1 H e who, being often reproved, hardens his neck shall suddenly be destroyed—and that without remedy.

2 W hen the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked man rules, the people groan and sigh.

3 W hoever loves skillful and godly Wisdom rejoices his father, but he who associates with harlots wastes his substance.

4 T he king by justice establishes the land, but he who exacts gifts and tribute overthrows it.

5 A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his own feet.

6 I n the transgression of an evil man there is a snare, but the righteous man sings and rejoices.

7 T he righteous man knows and cares for the rights of the poor, but the wicked man has no interest in such knowledge.

8 S coffers set a city afire, but wise men turn away wrath.

9 I f a wise man has an argument with a foolish man, the fool only rages or laughs, and there is no rest.

10 T he bloodthirsty hate the blameless man, but the upright care for and seek his life.

11 A fool utters all his anger, but a wise man holds it back and stills it.

12 I f a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will become wicked.

13 T he poor man and the oppressor meet together—the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.

14 T he king who faithfully judges the poor, his throne shall be established continuously.

15 T he rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left undisciplined brings his mother to shame.

16 W hen the wicked are in authority, transgression increases, but the righteous shall see the fall of the wicked.

17 C orrect your son, and he will give you rest; yes, he will give delight to your heart.

18 W here there is no vision, the people perish; but he who keeps the law —blessed (happy, fortunate, and enviable) is he.

19 A servant will not be corrected by words alone; for though he understands, he will not answer.

20 D o you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

21 H e who pampers his servant from childhood will have him expecting the rights of a son afterward.

22 A man of wrath stirs up strife, and a man given to anger commits and causes much transgression.

23 A man’s pride will bring him low, but he who is of a humble spirit will obtain honor.

24 W hoever is partner with a thief hates his own life; he falls under the curse but discloses nothing.

25 T he fear of man brings a snare, but whoever leans on, trusts in, and puts his confidence in the Lord is safe and set on high.

26 M any crave and seek the ruler’s favor, but the wise man for justice from the Lord.

27 A n unjust man is an abomination to the righteous, and he who is upright in the way is an abomination to the wicked.