will understand righteousness and justice,: equity and every good path.
^(2,10)For wisdom will enter into your heart.: Knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
^(2,11)Discretion will watch over you.: Understanding will keep you,
^(2,12)to deliver you from the way of evil,: from the men who speak perverse things;
^(2,13)who forsake the paths of uprightness,: to walk in the ways of darkness;
^(2,14)who rejoice to do evil,: and delight in the perverseness of evil;
^(2,15)who are crooked in their ways,: and wayward in their paths:
^(2,16)To deliver you from the strange woman,: even from the foreigner who flatters with her words;
^(2,17)who forsakes the friend of her youth,: and forgets the covenant of her God:
^(2,18)for her house leads down to death,: her paths to the dead.
^(2,19)None who go to her return again,: neither do they attain to the paths of life:
^(2,20)that you may walk in the way of good men,: and keep the paths of the righteous.
^(2,21)For the upright will dwell in the land.: The perfect will remain in it.
^(2,22)But the wicked will be cut off from the land.: The treacherous will be rooted out of it.

but let your heart keep my commandments:
^(3,2)for length of days, and years of life,: and peace, will they add to you.
^(3,3)Don’t let kindness and truth forsake you.: Bind them around your neck.; Write them on the tablet of your heart.
^(3,4)So you will find favor,: and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
^(3,5)Trust in Yahweh with all your heart,: and don’t lean on your own understanding.
^(3,6)In all your ways acknowledge him,: and he will make your paths straight.
^(3,7)Don’t be wise in your own eyes.: Fear Yahweh, and depart from evil.
^(3,8)It will be health to your body,: and nourishment to your bones.
^(3,9)Honor Yahweh with your substance,: with the first fruits of all your increase:
^(3,10)so your barns will be filled with plenty,: and your vats will overflow with new wine.
^(3,11)My son, don’t despise Yahweh’s discipline,: neither be weary of his reproof:
^(3,12)for whom Yahweh loves, he reproves;: even as a father reproves the son in whom he delights.

^(3,13)Happy is the man who finds wisdom,: the man who gets understanding.
^(3,14)For her good profit is better than getting silver,: and her return is better than fine gold.
^(3,15)She is more precious than rubies.: None of the things you can desire are to be compared to her.
^(3,16)Length of days is in her right hand.: In her left hand are riches and honor.
^(3,17)Her ways are ways of pleasantness.: All her paths are peace.
^(3,18)She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her.: Happy is everyone who retains her.
^(3,19)By wisdom Yahweh founded the earth.: By understanding, he established the heavens.
^(3,20)By his knowledge, the depths were broken up,: and the skies drop down the dew.
^(3,21)My son, let them not depart from your eyes.: Keep sound wisdom and discretion:
^(3,22)so they will be life to your soul,: and grace for your neck.
^(3,23)Then you shall walk in your way securely.: Your foot won’t stumble.
^(3,24)When you lie down, you will not be afraid.: Yes, you will lie down, and your sleep will be sweet.
^(3,25)Don’t be afraid of sudden fear,: neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it comes:
^(3,26)for Yahweh will be your confidence,: and will keep your foot from being taken.

^(3,27)Don’t withhold good from those to whom it is due,: when it is in the power of your hand to do it.
^(3,28)Don’t say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again;: tomorrow I will give it to you,”; when you have it by you.
^(3,29)Don’t devise evil against your neighbor,: since he dwells securely by you.
^(3,30)Don’t strive with a man without cause,: if he has done you no harm.
^(3,31)Don’t envy the man of violence.: Choose none of his ways.
^(3,32)For the perverse is an abomination to Yahweh,: but his friendship is with the upright.
^(3,33)Yahweh’s curse is in the house of the wicked,: but he blesses the habitation of the righteous.
^(3,34)Surely he mocks the mockers,: but he gives grace to the humble.
^(3,35)The wise will inherit glory,: but shame will be the promotion of fools.

Pay attention and know understanding;
^(4,2)for I give you sound learning.: Don’t forsake my law.
^(4,3)For I was a son to my father,: tender and an only child in the sight of my mother.
^(4,4)He taught me, and said to me:: “Let your heart retain my words.; Keep my commandments, and live.
^(4,5)Get wisdom.: Get understanding.; Don’t forget, neither swerve from the words of my mouth.
^(4,6)Don’t forsake her, and she will preserve you.: Love her, and she will keep you.
^(4,7)Wisdom is supreme.: Get wisdom.; Yes, though it costs all your possessions, get understanding.
^(4,8)Esteem her, and she will exalt you.: She will bring you to honor, when you embrace her.
^(4,9)She will give to your head a garland of grace.: She will deliver a crown of splendor to you.”

^(4,10)Listen, my son, and receive my sayings.: The years of your life will be many.
^(4,11)I have taught you in the way of wisdom.: I have led you in straight paths.
^(4,12)When you go, your steps will not be hampered.: When you run, you will not stumble.
^(4,13)Take firm hold of instruction.: Don’t let her go.; Keep her, for she is your life.
^(4,14)Don’t enter into the path of the wicked.: Don’t walk in the way of evil men.
^(4,15)Avoid it, and don’t pass by it.: Turn from it, and pass on.
^(4,16)For they don’t sleep, unless they do evil.: Their sleep is taken away, unless they make someone fall.
^(4,17)For they eat the bread of wickedness,: and drink the wine of violence.
^(4,18)But the path of the righteous is like the dawning light,: that shines more and more until the perfect day.
^(4,19)The way of the wicked is like darkness.: They don’t know what they stumble over.

^(4,20)My son, attend to my words.: Turn your ear to my sayings.
^(4,21)Let them not depart from your eyes.: Keep them in the midst of your heart.
^(4,22)For they are life to those who find them,: and health to their whole body.
^(4,23)Keep your heart with all diligence,: for out of it is the wellspring of life.
^(4,24)Put away from yourself a perverse mouth.: Put corrupt lips far from you.
^(4,25)Let your eyes look straight ahead.: Fix your gaze directly before you.
^(4,26)Make the path of your feet level.: Let all of your ways be established.
^(4,27)Don’t turn to the right hand nor to the left.: Remove your foot from evil.

Turn your ear to my understanding:
^(5,2)that you may maintain discretion,: that your lips may preserve knowledge.
^(5,3)For the lips of an adulteress drip honey.: Her mouth is smoother than oil,
^(5,4)But in the end she is as bitter as wormwood,: and as sharp as a two-edged sword.
^(5,5)Her feet go down to death.: Her steps lead straight to Sheol.
^(5,6)She gives no thought to the way of life.: Her ways are crooked, and she doesn’t know it.

^(5,7)Now therefore, my sons, listen to me.: Don’t depart from the words of my mouth.
^(5,8)Remove your way far from her.: Don’t come near the door of her house,
^(5,9)lest you give your honor to others,: and your years to the cruel one;
^(5,10)lest strangers feast on your wealth,: and your labors enrich another man’s house.
^(5,11)You will groan at your latter end,: when your flesh and your body are consumed,
^(5,12)and say, “How I have hated instruction,: and my heart despised reproof;
^(5,13)neither have I obeyed the voice of my teachers,: nor turned my ear to those who instructed me!
^(5,14)I have come to the brink of utter ruin,: in the midst of the gathered assembly.”

^(5,15)Drink water out of your own cistern,: running water out of your own well.
^(5,16)Should your springs overflow in the streets,: streams of water in the public squares?
^(5,17)Let them be for yourself alone,: not for strangers with you.
^(5,18)Let your spring be blessed.: Rejoice in the wife of your youth.
^(5,19)A loving doe and a graceful deer—: let her breasts satisfy you at all times.; Be captivated always with her love.
^(5,20)For why should you, my son, be captivated with an adulteress?: Why embrace the bosom of another?
^(5,21)For the ways of man are before the eyes of Yahweh.: He examines all his paths.
^(5,22)The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare him.: The cords of his sin hold him firmly.
^(5,23)He will die for lack of instruction.: In the greatness of his folly, he will go astray.

if you have struck your hands in pledge for a stranger;
^(6,2)You are trapped by the words of your mouth.: You are ensnared with the words of your mouth.
^(6,3)Do this now, my son, and deliver yourself,: since you have come into the hand of your neighbor.
Go, humble yourself.: Press your plea with your neighbor.
^(6,4)Give no sleep to your eyes,: nor slumber to your eyelids.
^(6,5)Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter,: like a bird from the snare of the fowler.

^(6,6)Go to the ant, you sluggard.: Consider her ways, and be wise;
^(6,7)which having no chief, overseer, or ruler,: ^(6,8)provides her bread in the summer,; and gathers her food in the harvest.
^(6,9)How long will you sleep, sluggard?: When will you arise out of your sleep?
^(6,10)A little sleep, a little slumber,: a little folding of the hands to sleep:
^(6,11)so your poverty will come as a robber,: and your scarcity as an armed man.

^(6,12)A worthless person, a man of iniquity,: is he who walks with a perverse mouth;
^(6,13)who winks with his eyes, who signals with his feet,: who motions with his fingers;
^(6,14)in whose heart is perverseness,: who devises evil continually,; who always sows discord.
^(6,15)Therefore his calamity will come suddenly.: He will be broken suddenly, and that without remedy.

^(6,16)There are six things which Yahweh hates;: yes, seven which are an abomination to him:
^(6,17)haughty eyes, a lying tongue,: hands that shed innocent blood;
^(6,18)a heart that devises wicked schemes,: feet that are swift in running to mischief,
^(6,19)a false witness who utters lies,: and he who sows discord among brothers.

^(6,20)My son, keep your father’s commandment,: and don’t forsake your mother’s teaching.
^(6,21)Bind them continually on your heart.: Tie them around your neck.
^(6,22)When you walk, it will lead you.: When you sleep, it will watch over you.; When you awake, it will talk with you.
^(6,23)For the commandment is a lamp,: and the law is light.; Reproofs of instruction are the way of life,
^(6,24)to keep you from the immoral woman,: from the flattery of the wayward wife’s tongue.
^(6,25)Don’t lust after her beauty in your heart,: neither let her captivate you with her eyelids.
^(6,26)For a prostitute reduces you to a piece of bread.: The adulteress hunts for your precious life.
^(6,27)Can a man scoop fire into his lap,: and his clothes not be burned?
^(6,28)Or can one walk on hot coals,: and his feet not be scorched?
^(6,29)So is he who goes in to his neighbor’s wife.: Whoever touches her will not be unpunished.
^(6,30)Men don’t despise a thief,: if he steals to satisfy himself when he is hungry:
^(6,31)but if he is found, he shall restore seven times.: He shall give all the wealth of his house.
^(6,32)He who commits adultery with a woman is void of understanding.: He who does it destroys his own soul.
^(6,33)He will get wounds and dishonor.: His reproach will not be wiped away.
^(6,34)For jealousy arouses the fury of the husband.: He won’t spare in the day of vengeance.
^(6,35)He won’t regard any ransom,: neither will he rest content, though you give many gifts.

Lay up my commandments within you.
^(7,2)Keep my commandments and live!: Guard my teaching as the apple of your eye.
^(7,3)Bind them on your fingers.: Write them on the tablet of your heart.
^(7,4)Tell wisdom, “You are my sister.”: Call understanding your relative,
^(7,5)that they may keep you from the strange woman,: from the foreigner who flatters with her words.
^(7,6)For at the window of my house,: I looked out through my lattice.
^(7,7)I saw among the simple ones.: I discerned among the youths a young man void of understanding,
^(7,8)passing through the street near her corner,: he went the way to her house,
^(7,9)in the twilight, in the evening of the day,: in the middle of the night and in the darkness.
^(7,10)Behold, there a woman met him with the attire of a prostitute,: and with crafty intent.
^(7,11)She is loud and defiant.: Her feet don’t stay in her house.
^(7,12)Now she is in the streets, now in the squares,: and lurking at every corner.
^(7,13)So she caught him, and kissed him.: With an impudent face she said to him:
^(7,14)“Sacrifices of peace offerings are with me.: This day I have paid my vows.
^(7,15)Therefore I came out to meet you,: to diligently seek your face,; and I have found you.
^(7,16)I have spread my couch with carpets of tapestry,: with striped cloths of the yarn of Egypt.
^(7,17)I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.
^(7,18)Come, let’s take our fill of loving until the morning.: Let’s solace ourselves with loving.
^(7,19)For my husband isn’t at home.: He has gone on a long journey.
^(7,20)He has taken a bag of money with him.: He will come home at the full moon.”
^(7,21)With persuasive words, she led him astray.: With the flattering of her lips, she seduced him.
^(7,22)He followed her immediately,: as an ox goes to the slaughter,; as a fool stepping into a noose.
^(7,23)Until an arrow strikes through his liver,: as a bird hurries to the snare,; and doesn’t know that it will cost his life.
^(7,24)Now therefore, sons, listen to me.: Pay attention to the words of my mouth.
^(7,25)Don’t let your heart turn to her ways.: Don’t go astray in her paths,
^(7,26)for she has thrown down many wounded.: Yes, all her slain are a mighty army.
^(7,27)Her house is the way to Sheol,: going down to the rooms of death.

Doesn’t understanding raise her voice?
^(8,2)On the top of high places by the way,: where the paths meet, she stands.
^(8,3)Beside the gates, at the entry of the city,: at the entry doors, she cries aloud:
^(8,4)“To you men, I call!: I send my voice to the sons of mankind.
^(8,5)You simple, understand prudence.: You fools, be of an understanding heart.
^(8,6)Hear, for I will speak excellent things.: The opening of my lips is for right things.
^(8,7)For my mouth speaks truth.: Wickedness is an abomination to my lips.
^(8,8)All the words of my mouth are in righteousness.: There is nothing crooked or perverse in them.
^(8,9)They are all plain to him who understands,: right to those who find knowledge.
^(8,10)Receive my instruction rather than silver;: knowledge rather than choice gold.
^(8,11)For wisdom is better than rubies.: All the things that may be desired can’t be compared to it.

^(8,12)“I, wisdom, have made prudence my dwelling.: Find out knowledge and discretion.
^(8,13)The fear of Yahweh is to hate evil.: I hate pride, arrogance, the evil way, and the perverse mouth.
^(8,14)Counsel and sound knowledge are mine.: I have understanding and power.
^(8,15)By me kings reign,: and princes decree justice.
^(8,16)By me princes rule;: nobles, and all the righteous rulers of the earth.
^(8,17)I love those who love me.: Those who seek me diligently will find me.
^(8,18)With me are riches, honor,: enduring wealth, and prosperity.
^(8,19)My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold;: my yield than choice silver.
^(8,20)I walk in the way of righteousness,: in the midst of the paths of justice;
^(8,21)That I may give wealth to those who love me.: I fill their treasuries.

^(8,22)“Yahweh possessed me in the beginning of his work,: before his deeds of old.
^(8,23)I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning,: before the earth existed.
^(8,24)When there were no depths, I was brought forth,: when there were no springs abounding with water.
^(8,25)Before the mountains were settled in place,: before the hills, I was brought forth;
^(8,26)while as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields,: nor the beginning of the dust of the world.
^(8,27)When he established the heavens, I was there;: when he set a circle on the surface of the deep,
^(8,28)when he established the clouds above,: when the springs of the deep became strong,
^(8,29)when he gave to the sea its boundary,: that the waters should not violate his commandment,; when he marked out the foundations of the earth;
^(8,30)then I was the craftsman by his side.: I was a delight day by day,; always rejoicing before him,
^(8,31)Rejoicing in his whole world.: My delight was with the sons of men.

^(8,32)“Now therefore, my sons, listen to me,: for blessed are those who keep my ways.
^(8,33)Hear instruction, and be wise.: Don’t refuse it.
^(8,34)Blessed is the man who hears me,: watching daily at my gates,; waiting at my door posts.
^(8,35)For whoever finds me, finds life,: and will obtain favor from Yahweh.
^(8,36)But he who sins against me wrongs his own soul.: All those who hate me love death.”

She has carved out her seven pillars.
^(9,2)She has prepared her meat.: She has mixed her wine.; She has also set her table.
^(9,3)She has sent out her maidens.: She cries from the highest places of the city:
^(9,4)“Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!”: As for him who is void of understanding, she says to him,
^(9,5)“Come, eat some of my bread,: Drink some of the wine which I have mixed!
^(9,6)Leave your simple ways, and live.: Walk in the way of understanding.”

^(9,7)He who corrects a mocker invites insult.: He who reproves a wicked man invites abuse.
^(9,8)Don’t reprove a scoffer, lest he hate you.: Reprove a wise man, and he will love you.
^(9,9)Instruct a wise man, and he will be still wiser.: Teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.
^(9,10)The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom.: The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
^(9,11)For by me your days will be multiplied.: The years of your life will be increased.
^(9,12)If you are wise, you are wise for yourself.: If you mock, you alone will bear it.

^(9,13)The foolish woman is loud,: Undisciplined, and knows nothing.
^(9,14)She sits at the door of her house,: on a seat in the high places of the city,
^(9,15)To call to those who pass by,: who go straight on their ways,
^(9,16)“Whoever is simple, let him turn in here.”: as for him who is void of understanding, she says to him,
^(9,17)“Stolen water is sweet.: Food eaten in secret is pleasant.”
^(9,18)But he doesn’t know that the dead are there,: that her guests are in the depths of Sheol.

^(10,1)The proverbs of Solomon.

A wise son makes a glad father;: but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.
^(10,2)Treasures of wickedness profit nothing,: but righteousness delivers from death.
^(10,3)Yahweh will not allow the soul of the righteous to go hungry,: but he thrusts away the desire of the wicked.
^(10,4)He becomes poor who works with a lazy hand,: but the hand of the diligent brings wealth.
^(10,5)He who gathers in summer is a wise son,: but he who sleeps during the harvest is a son who causes shame.
^(10,6)Blessings are on the head of the righteous,: but violence covers the mouth of the wicked.
^(10,7)The memory of the righteous is blessed,: but the name of the wicked will rot.
^(10,8)The wise in heart accept commandments,: but a chattering fool will fall.
^(10,9)He who walks blamelessly walks surely,: but he who perverts his ways will be found out.
^(10,10)One winking with the eye causes sorrow,: but a chattering fool will fall.
^(10,11)The mouth of the righteous is a spring of life,: but violence covers the mouth of the wicked.
^(10,12)Hatred stirs up strife,: but love covers all wrongs.
^(10,13)Wisdom is found on the lips of him who has discernment,: but a rod is for the back of him who is void of understanding.
^(10,14)Wise men lay up knowledge,: but the mouth of the foolish is near ruin.
^(10,15)The rich man’s wealth is his strong city.: The destruction of the poor is their poverty.
^(10,16)The labor of the righteous leads to life.: The increase of the wicked leads to sin.
^(10,17)He is in the way of life who heeds correction,: but he who forsakes reproof leads others astray.
^(10,18)He who hides hatred has lying lips.: He who utters a slander is a fool.
^(10,19)In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience,: but he who restrains his lips does wisely.
^(10,20)The tongue of the righteous is like choice silver.: The heart of the wicked is of little worth.
^(10,21)The lips of the righteous feed many,: but the foolish die for lack of understanding.
^(10,22)Yahweh’s blessing brings wealth,: and he adds no trouble to it.
^(10,23)It is a fool’s pleasure to do wickedness,: but wisdom is a man of understanding’s pleasure.
^(10,24)What the wicked fear, will overtake them,: but the desire of the righteous will be granted.
^(10,25)When the whirlwind passes, the wicked is no more;: but the righteous stand firm forever.
^(10,26)As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes,: so is the sluggard to those who send him.
^(10,27)The fear of Yahweh prolongs days,: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.
^(10,28)The prospect of the righteous is joy,: but the hope of the wicked will perish.
^(10,29)The way of Yahweh is a stronghold to the upright,: but it is a destruction to the workers of iniquity.
^(10,30)The righteous will never be removed,: but the wicked will not dwell in the land.
^(10,31)The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom,: but the perverse tongue will be cut off.
^(10,32)The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable,: but the mouth of the wicked is perverse.

but accurate weights are his delight.
^(11,2)When pride comes, then comes shame,: but with humility comes wisdom.
^(11,3)The integrity of the upright shall guide them,: but the perverseness of the treacherous shall destroy them.
^(11,4)Riches don’t profit in the day of wrath,: but righteousness delivers from death.
^(11,5)The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way,: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.
^(11,6)The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them,: but the unfaithful will be trapped by evil desires.
^(11,7)When a wicked man dies, hope perishes,: and expectation of power comes to nothing.
^(11,8)A righteous person is delivered out of trouble,: and the wicked takes his place.
^(11,9)With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbor,: but the righteous will be delivered through knowledge.
^(11,10)When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices.: When the wicked perish, there is shouting.
^(11,11)By the blessing of the upright, the city is exalted,: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
^(11,12)One who despises his neighbor is void of wisdom,: but a man of understanding holds his peace.
^(11,13)One who brings gossip betrays a confidence,: but one who is of a trustworthy spirit is one who keeps a secret.
^(11,14)Where there is no wise guidance, the nation falls,: but in the multitude of counselors there is victory.
^(11,15)He who is collateral for a stranger will suffer for it,: but he who refuses pledges of collateral is secure.
^(11,16)A gracious woman obtains honor,: but violent men obtain riches.
^(11,17)The merciful man does good to his own soul,: but he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.
^(11,18)Wicked people earn deceitful wages,: but one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.
^(11,19)He who is truly righteous gets life.: He who pursues evil gets death.
^(11,20)Those who are perverse in heart are an abomination to Yahweh,: but those whose ways are blameless are his delight.
^(11,21)Most certainly, the evil man will not be unpunished,: but the seed of the righteous will be delivered.
^(11,22)Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout,: is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion.
^(11,23)The desire of the righteous is only good.: The expectation of the wicked is wrath.
^(11,24)There is one who scatters, and increases yet more.: There is one who withholds more than is appropriate, but gains poverty.
^(11,25)The liberal soul shall be made fat.: He who waters shall be watered also himself.
^(11,26)People curse someone who withholds grain,: but blessing will be on the head of him who sells it.
^(11,27)He who diligently seeks good seeks favor,: but he who searches after evil, it shall come to him.
^(11,28)He who trusts in his riches will fall,: but the righteous shall flourish as the green leaf.
^(11,29)He who troubles his own house shall inherit the wind.: The foolish shall be servant to the wise of heart.
^(11,30)The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life.: He who is wise wins souls.
^(11,31)Behold, the righteous shall be repaid in the earth;: how much more the wicked and the sinner!

but he who hates reproof is stupid.
^(12,2)A good man shall obtain favor from Yahweh,: but he will condemn a man of wicked devices.
^(12,3)A man shall not be established by wickedness,: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.
^(12,4)A worthy woman is the crown of her husband,: but a disgraceful wife is as rottenness in his bones.
^(12,5)The thoughts of the righteous are just,: but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.
^(12,6)The words of the wicked are about lying in wait for blood,: but the speech of the upright rescues them.
^(12,7)The wicked are overthrown, and are no more,: but the house of the righteous shall stand.
^(12,8)A man shall be commended according to his wisdom,: but he who has a warped mind shall be despised.
^(12,9)Better is he who is lightly esteemed, and has a servant,: than he who honors himself, and lacks bread.
^(12,10)A righteous man respects the life of his animal,: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.
^(12,11)He who tills his land shall have plenty of bread,: but he who chases fantasies is void of understanding.
^(12,12)The wicked desires the plunder of evil men,: but the root of the righteous flourishes.
^(12,13)An evil man is trapped by sinfulness of lips,: but the righteous shall come out of trouble.
^(12,14)A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth.: The work of a man’s hands shall be rewarded to him.
^(12,15)The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,: but he who is wise listens to counsel.
^(12,16)A fool shows his annoyance the same day,: but one who overlooks an insult is prudent.
^(12,17)He who is truthful testifies honestly,: but a false witness lies.
^(12,18)There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword,: but the tongue of the wise heals.
^(12,19)Truth’s lips will be established forever,: but a lying tongue is only momentary.
^(12,20)Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil,: but joy comes to the promoters of peace.
^(12,21)No mischief shall happen to the righteous,: but the wicked shall be filled with evil.
^(12,22)Lying lips are an abomination to Yahweh,: but those who do the truth are his delight.
^(12,23)A prudent man keeps his knowledge,: but the hearts of fools proclaim foolishness.
^(12,24)The hands of the diligent ones shall rule,: but laziness ends in slave labor.
^(12,25)Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down,: but a kind word makes it glad.
^(12,26)A righteous person is cautious in friendship,: but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
^(12,27)The slothful man doesn’t roast his game,: but the possessions of diligent men are prized.
^(12,28)In the way of righteousness is life;: in its path there is no death.

^(13,1)

but a scoffer doesn’t listen to rebuke.
^(13,2)By the fruit of his lips, a man enjoys good things;: but the unfaithful crave violence.
^(13,3)He who guards his mouth guards his soul.: One who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.
^(13,4)The soul of the sluggard desires, and has nothing,: but the desire of the diligent shall be fully satisfied.
^(13,5)A righteous man hates lies,: but a wicked man brings shame and disgrace.
^(13,6)Righteousness guards the way of integrity,: but wickedness overthrows the sinner.
^(13,7)There are some who pretend to be rich, yet have nothing.: There are some who pretend to be poor, yet have great wealth.
^(13,8)The ransom of a man’s life is his riches,: but the poor hear no threats.
^(13,9)The light of the righteous shines brightly,: but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out.
^(13,10)Pride only breeds quarrels,: but with ones who take advice is wisdom.
^(13,11)Wealth gained dishonestly dwindles away,: but he who gathers by hand makes it grow.
^(13,12)Hope deferred makes the heart sick,: but when longing is fulfilled, it is a tree of life.
^(13,13)Whoever despises instruction will pay for it,: but he who respects a command will be rewarded.
^(13,14)The teaching of the wise is a spring of life,: to turn from the snares of death.
^(13,15)Good understanding wins favor;: but the way of the unfaithful is hard.
^(13,16)Every prudent man acts from knowledge,: but a fool exposes folly.
^(13,17)A wicked messenger falls into trouble,: but a trustworthy envoy gains healing.
^(13,18)Poverty and shame come to him who refuses discipline,: but he who heeds correction shall be honored.
^(13,19)Longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul,: but fools detest turning from evil.
^(13,20)One who walks with wise men grows wise,: but a companion of fools suffers harm.
^(13,21)Misfortune pursues sinners,: but prosperity rewards the righteous.
^(13,22)A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children,: but the wealth of the sinner is stored for the righteous.
^(13,23)An abundance of food is in poor people’s fields,: but injustice sweeps it away.
^(13,24)One who spares the rod hates his son,: but one who loves him is careful to discipline him.
^(13,25)The righteous one eats to the satisfying of his soul,: but the belly of the wicked goes hungry.

but the foolish one tears it down with her own hands.
^(14,2)He who walks in his uprightness fears Yahweh,: but he who is perverse in his ways despises him.
^(14,3)The fool’s talk brings a rod to his back,: but the lips of the wise protect them.
^(14,4)Where no oxen are, the crib is clean,: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.
^(14,5)A truthful witness will not lie,: but a false witness pours out lies.
^(14,6)A scoffer seeks wisdom, and doesn’t find it,: but knowledge comes easily to a discerning person.
^(14,7)Stay away from a foolish man,: for you won’t find knowledge on his lips.
^(14,8)The wisdom of the prudent is to think about his way,: but the folly of fools is deceit.
^(14,9)Fools mock at making atonement for sins,: but among the upright there is good will.
^(14,10)The heart knows its own bitterness and joy;: he will not share these with a stranger.
^(14,11)The house of the wicked will be overthrown,: but the tent of the upright will flourish.
^(14,12)There is a way which seems right to a man,: but in the end it leads to death.
^(14,13)Even in laughter the heart may be sorrowful,: and mirth may end in heaviness.
^(14,14)The unfaithful will be repaid for his own ways;: likewise a good man will be rewarded for his ways.
^(14,15)A simple man believes everything,: but the prudent man carefully considers his ways.
^(14,16)A wise man fears, and shuns evil,: but the fool is hotheaded and reckless.
^(14,17)He who is quick to become angry will commit folly,: and a crafty man is hated.
^(14,18)The simple inherit folly,: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
^(14,19)The evil bow down before the good,: and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.
^(14,20)The poor person is shunned even by his own neighbor,: but the rich person has many friends.
^(14,21)He who despises his neighbor sins,: but blessed is he who has pity on the poor.
^(14,22)Don’t they go astray who plot evil?: But love and faithfulness belong to those who plan good.
^(14,23)In all hard work there is profit,: but the talk of the lips leads only to poverty.
^(14,24)The crown of the wise is their riches,: but the folly of fools crowns them with folly.
^(14,25)A truthful witness saves souls,: but a false witness is deceitful.
^(14,26)In the fear of Yahweh is a secure fortress,: and he will be a refuge for his children.
^(14,27)The fear of Yahweh is a fountain of life,: turning people from the snares of death.
^(14,28)In the multitude of people is the king’s glory,: but in the lack of people is the destruction of the prince.
^(14,29)He who is slow to anger has great understanding,: but he who has a quick temper displays folly.
^(14,30)The life of the body is a heart at peace,: but envy rots the bones.
^(14,31)He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for his Maker,: but he who is kind to the needy honors him.
^(14,32)The wicked is brought down in his calamity,: but in death, the righteous has a refuge.
^(14,33)Wisdom rests in the heart of one who has understanding,: and is even made known in the inward part of fools.
^(14,34)Righteousness exalts a nation,: but sin is a disgrace to any people.
^(14,35)The king’s favor is toward a servant who deals wisely,: but his wrath is toward one who causes shame.

but a harsh word stirs up anger.
^(15,2)The tongue of the wise commends knowledge,: but the mouth of fools gush out folly.
^(15,3)Yahweh’s eyes are everywhere,: keeping watch on the evil and the good.
^(15,4)A gentle tongue is a tree of life,: but deceit in it crushes the spirit.
^(15,5)A fool despises his father’s correction,: but he who heeds reproof shows prudence.
^(15,6)In the house of the righteous is much treasure,: but the income of the wicked brings trouble.
^(15,7)The lips of the wise spread knowledge;: not so with the heart of fools.
^(15,8)The sacrifice made by the wicked is an abomination to Yahweh,: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
^(15,9)The way of the wicked is an abomination to Yahweh,: but he loves him who follows after righteousness.
^(15,10)There is stern discipline for one who forsakes the way:: whoever hates reproof shall die.
^(15,11)Sheol and Abaddon are before Yahweh—: how much more then the hearts of the children of men!
^(15,12)A scoffer doesn’t love to be reproved;: he will not go to the wise.
^(15,13)A glad heart makes a cheerful face;: but an aching heart breaks the spirit.
^(15,14)The heart of one who has understanding seeks knowledge,: but the mouths of fools feed on folly.
^(15,15)All the days of the afflicted are wretched,: but one who has a cheerful heart enjoys a continual feast.
^(15,16)Better is little, with the fear of Yahweh,: than great treasure with trouble.
^(15,17)Better is a dinner of herbs, where love is,: than a fattened calf with hatred.
^(15,18)A wrathful man stirs up contention,: but one who is slow to anger appeases strife.
^(15,19)The way of the sluggard is like a thorn patch,: but the path of the upright is a highway.
^(15,20)A wise son makes a father glad,: but a foolish man despises his mother.
^(15,21)Folly is joy to one who is void of wisdom,: but a man of understanding keeps his way straight.
^(15,22)Where there is no counsel, plans fail;: but in a multitude of counselors they are established.
^(15,23)Joy comes to a man with the reply of his mouth.: How good is a word at the right time!
^(15,24)The path of life leads upward for the wise,: to keep him from going downward to Sheol.
^(15,25)Yahweh will uproot the house of the proud,: but he will keep the widow’s borders intact.
^(15,26)Yahweh detests the thoughts of the wicked,: but the thoughts of the pure are pleasing.
^(15,27)He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house,: but he who hates bribes will live.
^(15,28)The heart of the righteous weighs answers,: but the mouth of the wicked gushes out evil.
^(15,29)Yahweh is far from the wicked,: but he hears the prayer of the righteous.
^(15,30)The light of the eyes rejoices the heart.: Good news gives health to the bones.
^(15,31)The ear that listens to reproof lives,: and will be at home among the wise.
^(15,32)He who refuses correction despises his own soul,: but he who listens to reproof gets understanding.
^(15,33)The fear of Yahweh teaches wisdom.: Before honor is humility.

but the answer of the tongue is from Yahweh.
^(16,2)All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes;: but Yahweh weighs the motives.
^(16,3)Commit your deeds to Yahweh,: and your plans shall succeed.
^(16,4)Yahweh has made everything for its own end—: yes, even the wicked for the day of evil.
^(16,5)Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to Yahweh:: they shall certainly not be unpunished.
^(16,6)By mercy and truth iniquity is atoned for.: By the fear of Yahweh men depart from evil.
^(16,7)When a man’s ways please Yahweh,: he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
^(16,8)Better is a little with righteousness,: than great revenues with injustice.
^(16,9)A man’s heart plans his course,: but Yahweh directs his steps.
^(16,10)Inspired judgments are on the lips of the king.: He shall not betray his mouth.
^(16,11)Honest balances and scales are Yahweh’s;: all the weights in the bag are his work.
^(16,12)It is an abomination for kings to do wrong,: for the throne is established by righteousness.
^(16,13)Righteous lips are the delight of kings.: They value one who speaks the truth.
^(16,14)The king’s wrath is a messenger of death,: but a wise man will pacify it.
^(16,15)In the light of the king’s face is life.: His favor is like a cloud of the spring rain.
^(16,16)How much better it is to get wisdom than gold!: Yes, to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
^(16,17)The highway of the upright is to depart from evil.: He who keeps his way preserves his soul.
^(16,18)Pride goes before destruction,: and a haughty spirit before a fall.
^(16,19)It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor,: than to divide the plunder with the proud.
^(16,20)He who heeds the Word finds prosperity.: Whoever trusts in Yahweh is blessed.
^(16,21)The wise in heart shall be called prudent.: Pleasantness of the lips promotes instruction.
^(16,22)Understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it,: but the punishment of fools is their folly.
^(16,23)The heart of the wise instructs his mouth,: and adds learning to his lips.
^(16,24)Pleasant words are a honeycomb,: sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
^(16,25)There is a way which seems right to a man,: but in the end it leads to death.
^(16,26)The appetite of the laboring man labors for him;: for his mouth urges him on.
^(16,27)A worthless man devises mischief.: His speech is like a scorching fire.
^(16,28)A perverse man stirs up strife.: A whisperer separates close friends.
^(16,29)A man of violence entices his neighbor,: and leads him in a way that is not good.
^(16,30)One who winks his eyes to plot perversities,: one who compresses his lips, is bent on evil.
^(16,31)Gray hair is a crown of glory.: It is attained by a life of righteousness.
^(16,32)One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty;: one who rules his spirit, than he who takes a city.
^(16,33)The lot is cast into the lap,: but its every decision is from Yahweh.

than a house full of feasting with strife.
^(17,2)A servant who deals wisely will rule over a son who causes shame,: and shall have a part in the inheritance among the brothers.
^(17,3)The refining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold,: but Yahweh tests the hearts.
^(17,4)An evildoer heeds wicked lips.: A liar gives ear to a mischievous tongue.
^(17,5)Whoever mocks the poor reproaches his Maker.: He who is glad at calamity shall not be unpunished.
^(17,6)Children’s children are the crown of old men;: the glory of children are their parents.
^(17,7)Arrogant speech isn’t fitting for a fool,: much less do lying lips fit a prince.
^(17,8)A bribe is a precious stone in the eyes of him who gives it;: wherever he turns, he prospers.
^(17,9)He who covers an offense promotes love;: but he who repeats a matter separates best friends.
^(17,10)A rebuke enters deeper into one who has understanding: than a hundred lashes into a fool.
^(17,11)An evil man seeks only rebellion;: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.
^(17,12)Let a bear robbed of her cubs meet a man,: rather than a fool in his folly.
^(17,13)Whoever rewards evil for good,: evil shall not depart from his house.
^(17,14)The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam,: therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.
^(17,15)He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the righteous,: both of them alike are an abomination to Yahweh.
^(17,16)Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom,: since he has no understanding?
^(17,17)A friend loves at all times;: and a brother is born for adversity.
^(17,18)A man void of understanding strikes hands,: and becomes collateral in the presence of his neighbor.
^(17,19)He who loves disobedience loves strife.: One who builds a high gate seeks destruction.
^(17,20)One who has a perverse heart doesn’t find prosperity,: and one who has a deceitful tongue falls into trouble.
^(17,21)He who becomes the father of a fool grieves.: The father of a fool has no joy.
^(17,22)A cheerful heart makes good medicine,: but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
^(17,23)A wicked man receives a bribe in secret,: to pervert the ways of justice.
^(17,24)Wisdom is before the face of one who has understanding,: but the eyes of a fool wander to the ends of the earth.
^(17,25)A foolish son brings grief to his father,: and bitterness to her who bore him.
^(17,26)Also to punish the righteous is not good,: nor to flog officials for their integrity.
^(17,27)He who spares his words has knowledge.: He who is even tempered is a man of understanding.
^(17,28)Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is counted wise.: When he shuts his lips, he is thought to be discerning.

and defies all sound judgment.
^(18,2)A fool has no delight in understanding,: but only in revealing his own opinion.
^(18,3)When wickedness comes, contempt also comes,: and with shame comes disgrace.
^(18,4)The words of a man’s mouth are like deep waters.: The fountain of wisdom is like a flowing brook.
^(18,5)To be partial to the faces of the wicked is not good,: nor to deprive the innocent of justice.
^(18,6)A fool’s lips come into strife,: and his mouth invites beatings.
^(18,7)A fool’s mouth is his destruction,: and his lips are a snare to his soul.
^(18,8)The words of a gossip are like dainty morsels:: they go down into a person’s innermost parts.
^(18,9)One who is slack in his work: is brother to him who is a master of destruction.
^(18,10)The name of Yahweh is a strong tower:: the righteous run to him, and are safe.
^(18,11)The rich man’s wealth is his strong city,: like an unscalable wall in his own imagination.
^(18,12)Before destruction the heart of man is proud,: but before honor is humility.
^(18,13)He who gives answer before he hears,: that is folly and shame to him.
^(18,14)A man’s spirit will sustain him in sickness,: but a crushed spirit, who can bear?
^(18,15)The heart of the discerning gets knowledge.: The ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
^(18,16)A man’s gift makes room for him,: and brings him before great men.
^(18,17)He who pleads his cause first seems right;: until another comes and questions him.
^(18,18)The lot settles disputes,: and keeps strong ones apart.
^(18,19)A brother offended is more difficult than a fortified city;: and disputes are like the bars of a castle.
^(18,20)A man’s stomach is filled with the fruit of his mouth.: With the harvest of his lips he is satisfied.
^(18,21)Death and life are in the power of the tongue;: those who love it will eat its fruit.
^(18,22)Whoever finds a wife finds a good thing,: and obtains favor of Yahweh.
^(18,23)The poor plead for mercy,: but the rich answer harshly.
^(18,24)A man of many companions may be ruined,: but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

than he who is perverse in his lips and is a fool.
^(19,2)It isn’t good to have zeal without knowledge;: nor being hasty with one’s feet and missing the way.
^(19,3)The foolishness of man subverts his way;: his heart rages against Yahweh.
^(19,4)Wealth adds many friends,: but the poor is separated from his friend.
^(19,5)A false witness shall not be unpunished.: He who pours out lies shall not go free.
^(19,6)Many will entreat the favor of a ruler,: and everyone is a friend to a man who gives gifts.
^(19,7)All the relatives of the poor shun him:: how much more do his friends avoid him!; He pursues them with pleas, but they are gone.
^(19,8)He who gets wisdom loves his own soul.: He who keeps understanding shall find good.
^(19,9)A false witness shall not be unpunished.: He who utters lies shall perish.
^(19,10)Delicate living is not appropriate for a fool,: much less for a servant to have rule over princes.
^(19,11)The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger.: It is his glory to overlook an offense.
^(19,12)The king’s wrath is like the roaring of a lion,: but his favor is like dew on the grass.
^(19,13)A foolish son is the calamity of his father.: A wife’s quarrels are a continual dripping.
^(19,14)House and riches are an inheritance from fathers,: but a prudent wife is from Yahweh.
^(19,15)Slothfulness casts into a deep sleep.: The idle soul shall suffer hunger.
^(19,16)He who keeps the commandment keeps his soul,: but he who is contemptuous in his ways shall die.
^(19,17)He who has pity on the poor lends to Yahweh;: he will reward him.
^(19,18)Discipline your son, for there is hope;: don’t be a willing party to his death.
^(19,19)A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty,: for if you rescue him, you must do it again.
^(19,20)Listen to counsel and receive instruction,: that you may be wise in your latter end.
^(19,21)There are many plans in a man’s heart,: but Yahweh’s counsel will prevail.
^(19,22)That which makes a man to be desired is his kindness.: A poor man is better than a liar.
^(19,23)The fear of Yahweh leads to life, then contentment;: he rests and will not be touched by trouble.
^(19,24)The sluggard buries his hand in the dish;: he will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.
^(19,25)Flog a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence;: rebuke one who has understanding, and he will gain knowledge.
^(19,26)He who robs his father and drives away his mother,: is a son who causes shame and brings reproach.
^(19,27)If you stop listening to instruction, my son,: you will stray from the words of knowledge.
^(19,28)A corrupt witness mocks justice,: and the mouth of the wicked gulps down iniquity.
^(19,29)Penalties are prepared for scoffers,: and beatings for the backs of fools.

Whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
^(20,2)The terror of a king is like the roaring of a lion.: He who provokes him to anger forfeits his own life.
^(20,3)It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife;: but every fool will be quarreling.
^(20,4)The sluggard will not plow by reason of the winter;: therefore he shall beg in harvest, and have nothing.
^(20,5)Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water;: but a man of understanding will draw it out.
^(20,6)Many men claim to be men of unfailing love,: but who can find a faithful man?
^(20,7)A righteous man walks in integrity.: Blessed are his children after him.
^(20,8)A king who sits on the throne of judgment: scatters away all evil with his eyes.
^(20,9)Who can say, “I have made my heart pure.: I am clean and without sin?”
^(20,10)Differing weights and differing measures,: both of them alike are an abomination to Yahweh.
^(20,11)Even a child makes himself known by his doings,: whether his work is pure, and whether it is right.
^(20,12)The hearing ear, and the seeing eye,: Yahweh has made even both of them.
^(20,13)Don’t love sleep, lest you come to poverty.: Open your eyes, and you shall be satisfied with bread.
^(20,14)“It’s no good, it’s no good,” says the buyer;: but when he is gone his way, then he boasts.
^(20,15)There is gold and abundance of rubies;: but the lips of knowledge are a rare jewel.
^(20,16)Take the garment of one who puts up collateral for a stranger;: and hold him in pledge for a wayward woman.
^(20,17)Fraudulent food is sweet to a man,: but afterwards his mouth is filled with gravel.
^(20,18)Plans are established by advice;: by wise guidance you wage war!
^(20,19)He who goes about as a tale-bearer reveals secrets;: therefore don’t keep company with him who opens wide his lips.
^(20,20)Whoever curses his father or his mother,: his lamp shall be put out in blackness of darkness.
^(20,21)An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning,: won’t be blessed in the end.
^(20,22)Don’t say, “I will pay back evil.”: Wait for Yahweh, and he will save you.
^(20,23)Yahweh detests differing weights,: and dishonest scales are not pleasing.
^(20,24)A man’s steps are from Yahweh;: how then can man understand his way?
^(20,25)It is a snare to a man to make a rash dedication,: then later to consider his vows.
^(20,26)A wise king winnows out the wicked,: and drives the threshing wheel over them.
^(20,27)The spirit of man is Yahweh’s lamp,: searching all his innermost parts.
^(20,28)Love and faithfulness keep the king safe.: His throne is sustained by love.
^(20,29)The glory of young men is their strength.: The splendor of old men is their gray hair.
^(20,30)Wounding blows cleanse away evil,: and beatings purge the innermost parts.

He turns it wherever he desires.
^(21,2)Every way of a man is right in his own eyes,: but Yahweh weighs the hearts.
^(21,3)To do righteousness and justice: is more acceptable to Yahweh than sacrifice.
^(21,4)A high look, and a proud heart,: the lamp of the wicked, is sin.
^(21,5)The plans of the diligent surely lead to profit;: and everyone who is hasty surely rushes to poverty.
^(21,6)Getting treasures by a lying tongue: is a fleeting vapor for those who seek death.
^(21,7)The violence of the wicked will drive them away,: because they refuse to do what is right.
^(21,8)The way of the guilty is devious,: but the conduct of the innocent is upright.
^(21,9)It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop,: than to share a house with a contentious woman.
^(21,10)The soul of the wicked desires evil;: his neighbor finds no mercy in his eyes.
^(21,11)When the mocker is punished, the simple gains wisdom.: When the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.
^(21,12)The Righteous One considers the house of the wicked,: and brings the wicked to ruin.
^(21,13)Whoever stops his ears at the cry of the poor,: he will also cry out, but shall not be heard.
^(21,14)A gift in secret pacifies anger;: and a bribe in the cloak, strong wrath.
^(21,15)It is joy to the righteous to do justice;: but it is a destruction to the workers of iniquity.
^(21,16)The man who wanders out of the way of understanding: shall rest in the assembly of the dead.
^(21,17)He who loves pleasure shall be a poor man.: He who loves wine and oil shall not be rich.
^(21,18)The wicked is a ransom for the righteous;: the treacherous for the upright.
^(21,19)It is better to dwell in a desert land,: than with a contentious and fretful woman.
^(21,20)There is precious treasure and oil in the dwelling of the wise;: but a foolish man swallows it up.
^(21,21)He who follows after righteousness and kindness: finds life, righteousness, and honor.
^(21,22)A wise man scales the city of the mighty,: and brings down the strength of its confidence.
^(21,23)Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue: keeps his soul from troubles.
^(21,24)The proud and haughty man, “scoffer” is his name;: he works in the arrogance of pride.
^(21,25)The desire of the sluggard kills him,: for his hands refuse to labor.
^(21,26)There are those who covet greedily all day long;: but the righteous give and don’t withhold.
^(21,27)The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination:: how much more, when he brings it with a wicked mind!
^(21,28)A false witness will perish,: and a man who listens speaks to eternity.
^(21,29)A wicked man hardens his face;: but as for the upright, he establishes his ways.
^(21,30)There is no wisdom nor understanding: nor counsel against Yahweh.
^(21,31)The horse is prepared for the day of battle;: but victory is with Yahweh.

and loving favor is better than silver and gold.
^(22,2)The rich and the poor have this in common:: Yahweh is the maker of them all.
^(22,3)A prudent man sees danger, and hides himself;: but the simple pass on, and suffer for it.
^(22,4)The result of humility and the fear of Yahweh: is wealth, honor, and life.
^(22,5)Thorns and snares are in the path of the wicked:: whoever guards his soul stays from them.
^(22,6)Train up a child in the way he should go,: and when he is old he will not depart from it.
^(22,7)The rich rule over the poor.: The borrower is servant to the lender.
^(22,8)He who sows wickedness reaps trouble,: and the rod of his fury will be destroyed.
^(22,9)He who has a generous eye will be blessed;: for he shares his food with the poor.
^(22,10)Drive out the mocker, and strife will go out;: yes, quarrels and insults will stop.
^(22,11)He who loves purity of heart and speaks gracefully: is the king’s friend.
^(22,12)The eyes of Yahweh watch over knowledge;: but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful.
^(22,13)The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside!: I will be killed in the streets!”
^(22,14)The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit:: he who is under Yahweh’s wrath will fall into it.
^(22,15)Folly is bound up in the heart of a child:: the rod of discipline drives it far from him.
^(22,16)Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich,: both come to poverty.

^(22,17)Turn your ear, and listen to the words of the wise.: Apply your heart to my teaching.
^(22,18)For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you,: if all of them are ready on your lips.
^(22,19)That your trust may be in Yahweh,: I teach you today, even you.
^(22,20)Haven’t I written to you thirty excellent things: of counsel and knowledge,
^(22,21)To teach you truth, reliable words,: to give sound answers to the ones who sent you?

^(22,22)Don’t exploit the poor, because he is poor;: and don’t crush the needy in court;
^(22,23)for Yahweh will plead their case,: and plunder the life of those who plunder them.

^(22,24)Don’t befriend a hot-tempered man,: and don’t associate with one who harbors anger:
^(22,25)lest you learn his ways,: and ensnare your soul.

^(22,26)Don’t you be one of those who strike hands,: of those who are collateral for debts.
^(22,27)If you don’t have means to pay,: why should he take away your bed from under you?

^(22,28)Don’t move the ancient boundary stone,: which your fathers have set up.

^(22,29)Do you see a man skilled in his work?: He will serve kings.; He won’t serve obscure men.

consider diligently what is before you;
^(23,2)put a knife to your throat,: if you are a man given to appetite.
^(23,3)Don’t be desirous of his dainties,: since they are deceitful food.
^(23,4)Don’t weary yourself to be rich.: In your wisdom, show restraint.
^(23,5)Why do you set your eyes on that which is not?: For it certainly sprouts wings like an eagle and flies in the sky.
^(23,6)Don’t eat the food of him who has a stingy eye,: and don’t crave his delicacies:; ^(23,7)for as he thinks about the cost, so he is.; “Eat and drink!” he says to you,; but his heart is not with you.
^(23,8)The morsel which you have eaten you shall vomit up,: and lose your good words.

^(23,9)Don’t speak in the ears of a fool,: for he will despise the wisdom of your words.

^(23,10)Don’t move the ancient boundary stone.: Don’t encroach on the fields of the fatherless:
^(23,11)for their Defender is strong.: He will plead their case against you.

^(23,12)Apply your heart to instruction,: and your ears to the words of knowledge.
^(23,13)Don’t withhold correction from a child.: If you punish him with the rod, he will not die.
^(23,14)Punish him with the rod,: and save his soul from Sheol.

^(23,15)My son, if your heart is wise,: then my heart will be glad, even mine:
^(23,16)yes, my heart will rejoice,: when your lips speak what is right.
^(23,17)Don’t let your heart envy sinners;: but rather fear Yahweh all the day long.
^(23,18)Indeed surely there is a future hope,: and your hope will not be cut off.
^(23,19)Listen, my son, and be wise,: and keep your heart on the right path!
^(23,20)Don’t be among ones drinking too much wine,: or those who gorge themselves on meat:
^(23,21)for the drunkard and the glutton shall become poor;: and drowsiness clothes them in rags.
^(23,22)Listen to your father who gave you life,: and don’t despise your mother when she is old.
^(23,23)Buy the truth, and don’t sell it.: Get wisdom, discipline, and understanding.
^(23,24)The father of the righteous has great joy.: Whoever fathers a wise child delights in him.
^(23,25)Let your father and your mother be glad!: Let her who bore you rejoice!
^(23,26)My son, give me your heart;: and let your eyes keep in my ways.
^(23,27)For a prostitute is a deep pit;: and a wayward wife is a narrow well.
^(23,28)Yes, she lies in wait like a robber,: and increases the unfaithful among men.

^(23,29)Who has woe?: Who has sorrow?; Who has strife?; Who has complaints?; Who has needless bruises?; Who has bloodshot eyes?
^(23,30)Those who stay long at the wine;: those who go to seek out mixed wine.
^(23,31)Don’t look at the wine when it is red,: when it sparkles in the cup,; when it goes down smoothly.
^(23,32)In the end, it bites like a snake,: and poisons like a viper.
^(23,33)Your eyes will see strange things,: and your mind will imagine confusing things.
^(23,34)Yes, you will be as he who lies down in the midst of the sea,: or as he who lies on top of the rigging:
^(23,35)“They hit me, and I was not hurt!: They beat me, and I don’t feel it!; When will I wake up? I can do it again.; I can find another.”

^(24,1)Don’t be envious of evil men;: neither desire to be with them:
^(24,2)for their hearts plot violence,: and their lips talk about mischief.
^(24,3)Through wisdom a house is built;: by understanding it is established;
^(24,4)by knowledge the rooms are filled: with all rare and beautiful treasure.
^(24,5)A wise man has great power;: and a knowledgeable man increases strength;
^(24,6)for by wise guidance you wage your war;: and victory is in many advisors.
^(24,7)Wisdom is too high for a fool:: he doesn’t open his mouth in the gate.
^(24,8)One who plots to do evil: will be called a schemer.
^(24,9)The schemes of folly are sin.: The mocker is detested by men.
^(24,10)If you falter in the time of trouble,: your strength is small.
^(24,11)Rescue those who are being led away to death!: Indeed, hold back those who are staggering to the slaughter!
^(24,12)If you say, “Behold, we didn’t know this”;: doesn’t he who weighs the hearts consider it?
He who keeps your soul, doesn’t he know it?: Shall he not render to every man according to his work?
^(24,13)My son, eat honey, for it is good;: the droppings of the honeycomb, which are sweet to your taste:
^(24,14)so you shall know wisdom to be to your soul;: if you have found it, then there will be a reward,; your hope will not be cut off.
^(24,15)Don’t lay in wait, wicked man, against the habitation of the righteous.: Don’t destroy his resting place:
^(24,16)for a righteous man falls seven times, and rises up again;: but the wicked are overthrown by calamity.
^(24,17)Don’t rejoice when your enemy falls.: Don’t let your heart be glad when he is overthrown;
^(24,18)lest Yahweh see it, and it displease him,: and he turn away his wrath from him.
^(24,19)Don’t fret yourself because of evildoers;: neither be envious of the wicked:
^(24,20)for there will be no reward to the evil man;: and the lamp of the wicked shall be snuffed out.
^(24,21)My son, fear Yahweh and the king.: Don’t join those who are rebellious:
^(24,22)for their calamity will rise suddenly;: the destruction from them both—who knows?

^(24,23)These also are sayings of the wise.

To show partiality in judgment is not good.
^(24,24)He who says to the wicked, “You are righteous”;: peoples shall curse him, and nations shall abhor him—
^(24,25)but it will go well with those who convict the guilty,: and a rich blessing will come on them.
^(24,26)An honest answer: is like a kiss on the lips.
^(24,27)Prepare your work outside,: and get your fields ready.; Afterwards, build your house.
^(24,28)Don’t be a witness against your neighbor without cause.: Don’t deceive with your lips.
^(24,29)Don’t say, “I will do to him as he has done to me;: I will render to the man according to his work.”
^(24,30)I went by the field of the sluggard,: by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;
^(24,31)Behold, it was all grown over with thorns.: Its surface was covered with nettles,; and its stone wall was broken down.
^(24,32)Then I saw, and considered well.: I saw, and received instruction:
^(24,33)a little sleep, a little slumber,: a little folding of the hands to sleep;
^(24,34)so your poverty will come as a robber,: and your want as an armed man.

^(25,1)These also are proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out.

^(25,2)It is the glory of God to conceal a thing,: but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.
^(25,3)As the heavens for height, and the earth for depth,: so the hearts of kings are unsearchable.
^(25,4)Take away the dross from the silver,: and material comes out for the refiner;
^(25,5)Take away the wicked from the king’s presence,: and his throne will be established in righteousness.
^(25,6)Don’t exalt yourself in the presence of the king,: or claim a place among great men;
^(25,7)for it is better that it be said to you, “Come up here,”: than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince,; whom your eyes have seen.
^(25,8)Don’t be hasty in bringing charges to court.: What will you do in the end when your neighbor shames you?; ^(25,9)Debate your case with your neighbor,; and don’t betray the confidence of another;; ^(25,10)lest one who hears it put you to shame,; and your bad reputation never depart.

^(25,11)A word fitly spoken: is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
^(25,12)As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold,: so is a wise reprover to an obedient ear.
^(25,13)As the cold of snow in the time of harvest,: so is a faithful messenger to those who send him;; for he refreshes the soul of his masters.
^(25,14)As clouds and wind without rain,: so is he who boasts of gifts deceptively.
^(25,15)By patience a ruler is persuaded.: A soft tongue breaks the bone.
^(25,16)Have you found honey?: Eat as much as is sufficient for you,; lest you eat too much, and vomit it.
^(25,17)Let your foot be seldom in your neighbor’s house,: lest he be weary of you, and hate you.
^(25,18)A man who gives false testimony against his neighbor: is like a club, a sword, or a sharp arrow.
^(25,19)Confidence in someone unfaithful in time of trouble: is like a bad tooth, or a lame foot.
^(25,20)As one who takes away a garment in cold weather,: or vinegar on soda,; so is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.
^(25,21)If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat.: If he is thirsty, give him water to drink:
^(25,22)for you will heap coals of fire on his head,: and Yahweh will reward you.
^(25,23)The north wind brings forth rain:: so a backbiting tongue brings an angry face.
^(25,24)It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop,: than to share a house with a contentious woman.
^(25,25)Like cold water to a thirsty soul,: so is good news from a far country.
^(25,26)Like a muddied spring, and a polluted well,: so is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.
^(25,27)It is not good to eat much honey;: nor is it honorable to seek one’s own honor.
^(25,28)Like a city that is broken down and without walls: is a man whose spirit is without restraint.

so honor is not fitting for a fool.
^(26,2)Like a fluttering sparrow,: like a darting swallow,; so the undeserved curse doesn’t come to rest.
^(26,3)A whip is for the horse,: a bridle for the donkey,; and a rod for the back of fools!
^(26,4)Don’t answer a fool according to his folly,: lest you also be like him.
^(26,5)Answer a fool according to his folly,: lest he be wise in his own eyes.
^(26,6)One who sends a message by the hand of a fool: is cutting off feet and drinking violence.
^(26,7)Like the legs of the lame that hang loose:: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
^(26,8)As one who binds a stone in a sling,: so is he who gives honor to a fool.
^(26,9)Like a thornbush that goes into the hand of a drunkard,: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
^(26,10)As an archer who wounds all,: so is he who hires a fool; or he who hires those who pass by.
^(26,11)As a dog that returns to his vomit,: so is a fool who repeats his folly.
^(26,12)Do you see a man wise in his own eyes?: There is more hope for a fool than for him.
^(26,13)The sluggard says, “There is a lion in the road!: A fierce lion roams the streets!”
^(26,14)As the door turns on its hinges,: so does the sluggard on his bed.
^(26,15)The sluggard buries his hand in the dish.: He is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth.
^(26,16)The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes: than seven men who answer with discretion.
^(26,17)Like one who grabs a dog’s ears: is one who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own.
^(26,18)Like a madman who shoots torches, arrows, and death,: ^(26,19)is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, “Am I not joking?”
^(26,20)For lack of wood a fire goes out.: Without gossip, a quarrel dies down.
^(26,21)As coals are to hot embers,: and wood to fire,; so is a contentious man to kindling strife.
^(26,22)The words of a whisperer are as dainty morsels,: they go down into the innermost parts.
^(26,23)Like silver dross on an earthen vessel: are the lips of a fervent one with an evil heart.
^(26,24)A malicious man disguises himself with his lips,: but he harbors evil in his heart.
^(26,25)When his speech is charming, don’t believe him;: for there are seven abominations in his heart.
^(26,26)His malice may be concealed by deception,: but his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.
^(26,27)Whoever digs a pit shall fall into it.: Whoever rolls a stone, it will come back on him.
^(26,28)A lying tongue hates those it hurts;: and a flattering mouth works ruin.

for you don’t know what a day may bring forth.
^(27,2)Let another man praise you,: and not your own mouth;; a stranger, and not your own lips.
^(27,3)A stone is heavy,: and sand is a burden;; but a fool’s provocation is heavier than both.
^(27,4)Wrath is cruel,: and anger is overwhelming;; but who is able to stand before jealousy?
^(27,5)Better is open rebuke: than hidden love.
^(27,6)Faithful are the wounds of a friend;: although the kisses of an enemy are profuse.
^(27,7)A full soul loathes a honeycomb;: but to a hungry soul, every bitter thing is sweet.
^(27,8)As a bird that wanders from her nest,: so is a man who wanders from his home.
^(27,9)Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart;: so does earnest counsel from a man’s friend.
^(27,10)Don’t forsake your friend and your father’s friend.: Don’t go to your brother’s house in the day of your disaster:; better is a neighbor who is near than a distant brother.
^(27,11)Be wise, my son,: and bring joy to my heart,; then I can answer my tormentor.
^(27,12)A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge;: but the simple pass on, and suffer for it.
^(27,13)Take his garment when he puts up collateral for a stranger.: Hold it for a wayward woman!
^(27,14)He who blesses his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning,: it will be taken as a curse by him.
^(27,15)A continual dropping on a rainy day: and a contentious wife are alike:
^(27,16)restraining her is like restraining the wind,: or like grasping oil in his right hand.

^(27,17)Iron sharpens iron;: so a man sharpens his friend’s countenance.
^(27,18)Whoever tends the fig tree shall eat its fruit.: He who looks after his master shall be honored.
^(27,19)As water reflects a face,: so a man’s heart reflects the man.
^(27,20)Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied;: and a man’s eyes are never satisfied.
^(27,21)The crucible is for silver,: and the furnace for gold;; but man is refined by his praise.
^(27,22)Though you grind a fool in a mortar with a pestle along with grain,: yet his foolishness will not be removed from him.

^(27,23)Know well the state of your flocks,: and pay attention to your herds:
^(27,24)for riches are not forever,: nor does even the crown endure to all generations.
^(27,25)The hay is removed, and the new growth appears,: the grasses of the hills are gathered in.
^(27,26)The lambs are for your clothing,: and the goats are the price of a field.
^(27,27)There will be plenty of goats’ milk for your food,: for your family’s food,; and for the nourishment of your servant girls.

but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
^(28,2)In rebellion, a land has many rulers,: but order is maintained by a man of understanding and knowledge.
^(28,3)A needy man who oppresses the poor: is like a driving rain which leaves no crops.
^(28,4)Those who forsake the law praise the wicked;: but those who keep the law contend with them.
^(28,5)Evil men don’t understand justice;: but those who seek Yahweh understand it fully.
^(28,6)Better is the poor who walks in his integrity,: than he who is perverse in his ways, and he is rich.
^(28,7)Whoever keeps the law is a wise son;: but he who is a companion of gluttons shames his father.
^(28,8)He who increases his wealth by excessive interest: gathers it for one who has pity on the poor.
^(28,9)He who turns away his ear from hearing the law,: even his prayer is an abomination.
^(28,10)Whoever causes the upright to go astray in an evil way,: he will fall into his own trap;; but the blameless will inherit good.
^(28,11)The rich man is wise in his own eyes;: but the poor who has understanding sees through him.
^(28,12)When the righteous triumph, there is great glory;: but when the wicked rise, men hide themselves.
^(28,13)He who conceals his sins doesn’t prosper,: but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
^(28,14)Blessed is the man who always fears;: but one who hardens his heart falls into trouble.
^(28,15)As a roaring lion or a charging bear,: so is a wicked ruler over helpless people.
^(28,16)A tyrannical ruler lacks judgment.: One who hates ill-gotten gain will have long days.
^(28,17)A man who is tormented by life blood will be a fugitive until death;: no one will support him.
^(28,18)Whoever walks blamelessly is kept safe;: but one with perverse ways will fall suddenly.
^(28,19)One who works his land will have an abundance of food;: but one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.
^(28,20)A faithful man is rich with blessings;: but one who is eager to be rich will not go unpunished.
^(28,21)To show partiality is not good;: yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.
^(28,22)A stingy man hurries after riches,: and doesn’t know that poverty waits for him.
^(28,23)One who rebukes a man will afterward find more favor: than one who flatters with the tongue.
^(28,24)Whoever robs his father or his mother, and says, “It’s not wrong.”: He is a partner with a destroyer.
^(28,25)One who is greedy stirs up strife;: but one who trusts in Yahweh will prosper.
^(28,26)One who trusts in himself is a fool;: but one who walks in wisdom is kept safe.
^(28,27)One who gives to the poor has no lack;: but one who closes his eyes will have many curses.
^(28,28)When the wicked rise, men hide themselves;: but when they perish, the righteous thrive.

will be destroyed suddenly, with no remedy.
^(29,2)When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice;: but when the wicked rule, the people groan.
^(29,3)Whoever loves wisdom brings joy to his father;: but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.
^(29,4)The king by justice makes the land stable,: but he who takes bribes tears it down.
^(29,5)A man who flatters his neighbor: spreads a net for his feet.
^(29,6)An evil man is snared by his sin,: but the righteous can sing and be glad.
^(29,7)The righteous care about justice for the poor.: The wicked aren’t concerned about knowledge.
^(29,8)Mockers stir up a city,: but wise men turn away anger.
^(29,9)If a wise man goes to court with a foolish man,: the fool rages or scoffs, and there is no peace.
^(29,10)The bloodthirsty hate a man of integrity;: and they seek the life of the upright.
^(29,11)A fool vents all of his anger,: but a wise man brings himself under control.
^(29,12)If a ruler listens to lies,: all of his officials are wicked.
^(29,13)The poor man and the oppressor have this in common:: Yahweh gives sight to the eyes of both.
^(29,14)The king who fairly judges the poor,: his throne shall be established forever.
^(29,15)The rod of correction gives wisdom,: but a child left to himself causes shame to his mother.
^(29,16)When the wicked increase, sin increases;: but the righteous will see their downfall.
^(29,17)Correct your son, and he will give you peace;: yes, he will bring delight to your soul.
^(29,18)Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint;: but one who keeps the law is blessed.
^(29,19)A servant can’t be corrected by words.: Though he understands, yet he will not respond.
^(29,20)Do you see a man who is hasty in his words?: There is more hope for a fool than for him.
^(29,21)He who pampers his servant from youth: will have him become a son in the end.
^(29,22)An angry man stirs up strife,: and a wrathful man abounds in sin.
^(29,23)A man’s pride brings him low,: but one of lowly spirit gains honor.
^(29,24)Whoever is an accomplice of a thief is an enemy of his own soul.: He takes an oath, but dares not testify.
^(29,25)The fear of man proves to be a snare,: but whoever puts his trust in Yahweh is kept safe.
^(29,26)Many seek the ruler’s favor,: but a man’s justice comes from Yahweh.
^(29,27)A dishonest man detests the righteous,: and the upright in their ways detest the wicked.

^(30,1)The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, the oracle:

the man says to Ithiel,: to Ithiel and Ucal:
^(30,2)“Surely I am the most ignorant man,: and don’t have a man’s understanding.
^(30,3)I have not learned wisdom,: neither do I have the knowledge of the Holy One.
^(30,4)Who has ascended up into heaven, and descended?: Who has gathered the wind in his fists?; Who has bound the waters in his garment?; Who has established all the ends of the earth?; What is his name, and what is his son’s name, if you know?

^(30,5)“Every word of God is flawless.: He is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
^(30,6)Don’t you add to his words,: lest he reprove you, and you be found a liar.

^(30,7)“Two things I have asked of you;: don’t deny me before I die:
^(30,8)Remove far from me falsehood and lies.: Give me neither poverty nor riches.; Feed me with the food that is needful for me;
^(30,9)lest I be full, deny you, and say, ‘Who is Yahweh?’: or lest I be poor, and steal,; and so dishonor the name of my God.

^(30,10)“Don’t slander a servant to his master,: lest he curse you, and you be held guilty.
^(30,11)There is a generation that curses their father,: and doesn’t bless their mother.
^(30,12)There is a generation that is pure in their own eyes,: yet are not washed from their filthiness.
^(30,13)There is a generation, oh how lofty are their eyes!: Their eyelids are lifted up.
^(30,14)There is a generation whose teeth are like swords,: and their jaws like knives,; to devour the poor from the earth, and the needy from among men.

^(30,15)“The leach has two daughters:: ‘Give, give.’

“There are three things that are never satisfied;: four that don’t say, ‘Enough:’; ^(30,16)Sheol,; the barren womb;; the earth that is not satisfied with water;; and the fire that doesn’t say, ‘Enough.’

^(30,17)“The eye that mocks at his father,: and scorns obedience to his mother:; the ravens of the valley shall pick it out,; the young eagles shall eat it.

^(30,18)“There are three things which are too amazing for me,: four which I don’t understand:; ^(30,19)The way of an eagle in the air;; the way of a serpent on a rock;; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea;; and the way of a man with a maiden.

^(30,20)“So is the way of an adulterous woman:: she eats and wipes her mouth,; and says, ‘I have done nothing wrong.’

^(30,21)“For three things the earth tremble,: and under four, it can’t bear up:; ^(30,22)For a servant when he is king;; a fool when he is filled with food;; ^(30,23)for an unloved woman when she is married;; and a handmaid who is heir to her mistress.

^(30,24)“There are four things which are little on the earth,: but they are exceedingly wise:; ^(30,25)the ants are not a strong people,; yet they provide their food in the summer.; ^(30,26)The conies are but a feeble folk,; yet make they their houses in the rocks.; ^(30,27)The locusts have no king,; yet they advance in ranks.; ^(30,28)You can catch a lizard with your hands,; yet it is in kings’ palaces.

^(30,29)“There are three things which are stately in their march,: four which are stately in going:; ^(30,30)The lion, which is mightiest among animals,; and doesn’t turn away for any;; ^(30,31)the greyhound,; the male goat also;; and the king against whom there is no rising up.

^(30,32)“If you have done foolishly in lifting up yourself,: or if you have thought evil,
put your hand over your mouth.: ^(30,33)For as the churning of milk brings forth butter,; and the wringing of the nose brings forth blood;; so the forcing of wrath brings forth strife.”

^(31,1)The words of king Lemuel; the oracle which his mother taught him.

^(31,2)“Oh, my son!: Oh, son of my womb!; Oh, son of my vows!
^(31,3)Don’t give your strength to women,: nor your ways to that which destroys kings.
^(31,4)It is not for kings, Lemuel;: it is not for kings to drink wine;; nor for princes to say, ‘Where is strong drink?’
^(31,5)lest they drink, and forget the law,: and pervert the justice due to anyone who is afflicted.
^(31,6)Give strong drink to him who is ready to perish;: and wine to the bitter in soul:
^(31,7)Let him drink, and forget his poverty,: and remember his misery no more.
^(31,8)Open your mouth for the mute,: in the cause of all who are left desolate.
^(31,9)Open your mouth, judge righteously,: and serve justice to the poor and needy.”

^(31,10)^*Who can find a worthy woman?: For her price is far above rubies.
^(31,11)The heart of her husband trusts in her.: He shall have no lack of gain.
^(31,12)She does him good, and not harm,: all the days of her life.
^(31,13)She seeks wool and flax,: and works eagerly with her hands.
^(31,14)She is like the merchant ships.: She brings her bread from afar.
^(31,15)She rises also while it is yet night,: gives food to her household,; and portions for her servant girls.
^(31,16)She considers a field, and buys it.: With the fruit of her hands, she plants a vineyard.
^(31,17)She arms her waist with strength,: and makes her arms strong.
^(31,18)She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.: Her lamp doesn’t go out by night.
^(31,19)She lays her hands to the distaff,: and her hands hold the spindle.
^(31,20)She opens her arms to the poor;: yes, she extends her hands to the needy.
^(31,21)She is not afraid of the snow for her household;: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
^(31,22)She makes for herself carpets of tapestry.: Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
^(31,23)Her husband is respected in the gates,: when he sits among the elders of the land.
^(31,24)She makes linen garments and sells them,: and delivers sashes to the merchant.
^(31,25)Strength and dignity are her clothing.: She laughs at the time to come.
^(31,26)She opens her mouth with wisdom.: Faithful instruction is on her tongue.
^(31,27)She looks well to the ways of her household,: and doesn’t eat the bread of idleness.
^(31,28)Her children rise up and call her blessed.: Her husband also praises her:
^(31,29)“Many women do noble things,: but you excel them all.”
^(31,30)Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain;: but a woman who fears Yahweh, she shall be praised.
^(31,31)Give her of the fruit of her hands!: Let her works praise her in the gates!

Notes:

[1] back to 1:7 “Yahweh” is God’s proper Name, sometimes rendered “LORD” (all caps) in other translations.

[2] back to 1:12 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[3] back to 2:5 The Hebrew word rendered “God” is “Elohim.”

[4] back to 5:5 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[5] back to 7:27 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[6] back to 9:18 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[7] back to 15:11 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[8] back to 15:24 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[9] back to 23:14 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[10] back to 27:20 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[11] back to 30:16 Sheol is the place of the dead.

[12] back to 31:10 Proverbs 31:10-31 form an acrostic, with each verse starting with each letter of the Hebrew alphabet, in order.

[Index]