\NormalFont\ShortTitle{PROVERBS}

{\MT Proverbs



\par }\ChapOne{1}{\SH The Reasons for Proverbs
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The proverbs of Solomon, David’s son who was king of Israel,
{\ADD{⌞given⌟}}


\par }{\Q \VS{2}to grasp wisdom and discipline,

\par }{\Q to understand deep thoughts,


\par }{\Q \VS{3}to acquire the discipline of wise behavior—

\par }{\Q righteousness and justice and fairness—


\par }{\Q \VS{4}to give insight to gullible people,

\par }{\Q to give knowledge and foresight to the young—


\par }{\Q \VS{5}a wise person will listen and continue to learn,

\par }{\Q and an understanding person will gain direction—


\par }{\Q \VS{6}to understand a proverb and a clever saying,

\par }{\Q the words of wise people and their riddles.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{7}The fear of the
{\ND{Lord}} is the beginning of knowledge.

\par }{\Q Stubborn fools despise wisdom and discipline.


\par }{\SH Listen to Wisdom
\par }
{\Q \VS{8}My son,

\par }{\Q listen to your father’s discipline,

\par }{\Q and do not neglect your mother’s teachings,


\par }{\Q \VS{9}because discipline and teachings

\par }{\Q are a graceful garland on your head

\par }{\Q and a
{\ADD{⌞golden⌟}} chain around your neck.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}My son,

\par }{\Q if sinners lure you, do not go along.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}If they say,

\par }{\Q “Come with us.

\par }{\Q Let’s set an ambush to kill someone.

\par }{\Q Let’s hide to ambush innocent people for fun.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}We’ll swallow them alive like the grave,

\par }{\Q like those in good health who go into the pit.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}We’ll find all kinds of valuable possessions.

\par }{\Q We’ll fill our homes with stolen goods.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Join us.

\par }{\Q We’ll split the loot equally.”


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}My son,

\par }{\Q do not follow them in their way.

\par }{\Q Do not even set foot on their path,


\par }{\Q \VS{16}because they rush to do evil

\par }{\Q and hurry to shed blood.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}It does no good to spread a net

\par }{\Q within the sight of any bird.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}But these people set an ambush for their own murder.

\par }{\Q They go into hiding only to lose their lives.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}This is what happens to everyone

\par }{\Q who is greedy for unjust gain.

\par }{\Q Greed takes away his life.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}Wisdom sings her song in the streets.

\par }{\Q In the public squares she raises her voice.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}At the corners of noisy streets she calls out.

\par }{\Q At the entrances to the city she speaks her words,


\par }{\Q \VS{22}“How long will you gullible people love being so gullible?

\par }{\Q How long will you mockers find joy in your mocking?

\par }{\Q How long will you fools hate knowledge?


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{23}“Turn to me when I warn you.

\par }{\Q I will generously pour out my spirit for you.

\par }{\Q I will make my words known to you.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{24}“I called, and you refused to listen.

\par }{\Q I stretched out my hands to you, and no one paid attention.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}You ignored all my advice.

\par }{\Q You did not want me to warn you.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}I will laugh at your calamity.

\par }{\Q I will make fun of you

\par }{\Q when panic strikes you,


\par }{\Q \VS{27}when panic strikes you like a violent storm,

\par }{\Q when calamity strikes you like a wind storm,

\par }{\Q when trouble and anguish come to you.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{28}“They will call to me at that time, but I will not answer.

\par }{\Q They will look for me, but they will not find me,


\par }{\Q \VS{29}because they hated knowledge

\par }{\Q and did not choose the fear of the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}They refused my advice.

\par }{\Q They despised my every warning.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}They will eat the fruit of their lifestyle.

\par }{\Q They will be stuffed with their own schemes.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{32}“Gullible people kill themselves because of their turning away.

\par }{\Q Fools destroy themselves because of their indifference.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}But whoever listens to me will live without worry

\par }{\Q and will be free from the dread of disaster.”




\par }\Chap{2}{\SH The Benefit of Wisdom
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}My son,

\par }{\Q if you take my words
{\ADD{⌞to heart⌟}}

\par }{\Q and treasure my commands within you,


\par }{\Q \VS{2}if you pay close attention to wisdom,

\par }{\Q and let your mind reach for understanding,


\par }{\Q \VS{3}if indeed you call out for insight,

\par }{\Q if you ask aloud for understanding,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}if you search for wisdom as if it were money

\par }{\Q and hunt for it as if it were hidden treasure,


\par }{\Q \VS{5}then you will understand the fear of the
{\ND{Lord}}

\par }{\Q and you will find the knowledge of God.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The
{\ND{Lord}} gives wisdom.

\par }{\Q From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}He has reserved priceless wisdom for decent people.

\par }{\Q He is a shield for those who walk in integrity


\par }{\Q \VS{8}in order to guard those on paths of justice

\par }{\Q and to watch over the way of his godly ones.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—

\par }{\Q every good course
{\ADD{⌞in life⌟}}.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}Wisdom will come into your heart.

\par }{\Q Knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Foresight will protect you.

\par }{\Q Understanding will guard you.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{12}{\ADD{⌞Wisdom will⌟}} save you

\par }{\Q from the way of evil,

\par }{\Q from the person who speaks devious things,


\par }{\Q \VS{13}from those who abandon the paths of righteousness

\par }{\Q to walk the ways of darkness,


\par }{\Q \VS{14}from those who enjoy doing evil,

\par }{\Q from those who find joy in the deviousness of evil.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Their paths are crooked.

\par }{\Q Their ways are devious.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{16}{\ADD{⌞Wisdom will⌟}} also save you

\par }{\Q from an adulterous woman,

\par }{\Q from a loose woman with her smooth talk,


\par }{\Q \VS{17}who leaves
{\ADD{⌞her husband,⌟}} the closest friend of her youth,

\par }{\Q and forgets her marriage vows to her God.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Her house sinks down to death.

\par }{\Q Her ways lead to the souls of the dead.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}None who have sex with her come back.

\par }{\Q Nor do they ever reach the paths of life.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}So walk in the way of good people

\par }{\Q and stay on the paths of righteous people.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Decent people will live in the land.

\par }{\Q People of integrity will remain in it.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}But wicked people will be cut off from the land

\par }{\Q and treacherous people will be torn \FTNT{*}{{\FR 2:22 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“will be swept away.”}}} from it.




\par }\Chap{3}{\SH Using Wisdom
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}My son,

\par }{\Q do not forget my teachings,

\par }{\Q and keep my commands in mind,


\par }{\Q \VS{2}because they will bring you

\par }{\Q long life, good years, and peace.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{3}Do not let mercy and truth leave you.

\par }{\Q Fasten them around your neck.

\par }{\Q Write them on the tablet of your heart.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Then you will find favor and much success

\par }{\Q in the sight of God and humanity.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}Trust the
{\ND{Lord}} with all your heart,

\par }{\Q and do not rely on your own understanding.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}In all your ways acknowledge him,

\par }{\Q and he will make your paths smooth.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 3:6 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“straight.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Do not consider yourself wise.

\par }{\Q Fear the
{\ND{Lord}}, and turn away from evil.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}{\ADD{⌞Then⌟}} your body will be healed,

\par }{\Q and your bones will have nourishment.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{9}Honor the
{\ND{Lord}} with your wealth

\par }{\Q and with the first and best part of all your income.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 3:9 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“harvest.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Then your barns will be full,

\par }{\Q and your vats will overflow with fresh wine.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{11}Do not reject the discipline of the
{\ND{Lord}}, my son,

\par }{\Q and do not resent his warning,


\par }{\Q \VS{12}because the
{\ND{Lord}} warns the one he loves,

\par }{\Q even as a father warns a son with whom he is pleased.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}Blessed is the one who finds wisdom

\par }{\Q and the one who obtains understanding.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The profit
{\ADD{⌞gained⌟}} from
{\ADD{⌞wisdom⌟}} is greater than

\par }{\Q the profit
{\ADD{⌞gained⌟}} from silver.

\par }{\Q Its yield is better than fine gold.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}{\ADD{⌞Wisdom⌟}} is more precious than jewels,

\par }{\Q and all your desires cannot equal it.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Long life is in
{\ADD{⌞wisdom’s⌟}} right hand.

\par }{\Q In
{\ADD{⌞wisdom’s⌟}} left hand are riches and honor.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}{\ADD{⌞Wisdom’s⌟}} ways are pleasant ways,

\par }{\Q and all its paths lead to peace.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}{\ADD{⌞Wisdom⌟}} is a tree of life

\par }{\Q for those who take firm hold of it.

\par }{\Q Those who cling to it are blessed.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{19}By Wisdom the
{\ND{Lord}} laid the foundation of the earth.

\par }{\Q By understanding he established the heavens.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}By his knowledge the deep waters were divided,

\par }{\Q and the skies dropped dew.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{21}My son,

\par }{\Q do not lose sight of these things.

\par }{\Q Use priceless wisdom and foresight.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Then they will mean life for you,

\par }{\Q and they will grace your neck.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Then you will go safely on your way,

\par }{\Q and you will not hurt your foot.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}When you lie down, you will not be afraid.

\par }{\Q As you lie there, your sleep will be sweet.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{25}Do not be afraid of sudden terror

\par }{\Q or of the destruction of wicked people when it comes.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}The
{\ND{Lord}} will be your confidence.

\par }{\Q He will keep your foot from getting caught.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{27}Do not hold back anything good

\par }{\Q from those who are entitled to it

\par }{\Q when you have the power to do so.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}When you have the good thing with you, do not tell your neighbor,

\par }{\Q “Go away!

\par }{\Q Come back tomorrow.

\par }{\Q I’ll give you something then.”


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{29}Do not plan to do something wrong to your neighbor

\par }{\Q while he is sitting there with you and suspecting nothing.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}Do not quarrel with a person for no reason

\par }{\Q if he has not harmed you.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}Do not envy a violent person.

\par }{\Q Do not choose any of his ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}The devious person is disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}}.

\par }{\Q The
{\ND{Lord}}’s intimate advice is with decent people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{33}The
{\ND{Lord}} curses the house of wicked people,

\par }{\Q but he blesses the home of righteous people.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}When he mocks the mockers,

\par }{\Q he is gracious to humble people.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}Wise people will inherit honor,

\par }{\Q but fools will bear disgrace.




\par }\Chap{4}{\SH Cherish Wisdom
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Sons,

\par }{\Q listen to
{\ADD{⌞your⌟}} father’s discipline,

\par }{\Q and pay attention in order to gain understanding.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}After all, I have taught you well.

\par }{\Q Do not abandon my teachings.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}When I was a boy
{\ADD{⌞learning⌟}} from my father,

\par }{\Q when I was a tender and only child of my mother,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}they used to teach me and say to me,

\par }{\Q “Cling to my words wholeheartedly.

\par }{\Q Obey my commands so that you may live.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Acquire wisdom.

\par }{\Q Acquire understanding.

\par }{\Q Do not forget.

\par }{\Q Do not turn away from the words that I have spoken.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Do not abandon wisdom, and it will watch over you.

\par }{\Q Love wisdom, and it will protect you.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The beginning of wisdom is to acquire wisdom.

\par }{\Q Acquire understanding with all that you have.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Cherish wisdom.

\par }{\Q It will raise you up.

\par }{\Q It will bring you honor when you embrace it.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}It will give you a graceful garland for your head.

\par }{\Q It will hand you a beautiful crown.”


\par }{\SH Stay on the Path of Wisdom
\par }
{\Q \VS{10}My son,

\par }{\Q listen and accept my words,

\par }{\Q and they will multiply the years of your life.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}I have taught you the way of wisdom.

\par }{\Q I have guided you along decent paths.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}When you walk, your stride will not be hampered.

\par }{\Q Even if you run, you will not stumble.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}Cling to discipline.

\par }{\Q Do not relax your grip on it.

\par }{\Q Keep it because it is your life.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Do not stray onto the path of wicked people.

\par }{\Q Do not walk in the way of evil people.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Avoid it.

\par }{\Q Do not walk near it.

\par }{\Q Turn away from it,

\par }{\Q and keep on walking.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Wicked people cannot sleep

\par }{\Q unless they do wrong,

\par }{\Q and they are robbed of their sleep

\par }{\Q unless they make someone stumble.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}They eat food obtained through wrongdoing

\par }{\Q and drink wine obtained through violence.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{18}But the path of righteous people is like the light of dawn

\par }{\Q that becomes brighter and brighter until it reaches midday.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}The way of wicked people is like deep darkness.

\par }{\Q They do not know what makes them stumble.


\par }{\SH Stay Focused on Wisdom
\par }
{\Q \VS{20}My son,

\par }{\Q pay attention to my words.

\par }{\Q Open your ears to what I say.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Do not lose sight of these things.

\par }{\Q Keep them deep within your heart


\par }{\Q \VS{22}because they are life to those who find them

\par }{\Q and they heal the whole body.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Guard your heart more than anything else,

\par }{\Q because the source of your life flows from it.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Remove dishonesty from your mouth.

\par }{\Q Put deceptive speech far away from your lips.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Let your eyes look straight ahead

\par }{\Q and your sight be focused in front of you.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Carefully walk a straight path,

\par }{\Q and all your ways will be secure.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Do not lean to the right or to the left.

\par }{\Q Walk away from evil.




\par }\Chap{5}{\SH Avoid Adultery
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}My son,

\par }{\Q pay attention to my wisdom.

\par }{\Q Open your ears to my understanding


\par }{\Q \VS{2}so that you may act with foresight

\par }{\Q and speak with insight.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{3}The lips of an adulterous woman drip with honey.

\par }{\Q Her kiss is smoother than oil,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}but in the end she is as bitter as wormwood,

\par }{\Q as sharp as a two-edged sword.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Her feet descend to death.

\par }{\Q Her steps lead straight to hell.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}She doesn’t even think about the path of life.

\par }{\Q Her steps wander, and she doesn’t realize it.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{7}But now, sons,

\par }{\Q listen to me,

\par }{\Q and do not turn away from what I say to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Stay far away from her.

\par }{\Q Do not even go near her door.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Either you will surrender your reputation to others

\par }{\Q and
{\ADD{⌞the rest of⌟}} your years to some cruel person,


\par }{\Q \VS{10}or strangers will benefit from your strength

\par }{\Q and you will have to work hard in a pagan’s house.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Then you will groan when your end comes,

\par }{\Q when your body and flesh are consumed.

\par }{\Q You will say,


\par }{\Q \VS{12}“Oh, how I hated discipline!

\par }{\Q How my heart despised correction!


\par }{\Q \VS{13}I didn’t listen to what my teachers said to me,

\par }{\Q nor did I keep my ear open to my instructors.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}I almost reached total ruin

\par }{\Q in the assembly and in the congregation.”


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}Drink water out of your own cistern

\par }{\Q and running water from your own well.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Why should water flow out of your spring?

\par }{\Q Why should your streams flow into the streets?


\par }{\Q \VS{17}They should be yours alone,

\par }{\Q so do not share them with strangers.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Let your own fountain be blessed,

\par }{\Q and enjoy the girl you married when you were young,


\par }{\Q \VS{19}a loving doe and a graceful deer.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 5:19 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“graceful goat.”}}}

\par }{\Q Always let her breasts satisfy you.

\par }{\Q Always be intoxicated with her love.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Why should you, my son,

\par }{\Q be intoxicated with an adulterous woman

\par }{\Q and fondle a loose woman’s breast?


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{21}Each person’s ways are clearly seen by the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q and he surveys all his actions.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}A wicked person will be trapped by his own wrongs,

\par }{\Q and he will be caught in the ropes of his own sin.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}He will die for his lack of discipline

\par }{\Q and stumble around because of his great stupidity.




\par }\Chap{6}{\SH Avoid Disaster
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}My son,

\par }{\Q if you guarantee a loan for your neighbor

\par }{\Q or pledge yourself for a stranger with a handshake,


\par }{\Q \VS{2}you are trapped by the words of your own mouth,

\par }{\Q caught by your own promise.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{3}Do the following things, my son, so that you may free yourself,

\par }{\Q because you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands:

\par }{\Q Humble yourself,

\par }{\Q and pester your neighbor.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Don’t let your eyes rest

\par }{\Q or your eyelids close.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Free yourself like a gazelle from the hand of a hunter

\par }{\Q and like a bird from the hand of a hunter.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{6}Consider the ant, you lazy bum.

\par }{\Q Watch its ways, and become wise.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Although it has no overseer, officer, or ruler,


\par }{\Q \VS{8}in summertime it stores its food supply.

\par }{\Q At harvest time it gathers its food.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{9}How long will you lie there, you lazy bum?

\par }{\Q When will you get up from your sleep?


\par }{\Q \VS{10}“Just a little sleep,

\par }{\Q just a little slumber,

\par }{\Q just a little nap.”


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Then your poverty will come
{\ADD{⌞to you⌟}} like a drifter,

\par }{\Q and your need will come
{\ADD{⌞to you⌟}} like a bandit.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{12}A good-for-nothing scoundrel is a person who has a dishonest mouth.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}He winks his eye,

\par }{\Q makes a signal with his foot,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞and⌟}} points with his fingers.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}He devises evil all the time with a twisted mind.

\par }{\Q He spreads conflict.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}That is why disaster will come on him suddenly.

\par }{\Q In a moment he will be crushed beyond recovery.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{16}There are six things that the
{\ND{Lord}} hates,

\par }{\Q even seven that are disgusting to him:


\par }{\Q \VS{17}arrogant eyes,

\par }{\Q a lying tongue,

\par }{\Q hands that kill innocent people,


\par }{\Q \VS{18}a mind devising wicked plans,

\par }{\Q feet that are quick to do wrong,


\par }{\Q \VS{19}a dishonest witness spitting out lies,

\par }{\Q and a person who spreads conflict among relatives.


\par }{\SH More Advice about Avoiding Adultery
\par }
{\Q \VS{20}My son,

\par }{\Q obey the command of your father,

\par }{\Q and do not disregard the teachings of your mother.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Fasten them on your heart forever.

\par }{\Q Hang them around your neck.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}When you walk around, they will lead you.

\par }{\Q When you lie down, they will watch over you.

\par }{\Q When you wake up, they will talk to you


\par }{\Q \VS{23}because the command is a lamp,

\par }{\Q the teachings are a light,

\par }{\Q and the warnings from discipline are the path of life


\par }{\Q \VS{24}to keep you from an evil woman

\par }{\Q and from the smooth talk of a loose woman.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{25}Do not desire her beauty in your heart.

\par }{\Q Do not let her catch you with her eyes.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}A prostitute’s price is
{\ADD{⌞only⌟}} a loaf of bread,

\par }{\Q but a married woman hunts for
{\ADD{⌞your⌟}} life itself.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Can a man carry fire in his lap

\par }{\Q without burning his clothes?


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Can anyone walk on red-hot coals

\par }{\Q without burning his feet?


\par }{\Q \VS{29}So it is with a man who has sex with his neighbor’s wife.

\par }{\Q None who touch her will escape punishment.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}People do not despise a thief who is hungry

\par }{\Q when he steals to satisfy his appetite,


\par }{\Q \VS{31}but when he is caught,

\par }{\Q he has to repay it seven times.

\par }{\Q He must give up all the possessions in his house.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{32}Whoever commits adultery with a woman has no sense.

\par }{\Q Whoever does this destroys himself.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}An adulterous man will find disease \FTNT{*}{{\FR 6:33 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“wounds.”}}} and dishonor,

\par }{\Q and his disgrace will not be blotted out,


\par }{\Q \VS{34}because jealousy arouses a husband’s fury.

\par }{\Q The husband will show no mercy when he takes revenge.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}No amount of money will change his mind.

\par }{\Q The largest bribe will not satisfy him.




\par }\PoetryChap{7}{\Q \VerseOne{1}My son,

\par }{\Q pay attention to my words.

\par }{\Q Treasure my commands that are within you.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Obey my commands so that you may live.

\par }{\Q Follow my teachings just as you protect the pupil of your eye.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Tie them on your fingers.

\par }{\Q Write them on the tablet of your heart.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Say to wisdom, “You are my sister.”

\par }{\Q Give the name “my relative” to understanding


\par }{\Q \VS{5}in order to guard yourself from an adulterous woman,

\par }{\Q from a loose woman with her smooth talk.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{6}From a window in my house I looked through my screen.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}I was looking at gullible people

\par }{\Q when I saw a young man without much sense among youths


\par }{\Q \VS{8}He was crossing a street near her corner

\par }{\Q and walking toward her house


\par }{\Q \VS{9}in the twilight,

\par }{\Q in the evening,

\par }{\Q in the dark hours of the night.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}A woman with an ulterior motive meets him.

\par }{\Q She is dressed as a prostitute.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}She is loud and rebellious.

\par }{\Q Her feet will not stay at home.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}One moment she is out on the street,

\par }{\Q the next she is at the curb,

\par }{\Q on the prowl at every corner.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}She grabs him and kisses him and brazenly says to him,


\par }{\Q \VS{14}“I have some sacrificial meat.

\par }{\Q Today I kept my vows.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}That’s why I came to meet you.

\par }{\Q Eagerly, I looked for you,

\par }{\Q and I’ve found you.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}I’ve made my bed,

\par }{\Q with colored sheets of Egyptian linen.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I’ve sprinkled my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Come, let’s drink our fill of love until morning.

\par }{\Q Let’s enjoy making love,


\par }{\Q \VS{19}because my husband’s not home.

\par }{\Q He has gone on a long trip.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}He took lots of money with him.

\par }{\Q He won’t be home for a couple of weeks.”


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{21}With all her seductive charms, she persuades him.

\par }{\Q With her smooth lips, she makes him give in.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}He immediately follows her

\par }{\Q like a steer on its way to be slaughtered,

\par }{\Q like a ram hobbling into captivity


\par }{\Q \VS{23}until an arrow pierces his heart,

\par }{\Q like a bird darting into a trap.

\par }{\Q He does not realize that it will cost him his life.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{24}Now, sons,

\par }{\Q listen to me.

\par }{\Q Pay attention to the words from my mouth.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Do not let your heart be turned to her ways.

\par }{\Q Do not wander onto her paths,


\par }{\Q \VS{26}because she has brought down many victims,

\par }{\Q and she has killed all too many.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Her home is the way to hell

\par }{\Q and leads to the darkest vaults of death.




\par }\Chap{8}{\SH Wisdom’s Announcement
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Does not wisdom call out?

\par }{\Q Does not understanding raise its voice?


\par }{\Q \VS{2}{\ADD{⌞Wisdom⌟}} takes its stand on high ground,

\par }{\Q by the wayside where the roads meet,


\par }{\Q \VS{3}near the gates to the city.

\par }{\Q At the entrance
{\ADD{⌞wisdom⌟}} sings its song,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}“I am calling to all of you,

\par }{\Q and my appeal is to all people.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}You gullible people, learn how to be sensible.

\par }{\Q You fools, get a heart that has understanding.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Listen! I am speaking about noble things,

\par }{\Q and my lips will say what is right.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}My mouth expresses the truth,

\par }{\Q and wickedness is disgusting to my lips.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Everything I say is fair,

\par }{\Q and there is nothing twisted or crooked in it.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}All of it is clear to a person who has understanding

\par }{\Q and right to those who have acquired knowledge.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Take my discipline, not silver,

\par }{\Q and my knowledge rather than fine gold,


\par }{\Q \VS{11}because wisdom is better than jewels.

\par }{\Q Nothing you desire can equal it.


\par }{\SH Wisdom’s Authority
\par }
{\Q \VS{12}“I, Wisdom, live with insight,

\par }{\Q and I acquire knowledge and foresight.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}To fear the
{\ND{Lord}} is to hate evil.

\par }{\Q I hate pride, arrogance, evil behavior, and twisted speech.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Advice and priceless wisdom are mine.

\par }{\Q I, Understanding, have strength.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Through me kings reign,

\par }{\Q and rulers decree fair laws.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Through me princes rule,

\par }{\Q so do nobles and all fair judges.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}I love those who love me.

\par }{\Q Those eagerly looking for me will find me.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}I have riches and honor,

\par }{\Q lasting wealth and righteousness.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}What I produce is better than gold, pure gold.

\par }{\Q What I yield is better than fine silver.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}I walk in the way of righteousness, on the paths of justice,


\par }{\Q \VS{21}to give an inheritance to those who love me

\par }{\Q and to fill their treasuries.


\par }{\SH Wisdom as Creator
\par }
{\Q \VS{22}“The
{\ND{Lord}} already possessed me long ago,

\par }{\Q when his way began,

\par }{\Q before any of his works.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}I was appointed from everlasting

\par }{\Q from the first,

\par }{\Q before the earth began.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}I was born

\par }{\Q before there were oceans,

\par }{\Q before there were springs filled with water.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}I was born

\par }{\Q before the mountains were settled in their places

\par }{\Q and before the hills,


\par }{\Q \VS{26}when he had not yet made land or fields

\par }{\Q or the first dust of the world.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{27}“When he set up the heavens, I was there.

\par }{\Q When he traced the horizon on the surface of the ocean,


\par }{\Q \VS{28}when he established the skies above,

\par }{\Q when he determined the currents in the ocean,


\par }{\Q \VS{29}when he set a limit for the sea

\par }{\Q so the waters would not overstep his command,

\par }{\Q when he traced the foundations of the earth,


\par }{\Q \VS{30}I was beside him as a master craftsman.

\par }{\Q I made him happy day after day,

\par }{\Q I rejoiced in front of him all the time,


\par }{\Q \VS{31}found joy in his inhabited world, and delighted in the human race.


\par }{\SH Wisdom as Lifegiver
\par }
{\Q \VS{32}“Now, sons, listen to me.

\par }{\Q Blessed are those who follow my ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}Listen to discipline, and become wise.

\par }{\Q Do not leave my ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}Blessed is the person who listens to me,

\par }{\Q watches at my door day after day,

\par }{\Q and waits by my doorposts.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}Whoever finds me finds life

\par }{\Q and obtains favor from the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{36}Whoever sins against me harms himself.

\par }{\Q All those who hate me love death.”




\par }\Chap{9}{\SH Wisdom Hosts a Banquet
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Wisdom has built her house.

\par }{\Q She has carved out her seven pillars.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}She has prepared her meat.

\par }{\Q She has mixed her wine.

\par }{\Q She has set her table.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}She has sent out her servant girls.

\par }{\Q She calls from the highest places in the city,


\par }{\Q \VS{4}“Whoever is gullible turn in here!”

\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q She says to a person without sense,


\par }{\Q \VS{5}“Come, eat my bread,

\par }{\Q and drink the wine I have mixed.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Stop being gullible and live.

\par }{\Q Start traveling the road to understanding.”


\par }{\SH Wisdom Prolongs Life
\par }
{\Q \VS{7}Whoever corrects a mocker receives abuse.

\par }{\Q Whoever warns a wicked person gets hurt.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Do not warn a mocker, or he will hate you.

\par }{\Q Warn a wise person, and he will love you.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Give
{\ADD{⌞advice⌟}} to a wise person,

\par }{\Q and he will become even wiser.

\par }{\Q Teach a righteous person,

\par }{\Q and he will learn more.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}The fear of the
{\ND{Lord}} is the beginning of wisdom.

\par }{\Q The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{11}You will live longer because of me,

\par }{\Q and years will be added to your life.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}If you are wise, your wisdom will help you.

\par }{\Q If you mock, you alone will be held responsible.


\par }{\SH Stupidity Imitates Wisdom’s Banquet
\par }
{\Q \VS{13}The woman Stupidity is loud, gullible, and ignorant.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}She sits at the doorway of her house.

\par }{\Q She is enthroned on the high ground of the city


\par }{\Q \VS{15}and calls to those who pass by,

\par }{\Q those minding their own business,


\par }{\Q \VS{16}“Whoever is gullible turn in here!”

\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q She says to a person without sense,


\par }{\Q \VS{17}“Stolen waters are sweet,

\par }{\Q and food eaten in secret is tasty.”


\par }{\Q \VS{18}But he does not know

\par }{\Q that the souls of the dead are there,

\par }{\Q that her guests are in the depths of hell.




\par }\Chap{10}{\MM \VerseOne{1}The proverbs of Solomon:

\par }{\SH A Wise Son Is Righteous
\par }
{\Q A wise son makes his father happy,

\par }{\Q but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{2}Treasures gained dishonestly profit no one,

\par }{\Q but righteousness rescues from death.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The
{\ND{Lord}} will not allow a righteous person to starve,

\par }{\Q but he intentionally ignores the desires of a wicked person.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{4}Lazy hands bring poverty,

\par }{\Q but hard-working hands bring riches.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Whoever gathers in the summer is a wise son.

\par }{\Q Whoever sleeps at harvest time brings shame.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{6}Blessings cover the head of a righteous person,

\par }{\Q but violence covers the mouths of wicked people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{7}The name of a righteous person remains blessed,

\par }{\Q but the names of wicked people will rot away.


\par }{\SH Proverbs Concerning the Mouth
\par }
{\Q \VS{8}The one who is truly wise accepts commands,

\par }{\Q but the one who talks foolishly will be thrown down headfirst.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Whoever lives honestly will live securely,

\par }{\Q but whoever lives dishonestly will be found out.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Whoever winks with his eye causes heartache.

\par }{\Q The one who talks foolishly will be thrown down headfirst.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The mouth of a righteous person is a fountain of life,

\par }{\Q but the mouths of wicked people conceal violence.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Hate starts quarrels,

\par }{\Q but love covers every wrong.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}Wisdom is found on the lips of a person who has understanding,

\par }{\Q but a rod is for the back of one without sense.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Those who are wise store up knowledge,

\par }{\Q but the mouth of a stubborn fool invites ruin.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}The rich person’s wealth is
{\ADD{⌞his⌟}} strong city.

\par }{\Q Poverty ruins the poor.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}A righteous person’s reward is life.

\par }{\Q A wicked person’s harvest is sin.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Whoever practices discipline is on the way to life,

\par }{\Q but whoever ignores a warning strays.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{18}Whoever conceals hatred has lying lips.

\par }{\Q Whoever spreads slander is a fool.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Sin is unavoidable when there is much talk,

\par }{\Q but whoever seals his lips is wise.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}The tongue of a righteous person is pure silver.

\par }{\Q The hearts of wicked people are worthless.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}The lips of a righteous person feed many,

\par }{\Q but stubborn fools die because they have no sense.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{22}It is the
{\ND{Lord}}’s blessing that makes a person rich,

\par }{\Q and hard work adds nothing to it.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Like the laughter of a fool when he carries out an evil plan,

\par }{\Q so is wisdom to a person who has understanding.


\par }{\SH Righteous People Contrasted to Wicked People
\par }
{\Q \VS{24}That which wicked people dread happens to them,

\par }{\Q but
{\ADD{⌞the
{\ND{Lord}}⌟}} grants the desire of righteous people.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}When the storm has passed, the wicked person has vanished,

\par }{\Q but the righteous person has an everlasting foundation.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Like vinegar to the teeth,

\par }{\Q like smoke to the eyes,

\par }{\Q so is the lazy person to those who send him
{\ADD{⌞on a mission⌟}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}The fear of the
{\ND{Lord}} lengthens
{\ADD{⌞the number of⌟}} days,

\par }{\Q but the years of wicked people are shortened.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}The hope of righteous people
{\ADD{⌞leads to⌟}} joy,

\par }{\Q but the eager waiting of wicked people comes to nothing.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}The way of the
{\ND{Lord}} is a fortress for an innocent person

\par }{\Q but a ruin to those who are troublemakers.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}A righteous person will never be moved,

\par }{\Q but wicked people will not continue to live in the land.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}The mouth of a righteous person increases wisdom,

\par }{\Q but a devious tongue will be cut off.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}The lips of a righteous person announce good will,

\par }{\Q but the mouths of wicked people are devious.




\par }\Chap{11}{\SH The Value of Righteousness
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Dishonest scales are disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q but accurate weights are pleasing to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Arrogance comes,

\par }{\Q then comes shame,

\par }{\Q but wisdom remains with humble people.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Integrity guides decent people,

\par }{\Q but hypocrisy leads treacherous people to ruin.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{4}Riches are of no help on the day of fury,

\par }{\Q but righteousness saves from death.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}The righteousness of innocent people makes their road smooth,

\par }{\Q but wicked people fall by their own wickedness.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Decent people are saved by their righteousness,

\par }{\Q but treacherous people are trapped by their own greed.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}At the death of a wicked person, hope vanishes.

\par }{\Q Moreover, his confidence in strength vanishes.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{8}A righteous person is rescued from trouble,

\par }{\Q and a wicked person takes his place.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}With his talk a godless person can ruin his neighbor,

\par }{\Q but righteous people are rescued by knowledge.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}When righteous people prosper, a city is glad.

\par }{\Q When wicked people die, there are songs of joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}With the blessing of decent people a city is raised up,

\par }{\Q but by the words of wicked people, it is torn down.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{12}A person who despises a neighbor has no sense,

\par }{\Q but a person who has understanding keeps quiet.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Whoever gossips gives away secrets,

\par }{\Q but whoever is trustworthy in spirit can keep a secret.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}A nation will fall when there is no direction,

\par }{\Q but with many advisers there is victory.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Whoever guarantees a stranger’s loan will get into trouble,

\par }{\Q but whoever hates the closing of a deal remains secure.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}A gracious woman wins respect,

\par }{\Q but ruthless men gain riches.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}A merciful person helps himself,

\par }{\Q but a cruel person hurts himself.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}A wicked person earns dishonest wages,

\par }{\Q but whoever spreads righteousness earns honest pay.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}As righteousness leads to life,

\par }{\Q so whoever pursues evil finds his own death.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}Devious people are disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q but he is delighted with those whose ways are innocent.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Certainly, an evil person will not go unpunished,

\par }{\Q but the descendants of righteous people will escape.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a gold ring in a pig’s snout,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is a beautiful woman who lacks good taste.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}The desire of righteous people ends only in good,

\par }{\Q but the hope of wicked people ends only in fury.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{24}One person spends freely and yet grows richer,

\par }{\Q while another holds back what he owes and yet grows poorer.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}A generous person will be made rich,

\par }{\Q and whoever satisfies others will himself be satisfied.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 11:25 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“and whoever gives someone a drink will also get a drink.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{26}People will curse the one who hoards grain,

\par }{\Q but a blessing will be upon the head of the one who sells it.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{27}Whoever eagerly seeks good searches for good will,

\par }{\Q but whoever looks for evil finds it.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Whoever trusts his riches will fall,

\par }{\Q but righteous people will flourish like a green leaf.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}Whoever brings trouble upon his family inherits
{\ADD{⌞only⌟}} wind,

\par }{\Q and that stubborn fool becomes a slave to the wise in heart.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}The fruit of a righteous person is a tree of life,

\par }{\Q and a winner of souls is wise.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}If the righteous person is rewarded on earth,

\par }{\Q how much more the wicked person and the sinner!




\par }\PoetryChap{12}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Whoever loves discipline loves to learn,

\par }{\Q but whoever hates correction is a dumb animal.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}A good person obtains favor from the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q but the
{\ND{Lord}} condemns everyone who schemes.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}A person cannot stand firm on a foundation of wickedness,

\par }{\Q and the roots of righteous people cannot be moved.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}A wife with strength of character is the crown of her husband,

\par }{\Q but the wife who disgraces him is like bone cancer.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}The thoughts of righteous people are fair.

\par }{\Q The advice of wicked people is treacherous.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}The words of wicked people are a deadly ambush,

\par }{\Q but the words \FTNT{*}{{\FR 12:6 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“mouths.”}}} of decent people rescue.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Overthrow wicked people, and they are no more,

\par }{\Q but the families of righteous people continue to stand.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{8}A person will be praised based on his insight,

\par }{\Q but whoever has a twisted mind will be despised.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Better to be unimportant and have a slave

\par }{\Q than to act important and have nothing to eat.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}A righteous person cares
{\ADD{⌞even⌟}} about the life of his animals,

\par }{\Q but the compassion of wicked people is
{\ADD{⌞nothing but⌟}} cruelty.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Whoever works his land will have plenty to eat,

\par }{\Q but the one who chases unrealistic dreams has no sense.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}A wicked person delights in setting a trap for
{\ADD{⌞other⌟}} evil people,

\par }{\Q but the roots of righteous people produce
{\ADD{⌞fruit⌟}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}An evil person is trapped by his own sinful talk,

\par }{\Q but a righteous person escapes from trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}One person enjoys good things as a result of his speaking ability.

\par }{\Q Another is paid according to what his hands have accomplished.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}A stubborn fool considers his own way the right one,

\par }{\Q but a person who listens to advice is wise.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}When a stubborn fool is irritated, he shows it immediately,

\par }{\Q but a sensible person hides the insult.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{17}A truthful witness speaks honestly,

\par }{\Q but a lying witness speaks deceitfully.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Careless words stab like a sword,

\par }{\Q but the words of wise people bring healing.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}The word of truth lasts forever,

\par }{\Q but lies last only a moment.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Deceit is in the heart of those who plan evil,

\par }{\Q but joy belongs to those who advise peace.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{21}No
{\ADD{⌞lasting⌟}} harm comes to a righteous person,

\par }{\Q but wicked people have lots of trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Lips that lie are disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q but honest people are his delight.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}A sensible person
{\ADD{⌞discreetly⌟}} hides knowledge,

\par }{\Q but foolish minds preach stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Hard-working hands gain control,

\par }{\Q but lazy hands do slave labor.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}A person’s anxiety will weigh him down,

\par }{\Q but an encouraging word makes him joyful.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}A righteous person looks out for his neighbor,

\par }{\Q but the path of wicked people leads others astray.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}A lazy hunter does not catch his prey,

\par }{\Q but a hard-working person becomes wealthy.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Everlasting life is on the way of righteousness.

\par }{\Q Eternal death is not along its path.




\par }\Chap{13}{\SH A Wise Son Lives Righteously
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}A wise son listens to his father’s discipline,

\par }{\Q but a mocker does not listen to reprimands.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}A person eats well as a result of his speaking ability,

\par }{\Q but the appetite of treacherous people
{\ADD{⌞craves⌟}} violence.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Whoever controls his mouth protects his own life.

\par }{\Q Whoever has a big mouth comes to ruin.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}A lazy person craves food and there is none,

\par }{\Q but the appetite of hard-working people is satisfied.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}A righteous person hates lying,

\par }{\Q but a wicked person behaves with shame and disgrace.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Righteousness protects the honest way of life,

\par }{\Q but wickedness ruins a sacrifice for sin.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{7}One person pretends to be rich but has nothing.

\par }{\Q Another pretends to be poor but has great wealth.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}A person’s riches are the ransom for his life,

\par }{\Q but the poor person does not pay attention to threats.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The light of righteous people beams brightly,

\par }{\Q but the lamp of wicked people will be snuffed out.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Arrogance produces only quarreling,

\par }{\Q but those who take advice gain wisdom.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Wealth
{\ADD{⌞gained⌟}} through injustice dwindles away,

\par }{\Q but whoever gathers little by little has plenty.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Delayed hope makes one sick at heart,

\par }{\Q but a fulfilled longing is a tree of life.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Whoever despises
{\ADD{⌞God’s⌟}} words will pay the penalty,

\par }{\Q but the one who fears
{\ADD{⌞God’s⌟}} commands will be rewarded.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{14}The teachings of a wise person are a fountain of life

\par }{\Q to turn
{\ADD{⌞one⌟}} away from the grasp of death.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Good sense brings favor,

\par }{\Q but the way of treacherous people is always the same.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 13:15 }{\FT{Masoretic Text; Greek
}}{\FQA{“is their disaster.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Any sensible person acts with knowledge,

\par }{\Q but a fool displays stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}An undependable messenger gets into trouble,

\par }{\Q but a dependable envoy brings healing.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Poverty and shame come to a person who ignores discipline,

\par }{\Q but whoever pays attention to constructive criticism will be honored.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{19}A fulfilled desire is sweet to the soul,

\par }{\Q but turning from evil is disgusting to fools.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Whoever walks with wise people will be wise,

\par }{\Q but whoever associates with fools will suffer.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Disaster hunts down sinners,

\par }{\Q but righteous people are rewarded with good.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren,

\par }{\Q but the wealth of sinners is stored away for a righteous person.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{23}When poor people are able to plow, there is much food,

\par }{\Q but a person is swept away where there is no justice.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Whoever refuses to spank his son hates him,

\par }{\Q but whoever loves his son disciplines him from early on.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}A righteous person eats to satisfy his appetite,

\par }{\Q but the bellies of wicked people are always empty.




\par }\Chap{14}{\SH Wise People Live Righteously
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The wisest of women builds up her home,

\par }{\Q but a stupid one tears it down with her own hands.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Whoever lives right fears the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q but a person who is devious in his ways despises him.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Because of a stubborn fool’s words a whip is lifted against him,

\par }{\Q but wise people are protected by their speech.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{4}Where there are no cattle, the feeding trough is empty,

\par }{\Q but the strength of an ox produces plentiful harvests.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}A trustworthy witness does not lie,

\par }{\Q but a dishonest witness breathes lies.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}A mocker searches for wisdom without finding it,

\par }{\Q but knowledge comes easily to a person who has understanding.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{7}Stay away from a fool,

\par }{\Q because you will not receive knowledge from his lips.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The wisdom of a sensible person guides his way of life,

\par }{\Q but the stupidity of fools misleads them.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Stubborn fools make fun of guilt,

\par }{\Q but there is forgiveness among decent people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}The heart knows its own bitterness,

\par }{\Q and no stranger can share its joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}The houses of wicked people will be destroyed,

\par }{\Q but the tents of decent people will continue to expand.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}There is a way that seems right to a person,

\par }{\Q but eventually it ends in death.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Even while laughing a heart can ache,

\par }{\Q and joy can end in grief.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{14}A heart that turns
{\ADD{⌞from God⌟}} becomes bored with its own ways,

\par }{\Q but a good person is satisfied with God’s ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}A gullible person believes anything,

\par }{\Q but a sensible person watches his step.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}A wise person is cautious and turns away from evil,

\par }{\Q but a fool is careless and overconfident.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}A short-tempered person acts stupidly,

\par }{\Q and a person who plots evil is hated.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Gullible people are gifted with stupidity,

\par }{\Q but sensible people are crowned with knowledge.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Evil people will bow to good people.

\par }{\Q Wicked people will bow at the gates of a righteous person.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}A poor person is hated even by his neighbor,

\par }{\Q but a rich person is loved by many.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Whoever despises his neighbor sins,

\par }{\Q but blessed is the one who is kind to humble people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{22}Don’t those who stray plan what is evil,

\par }{\Q while those who are merciful and faithful plan what is good?


\par }{\Q \VS{23}In hard work there is always something gained,

\par }{\Q but idle talk leads only to poverty.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}The crown of wise people is their wealth.

\par }{\Q The stupidity of fools is just that—stupidity!


\par }{\Q \VS{25}An honest witness saves lives,

\par }{\Q but one who tells lies is dangerous.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}In the fear of the
{\ND{Lord}} there is strong confidence,

\par }{\Q and his children will have a place of refuge.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}The fear of the
{\ND{Lord}} is a fountain of life

\par }{\Q to turn
{\ADD{⌞one⌟}} away from the grasp of death.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}A large population is an honor for a king,

\par }{\Q but without people a ruler is ruined.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{29}A person of great understanding is patient,

\par }{\Q but a short temper is the height of stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}A tranquil heart makes for a healthy body,

\par }{\Q but jealousy is
{\ADD{⌞like⌟}} bone cancer.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}Whoever oppresses the poor insults his maker,

\par }{\Q but whoever is kind to the needy honors him.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}A wicked person is thrown down by his own wrongdoing,

\par }{\Q but even in his death a righteous person has a refuge.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}Wisdom finds rest in the heart of an understanding person.

\par }{\Q Even fools recognize this.


\par }{\SH Wise Ways to Live
\par }
{\Q \VS{34}Righteousness lifts up a nation,

\par }{\Q but sin is a disgrace in any society.


\par }{\Q \VS{35}A king is delighted with a servant who acts wisely,

\par }{\Q but he is furious with one who acts shamefully.




\par }\PoetryChap{15}{\Q \VerseOne{1}A gentle answer turns away rage,

\par }{\Q but a harsh word stirs up anger.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The tongues of wise people give good expression to knowledge,

\par }{\Q but the mouths of fools pour out a flood of stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The eyes of the
{\ND{Lord}} are everywhere.

\par }{\Q They watch evil people and good people.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}A soothing tongue is a tree of life,

\par }{\Q but a deceitful tongue breaks the spirit.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}A stubborn fool despises his father’s discipline,

\par }{\Q but whoever appreciates a warning shows good sense.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Great treasure is in the house of a righteous person,

\par }{\Q but trouble comes along with the income of a wicked person.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The lips of wise people spread knowledge,

\par }{\Q but a foolish attitude does not.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{8}A sacrifice brought by wicked people is disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q but the prayers of decent people please him.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}The way of wicked people is disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q but he loves those who pursue righteousness.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}Discipline is a terrible
{\ADD{⌞burden⌟}} to anyone who leaves the
{\ADD{⌞right⌟}} path.

\par }{\Q Anyone who hates a warning will die.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}If Sheol and Abaddon lie open in front of the
{\ND{Lord}}

\par }{\Q how much more the human heart!


\par }{\Q \VS{12}A mocker does not appreciate a warning.

\par }{\Q He will not go to wise people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}A joyful heart makes a cheerful face,

\par }{\Q but with a heartache comes depression.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The mind of a person who has understanding searches for knowledge,

\par }{\Q but the mouths of fools feed on stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Every day is a terrible day for a miserable person,

\par }{\Q but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{16}Better to have a little with the fear of the
{\ND{Lord}}

\par }{\Q than great treasure and turmoil.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Better to have a dish of vegetables where there is love

\par }{\Q than juicy steaks where there is hate.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{18}A hothead stirs up a fight,

\par }{\Q but one who holds his temper calms disputes.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}The path of lazy people is like a thorny hedge,

\par }{\Q but the road of decent people is an
{\ADD{⌞open⌟}} highway.


\par }{\SH A Wise Son Brings Blessings to Others
\par }
{\Q \VS{20}A wise son makes his father happy,

\par }{\Q but a foolish child despises its mother.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{21}Stupidity is fun to the one without much sense,

\par }{\Q but a person who has understanding forges straight ahead.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Without advice plans go wrong,

\par }{\Q but with many advisers they succeed.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}A person is delighted to hear an answer from his own mouth,

\par }{\Q and a timely word—oh, how good!


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{24}The path of life for a wise person leads upward

\par }{\Q in order to turn him away from hell below.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}The
{\ND{Lord}} tears down the house of an arrogant person,

\par }{\Q but he protects the property of widows.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}The thoughts of evil people are disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q but pleasant words are pure to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Whoever is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble to his family,

\par }{\Q but whoever hates bribes will live.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{28}The heart of a righteous person carefully considers how to answer,

\par }{\Q but the mouths of wicked people pour out a flood of evil things.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}The
{\ND{Lord}} is far from wicked people,

\par }{\Q but he hears the prayers of righteous people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{30}A twinkle in the eye delights the heart.

\par }{\Q Good news refreshes the body.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}The ear that listens to a life-giving warning

\par }{\Q will be at home among wise people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{32}Whoever ignores discipline despises himself,

\par }{\Q but the person who listens to warning gains understanding.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}The fear of the
{\ND{Lord}} is discipline
{\ADD{⌞leading to⌟}} wisdom,

\par }{\Q and humility comes before honor.




\par }\Chap{16}{\SH Wisdom’s Blessings Come from the
{\ND{LORD}}
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The plans of the heart belong to humans,

\par }{\Q but an answer on the tongue comes from the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}A person thinks all his ways are pure,

\par }{\Q but the
{\ND{Lord}} weighs motives.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Entrust your efforts to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q and your plans will succeed.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}The
{\ND{Lord}} has made everything for his own purpose,

\par }{\Q even wicked people for the day of trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Everyone with a conceited heart is disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}}.

\par }{\Q Certainly,
{\ADD{⌞such a person⌟}} will not go unpunished.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{6}By mercy and faithfulness, peace is made with the
{\ND{Lord}}.

\par }{\Q By the fear of the
{\ND{Lord}}, evil is avoided.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}When a person’s ways are pleasing to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Better a few
{\ADD{⌞possessions⌟}} gained honestly

\par }{\Q than many gained through injustice.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}A person may plan his own journey,

\par }{\Q but the
{\ND{Lord}} directs his steps.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}When a divine revelation is on a king’s lips,

\par }{\Q he cannot voice a wrong judgment.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Honest balances and scales belong to the
{\ND{Lord}}.

\par }{\Q He made the entire set of weights.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Wrongdoing is disgusting to kings

\par }{\Q because a throne is established through righteousness.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Kings are happy with honest words,

\par }{\Q and whoever speaks what is right is loved.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}A king’s anger announces death,

\par }{\Q but a wise man makes peace with him.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}When the king is cheerful, there is life,

\par }{\Q and his favor is like a cloud bringing spring rain.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{16}How much better it is to gain wisdom than gold,

\par }{\Q and the gaining of understanding should be chosen over silver.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}The highway of decent people turns away from evil.

\par }{\Q Whoever watches his way preserves his own life.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{18}Pride precedes a disaster,

\par }{\Q and an arrogant attitude precedes a fall.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Better to be humble with lowly people

\par }{\Q than to share stolen goods with arrogant people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}Whoever gives attention to the
{\ND{Lord}}’s word prospers,

\par }{\Q and blessed is the person who trusts the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}The person who is truly wise is called understanding,

\par }{\Q and speaking sweetly helps others learn.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Understanding is a fountain of life to the one who has it,

\par }{\Q but stubborn fools punish themselves with their stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}A wise person’s heart controls his speech,

\par }{\Q and what he says helps others learn.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Pleasant words are
{\ADD{⌞like⌟}} honey from a honeycomb—

\par }{\Q sweet to the spirit and healthy for the body.


\par }{\SH Words of Advice to a Wise Son
\par }
{\Q \VS{25}There is a way that seems right to a person,

\par }{\Q but eventually it ends in death.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}A laborer’s appetite works to his advantage,

\par }{\Q because his hunger drives him on.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}A worthless person plots trouble,

\par }{\Q and his speech is like a burning fire.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}A devious person spreads quarrels.

\par }{\Q A gossip separates the closest of friends.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}A violent person misleads his neighbor

\par }{\Q and leads him on a path that is not good.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}Whoever winks his eye is plotting something devious.

\par }{\Q Whoever bites his lips has finished his evil work.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{31}Silver hair is a beautiful crown found in a righteous life.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}Better to get angry slowly than to be a hero.

\par }{\Q Better to be even-tempered than to capture a city.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}The dice are thrown,

\par }{\Q but the
{\ND{Lord}} determines every outcome.




\par }\PoetryChap{17}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Better a bite of dry bread
{\ADD{⌞eaten⌟}} in peace

\par }{\Q than a family feast filled with strife.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}A wise slave will become master over a son who acts shamefully,

\par }{\Q and he will share the inheritance with the brothers.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The crucible is for refining silver and the smelter for gold,

\par }{\Q but the one who purifies hearts
{\ADD{⌞by fire⌟}} is the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}An evildoer pays attention to wicked lips.

\par }{\Q A liar opens his ears to a slanderous tongue.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Whoever makes fun of a poor person insults his maker.

\par }{\Q Whoever is happy
{\ADD{⌞to see someone’s⌟}} distress will not escape punishment.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Grandchildren are the crown of grandparents,

\par }{\Q and parents are the glory of their children.


\par }{\SH The Consequences of Being a Fool
\par }
{\Q \VS{7}Refined speech is not fitting for a godless fool.

\par }{\Q How much less does lying fit a noble person!


\par }{\Q \VS{8}A bribe seems
{\ADD{⌞like⌟}} a jewel to the one who gives it.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 17:8 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“who receives it.”}}}

\par }{\Q Wherever he turns, he prospers.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Whoever forgives an offense seeks love,

\par }{\Q but whoever keeps bringing up the issue separates the closest of friends.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}A reprimand impresses a person who has understanding

\par }{\Q more than a hundred lashes impress a fool.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}A rebel looks for nothing but evil.

\par }{\Q Therefore, a cruel messenger will be sent
{\ADD{⌞to punish⌟}} him.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Better to meet a bear robbed of its cubs

\par }{\Q than a fool
{\ADD{⌞carried away⌟}} with his stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Whoever pays back evil for good—

\par }{\Q evil will never leave his home.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Starting a quarrel is
{\ADD{⌞like⌟}} opening a floodgate,

\par }{\Q so stop before the argument gets out of control.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Whoever approves of wicked people

\par }{\Q and whoever condemns righteous people

\par }{\Q is disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{16}Why should a fool have money in his hand to buy wisdom

\par }{\Q when he doesn’t have a mind to grasp anything?


\par }{\Q \VS{17}A friend always loves,

\par }{\Q and a brother is born to share trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}A person without good sense closes a deal with a handshake.

\par }{\Q He guarantees a loan in the presence of his friend.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Whoever loves sin loves a quarrel.

\par }{\Q Whoever builds his city gate high invites destruction.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}A twisted mind never finds happiness,

\par }{\Q and one with a devious tongue
{\ADD{⌞repeatedly⌟}} gets into trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}The parent of a fool has grief,

\par }{\Q and the father of a godless fool has no joy.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}A joyful heart is good medicine,

\par }{\Q but depression drains one’s strength.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}A wicked person secretly accepts a bribe to corrupt the ways of justice.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Wisdom is directly in front of an understanding person,

\par }{\Q but the eyes of a fool
{\ADD{⌞are looking around⌟}} all over the world.


\par }{\SH How Fools Live
\par }
{\Q \VS{25}A foolish son is a heartache to his father

\par }{\Q and bitter grief to his mother.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{26}To punish an innocent person is not good.

\par }{\Q To strike down noble people is not right.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Whoever has knowledge controls his words,

\par }{\Q and a person who has understanding is even-tempered.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{28}Even a stubborn fool is thought to be wise if he keeps silent.

\par }{\Q He is considered intelligent if he keeps his lips sealed.




\par }\PoetryChap{18}{\Q \VerseOne{1}A loner is out to get what he wants for himself.

\par }{\Q He opposes all sound reasoning.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}A fool does not find joy in understanding

\par }{\Q but only in expressing his own opinion.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{3}When wickedness comes, contempt also comes,

\par }{\Q and insult comes along with disgrace.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}The words of a person’s mouth are like deep waters.

\par }{\Q The fountain of wisdom is an overflowing stream.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}It is not good to be partial toward a wicked person,

\par }{\Q thereby depriving an innocent person of justice.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{6}By talking, a fool gets into an argument,

\par }{\Q and his mouth invites a beating.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}A fool’s mouth is his ruin.

\par }{\Q His lips are a trap to his soul.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The words of a gossip are swallowed greedily,

\par }{\Q and they go down into a person’s innermost being.


\par }{\SH How to Avoid Fools and Foolishness
\par }
{\Q \VS{9}Whoever is lazy in his work is related to a vandal.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The name of the
{\ND{Lord}} is a strong tower.

\par }{\Q A righteous person runs to it and is safe.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}A rich person’s wealth is his strong city

\par }{\Q and is like a high wall in his imagination.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{12}Before destruction a person’s heart is arrogant,

\par }{\Q but humility comes before honor.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Whoever gives an answer before he listens is stupid and shameful.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}A person’s spirit can endure sickness,

\par }{\Q but who can bear a broken spirit?


\par }{\Q \VS{15}The mind of a person who has understanding acquires knowledge.

\par }{\Q The ears of wise people seek knowledge.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}A gift opens doors for the one who gives it

\par }{\Q and brings him into the presence of great people.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{17}The first to state his case seems right

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞until⌟}} his neighbor comes to cross-examine him.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Flipping a coin ends quarrels

\par }{\Q and settles
{\ADD{⌞issues⌟}} between powerful people.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}An offended brother is more
{\ADD{⌞resistant⌟}} than a strong city,

\par }{\Q and disputes are like the locked gate of a castle tower.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}A person’s speaking ability provides for his stomach.

\par }{\Q His talking provides him a living.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}The tongue has the power of life and death,

\par }{\Q and those who love to talk will have to eat their own words.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{22}Whoever finds a wife finds something good

\par }{\Q and has obtained favor from the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}A poor person is timid when begging,

\par }{\Q but a rich person is blunt when replying.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Friends can destroy one another,\FTNT{*}{{\FR 18:24 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“A person has friends as companions.”}}}

\par }{\Q but a loving friend can stick closer than family.




\par }\PoetryChap{19}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Better to be a poor person who lives innocently

\par }{\Q than to be one who talks dishonestly and is a fool.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}A person without knowledge is no good.

\par }{\Q A person in a hurry makes mistakes.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}The stupidity of a person turns his life upside down,

\par }{\Q and his heart rages against the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Wealth adds many friends,

\par }{\Q but a poor person is separated from his friend.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}A lying witness will not go unpunished.

\par }{\Q One who tells lies will not escape.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Many try to win the kindness of a generous person,

\par }{\Q and everyone is a friend to a person who gives gifts.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The entire family of a poor person hates him.

\par }{\Q How much more do his friends keep their distance from him!

\par }{\Q When he chases them with words, they are gone.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}A person who gains sense loves himself.

\par }{\Q One who guards understanding finds something good.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}A lying witness will not go unpunished.

\par }{\Q One who tells lies will die.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}Luxury does not fit a fool,

\par }{\Q much less a slave ruling princes.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}A person with good sense is patient,

\par }{\Q and it is to his credit that he overlooks an offense.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The rage of a king is like the roar of a lion,

\par }{\Q but his favor is like dew on the grass.


\par }{\SH A Foolish Son Brings Ruin to Others
\par }
{\Q \VS{13}A foolish son ruins his father,

\par }{\Q and a quarreling woman is like constantly dripping water.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Home and wealth are inherited from fathers,

\par }{\Q but a sensible wife comes from the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}Laziness throws one into a deep sleep,

\par }{\Q and an idle person will go hungry.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Whoever obeys the law preserves his life,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞but⌟}} whoever despises the
{\ND{Lord}}’s ways will be put to death.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{17}Whoever has pity on the poor lends to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q and he will repay him for his good deed.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Discipline your son while there is still hope.

\par }{\Q Do not be the one responsible for his death.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}A person who has a hot temper will pay for it.

\par }{\Q If you rescue him, you will have to do it over and over.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Listen to advice and accept discipline

\par }{\Q so that you may be wise the rest of your life.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Many plans are in the human heart,

\par }{\Q but the advice of the
{\ND{Lord}} will endure.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Loyalty is desirable in a person,

\par }{\Q and it is better to be poor than a liar.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{23}The fear of the
{\ND{Lord}} leads to life,

\par }{\Q and such a person will rest easy without suffering harm.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}A lazy person puts his fork in his food.

\par }{\Q He doesn’t even bring it back to his mouth.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Strike a mocker, and a gullible person may learn a lesson.

\par }{\Q Warn an understanding person, and he will gain more knowledge.


\par }{\SH Foolproof Instructions
\par }
{\Q \VS{26}A son who assaults his father
{\ADD{⌞and⌟}} who drives away his mother

\par }{\Q brings shame and disgrace.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}If you stop listening to instruction, my son,

\par }{\Q you will stray from the words of knowledge.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{28}A worthless witness mocks justice,

\par }{\Q and the mouths of wicked people swallow up trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}Punishments are set for mockers

\par }{\Q and beatings for the backs of fools.




\par }\PoetryChap{20}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Wine
{\ADD{⌞makes people⌟}} mock,

\par }{\Q liquor
{\ADD{⌞makes them⌟}} noisy,

\par }{\Q and everyone under their influence is unwise.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The rage of a king is like the roar of a lion.

\par }{\Q Whoever makes him angry forfeits his life.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Avoiding a quarrel is honorable.

\par }{\Q After all, any stubborn fool can start a fight.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{4}A lazy person does not plow in the fall.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 20:4 }{\FK{Fall
}}{\FT{was the start of the planting season in Palestine.}}}

\par }{\Q He looks for something in the harvest but finds nothing.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}A motive in the human heart is like deep water,

\par }{\Q and a person who has understanding draws it out.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Many people declare themselves loyal,

\par }{\Q but who can find someone who is
{\ADD{⌞really⌟}} trustworthy?


\par }{\Q \VS{7}A righteous person lives on the basis of his integrity.

\par }{\Q Blessed are his children after he is gone.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}A king who sits on his throne to judge sifts out every evil with his eyes.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{9}Who can say,

\par }{\Q “I’ve made my heart pure.

\par }{\Q I’m cleansed from my sin”?


\par }{\Q \VS{10}A double standard of weights and measures—

\par }{\Q both are disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Even a child makes himself known by his actions,

\par }{\Q whether his deeds are pure or right.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The ear that hears,

\par }{\Q the eye that sees—

\par }{\Q the
{\ND{Lord}} made them both.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Do not love sleep or you will end up poor.

\par }{\Q Keep your eyes open, and you will have plenty to eat.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{14}“Bad! Bad!” says the buyer.

\par }{\Q Then, as he goes away, he brags
{\ADD{⌞about his bargain⌟}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}There are gold and plenty of jewels,

\par }{\Q but the lips of knowledge are precious gems.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Hold on to the garment of one who guarantees a stranger’s loan,

\par }{\Q and hold responsible the person who makes a loan on behalf of a foreigner.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Food gained dishonestly tastes sweet to a person,

\par }{\Q but afterwards his mouth will be filled with gravel.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Plans are confirmed by getting advice,

\par }{\Q and with guidance one wages war.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Whoever goes around as a gossip tells secrets.

\par }{\Q Do not associate with a person whose mouth is always open.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}The lamp of the person who curses his father and mother

\par }{\Q will be snuffed out in total darkness.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 20:20 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“snuffed out as darkness approaches.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{21}An inheritance quickly obtained in the beginning

\par }{\Q will never be blessed in the end.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}Do not say, “I’ll get even with you!”

\par }{\Q Wait for the
{\ND{Lord}}, and he will save you.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}A double standard of weights is disgusting to the
{\ND{Lord}},

\par }{\Q and dishonest scales are no good.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}The
{\ND{Lord}} is the one who directs a person’s steps.

\par }{\Q How then can anyone understand his own way?


\par }{\Q \VS{25}It is a trap for a person to say impulsively, “This is a holy offering!”

\par }{\Q and later to have second thoughts about those vows.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{26}A wise king scatters the wicked

\par }{\Q and then runs them over.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}A person’s soul is the
{\ND{Lord}}’s lamp.

\par }{\Q It searches his entire innermost being.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Mercy and truth protect a king,

\par }{\Q and with mercy he maintains his throne.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}While the glory of young men is their strength,

\par }{\Q the splendor of older people is their silver hair.


\par }{\Q \VS{30}Brutal beatings cleanse away wickedness.

\par }{\Q Such beatings cleanse the innermost being.




\par }\Chap{21}{\SH The
{\ND{LORD}} Controls Wise and Foolish People
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}The king’s heart is like streams of water.

\par }{\Q Both are under the
{\ND{Lord}}’s control.

\par }{\Q He turns them in any direction he chooses.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}A person thinks everything he does is right,

\par }{\Q but the
{\ND{Lord}} weighs hearts.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Doing what is right and fair

\par }{\Q is more acceptable to the
{\ND{Lord}} than offering a sacrifice.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}A conceited look and an arrogant attitude,

\par }{\Q which are the lamps of wicked people, are sins.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}The plans of a hard-working person lead to prosperity,

\par }{\Q but everyone who is
{\ADD{⌞always⌟}} in a hurry ends up in poverty.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Those who gather wealth by lying are wasting time.

\par }{\Q They are looking for death.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}The violence of wicked people will drag them away

\par }{\Q since they refuse to do what is just.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}The way of a guilty person is crooked,

\par }{\Q but the behavior of those who are pure is moral.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{9}Better to live on a corner of a roof

\par }{\Q than to share a home with a quarreling woman.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}The mind of a wicked person desires evil

\par }{\Q and has no consideration for his neighbor.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}When a mocker is punished, a gullible person becomes wise,

\par }{\Q and when a wise person is instructed, he gains knowledge.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}A righteous person wisely considers the house of a wicked person.

\par }{\Q He throws wicked people into disasters.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}Whoever shuts his ear to the cry of the poor will call and not be answered.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}A gift
{\ADD{⌞given⌟}} in secret calms anger,

\par }{\Q and a secret bribe calms great fury.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}When justice is done, a righteous person is delighted,

\par }{\Q but troublemakers are terrified.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}A person who wanders from the way of wise behavior

\par }{\Q will rest in the assembly of the dead.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{17}Whoever loves pleasure will become poor.

\par }{\Q Whoever loves wine and expensive food will not become rich.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Wicked people become a ransom for righteous people,

\par }{\Q and treacherous people will take the place of decent people.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Better to live in a desert

\par }{\Q than with a quarreling and angry woman.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Costly treasure and wealth are in the home of a wise person,

\par }{\Q but a fool devours them.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Whoever pursues righteousness and mercy

\par }{\Q will find life, righteousness, and honor.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{22}A wise man attacks a city of warriors

\par }{\Q and pulls down the strong defenses in which they trust.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}An arrogant, conceited person is called a mocker.

\par }{\Q His arrogance knows no limits.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{25}The desire of a lazy person will kill him

\par }{\Q because his hands refuse to work.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}All day long he feels greedy,

\par }{\Q but a righteous person gives and does not hold back.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{27}The sacrifice of wicked people is disgusting,

\par }{\Q especially if they bring it with evil intent.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}A lying witness will die,

\par }{\Q but a person who listens to advice will continue to speak.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}A wicked person puts up a bold front,

\par }{\Q but a decent person’s way of life is his own security.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{30}No wisdom, no understanding, and no advice

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞can stand up⌟}} against the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}The horse is made ready for the day of battle,

\par }{\Q but the victory belongs to the
{\ND{Lord}}.




\par }\PoetryChap{22}{\Q \VerseOne{1}A good name is more desirable than great wealth.

\par }{\Q Respect is better than silver or gold.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}The rich and the poor have this in common:

\par }{\Q the
{\ND{Lord}} is the maker of them all.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Sensible people foresee trouble and hide
{\ADD{⌞from it⌟}},

\par }{\Q but gullible people go ahead and suffer
{\ADD{⌞the consequence⌟}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}On the heels of humility (the fear of the
{\ND{Lord}})

\par }{\Q are riches and honor and life.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}A devious person has thorns and traps ahead of him.

\par }{\Q Whoever guards himself will stay far away from them.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Train a child in the way he should go,

\par }{\Q and even when he is old he will not turn away from it.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}A rich person rules poor people,

\par }{\Q and a borrower is a slave to a lender.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Whoever plants injustice will harvest trouble,

\par }{\Q and this weapon of his own fury will be destroyed.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Whoever is generous will be blessed

\par }{\Q because he has shared his food with the poor.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}Drive out a mocker, and conflict will leave.

\par }{\Q Quarreling and abuse will stop.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Whoever loves a pure heart and whoever speaks graciously

\par }{\Q has a king as his friend.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}The
{\ND{Lord}}’s eyes watch over knowledge,

\par }{\Q but he overturns the words of a treacherous person.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}A lazy person says,

\par }{\Q “There’s a lion outside!

\par }{\Q I’ll be murdered in the streets!”


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The mouth of an adulterous woman is a deep pit.

\par }{\Q The one who is cursed by the
{\ND{Lord}} will fall into it.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}Foolishness is firmly attached to a child’s heart.

\par }{\Q Spanking will remove it far from him.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Oppressing the poor for profit

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞or⌟}} giving to the rich

\par }{\Q certainly leads to poverty.


\par }{\SH Listen to My Advice
\par }
{\Q \VS{17}Open your ears, and hear the words of wise people,

\par }{\Q and set your mind on the knowledge I give you.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}It is pleasant if you keep them in mind

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so that⌟}} they will be on the tip of your tongue,


\par }{\Q \VS{19}so that your trust may be in the
{\ND{Lord}}.

\par }{\Q Today I have made them known to you, especially to you.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Didn’t I write to you previously with advice and knowledge


\par }{\Q \VS{21}in order to teach you the words of truth

\par }{\Q so that you can give an accurate report to those who send you?


\par }{\SH Living with Your Neighbor
\par }
{\Q \VS{22}Do not rob the poor because they are poor

\par }{\Q or trample on the rights of an oppressed person at the city gate,


\par }{\Q \VS{23}because the
{\ND{Lord}} will plead their case

\par }{\Q and will take the lives of those who rob them.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Do not be a friend of one who has a bad temper,

\par }{\Q and never keep company with a hothead,


\par }{\Q \VS{25}or you will learn his ways

\par }{\Q and set a trap for yourself.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{26}Do not be
{\ADD{⌞found⌟}} among those who make deals with a handshake,

\par }{\Q among those who guarantee other people’s loans.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}If you have no money to pay back a loan,

\par }{\Q why should your bed be repossessed?


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Do not move an ancient boundary marker

\par }{\Q that your ancestors set in place.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}Do you see a person who is efficient in his work?

\par }{\Q He will serve kings.

\par }{\Q He will not serve unknown people.




\par }\PoetryChap{23}{\Q \VerseOne{1}When you sit down to eat with a ruler,

\par }{\Q pay close attention to what is in front of you,


\par }{\Q \VS{2}and put a knife to your throat if you have a big appetite.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Do not crave his delicacies,

\par }{\Q because this is food that deceives you.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{4}Do not wear yourself out getting rich.

\par }{\Q Be smart enough to stop.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Will you catch only a fleeting glimpse of wealth before it is gone?

\par }{\Q It makes wings for itself like an eagle flying into the sky.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{6}Do not eat the food of one who is stingy,

\par }{\Q and do not crave his delicacies.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}As he calculates the cost to himself, this is what he does:

\par }{\Q He tells you, “Eat and drink,”

\par }{\Q but he doesn’t really mean it.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}You will vomit the little bit you have eaten

\par }{\Q and spoil your pleasant conversation.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{9}Do not talk directly to a fool,

\par }{\Q because he will despise the wisdom of your words.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Do not move an ancient boundary marker

\par }{\Q or enter fields that belong to orphans,


\par }{\Q \VS{11}because the one who is responsible for them is strong.

\par }{\Q He will plead their case against you.


\par }{\SH Learning from Your Father
\par }
{\Q \VS{12}Live a more disciplined life,

\par }{\Q and listen carefully to words of knowledge.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Do not hesitate to discipline a child.

\par }{\Q If you spank him, he will not die.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Spank him yourself,

\par }{\Q and you will save his soul from hell.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}My son,

\par }{\Q if you have a wise heart,

\par }{\Q my heart will rejoice as well.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}My heart rejoices when you speak what is right.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{17}Do not envy sinners in your heart.

\par }{\Q Instead, continue to fear the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}There is indeed a future,

\par }{\Q and your hope will never be cut off.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{19}My son,

\par }{\Q listen, be wise,

\par }{\Q and keep your mind going in the right direction.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Do not associate with those who drink too much wine,

\par }{\Q with those who eat too much meat,


\par }{\Q \VS{21}because both a drunk and a glutton will become poor.

\par }{\Q Drowsiness will dress a person in rags.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{22}Listen to your father since you are his son,

\par }{\Q and do not despise your mother because she is old.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Buy truth (and do not sell it),

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞that is,⌟}} buy wisdom, discipline, and understanding.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}A righteous person’s father will certainly rejoice.

\par }{\Q Someone who has a wise son will enjoy him.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}May your father and your mother be glad.

\par }{\Q May she who gave birth to you rejoice.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{26}My son,

\par }{\Q give me your heart.

\par }{\Q Let your eyes find happiness in my ways.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}A prostitute is a deep pit.

\par }{\Q A loose woman is a narrow well.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}She is like a robber, lying in ambush.

\par }{\Q She spreads unfaithfulness throughout society.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{29}Who has trouble?

\par }{\Q Who has misery?

\par }{\Q Who has quarrels?

\par }{\Q Who has a complaint?

\par }{\Q Who has wounds for no reason?

\par }{\Q Who has bloodshot eyes?


\par }{\Q \VS{30}Those who drink glass after glass of wine

\par }{\Q and mix it with everything.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}Do not look at wine

\par }{\Q because it is red,

\par }{\Q because it sparkles in the cup,

\par }{\Q because it goes down smoothly.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}Later it bites like a snake

\par }{\Q and strikes like a poisonous snake.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}Your eyes will see strange sights,

\par }{\Q and your mouth will say embarrassing things.


\par }{\Q \VS{34}You will be like someone lying down in the middle of the sea

\par }{\Q or like someone lying down on top of a ship’s mast, saying,


\par }{\Q \VS{35}“They strike me, but I feel no pain.

\par }{\Q They beat me, but I’m not aware of it.

\par }{\Q Whenever I wake up, I’m going to look for another drink.”




\par }\PoetryChap{24}{\Q \VerseOne{1}Do not envy evil people

\par }{\Q or wish you were with them,


\par }{\Q \VS{2}because their minds plot violence,

\par }{\Q and their lips talk trouble.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{3}With wisdom a house is built.

\par }{\Q With understanding it is established.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}With knowledge its rooms are filled

\par }{\Q with every kind of riches, both precious and pleasant.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}A strong man knows how to use his strength,

\par }{\Q but a person with knowledge is even more powerful.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}After all, with the right strategy you can wage war,

\par }{\Q and with many advisers there is victory.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{7}Matters of wisdom are beyond the grasp of a stubborn fool.

\par }{\Q At the city gate he does not open his mouth.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Whoever plans to do evil will be known as a schemer.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Foolish scheming is sinful,

\par }{\Q and a mocker is disgusting to everyone.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{10}If you faint in a crisis, you are weak.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Rescue captives condemned to death,

\par }{\Q and spare those staggering toward their slaughter.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}When you say, “We didn’t know this,”

\par }{\Q won’t the one who weighs hearts take note of it?

\par }{\Q Won’t the one who guards your soul know it?

\par }{\Q Won’t he pay back people for what they do?


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}Eat honey, my son, because it is good.

\par }{\Q Honey that flows from the honeycomb tastes sweet.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}The knowledge of wisdom is like that for your soul.

\par }{\Q If you find it, then there is a future,

\par }{\Q and your hope will never be cut off.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}You wicked one,

\par }{\Q do not lie in ambush at the home of a righteous person.

\par }{\Q Do not rob his house.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}A righteous person may fall seven times, but he gets up again.

\par }{\Q However, in a disaster wicked people fall.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{17}Do not be happy when your enemy falls,

\par }{\Q and do not feel glad when he stumbles.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}The
{\ND{Lord}} will see it, he won’t like it,

\par }{\Q and he will turn his anger away from that person.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{19}Do not get overly upset with evildoers.

\par }{\Q Do not envy wicked people,


\par }{\Q \VS{20}because an evil person has no future,

\par }{\Q and the lamps of wicked people will be snuffed out.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{21}Fear the
{\ND{Lord}}, my son.

\par }{\Q Fear the king as well.

\par }{\Q Do not associate with those who always insist upon change,


\par }{\Q \VS{22}because disaster will come to them suddenly.

\par }{\Q Who knows what misery both may bring?


\par }{\SH Learning from Wise People
\par }
{\Q \VS{23}These also are the sayings of wise people:

\par }{\Q Showing partiality as a judge is not good.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Whoever says to a guilty person, “You are innocent,”

\par }{\Q will be cursed by people and condemned by nations.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}But people will be pleased with those who convict a guilty person,

\par }{\Q and a great blessing will come to them.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Giving a straight answer is
{\ADD{⌞like⌟}} a kiss on the lips.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{27}Prepare your work outside,

\par }{\Q and get things ready for yourself in the field.

\par }{\Q Afterwards, build your house.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{28}Do not testify against your neighbor without a reason,

\par }{\Q and do not deceive with your lips.


\par }{\Q \VS{29}Do not say,

\par }{\Q “I’ll treat him as he treated me.

\par }{\Q I’ll pay him back for what he has done to me.”


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{30}I passed by a lazy person’s field,

\par }{\Q the vineyard belonging to a person without sense.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}I saw that it was all overgrown with thistles.

\par }{\Q The ground was covered with weeds,

\par }{\Q and its stone fence was torn down.


\par }{\Q \VS{32}When I observed
{\ADD{⌞this⌟}}, I took it to heart.

\par }{\Q I saw it and learned my lesson.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}“Just a little sleep,

\par }{\Q just a little slumber,

\par }{\Q just a little nap.”


\par }{\Q \VS{34}Then your poverty will come like a drifter,

\par }{\Q and your need will come like a bandit.




\par }\Chap{25}{\MM \VerseOne{1}These also are Solomon’s proverbs that were copied by the men of King Hezekiah of Judah.


\par }{\SH Advice for Kings
\par }
{\Q \VS{2}It is the glory of God to hide things

\par }{\Q but the glory of kings to investigate them.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} the high heavens and the deep earth,

\par }{\Q so the mind of kings is unsearchable.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Take the impurities out of silver,

\par }{\Q and a vessel is ready for the silversmith to mold.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Take a wicked person away from the presence of a king,

\par }{\Q and justice will make his throne secure.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{6}Do not brag about yourself in front of a king

\par }{\Q or stand in the spot that belongs to notable people,


\par }{\Q \VS{7}because it is better to be told, “Come up here,”

\par }{\Q than to be put down in front of a prince

\par }{\Q whom your eyes have seen.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{8}Do not be in a hurry to go to court.

\par }{\Q What will you do in the end if your neighbor disgraces you?


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Present your argument to your neighbor,

\par }{\Q but do not reveal another person’s secret.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Otherwise, when he hears about it, he will humiliate you,

\par }{\Q and his evil report about you will never disappear.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{11}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} golden apples in silver settings,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is a word spoken at the right time.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a gold ring and a fine gold ornament,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is constructive criticism to the ear of one who listens.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Like the coolness of snow on a harvest day,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is a trustworthy messenger to those who send him:

\par }{\Q He refreshes his masters.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a dense fog or a dust storm,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is a person who brags about a gift that he does not give.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}With patience you can persuade a ruler,

\par }{\Q and a soft tongue can break bones.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}When you find honey, eat only as much as you need.

\par }{\Q Otherwise, you will have too much and vomit.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Do not set foot in your neighbor’s house too often.

\par }{\Q Otherwise, he will see too much of you and hate you.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{18}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a club and a sword and a sharp arrow,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is a person who gives false testimony against his neighbor.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a broken tooth and a lame foot,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is confidence in an unfaithful person in a
{\ADD{⌞time of⌟}} crisis.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} taking off a coat on a cold day

\par }{\Q or pouring vinegar on baking soda,

\par }{\Q so is singing songs to one who has an evil heart.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{21}If your enemy is hungry, give him some food to eat,

\par }{\Q and if he is thirsty, give him some water to drink.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}{\ADD{⌞In this way⌟}} you will make him feel guilty and ashamed,

\par }{\Q and the
{\ND{Lord}} will reward you.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{23}{\ADD{⌞As⌟}} the north wind brings rain,

\par }{\Q so a whispering tongue brings angry looks.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Better to live on a corner of a roof

\par }{\Q than to share a home with a quarreling woman.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} cold water to a thirsty soul,

\par }{\Q so is good news from far away.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a muddied spring and a polluted well,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is a righteous person who gives in to a wicked person.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{27}Eating too much honey is not good,

\par }{\Q and searching for honor is not honorable.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{28}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a city broken into
{\ADD{⌞and⌟}} left without a wall,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is a person who lacks self-control.




\par }\Chap{26}{\SH All about Fools
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Like snow in summertime and rain at harvest time,

\par }{\Q so honor is not right for a fool.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Like a fluttering sparrow,

\par }{\Q like a darting swallow,

\par }{\Q so a hastily spoken curse does not come to rest.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}A whip is for the horse,

\par }{\Q a bridle is for the donkey,

\par }{\Q and a rod is for the backs of fools.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{4}Do not answer a fool with his own stupidity,

\par }{\Q or you will be like him.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Answer a fool with his own stupidity,

\par }{\Q or he will think he is wise.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Whoever uses a fool to send a message

\par }{\Q cuts off his own feet and brings violence upon himself.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{7}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a lame person’s limp legs,

\par }{\Q so is a proverb in the mouths of fools.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Like tying a stone to a sling,

\par }{\Q so is giving honor to a fool.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a thorn stuck in a drunk’s hand,

\par }{\Q so is a proverb in the mouths of fools.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} many people who destroy everything,

\par }{\Q so is one who hires fools or drifters.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}As a dog goes back to its vomit,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} a fool repeats his stupidity.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Have you met a person who thinks he is wise?

\par }{\Q There is more hope for a fool than for him.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}A lazy person says,

\par }{\Q “There’s a ferocious lion out on the road!

\par }{\Q There’s a lion loose in the streets!”


\par }{\Q \VS{14}{\ADD{⌞As⌟}} a door turns on its hinges,

\par }{\Q so the lazy person turns on his bed.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}A lazy person puts his fork in his food.

\par }{\Q He wears himself out as he brings it back to his mouth.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}A lazy person thinks he is wiser than seven people who give a sensible answer.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{17}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} grabbing a dog by the ears,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is a bystander who gets involved in someone else’s quarrel.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Like a madman who shoots flaming arrows, arrows, and death,


\par }{\Q \VS{19}so is the person who tricks his neighbor and says, “I was only joking!”


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}Without wood a fire goes out,

\par }{\Q and without gossip a quarrel dies down.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}{\ADD{⌞As⌟}} charcoal fuels burning coals and wood fuels fire,

\par }{\Q so a quarrelsome person fuels a dispute.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}The words of a gossip are swallowed greedily,

\par }{\Q and they go down into a person’s innermost being.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{23}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a clay pot covered with cheap silver,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} is smooth talk that covers up an evil heart.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Whoever is filled with hate disguises it with his speech,

\par }{\Q but inside he holds on to deceit.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}When he talks charmingly, do not trust him

\par }{\Q because of the seven disgusting things in his heart.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}His hatred is deceitfully hidden,

\par }{\Q but his wickedness will be revealed to the community.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{27}Whoever digs a pit will fall into it.

\par }{\Q Whoever rolls a stone will have it roll back on him.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}A lying tongue hates its victims,

\par }{\Q and a flattering mouth causes ruin.




\par }\Chap{27}{\SH All about Life
\par }
{\Q \VerseOne{1}Do not brag about tomorrow,

\par }{\Q because you do not know what another day may bring.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}Praise should come from another person

\par }{\Q and not from your own mouth,

\par }{\Q from a stranger and not from your own lips.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}A stone is heavy, and sand weighs a lot,

\par }{\Q but annoyance caused by a stubborn fool is heavier than both.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Anger is cruel, and fury is overwhelming,

\par }{\Q but who can survive jealousy?


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}Open criticism is better than unexpressed love.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Wounds made by a friend are intended to help,

\par }{\Q but an enemy’s kisses are too much to bear.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}One who is full despises honey,

\par }{\Q but to one who is hungry,

\par }{\Q even bitter food tastes sweet.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Like a bird wandering from its nest,

\par }{\Q so is a husband wandering from his home.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{9}Perfume and incense make the heart glad,

\par }{\Q but the sweetness of a friend is a fragrant forest.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 27:9 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“is sincere advice.”}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Do not abandon your friend or your father’s friend.

\par }{\Q Do not go to a relative’s home when you are in trouble.

\par }{\Q A neighbor living nearby is better than a relative far away.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{11}Be wise, my son, and make my heart glad

\par }{\Q so that I can answer anyone who criticizes me.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}Sensible people foresee trouble and hide.

\par }{\Q Gullible people go ahead
{\ADD{⌞and⌟}} suffer.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Hold on to the garment of one who guarantees a stranger’s loan,

\par }{\Q and hold responsible the person

\par }{\Q who makes a loan in behalf of a foreigner.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Whoever blesses his friend early in the morning with a loud voice—

\par }{\Q his blessing is considered a curse.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}Constantly dripping water on a rainy day is like a quarreling woman.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}Whoever can control her can control the wind.

\par }{\Q He can even pick up olive oil with his right hand.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{17}{\ADD{⌞As⌟}} iron sharpens iron,

\par }{\Q so one person sharpens the wits of another.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}Whoever takes care of a fig tree can eat its fruit,

\par }{\Q and whoever protects his master is honored.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}As a face is reflected in water,

\par }{\Q so a person is reflected by his heart.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Hell and decay are never satisfied,

\par }{\Q and a person’s eyes are never satisfied.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{21}The crucible is for refining silver and the smelter for gold,

\par }{\Q but a person
{\ADD{⌞is tested⌟}} by the praise given to him.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}If you crush a stubborn fool in a mortar with a pestle along with grain,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞even then⌟}} his stupidity will not leave him.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}Be fully aware of the condition of your flock,

\par }{\Q and pay close attention to your herds.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Wealth is not forever.

\par }{\Q Nor does a crown last from one generation to the next.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{25}{\ADD{⌞When⌟}} grass is cut short, the tender growth appears,

\par }{\Q and vegetables are gathered on the hills.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Lambs
{\ADD{⌞will provide⌟}} you with clothing,

\par }{\Q and the money from the male goats will buy a field.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}There will be enough goat milk to feed you,

\par }{\Q to feed your family,

\par }{\Q and to keep your servant girls alive.




\par }\PoetryChap{28}{\Q \VerseOne{1}A wicked person flees when no one is chasing him,

\par }{\Q but righteous people are as bold as lions.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}When a country is in revolt, it has many rulers,

\par }{\Q but only with a person who has understanding and knowledge

\par }{\Q will it last a long time.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}A poor person who oppresses poorer people

\par }{\Q is like a driving rain that leaves no food.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}Those who abandon
{\ADD{⌞God’s⌟}} teachings praise wicked people,

\par }{\Q but those who follow
{\ADD{⌞God’s⌟}} teachings oppose wicked people.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Evil people do not understand justice,

\par }{\Q but those who seek the
{\ND{Lord}} understand everything.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Better to be a poor person who has integrity

\par }{\Q than to be rich and double-dealing.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{7}Whoever follows
{\ADD{⌞God’s⌟}} teachings is a wise son.

\par }{\Q Whoever associates with gluttons disgraces his father.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Whoever becomes wealthy through
{\ADD{⌞unfair⌟}} loans and interest

\par }{\Q collects them for the one who is kind to the poor.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Surely the prayer of someone who refuses

\par }{\Q to listen to
{\ADD{⌞God’s⌟}} teachings is disgusting.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Whoever leads decent people into evil will fall into his own pit,

\par }{\Q but innocent people will inherit good things.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{11}A rich person is wise in his own eyes,

\par }{\Q but a poor person with understanding sees right through him.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}When righteous people triumph, there is great glory,

\par }{\Q but when wicked people rise, people hide themselves.


\par }{\Q \VS{13}Whoever covers over his sins does not prosper.

\par }{\Q Whoever confesses and abandons them receives compassion.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}Blessed is the one who is always fearful
{\ADD{⌞of sin⌟}},

\par }{\Q but whoever is hard-hearted falls into disaster.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}{\ADD{⌞Like⌟}} a roaring lion and a charging bear,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞so⌟}} a wicked ruler is a threat to poor people.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}A leader without understanding taxes
{\ADD{⌞his people⌟}} heavily,

\par }{\Q but those who hate unjust gain will live longer.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}A person burdened with the guilt of murder

\par }{\Q will be a fugitive down to his grave.

\par }{\Q No one will help him.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{18}Whoever lives honestly will be safe.

\par }{\Q Whoever lives dishonestly will fall all at once.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}Whoever works his land will have plenty to eat.

\par }{\Q Whoever chases unrealistic dreams will have plenty of nothing.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{20}A trustworthy person has many blessings,

\par }{\Q but anyone in a hurry to get rich will not escape punishment.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Showing partiality is not good,

\par }{\Q because some people will turn on you even for a piece of bread.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}A stingy person is in a hurry to get rich,

\par }{\Q not realizing that poverty is about to overtake him.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{23}Whoever criticizes people will be more highly regarded in the future

\par }{\Q than the one who flatters with his tongue.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}The one who robs his father or his mother

\par }{\Q and says, “It isn’t wrong!” is a companion to a vandal.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}A greedy person stirs up a fight,

\par }{\Q but whoever trusts the
{\ND{Lord}} prospers.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{26}Whoever trusts his own heart is a fool.

\par }{\Q Whoever walks in wisdom will survive.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Whoever gives to the poor lacks nothing.

\par }{\Q Whoever ignores the poor receives many curses.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{28}When wicked people rise, people hide.

\par }{\Q When they die, righteous people increase.




\par }\PoetryChap{29}{\Q \VerseOne{1}A person who will not bend after many warnings

\par }{\Q will suddenly be broken beyond repair.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}When righteous people increase, the people
{\ADD{⌞of God⌟}} rejoice,

\par }{\Q but when a wicked person rules, everybody groans.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}A person who loves wisdom makes his father happy,

\par }{\Q but one who pays prostitutes wastes his wealth.


\par }{\Q \VS{4}By means of justice, a king builds up a country,

\par }{\Q but a person who confiscates religious contributions tears it down.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}A person who flatters his neighbor

\par }{\Q is spreading a net for him to step into.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}To an evil person sin is bait in a trap,

\par }{\Q but a righteous person runs away from it and is glad.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}A righteous person knows the just cause of the poor.

\par }{\Q A wicked person does not understand this.


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Mockers create an uproar in a city,

\par }{\Q but wise people turn away anger.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{9}When a wise person goes to court with a stubborn fool,

\par }{\Q he may rant and rave,

\par }{\Q but there is no peace and quiet.


\par }{\Q \VS{10}Bloodthirsty people hate an innocent person,

\par }{\Q but decent people seek
{\ADD{⌞to protect⌟}} his life.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}A fool expresses all his emotions,

\par }{\Q but a wise person controls them.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}If a ruler pays attention to lies,

\par }{\Q all his servants become wicked.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}A poor person and an oppressor have this in common:

\par }{\Q The
{\ND{Lord}} gives both of them sight.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}When a king judges the poor with honesty,

\par }{\Q his throne will always be secure.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{15}A spanking and a warning produce wisdom,

\par }{\Q but an undisciplined child disgraces his mother.


\par }{\Q \VS{16}When wicked people increase, crime increases,

\par }{\Q but righteous people will witness their downfall.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}Correct your son, and he will give you peace of mind.

\par }{\Q He will bring delight to your soul.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{18}Without prophetic vision people run wild,

\par }{\Q but blessed are those who follow
{\ADD{⌞God’s⌟}} teachings.


\par }{\Q \VS{19}A slave cannot be disciplined with words.

\par }{\Q He will not respond, though he may understand.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}Have you met a person who is quick to answer?

\par }{\Q There is more hope for a fool than for him.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}Pamper a slave from childhood,

\par }{\Q and later he will be ungrateful.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{22}An angry person stirs up a fight,

\par }{\Q and a hothead does much wrong.


\par }{\Q \VS{23}A person’s pride will humiliate him,

\par }{\Q but a humble spirit gains honor.


\par }{\Q \VS{24}Whoever is a thief’s partner hates his own life.

\par }{\Q He will not testify under oath.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}A person’s fear sets a trap
{\ADD{⌞for him⌟}},

\par }{\Q but one who trusts the
{\ND{Lord}} is safe.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Many seek an audience with a ruler,

\par }{\Q but justice for humanity comes from the
{\ND{Lord}}.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}An unjust person is disgusting to righteous people.

\par }{\Q A decent person is disgusting to wicked people.




\par }\Chap{30}{\MM \VerseOne{1}The words of Agur, son of Jakeh. Agur’s prophetic revelation.

\par }{\SH Agur Speaks about God
\par }
{\SP [ TO GOD ]

\par }{\Q This man’s declaration:

\par }{\Q “I’m weary, O God.

\par }{\Q I’m weary and worn out, O God.


\par }{\Q \VS{2}I’m more
{\ADD{⌞like⌟}} a dumb animal than a human being.

\par }{\Q I don’t
{\ADD{⌞even⌟}} have human understanding.


\par }{\Q \VS{3}I haven’t learned wisdom.

\par }{\Q I don’t have knowledge of the Holy One.\FTNT{*}{{\FR 30:3 }{\FT{Or
}}{\FQA{“holy ones.”}}}


\par }{\SP [ TO THE AUDIENCE ]

\par }{\Q \VS{4}“Who has gone up to heaven and come down?

\par }{\Q Who has gathered the wind in the palm of his hand?

\par }{\Q Who has wrapped water in a garment?

\par }{\Q Who has set up the earth from one end to the other?

\par }{\Q What is his name or the name of his son?

\par }{\Q Certainly, you must know!


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{5}“All of God’s word has proven to be true.

\par }{\Q He is a shield to those who come to him for protection.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Do not add to his words,

\par }{\Q or he will reprimand you, and you will be found to be a liar.


\par }{\SH A Prayer
\par }
{\SP [ TO GOD]

\par }{\Q \VS{7}“I’ve asked you for two things.

\par }{\Q Don’t keep them from me before I die:


\par }{\Q \VS{8}Keep vanity and lies far away from me.

\par }{\Q Don’t give me either poverty or riches.

\par }{\Q Feed me
{\ADD{⌞only⌟}} the food I need,


\par }{\Q \VS{9}or I may feel satisfied and deny you

\par }{\Q and say, ‘Who is the
{\ND{Lord}}?’

\par }{\Q or I may become poor and steal

\par }{\Q and give the name of my God a bad reputation.


\par }{\SH Against Slander
\par }
{\SP [ TO THE AUDIENCE]

\par }{\Q \VS{10}“Do not slander a slave to his master.

\par }{\Q The slave will curse you,

\par }{\Q and you will be found guilty.”


\par }{\SH Four Kinds of People
\par }
{\Q \VS{11}A certain kind of person curses his father

\par }{\Q and does not bless his mother.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}A certain kind of person thinks he is pure

\par }{\Q but is not washed from his own feces.\FTNT{†}{{\FR 30:12 }{\FT{{\TL{Blunt}} Hebrew term but not considered vulgar.}}}


\par }{\Q \VS{13}A certain kind of person looks around arrogantly

\par }{\Q and is conceited.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}A certain kind of person,

\par }{\Q whose teeth are like swords

\par }{\Q and whose jaws are
{\ADD{⌞like⌟}} knives,

\par }{\Q devours oppressed people from the earth

\par }{\Q and people from among humanity.


\par }{\SH Human Bloodsuckers
\par }
{\Q \VS{15}The bloodsucking leech has two daughters—“Give!” and “Give!”

\par }{\SH Four Things That Are Never Satisfied
\par }
{\Q Three things are never satisfied.

\par }{\Q Four never say, “Enough!”:


\par }{\Q \VS{16}the grave,

\par }{\Q a barren womb,

\par }{\Q a land that never gets enough water,

\par }{\Q a fire that does not say, “Enough!”


\par }{\SH Disrespectful Children—Their Punishment
\par }
{\Q \VS{17}The eye that makes fun of a father and hates to obey a mother

\par }{\Q will be plucked out by ravens in the valley and eaten by young vultures.


\par }{\SH Four Things of Intrigue
\par }
{\Q \VS{18}Three things are too amazing to me,

\par }{\Q even four that I cannot understand:


\par }{\Q \VS{19}an eagle making its way through the sky,

\par }{\Q a snake making its way over a rock,

\par }{\Q a ship making its way through high seas,

\par }{\Q a man making his way with a virgin.


\par }{\SH About the Woman Who Commits Adultery
\par }
{\Q \VS{20}This is the way of a woman who commits adultery:

\par }{\Q She eats, wipes her mouth,

\par }{\Q and says, “I haven’t done anything wrong!”


\par }{\SH Four Things That Are Intolerable
\par }
{\Q \VS{21}Three things cause the earth to tremble,

\par }{\Q even four it cannot bear up under:


\par }{\Q \VS{22}a slave when he becomes king,

\par }{\Q a godless fool when he is filled with food,


\par }{\Q \VS{23}a woman who is unloved when she gets married,

\par }{\Q a maid when she replaces her mistress.


\par }{\SH Four Things That Are Small—Yet Smart and Strong
\par }
{\Q \VS{24}Four things on earth are small,

\par }{\Q yet they are very wise:


\par }{\Q \VS{25}Ants are not a strong species,

\par }{\Q yet they store their food in summer.


\par }{\Q \VS{26}Rock badgers are not a mighty species,

\par }{\Q yet they make their home in the rocks.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}Locusts have no king,

\par }{\Q yet all of them divide into swarms by instinct.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}A lizard you can hold in your hands,

\par }{\Q yet it can even be found in royal palaces.


\par }{\SH Four Things That Move with Dignity
\par }
{\Q \VS{29}There are three things that walk with dignity,

\par }{\Q even four that march with dignity:


\par }{\Q \VS{30}a lion, mightiest among animals, which turns away from nothing,


\par }{\Q \VS{31}a strutting rooster,

\par }{\Q a male goat,

\par }{\Q a king at the head of his army.


\par }{\SH Keep Calm and Quiet
\par }
{\Q \VS{32}If you are such a godless fool as to honor yourself,

\par }{\Q or if you scheme,

\par }{\Q you had better put your hand over your mouth.


\par }{\Q \VS{33}As churning milk produces butter

\par }{\Q and punching a nose produces blood,

\par }{\Q so stirring up anger \FTNT{‡}{{\FR 30:33 }{\FT{In Hebrew there is a play on words in verse 33 where the same verb is used to express all three actions.}}} produces a fight.




\par }\Chap{31}{\MM \VerseOne{1}The sayings of King Lemuel, a prophetic revelation, used by his mother to discipline him.


\par }{\SH Advice to a Prince
\par }
{\Q \VS{2}“What, my son?

\par }{\Q What, son to whom I gave birth?

\par }{\Q What, son of my prayers?


\par }{\Q \VS{3}Don’t give your strength to women

\par }{\Q or your power to those who ruin kings.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{4}“It is not for kings, Lemuel.

\par }{\Q It is not for kings to drink wine or for rulers to crave liquor.


\par }{\Q \VS{5}Otherwise, they drink and forget what they have decreed

\par }{\Q and change the standard of justice for all oppressed people.


\par }{\Q \VS{6}Give liquor to a person who is dying

\par }{\Q and wine to one who feels resentful.


\par }{\Q \VS{7}Such a person drinks

\par }{\Q and forgets his poverty

\par }{\Q and does not remember his trouble anymore.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{8}“Speak out for the one who cannot speak,

\par }{\Q for the rights of those who are doomed.


\par }{\Q \VS{9}Speak out,

\par }{\Q judge fairly,

\par }{\Q and defend the rights of oppressed and needy people.”


\par }{\SH A Poem in Hebrew Alphabetical Order
\par }
{\Q \VS{10}“Who can find a wife with a strong character?

\par }{\Q She is worth far more than jewels.


\par }{\Q \VS{11}Her husband trusts her with
{\ADD{⌞all⌟}} his heart,

\par }{\Q and he does not lack anything good.


\par }{\Q \VS{12}She helps him and never harms him all the days of her life.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{13}“She seeks out wool and linen
{\ADD{⌞with care⌟}}

\par }{\Q and works with willing hands.


\par }{\Q \VS{14}She is like merchant ships.

\par }{\Q She brings her food from far away.


\par }{\Q \VS{15}She wakes up while it is still dark

\par }{\Q and gives food to her family

\par }{\Q and portions of food to her female slaves.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{16}“She picks out a field and buys it.

\par }{\Q She plants a vineyard from the profits she has earned.


\par }{\Q \VS{17}She puts on strength like a belt

\par }{\Q and goes to work with energy.


\par }{\Q \VS{18}She sees that she is making a good profit.

\par }{\Q Her lamp burns late at night.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{19}“She puts her hands on the distaff,

\par }{\Q and her fingers hold a spindle.


\par }{\Q \VS{20}She opens her hands to oppressed people

\par }{\Q and stretches them out to needy people.


\par }{\Q \VS{21}She does not fear for her family when it snows

\par }{\Q because her whole family

\par }{\Q has a double layer of clothing.


\par }{\Q \VS{22}She makes quilts for herself.

\par }{\Q Her clothes are
{\ADD{⌞made of⌟}} linen and purple cloth.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{23}“Her husband is known at the city gates

\par }{\Q when he sits with the leaders of the land.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{24}“She makes linen garments and sells them

\par }{\Q and delivers belts to the merchants.


\par }{\Q \VS{25}She dresses with strength and nobility,

\par }{\Q and she smiles at the future.


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{26}“She speaks with wisdom,

\par }{\Q and on her tongue there is tender instruction.


\par }{\Q \VS{27}She keeps a close eye on the conduct of her family,

\par }{\Q and she does not eat the bread of idleness.


\par }{\Q \VS{28}Her children and her husband

\par }{\Q stand up and bless her.

\par }{\Q In addition, he sings her praises, by saying,


\par }{\Q \VS{29}‘Many women have done noble work,

\par }{\Q but you have surpassed them all!’


\par }{\BB \par }
{\Q \VS{30}“Charm is deceptive, and beauty evaporates,

\par }{\Q {\ADD{⌞but⌟}} a woman who has the fear of the
{\ND{Lord}} should be praised.


\par }{\Q \VS{31}Reward her for what she has done,

\par }{\Q and let her achievements praise her at the city gates.”

\par }