Proverbs 1
- 1
- The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
- 2
- for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding
words of insight;
- 3
- for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is
right and just
and fair;
- 4
- for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion
to the young--
- 5
- let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the
discerning get
guidance--
- 6
- for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and
riddles of the
wise.
- 7
- The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but
fools [1]
despise wisdom and discipline.
- 8
- Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not
forsake your mother's
teaching.
- 9
- They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to
adorn your neck.
- 10
- My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them.
- 11
- If they say, "Come along with us; let's lie in wait for
someone's blood,
let's waylay some harmless soul;
- 12
- let's swallow them alive, like the grave, [2]
and whole, like those who go down to the pit;
- 13
- we will get all sorts of valuable things and fill our
houses with plunder;
- 14
- throw in your lot with us, and we will share a common
purse"--
- 15
- my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their
paths;
- 16
- for their feet rush into sin, they are swift to shed blood.
- 17
- How useless to spread a net in full view of all the birds!
- 18
- These men lie in wait for their own blood; they waylay only
themselves!
- 19
- Such is the end of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it
takes away the
lives of those who get it.
- 20
- Wisdom calls aloud in the street, she raises her voice in
the public squares;
- 21
- at the head of the noisy streets [3]
she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech:
- 22
- "How long will you simple ones [4]
love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and
fools
hate knowledge?
- 23
- If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out
my heart to
you and made my thoughts known to you.
- 24
- But since you rejected me when I called and no one gave
heed when I stretched
out my hand,
- 25
- since you ignored all my advice and would not accept my
rebuke,
- 26
- I in turn will laugh at your disaster; I will mock when
calamity overtakes
you--
- 27
- when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster
sweeps over you
like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you.
- 28
- "Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will
look for me
but will not find me.
- 29
- Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the
LORD,
- 30
- since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke,
- 31
- they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with
the fruit of their
schemes.
- 32
- For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the
complacency of
fools will destroy them;
- 33
- but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at
ease, without fear
of harm."
Proverbs 2
- 1
- My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands
within you,
- 2
- turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to
understanding,
- 3
- and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for
understanding,
- 4
- and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as
for hidden treasure,
- 5
- then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the
knowledge of
God.
- 6
- For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come
knowledge and understanding.
- 7
- He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield
to those whose
walk is blameless,
- 8
- for he guards the course of the just and protects the way
of his faithful
ones.
- 9
- Then you will understand what is right and just and
fair--every good path.
- 10
- For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be
pleasant to your
soul.
- 11
- Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard
you.
- 12
- Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men
whose words
are perverse,
- 13
- who leave the straight paths to walk in dark ways,
- 14
- who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness
of evil,
- 15
- whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways.
- 16
- It will save you also from the adulteress, from the wayward
wife with her
seductive words,
- 17
- who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the
covenant she made
before God. [5]
- 18
- For her house leads down to death and her paths to the
spirits of the dead.
- 19
- None who go to her return or attain the paths of life.
- 20
- Thus you will walk in the ways of good men and keep to the
paths of the
righteous.
- 21
- For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless
will remain in
it;
- 22
- but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the
unfaithful will be
torn from it.
Proverbs 3
- 1
- My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in
your heart,
- 2
- for they will prolong your life many years and bring you
prosperity.
- 3
- Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around
your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
- 4
- Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God
and man.
- 5
- Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your
own understanding;
- 6
- in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your
paths straight. [6]
- 7
- Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun
evil.
- 8
- This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your
bones.
- 9
- Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of
all your crops;
- 10
- then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your
vats will brim
over with new wine.
- 11
- My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline and do not
resent his rebuke,
- 12
- because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father [7]
the son he delights in.
- 13
- Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains
understanding,
- 14
- for she is more profitable than silver and yields better
returns than gold.
- 15
- She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can
compare with her.
- 16
- Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches
and honor.
- 17
- Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.
- 18
- She is a tree of life to those who embrace her; those who
lay hold of her
will be blessed.
- 19
- By wisdom the LORD laid the earth's foundations, by
understanding he set
the heavens in place;
- 20
- by his knowledge the deeps were divided, and the clouds let
drop the dew.
- 21
- My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let
them out of
your sight;
- 22
- they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck.
- 23
- Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will
not stumble;
- 24
- when you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie
down, your sleep
will be sweet.
- 25
- Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that
overtakes the wicked,
- 26
- for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your
foot from being
snared.
- 27
- Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is
in your power
to act.
- 28
- Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back later; I'll give it
tomorrow"--
when you now have it with you.
- 29
- Do not plot harm against your neighbor, who lives
trustfully near you.
- 30
- Do not accuse a man for no reason-- when he has done you no
harm.
- 31
- Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways,
- 32
- for the LORD detests a perverse man but takes the upright
into his confidence.
- 33
- The LORD's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he
blesses the home
of the righteous.
- 34
- He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.
- 35
- The wise inherit honor, but fools he holds up to shame.
Proverbs 4
- 1
- Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention
and gain understanding.
- 2
- I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.
- 3
- When I was a boy in my father's house, still tender, and an
only child
of my mother,
- 4
- he taught me and said, "Lay hold of my words with all your
heart; keep
my commands and you will live.
- 5
- Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or
swerve from them.
- 6
- Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her,
and she will
watch over you.
- 7
- Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all
you have, [8]
get understanding.
- 8
- Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she
will honor you.
- 9
- She will set a garland of grace on your head and present
you with a crown
of splendor."
- 10
- Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your
life will be many.
- 11
- I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along
straight paths.
- 12
- When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you
run, you will
not stumble.
- 13
- Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well,
for it is your
life.
- 14
- Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the
way of evil men.
- 15
- Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your
way.
- 16
- For they cannot sleep till they do evil; they are robbed of
slumber till
they make someone fall.
- 17
- They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of
violence.
- 18
- The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn,
shining ever
brighter till the full light of day.
- 19
- But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do
not know what
makes them stumble.
- 20
- My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my
words.
- 21
- Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your
heart;
- 22
- for they are life to those who find them and health to a
man's whole body.
- 23
- Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring
of life.
- 24
- Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far
from your lips.
- 25
- Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly
before you.
- 26
- Make level [9]
paths for your feet
and take only ways that are firm.
- 27
- Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from
evil.
Proverbs 5
- 1
- My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words
of insight,
- 2
- that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve
knowledge.
- 3
- For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is
smoother than
oil;
- 4
- but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a
double-edged sword.
- 5
- Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the
grave. [10]
- 6
- She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths are
crooked, but she
knows it not.
- 7
- Now then, my sons, listen to me; do not turn aside from
what I say.
- 8
- Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her
house,
- 9
- lest you give your best strength to others and your years
to one who is
cruel,
- 10
- lest strangers feast on your wealth and your toil enrich
another man's
house.
- 11
- At the end of your life you will groan, when your flesh and
body are spent.
- 12
- You will say, "How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned
correction!
- 13
- I would not obey my teachers or listen to my instructors.
- 14
- I have come to the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the
whole assembly."
- 15
- Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your
own well.
- 16
- Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams
of water in the
public squares?
- 17
- Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers.
- 18
- May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the
wife of your youth.
- 19
- A loving doe, a graceful deer-- may her breasts satisfy you
always, may
you ever be captivated by her love.
- 20
- Why be captivated, my son, by an adulteress? Why embrace
the bosom of another
man's wife?
- 21
- For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD, and he
examines all his
paths.
- 22
- The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him; the cords of
his sin hold him
fast.
- 23
- He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own
great folly.
Proverbs 6
- 1
- My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if
you have struck
hands in pledge for another,
- 2
- if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the
words of your
mouth,
- 3
- then do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have
fallen into your
neighbor's hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your
neighbor!
- 4
- Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids.
- 5
- Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter,
like a bird
from the snare of the fowler.
- 6
- Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!
- 7
- It has no commander, no overseer or ruler,
- 8
- yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food
at harvest.
- 9
- How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you
get up from your
sleep?
- 10
- A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the
hands to rest--
- 11
- and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity
like an armed man. [11]
- 12
- A scoundrel and villain, who goes about with a corrupt
mouth,
- 13
- who winks with his eye, signals with his feet and motions
with his fingers,
- 14
- who plots evil with deceit in his heart-- he always stirs
up dissension.
- 15
- Therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will
suddenly be
destroyed--without remedy.
- 16
- There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are
detestable to him:
- 17
- haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent
blood,
- 18
- a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to
rush into evil,
- 19
- a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up
dissension among
brothers.
- 20
- My son, keep your father's commands and do not forsake your
mother's teaching.
- 21
- Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your
neck.
- 22
- When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they
will watch over
you; when you awake, they will speak to you.
- 23
- For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light,
and the corrections
of discipline are the way to life,
- 24
- keeping you from the immoral woman, from the smooth tongue
of the wayward
wife.
- 25
- Do not lust in your heart after her beauty or let her
captivate you with
her eyes,
- 26
- for the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread, and the
adulteress preys
upon your very life.
- 27
- Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being
burned?
- 28
- Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched?
- 29
- So is he who sleeps with another man's wife; no one who
touches her will
go unpunished.
- 30
- Men do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his
hunger when he is
starving.
- 31
- Yet if he is caught, he must pay sevenfold, though it costs
him all the
wealth of his house.
- 32
- But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does
so destroys
himself.
- 33
- Blows and disgrace are his lot, and his shame will never be
wiped away;
- 34
- for jealousy arouses a husband's fury, and he will show no
mercy when he
takes revenge.
- 35
- He will not accept any compensation; he will refuse the
bribe, however
great it is.
Proverbs 7
- 1
- My son, keep my words and store up my commands within you.
- 2
- Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as
the apple of
your eye.
- 3
- Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your
heart.
- 4
- Say to wisdom, "You are my sister," and call understanding
your kinsman;
- 5
- they will keep you from the adulteress, from the wayward
wife with her
seductive words.
- 6
- At the window of my house I looked out through the lattice.
- 7
- I saw among the simple, I noticed among the young men, a
youth who lacked
judgment.
- 8
- He was going down the street near her corner, walking along
in the direction
of her house
- 9
- at twilight, as the day was fading, as the dark of night
set in.
- 10
- Then out came a woman to meet him, dressed like a
prostitute and with crafty
intent.
- 11
- (She is loud and defiant, her feet never stay at home;
- 12
- now in the street, now in the squares, at every corner she
lurks.)
- 13
- She took hold of him and kissed him and with a brazen face
she said:
- 14
- "I have fellowship offerings [12]
at home; today I fulfilled my vows.
- 15
- So I came out to meet you; I looked for you and have found
you!
- 16
- I have covered my bed with colored linens from Egypt.
- 17
- I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon.
- 18
- Come, let's drink deep of love till morning; let's enjoy
ourselves with
love!
- 19
- My husband is not at home; he has gone on a long journey.
- 20
- He took his purse filled with money and will not be home
till full moon."
- 21
- With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him
with her smooth
talk.
- 22
- All at once he followed her like an ox going to the
slaughter, like a deer [13]
stepping into a noose [14]
- 23
- till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a
snare, little
knowing it will cost him his life.
- 24
- Now then, my sons, listen to me; pay attention to what I
say.
- 25
- Do not let your heart turn to her ways or stray into her
paths.
- 26
- Many are the victims she has brought down; her slain are a
mighty throng.
- 27
- Her house is a highway to the grave, [15]
leading down to the chambers of death.
Proverbs 8
- 1
- Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her
voice?
- 2
- On the heights along the way, where the paths meet, she
takes her stand;
- 3
- beside the gates leading into the city, at the entrances,
she cries aloud:
- 4
- "To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind.
- 5
- You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish,
gain understanding.
- 6
- Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to
speak what is
right.
- 7
- My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness.
- 8
- All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked
or perverse.
- 9
- To the discerning all of them are right; they are faultless
to those who
have knowledge.
- 10
- Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather
than choice gold,
- 11
- for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you
desire can compare
with her.
- 12
- "I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess
knowledge and discretion.
- 13
- To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and
arrogance, evil behavior
and perverse speech.
- 14
- Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have understanding
and power.
- 15
- By me kings reign and rulers make laws that are just;
- 16
- by me princes govern, and all nobles who rule on earth. [16]
- 17
- I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.
- 18
- With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and
prosperity.
- 19
- My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses
choice silver.
- 20
- I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of
justice,
- 21
- bestowing wealth on those who love me and making their
treasuries full.
- 22
- "The LORD brought me forth as the first of his works, [17][18]
before his deeds of old;
- 23
- I was appointed [19]
from eternity,
from the beginning, before the world began.
- 24
- When there were no oceans, I was given birth, when there
were no springs
abounding with water;
- 25
- before the mountains were settled in place, before the
hills, I was given
birth,
- 26
- before he made the earth or its fields or any of the dust
of the world.
- 27
- I was there when he set the heavens in place, when he
marked out the horizon
on the face of the deep,
- 28
- when he established the clouds above and fixed securely the
fountains of
the deep,
- 29
- when he gave the sea its boundary so the waters would not
overstep his
command, and when he marked out the foundations of the earth.
- 30
- Then I was the craftsman at his side. I was filled with
delight day after
day, rejoicing always in his presence,
- 31
- rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind.
- 32
- "Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who
keep my ways.
- 33
- Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it.
- 34
- Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my
doors, waiting
at my doorway.
- 35
- For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the
LORD.
- 36
- But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me
love death."
Proverbs 9
- 1
- Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn out its seven
pillars.
- 2
- She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine; she has also
set her table.
- 3
- She has sent out her maids, and she calls from the highest
point of the
city.
- 4
- "Let all who are simple come in here!" she says to those
who lack judgment.
- 5
- "Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed.
- 6
- Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way
of understanding.
- 7
- "Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes
a wicked man
incurs abuse.
- 8
- Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise
man and he will
love you.
- 9
- Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a
righteous man and
he will add to his learning.
- 10
- "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and
knowledge of the
Holy One is understanding.
- 11
- For through me your days will be many, and years will be
added to your
life.
- 12
- If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a
mocker, you
alone will suffer."
- 13
- The woman Folly is loud; she is undisciplined and without
knowledge.
- 14
- She sits at the door of her house, on a seat at the highest
point of the
city,
- 15
- calling out to those who pass by, who go straight on their
way.
- 16
- "Let all who are simple come in here!" she says to those
who lack judgment.
- 17
- "Stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is delicious!"
- 18
- But little do they know that the dead are there, that her
guests are in
the depths of the grave. [20]
Proverbs 10
- 1
- The proverbs of Solomon: A wise son brings joy to his
father, but a foolish
son grief to his mother.
- 2
- Ill-gotten treasures are of no value, but righteousness
delivers from death.
- 3
- The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry but he
thwarts the craving
of the wicked.
- 4
- Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.
- 5
- He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who
sleeps during
harvest is a disgraceful son.
- 6
- Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence
overwhelms the
mouth of the wicked. [21]
- 7
- The memory of the righteous will be a blessing, but the
name of the wicked
will rot.
- 8
- The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool
comes to ruin.
- 9
- The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes
crooked paths will
be found out.
- 10
- He who winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering
fool comes to ruin.
- 11
- The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but
violence overwhelms
the mouth of the wicked.
- 12
- Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs.
- 13
- Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is
for the back
of him who lacks judgment.
- 14
- Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool
invites ruin.
- 15
- The wealth of the rich is their fortified city, but poverty
is the ruin
of the poor.
- 16
- The wages of the righteous bring them life, but the income
of the wicked
brings them punishment.
- 17
- He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever
ignores correction
leads others astray.
- 18
- He who conceals his hatred has lying lips, and whoever
spreads slander
is a fool.
- 19
- When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds
his tongue is
wise.
- 20
- The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart
of the wicked
is of little value.
- 21
- The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for
lack of judgment.
- 22
- The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, and he adds no
trouble to it.
- 23
- A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of
understanding delights
in wisdom.
- 24
- What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the
righteous desire will
be granted.
- 25
- When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the
righteous stand
firm forever.
- 26
- As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is a
sluggard to those
who send him.
- 27
- The fear of the LORD adds length to life, but the years of
the wicked are
cut short.
- 28
- The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the
wicked come
to nothing.
- 29
- The way of the LORD is a refuge for the righteous, but it
is the ruin of
those who do evil.
- 30
- The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will
not remain in
the land.
- 31
- The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but a
perverse tongue will
be cut out.
- 32
- The lips of the righteous know what is fitting, but the
mouth of the wicked
only what is perverse.
Proverbs 11
- 1
- The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are
his delight.
- 2
- When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility
comes wisdom.
- 3
- The integrity of the upright guides them, but the
unfaithful are destroyed
by their duplicity.
- 4
- Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness
delivers from
death.
- 5
- The righteousness of the blameless makes a straight way for
them, but the
wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.
- 6
- The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the
unfaithful are
trapped by evil desires.
- 7
- When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; all he expected
from his power
comes to nothing.
- 8
- The righteous man is rescued from trouble, and it comes on
the wicked instead.
- 9
- With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but
through knowledge
the righteous escape.
- 10
- When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the
wicked perish,
there are shouts of joy.
- 11
- Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but
by the mouth
of the wicked it is destroyed.
- 12
- A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of
understanding
holds his tongue.
- 13
- A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps
a secret.
- 14
- For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make
victory sure.
- 15
- He who puts up security for another will surely suffer, but
whoever refuses
to strike hands in pledge is safe.
- 16
- A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain
only wealth.
- 17
- A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble
on himself.
- 18
- The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows
righteousness reaps
a sure reward.
- 19
- The truly righteous man attains life, but he who pursues
evil goes to his
death.
- 20
- The LORD detests men of perverse heart but he delights in
those whose ways
are blameless.
- 21
- Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but
those who are righteous
will go free.
- 22
- Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman who
shows no discretion.
- 23
- The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope
of the wicked
only in wrath.
- 24
- One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another
withholds unduly, but
comes to poverty.
- 25
- A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will
himself be refreshed.
- 26
- People curse the man who hoards grain, but blessing crowns
him who is willing
to sell.
- 27
- He who seeks good finds goodwill, but evil comes to him who
searches for
it.
- 28
- Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous
will thrive like
a green leaf.
- 29
- He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind,
and the fool
will be servant to the wise.
- 30
- The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who
wins souls is
wise.
- 31
- If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more
the ungodly
and the sinner!
Proverbs 12
- 1
- Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates
correction is
stupid.
- 2
- A good man obtains favor from the LORD, but the LORD
condemns a crafty
man.
- 3
- A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the
righteous cannot
be uprooted.
- 4
- A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a
disgraceful wife
is like decay in his bones.
- 5
- The plans of the righteous are just, but the advice of the
wicked is deceitful.
- 6
- The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the
speech of the upright
rescues them.
- 7
- Wicked men are overthrown and are no more, but the house of
the righteous
stands firm.
- 8
- A man is praised according to his wisdom, but men with
warped minds are
despised.
- 9
- Better to be a nobody and yet have a servant than pretend
to be somebody
and have no food.
- 10
- A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the
kindest acts
of the wicked are cruel.
- 11
- He who works his land will have abundant food, but he who
chases fantasies
lacks judgment.
- 12
- The wicked desire the plunder of evil men, but the root of
the righteous
flourishes.
- 13
- An evil man is trapped by his sinful talk, but a righteous
man escapes
trouble.
- 14
- From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things
as surely as
the work of his hands rewards him.
- 15
- The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man
listens to advice.
- 16
- A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man
overlooks an insult.
- 17
- A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false
witness tells lies.
- 18
- Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the
wise brings healing.
- 19
- Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only
a moment.
- 20
- There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but
joy for those
who promote peace.
- 21
- No harm befalls the righteous, but the wicked have their
fill of trouble.
- 22
- The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are
truthful.
- 23
- A prudent man keeps his knowledge to himself, but the heart
of fools blurts
out folly.
- 24
- Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in slave labor.
- 25
- An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers
him up.
- 26
- A righteous man is cautious in friendship, [22]
but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
- 27
- The lazy man does not roast [23] his
game, but the diligent man prizes his possessions.
- 28
- In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path
is immortality.
Proverbs 13
- 1
- A wise son heeds his father's instruction, but a mocker
does not listen
to rebuke.
- 2
- From the fruit of his lips a man enjoys good things, but
the unfaithful
have a craving for violence.
- 3
- He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks
rashly will come
to ruin.
- 4
- The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of
the diligent are
fully satisfied.
- 5
- The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring
shame and disgrace.
- 6
- Righteousness guards the man of integrity, but wickedness
overthrows the
sinner.
- 7
- One man pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another
pretends to be poor,
yet has great wealth.
- 8
- A man's riches may ransom his life, but a poor man hears no
threat.
- 9
- The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of
the wicked
is snuffed out.
- 10
- Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those
who take advice.
- 11
- Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money
little by little
makes it grow.
- 12
- Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled
is a tree of
life.
- 13
- He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who
respects a command
is rewarded.
- 14
- The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a
man from the
snares of death.
- 15
- Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the
unfaithful is hard. [24]
- 16
- Every prudent man acts out of knowledge, but a fool exposes
his folly.
- 17
- A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy
envoy brings healing.
- 18
- He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but
whoever heeds
correction is honored.
- 19
- A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest
turning from
evil.
- 20
- He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of
fools suffers
harm.
- 21
- Misfortune pursues the sinner, but prosperity is the reward
of the righteous.
- 22
- A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's
children, but a sinner's
wealth is stored up for the righteous.
- 23
- A poor man's field may produce abundant food, but injustice
sweeps it away.
- 24
- He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him
is careful to
discipline him.
- 25
- The righteous eat to their hearts' content, but the stomach
of the wicked
goes hungry.
Proverbs 14
- 1
- The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the
foolish one
tears hers down.
- 2
- He whose walk is upright fears the LORD, but he whose ways
are devious
despises him.
- 3
- A fool's talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the
wise protect
them.
- 4
- Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the
strength of
an ox comes an abundant harvest.
- 5
- A truthful witness does not deceive, but a false witness
pours out lies.
- 6
- The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes
easily to the
discerning.
- 7
- Stay away from a foolish man, for you will not find
knowledge on his lips.
- 8
- The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways,
but the folly
of fools is deception.
- 9
- Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found
among the upright.
- 10
- Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can
share its joy.
- 11
- The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of
the upright
will flourish.
- 12
- There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it
leads to death.
- 13
- Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in
grief.
- 14
- The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the
good man rewarded
for his.
- 15
- A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives
thought to his
steps.
- 16
- A wise man fears the LORD and shuns evil, but a fool is
hotheaded and reckless.
- 17
- A quick-tempered man does foolish things, and a crafty man
is hated.
- 18
- The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with
knowledge.
- 19
- Evil men will bow down in the presence of the good, and the
wicked at the
gates of the righteous.
- 20
- The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich
have many friends.
- 21
- He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who is
kind to the
needy.
- 22
- Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan
what is good find [25]
love and faithfulness.
- 23
- All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to
poverty.
- 24
- The wealth of the wise is their crown, but the folly of
fools yields folly.
- 25
- A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is
deceitful.
- 26
- He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his
children it will
be a refuge.
- 27
- The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man
from the snares
of death.
- 28
- A large population is a king's glory, but without subjects
a prince is
ruined.
- 29
- A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered
man displays
folly.
- 30
- A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the
bones.
- 31
- He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker,
but whoever is
kind to the needy honors God.
- 32
- When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even
in death the
righteous have a refuge.
- 33
- Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even
among fools she
lets herself be known. [26]
- 34
- Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any
people.
- 35
- A king delights in a wise servant, but a shameful servant
incurs his wrath.
Proverbs 15
- 1
- A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up
anger.
- 2
- The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of
the fool gushes
folly.
- 3
- The eyes of the LORD are everywhere, keeping watch on the
wicked and the
good.
- 4
- The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a
deceitful tongue
crushes the spirit.
- 5
- A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds
correction shows
prudence.
- 6
- The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the
income of the
wicked brings them trouble.
- 7
- The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of
fools.
- 8
- The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the
prayer of the upright
pleases him.
- 9
- The LORD detests the way of the wicked but he loves those
who pursue righteousness.
- 10
- Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who
hates correction
will die.
- 11
- Death and Destruction [27] lie open
before the LORD-- how much more the hearts of men!
- 12
- A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise.
- 13
- A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache
crushes the spirit.
- 14
- The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a
fool feeds on
folly.
- 15
- All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the
cheerful heart has
a continual feast.
- 16
- Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth
with turmoil.
- 17
- Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a
fattened calf with
hatred.
- 18
- A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man
calms a quarrel.
- 19
- The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the
path of the upright
is a highway.
- 20
- A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man
despises his mother.
- 21
- Folly delights a man who lacks judgment, but a man of
understanding keeps
a straight course.
- 22
- Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they
succeed.
- 23
- A man finds joy in giving an apt reply-- and how good is a
timely word!
- 24
- The path of life leads upward for the wise to keep him from
going down
to the grave. [28]
- 25
- The LORD tears down the proud man's house but he keeps the
widow's boundaries
intact.
- 26
- The LORD detests the thoughts of the wicked, but those of
the pure are
pleasing to him.
- 27
- A greedy man brings trouble to his family, but he who hates
bribes will
live.
- 28
- The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the
mouth of the wicked
gushes evil.
- 29
- The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of
the righteous.
- 30
- A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news
gives health to
the bones.
- 31
- He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home
among the wise.
- 32
- He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever
heeds correction
gains understanding.
- 33
- The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, [29]
and humility comes before honor.
Proverbs 16
- 1
- To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD
comes the reply
of the tongue.
- 2
- All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are
weighed by the LORD.
- 3
- Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will
succeed.
- 4
- The LORD works out everything for his own ends-- even the
wicked for a
day of disaster.
- 5
- The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this:
They will not
go unpunished.
- 6
- Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through
the fear of the
LORD a man avoids evil.
- 7
- When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even
his enemies live
at peace with him.
- 8
- Better a little with righteousness than much gain with
injustice.
- 9
- In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD
determines his steps.
- 10
- The lips of a king speak as an oracle, and his mouth should
not betray
justice.
- 11
- Honest scales and balances are from the LORD; all the
weights in the bag
are of his making.
- 12
- Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established
through righteousness.
- 13
- Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who
speaks the truth.
- 14
- A king's wrath is a messenger of death, but a wise man will
appease it.
- 15
- When a king's face brightens, it means life; his favor is
like a rain cloud
in spring.
- 16
- How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose
understanding rather
than silver!
- 17
- The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his
way guards his
life.
- 18
- Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a
fall.
- 19
- Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than
to share plunder
with the proud.
- 20
- Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is
he who trusts
in the LORD.
- 21
- The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words
promote instruction. [30]
- 22
- Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it,
but folly brings
punishment to fools.
- 23
- A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote
instruction. [31]
- 24
- Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and
healing to the bones.
- 25
- There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it
leads to death.
- 26
- The laborer's appetite works for him; his hunger drives him
on.
- 27
- A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching
fire.
- 28
- A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates
close friends.
- 29
- A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him down a
path that is not
good.
- 30
- He who winks with his eye is plotting perversity; he who
purses his lips
is bent on evil.
- 31
- Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a
righteous life.
- 32
- Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his
temper than
one who takes a city.
- 33
- The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is
from the LORD.
Proverbs 17
- 1
- Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full
of feasting, [32]
with strife.
- 2
- A wise servant will rule over a disgraceful son, and will
share the inheritance
as one of the brothers.
- 3
- The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the
LORD tests the
heart.
- 4
- A wicked man listens to evil lips; a liar pays attention to
a malicious
tongue.
- 5
- He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker;
whoever gloats over
disaster will not go unpunished.
- 6
- Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents
are the pride
of their children.
- 7
- Arrogant [33]
lips are unsuited to
a fool-- how much worse lying lips to a ruler!
- 8
- A bribe is a charm to the one who gives it; wherever he
turns, he succeeds.
- 9
- He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever
repeats the matter
separates close friends.
- 10
- A rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred
lashes a fool.
- 11
- An evil man is bent only on rebellion; a merciless official
will be sent
against him.
- 12
- Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his
folly.
- 13
- If a man pays back evil for good, evil will never leave his
house.
- 14
- Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the
matter before a
dispute breaks out.
- 15
- Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent-- the
LORD detests them
both.
- 16
- Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no
desire to get
wisdom?
- 17
- A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for
adversity.
- 18
- A man lacking in judgment strikes hands in pledge and puts
up security
for his neighbor.
- 19
- He who loves a quarrel loves sin; he who builds a high gate
invites destruction.
- 20
- A man of perverse heart does not prosper; he whose tongue
is deceitful
falls into trouble.
- 21
- To have a fool for a son brings grief; there is no joy for
the father of
a fool.
- 22
- A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit
dries up the bones.
- 23
- A wicked man accepts a bribe in secret to pervert the
course of justice.
- 24
- A discerning man keeps wisdom in view, but a fool's eyes
wander to the
ends of the earth.
- 25
- A foolish son brings grief to his father and bitterness to
the one who
bore him.
- 26
- It is not good to punish an innocent man, or to flog
officials for their
integrity.
- 27
- A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of
understanding
is even-tempered.
- 28
- Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and
discerning if he holds
his tongue.
Proverbs 18
- 1
- An unfriendly man pursues selfish ends; he defies all sound
judgment.
- 2
- A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in
airing his own
opinions.
- 3
- When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame
comes disgrace.
- 4
- The words of a man's mouth are deep waters, but the
fountain of wisdom
is a bubbling brook.
- 5
- It is not good to be partial to the wicked or to deprive
the innocent of
justice.
- 6
- A fool's lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a
beating.
- 7
- A fool's mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to
his soul.
- 8
- The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down
to a man's
inmost parts.
- 9
- One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.
- 10
- The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run
to it and are
safe.
- 11
- The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they
imagine it an unscalable
wall.
- 12
- Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility
comes before honor.
- 13
- He who answers before listening-- that is his folly and his
shame.
- 14
- A man's spirit sustains him in sickness, but a crushed
spirit who can bear?
- 15
- The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of
the wise seek
it out.
- 16
- A gift opens the way for the giver and ushers him into the
presence of
the great.
- 17
- The first to present his case seems right, till another
comes forward and
questions him.
- 18
- Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents
apart.
- 19
- An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified
city, and disputes
are like the barred gates of a citadel.
- 20
- From the fruit of his mouth a man's stomach is filled; with
the harvest
from his lips he is satisfied.
- 21
- The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who
love it will
eat its fruit.
- 22
- He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor
from the LORD.
- 23
- A poor man pleads for mercy, but a rich man answers harshly.
- 24
- A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a
friend who sticks
closer than a brother.
Proverbs 19
- 1
- Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a fool whose
lips are perverse.
- 2
- It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be
hasty and miss
the way.
- 3
- A man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages
against the LORD.
- 4
- Wealth brings many friends, but a poor man's friend deserts
him.
- 5
- A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who pours
out lies will
not go free.
- 6
- Many curry favor with a ruler, and everyone is the friend
of a man who
gives gifts.
- 7
- A poor man is shunned by all his relatives-- how much more
do his friends
avoid him! Though he pursues them with pleading, they are nowhere to be
found. [34]
- 8
- He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes
understanding prospers.
- 9
- A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who pours
out lies will
perish.
- 10
- It is not fitting for a fool to live in luxury-- how much
worse for a slave
to rule over princes!
- 11
- A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to
overlook an offense.
- 12
- A king's rage is like the roar of a lion, but his favor is
like dew on
the grass.
- 13
- A foolish son is his father's ruin, and a quarrelsome wife
is like a constant
dripping.
- 14
- Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent
wife is from
the LORD.
- 15
- Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless man goes
hungry.
- 16
- He who obeys instructions guards his life, but he who is
contemptuous of
his ways will die.
- 17
- He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will
reward him for
what he has done.
- 18
- Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a
willing party
to his death.
- 19
- A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him,
you will have
to do it again.
- 20
- Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you
will be wise.
- 21
- Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's
purpose that
prevails.
- 22
- What a man desires is unfailing love [35];
better to be poor than a liar.
- 23
- The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content,
untouched by
trouble.
- 24
- The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he will not even
bring it back
to his mouth!
- 25
- Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke a
discerning
man, and he will gain knowledge.
- 26
- He who robs his father and drives out his mother is a son
who brings shame
and disgrace.
- 27
- Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray
from the words
of knowledge.
- 28
- A corrupt witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the
wicked gulps down
evil.
- 29
- Penalties are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the
backs of fools.
Proverbs 20
- 1
- Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray
by them is not
wise.
- 2
- A king's wrath is like the roar of a lion; he who angers
him forfeits his
life.
- 3
- It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is
quick to quarrel.
- 4
- A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he
looks but finds
nothing.
- 5
- The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of
understanding
draws them out.
- 6
- Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful
man who can find?
- 7
- The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his
children after
him.
- 8
- When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all
evil with his
eyes.
- 9
- Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and
without sin"?
- 10
- Differing weights and differing measures-- the LORD detests
them both.
- 11
- Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his
conduct is pure and
right.
- 12
- Ears that hear and eyes that see-- the LORD has made them
both.
- 13
- Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you
will have food
to spare.
- 14
- "It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer; then off he
goes and boasts
about his purchase.
- 15
- Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak
knowledge are
a rare jewel.
- 16
- Take the garment of one who puts up security for a
stranger; hold it in
pledge if he does it for a wayward woman.
- 17
- Food gained by fraud tastes sweet to a man, but he ends up
with a mouth
full of gravel.
- 18
- Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain
guidance.
- 19
- A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too
much.
- 20
- If a man curses his father or mother, his lamp will be
snuffed out in pitch
darkness.
- 21
- An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning will not be
blessed at the
end.
- 22
- Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for
the LORD, and
he will deliver you.
- 23
- The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do
not please
him.
- 24
- A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone
understand
his own way?
- 25
- It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and
only later to consider
his vows.
- 26
- A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing
wheel over
them.
- 27
- The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man [36];
it searches out his inmost being.
- 28
- Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his
throne is made
secure.
- 29
- The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the
splendor of the
old.
- 30
- Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the
inmost being.
Proverbs 21
- 1
- The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it
like a watercourse
wherever he pleases.
- 2
- All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the
heart.
- 3
- To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD
than sacrifice.
- 4
- Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, are
sin!
- 5
- The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste
leads to poverty.
- 6
- A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a
deadly snare. [37]
- 7
- The violence of the wicked will drag them away, for they
refuse to do what
is right.
- 8
- The way of the guilty is devious, but the conduct of the
innocent is upright.
- 9
- Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house
with a quarrelsome
wife.
- 10
- The wicked man craves evil; his neighbor gets no mercy from
him.
- 11
- When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; when a
wise man is instructed,
he gets knowledge.
- 12
- The Righteous One [38]
takes note
of the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin.
- 13
- If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will
cry out and
not be answered.
- 14
- A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed
in the cloak
pacifies great wrath.
- 15
- When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but
terror to evildoers.
- 16
- A man who strays from the path of understanding comes to
rest in the company
of the dead.
- 17
- He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine
and oil will
never be rich.
- 18
- The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, and the
unfaithful for the
upright.
- 19
- Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and
ill-tempered wife.
- 20
- In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil,
but a foolish
man devours all he has.
- 21
- He who pursues righteousness and love finds life,
prosperity [39]
and honor.
- 22
- A wise man attacks the city of the mighty and pulls down
the stronghold
in which they trust.
- 23
- He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from
calamity.
- 24
- The proud and arrogant man--"Mocker" is his name; he
behaves with overweening
pride.
- 25
- The sluggard's craving will be the death of him, because
his hands refuse
to work.
- 26
- All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give
without sparing.
- 27
- The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable-- how much more
so when brought
with evil intent!
- 28
- A false witness will perish, and whoever listens to him
will be destroyed
forever. [40]
- 29
- A wicked man puts up a bold front, but an upright man gives
thought to
his ways.
- 30
- There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed
against the LORD.
- 31
- The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory
rests with the
LORD.
Proverbs 22
- 1
- A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be
esteemed is better
than silver or gold.
- 2
- Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of
them all.
- 3
- A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple
keep going and
suffer for it.
- 4
- Humility and the fear of the LORD bring wealth and honor
and life.
- 5
- In the paths of the wicked lie thorns and snares, but he
who guards his
soul stays far from them.
- 6
- Train [41]
a child in the way he should
go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
- 7
- The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to
the lender.
- 8
- He who sows wickedness reaps trouble, and the rod of his
fury will be destroyed.
- 9
- A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his
food with the
poor.
- 10
- Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and
insults are ended.
- 11
- He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will
have the king
for his friend.
- 12
- The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but he
frustrates the words
of the unfaithful.
- 13
- The sluggard says, "There is a lion outside!" or, "I will
be murdered in
the streets!"
- 14
- The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; he who is under
the LORD's wrath
will fall into it.
- 15
- Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of
discipline will
drive it far from him.
- 16
- He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who
gives gifts
to the rich--both come to poverty.
- 17
- Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise; apply
your heart to
what I teach,
- 18
- for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and
have all of them
ready on your lips.
- 19
- So that your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today,
even you.
- 20
- Have I not written thirty [42] sayings
for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge,
- 21
- teaching you true and reliable words, so that you can give
sound answers
to him who sent you?
- 22
- Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not
crush the needy
in court,
- 23
- for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those
who plunder
them.
- 24
- Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not
associate with one
easily angered,
- 25
- or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared.
- 26
- Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up
security for debts;
- 27
- if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be
snatched from under
you.
- 28
- Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your
forefathers.
- 29
- Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before
kings; he will
not serve before obscure men.
Proverbs 23
- 1
- When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what [43]
is before you,
- 2
- and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony.
- 3
- Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive.
- 4
- Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to
show restraint.
- 5
- Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they
will surely sprout
wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.
- 6
- Do not eat the food of a stingy man, do not crave his
delicacies;
- 7
- for he is the kind of man who is always thinking about the
cost. [44]
"Eat and drink," he says to you, but his heart is not with you.
- 8
- You will vomit up the little you have eaten and will have
wasted your compliments.
- 9
- Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of
your words.
- 10
- Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the
fields of the
fatherless,
- 11
- for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case
against you.
- 12
- Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of
knowledge.
- 13
- Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him
with the rod,
he will not die.
- 14
- Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death. [45]
- 15
- My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad;
- 16
- my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is
right.
- 17
- Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous
for the fear
of the LORD.
- 18
- There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will
not be cut off.
- 19
- Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the
right path.
- 20
- Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge
themselves on meat,
- 21
- for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness
clothes them in
rags.
- 22
- Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not
despise your mother
when she is old.
- 23
- Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline
and understanding.
- 24
- The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a
wise son delights
in him.
- 25
- May your father and mother be glad; may she who gave you
birth rejoice!
- 26
- My son, give me your heart and let your eyes keep to my
ways,
- 27
- for a prostitute is a deep pit and a wayward wife is a
narrow well.
- 28
- Like a bandit she lies in wait, and multiplies the
unfaithful among men.
- 29
- Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has
complaints? Who has
needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes?
- 30
- Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed
wine.
- 31
- Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the
cup, when it
goes down smoothly!
- 32
- In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.
- 33
- Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine
confusing things.
- 34
- You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on
top of the rigging.
- 35
- "They hit me," you will say, "but I'm not hurt! They beat
me, but I don't
feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?"
Proverbs 24
- 1
- Do not envy wicked men, do not desire their company;
- 2
- for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about
making trouble.
- 3
- By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is
established;
- 4
- through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and
beautiful treasures.
- 5
- A wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge
increases strength;
- 6
- for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many
advisers.
- 7
- Wisdom is too high for a fool; in the assembly at the gate
he has nothing
to say.
- 8
- He who plots evil will be known as a schemer.
- 9
- The schemes of folly are sin, and men detest a mocker.
- 10
- If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your
strength!
- 11
- Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those
staggering toward
slaughter.
- 12
- If you say, "But we knew nothing about this," does not he
who weighs the
heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he
not
repay each person according to what he has done?
- 13
- Eat honey, my son, for it is good; honey from the comb is
sweet to your
taste.
- 14
- Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul; if you find
it, there is a
future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.
- 15
- Do not lie in wait like an outlaw against a righteous man's
house, do not
raid his dwelling place;
- 16
- for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises
again, but the wicked
are brought down by calamity.
- 17
- Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do
not let your heart
rejoice,
- 18
- or the LORD will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away
from him.
- 19
- Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of the wicked,
- 20
- for the evil man has no future hope, and the lamp of the
wicked will be
snuffed out.
- 21
- Fear the LORD and the king, my son, and do not join with
the rebellious,
- 22
- for those two will send sudden destruction upon them, and
who knows what
calamities they can bring?
- 23
- These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in
judging is not
good:
- 24
- Whoever says to the guilty, "You are innocent"-- peoples
will curse him
and nations denounce him.
- 25
- But it will go well with those who convict the guilty, and
rich blessing
will come upon them.
- 26
- An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.
- 27
- Finish your outdoor work and get your fields ready; after
that, build your
house.
- 28
- Do not testify against your neighbor without cause, or use
your lips to
deceive.
- 29
- Do not say, "I'll do to him as he has done to me; I'll pay
that man back
for what he did."
- 30
- I went past the field of the sluggard, past the vineyard of
the man who
lacks judgment;
- 31
- thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with
weeds, and the
stone wall was in ruins.
- 32
- I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson
from what I
saw:
- 33
- A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the
hands to rest--
- 34
- and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity
like an armed man. [46]
Proverbs 25
- 1
- These are more proverbs of Solomon, copied by the men of
Hezekiah king
of Judah:
- 2
- It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a
matter is the
glory of kings.
- 3
- As the heavens are high and the earth is deep, so the
hearts of kings are
unsearchable.
- 4
- Remove the dross from the silver, and out comes material
for [47]
the silversmith;
- 5
- remove the wicked from the king's presence, and his throne
will be established
through righteousness.
- 6
- Do not exalt yourself in the king's presence, and do not
claim a place
among great men;
- 7
- it is better for him to say to you, "Come up here," than
for him to humiliate
you before a nobleman. What you have seen with your eyes
- 8
- do not bring [48]
hastily to court,
for what will you do in the end if your neighbor puts you to shame?
- 9
- If you argue your case with a neighbor, do not betray
another man's confidence,
- 10
- or he who hears it may shame you and you will never lose
your bad reputation.
- 11
- A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of
silver.
- 12
- Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a
wise man's rebuke
to a listening ear.
- 13
- Like the coolness of snow at harvest time is a trustworthy
messenger to
those who send him; he refreshes the spirit of his masters.
- 14
- Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of
gifts he does
not give.
- 15
- Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle
tongue can break
a bone.
- 16
- If you find honey, eat just enough-- too much of it, and
you will vomit.
- 17
- Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house-- too much of you,
and he will
hate you.
- 18
- Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is the man who
gives false testimony
against his neighbor.
- 19
- Like a bad tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the
unfaithful in times
of trouble.
- 20
- Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like
vinegar poured
on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.
- 21
- If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is
thirsty, give him
water to drink.
- 22
- In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and
the LORD will
reward you.
- 23
- As a north wind brings rain, so a sly tongue brings angry
looks.
- 24
- Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house
with a quarrelsome
wife.
- 25
- Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant
land.
- 26
- Like a muddied spring or a polluted well is a righteous man
who gives way
to the wicked.
- 27
- It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable
to seek one's
own honor.
- 28
- Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks
self-control.
Proverbs 26
- 1
- Like snow in summer or rain in harvest, honor is not
fitting for a fool.
- 2
- Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an
undeserved curse does
not come to rest.
- 3
- A whip for the horse, a halter for the donkey, and a rod
for the backs
of fools!
- 4
- Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be
like him yourself.
- 5
- Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in
his own eyes.
- 6
- Like cutting off one's feet or drinking violence is the
sending of a message
by the hand of a fool.
- 7
- Like a lame man's legs that hang limp is a proverb in the
mouth of a fool.
- 8
- Like tying a stone in a sling is the giving of honor to a
fool.
- 9
- Like a thornbush in a drunkard's hand is a proverb in the
mouth of a fool.
- 10
- Like an archer who wounds at random is he who hires a fool
or any passer-by.
- 11
- As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.
- 12
- Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope
for a fool than
for him.
- 13
- The sluggard says, "There is a lion in the road, a fierce
lion roaming
the streets!"
- 14
- As a door turns on its hinges, so a sluggard turns on his
bed.
- 15
- The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he is too lazy to
bring it back
to his mouth.
- 16
- The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who
answer discreetly.
- 17
- Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer-by who
meddles in a quarrel
not his own.
- 18
- Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows
- 19
- is a man who deceives his neighbor and says, "I was only
joking!"
- 20
- Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies
down.
- 21
- As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a
quarrelsome man for
kindling strife.
- 22
- The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down
to a man's
inmost parts.
- 23
- Like a coating of glaze [49] over
earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart.
- 24
- A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his
heart he harbors
deceit.
- 25
- Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for
seven abominations
fill his heart.
- 26
- His malice may be concealed by deception, but his
wickedness will be exposed
in the assembly.
- 27
- If a man digs a pit, he will fall into it; if a man rolls a
stone, it will
roll back on him.
- 28
- A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth
works ruin.
Proverbs 27
- 1
- Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day
may bring forth.
- 2
- Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone
else, and not your
own lips.
- 3
- Stone is heavy and sand a burden, but provocation by a fool
is heavier
than both.
- 4
- Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand
before jealousy?
- 5
- Better is open rebuke than hidden love.
- 6
- Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy
multiplies kisses.
- 7
- He who is full loathes honey, but to the hungry even what
is bitter tastes
sweet.
- 8
- Like a bird that strays from its nest is a man who strays
from his home.
- 9
- Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the
pleasantness of one's
friend springs from his earnest counsel.
- 10
- Do not forsake your friend and the friend of your father,
and do not go
to your brother's house when disaster strikes you-- better a neighbor
nearby
than a brother far away.
- 11
- Be wise, my son, and bring joy to my heart; then I can
answer anyone who
treats me with contempt.
- 12
- The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep
going and suffer
for it.
- 13
- Take the garment of one who puts up security for a
stranger; hold it in
pledge if he does it for a wayward woman.
- 14
- If a man loudly blesses his neighbor early in the morning,
it will be taken
as a curse.
- 15
- A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy
day;
- 16
- restraining her is like restraining the wind or grasping
oil with the hand.
- 17
- As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
- 18
- He who tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who
looks after his
master will be honored.
- 19
- As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man.
- 20
- Death and Destruction [50] are never
satisfied, and neither are the eyes of man.
- 21
- The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man
is tested by
the praise he receives.
- 22
- Though you grind a fool in a mortar, grinding him like
grain with a pestle,
you will not remove his folly from him.
- 23
- Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful
attention to
your herds;
- 24
- for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure
for all generations.
- 25
- When the hay is removed and new growth appears and the
grass from the hills
is gathered in,
- 26
- the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats
with the price
of a field.
- 27
- You will have plenty of goats' milk to feed you and your
family and to
nourish your servant girls.
Proverbs 28
- 1
- The wicked man flees though no one pursues, but the
righteous are as bold
as a lion.
- 2
- When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a man
of understanding
and knowledge maintains order.
- 3
- A ruler [51]
who oppresses the poor
is like a driving rain that leaves no crops.
- 4
- Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who
keep the law
resist them.
- 5
- Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the
LORD understand
it fully.
- 6
- Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a rich man
whose ways are
perverse.
- 7
- He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion
of gluttons disgraces
his father.
- 8
- He who increases his wealth by exorbitant interest amasses
it for another,
who will be kind to the poor.
- 9
- If anyone turns a deaf ear to the law, even his prayers are
detestable.
- 10
- He who leads the upright along an evil path will fall into
his own trap,
but the blameless will receive a good inheritance.
- 11
- A rich man may be wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who
has discernment
sees through him.
- 12
- When the righteous triumph, there is great elation; but
when the wicked
rise to power, men go into hiding.
- 13
- He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever
confesses and renounces
them finds mercy.
- 14
- Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD, but he who
hardens his heart
falls into trouble.
- 15
- Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked man
ruling over a helpless
people.
- 16
- A tyrannical ruler lacks judgment, but he who hates
ill-gotten gain will
enjoy a long life.
- 17
- A man tormented by the guilt of murder will be a fugitive
till death; let
no one support him.
- 18
- He whose walk is blameless is kept safe, but he whose ways
are perverse
will suddenly fall.
- 19
- He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one
who chases fantasies
will have his fill of poverty.
- 20
- A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get
rich will not
go unpunished.
- 21
- To show partiality is not good-- yet a man will do wrong
for a piece of
bread.
- 22
- A stingy man is eager to get rich and is unaware that
poverty awaits him.
- 23
- He who rebukes a man will in the end gain more favor than
he who has a
flattering tongue.
- 24
- He who robs his father or mother and says, "It's not
wrong"-- he is partner
to him who destroys.
- 25
- A greedy man stirs up dissension, but he who trusts in the
LORD will prosper.
- 26
- He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in
wisdom is kept
safe.
- 27
- He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who
closes his eyes
to them receives many curses.
- 28
- When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding; but
when the wicked
perish, the righteous thrive.
Proverbs 29
- 1
- A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will
suddenly be destroyed--without
remedy.
- 2
- When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the
wicked rule, the
people groan.
- 3
- A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a
companion of prostitutes
squanders his wealth.
- 4
- By justice a king gives a country stability, but one who is
greedy for
bribes tears it down.
- 5
- Whoever flatters his neighbor is spreading a net for his
feet.
- 6
- An evil man is snared by his own sin, but a righteous one
can sing and
be glad.
- 7
- The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the
wicked have no such
concern.
- 8
- Mockers stir up a city, but wise men turn away anger.
- 9
- If a wise man goes to court with a fool, the fool rages and
scoffs, and
there is no peace.
- 10
- Bloodthirsty men hate a man of integrity and seek to kill
the upright.
- 11
- A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps
himself under
control.
- 12
- If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials become wicked.
- 13
- The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: The
LORD gives sight
to the eyes of both.
- 14
- If a king judges the poor with fairness, his throne will
always be secure.
- 15
- The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to
himself disgraces
his mother.
- 16
- When the wicked thrive, so does sin, but the righteous will
see their downfall.
- 17
- Discipline your son, and he will give you peace; he will
bring delight
to your soul.
- 18
- Where there is no revelation, the people cast off
restraint; but blessed
is he who keeps the law.
- 19
- A servant cannot be corrected by mere words; though he
understands, he
will not respond.
- 20
- Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope
for a fool than
for him.
- 21
- If a man pampers his servant from youth, he will bring
grief [52]
in the end.
- 22
- An angry man stirs up dissension, and a hot-tempered one
commits many sins.
- 23
- A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit
gains honor.
- 24
- The accomplice of a thief is his own enemy; he is put under
oath and dare
not testify.
- 25
- Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in
the LORD is
kept safe.
- 26
- Many seek an audience with a ruler, but it is from the LORD
that man gets
justice.
- 27
- The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the
upright.
Proverbs 30
- 1
- The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh--an oracle [53]:
This man declared to Ithiel, to Ithiel and to Ucal: [54]
- 2
- "I am the most ignorant of men; I do not have a man's
understanding.
- 3
- I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy
One.
- 4
- Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered
up the wind in
the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak?
Who
has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the
name
of his son? Tell me if you know!
- 5
- "Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who
take refuge
in him.
- 6
- Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove
you a liar.
- 7
- "Two things I ask of you, O LORD; do not refuse me before I
die:
- 8
- Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither
poverty nor riches,
but give me only my daily bread.
- 9
- Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, `Who
is the LORD?'
Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.
- 10
- "Do not slander a servant to his master, or he will curse
you, and you
will pay for it.
- 11
- "There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless
their mothers;
- 12
- those who are pure in their own eyes and yet are not
cleansed of their
filth;
- 13
- those whose eyes are ever so haughty, whose glances are so
disdainful;
- 14
- those whose teeth are swords and whose jaws are set with
knives to devour
the poor from the earth, the needy from among mankind.
- 15
- "The leech has two daughters. `Give! Give!' they cry.
"There are three
things that are never satisfied, four that never say, `Enough!':
- 16
- the grave, [55]
the barren womb, land,
which is never satisfied with water, and fire, which never says,
`Enough!'
- 17
- "The eye that mocks a father, that scorns obedience to a
mother, will be
pecked out by the ravens of the valley, will be eaten by the vultures.
- 18
- "There are three things that are too amazing for me, four
that I do not
understand:
- 19
- the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a
rock, the way of
a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a maiden.
- 20
- "This is the way of an adulteress: She eats and wipes her
mouth and says,
`I've done nothing wrong.'
- 21
- "Under three things the earth trembles, under four it
cannot bear up:
- 22
- a servant who becomes king, a fool who is full of food,
- 23
- an unloved woman who is married, and a maidservant who
displaces her mistress.
- 24
- "Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely
wise:
- 25
- Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up
their food in
the summer;
- 26
- coneys [56]
are creatures of little
power, yet they make their home in the crags;
- 27
- locusts have no king, yet they advance together in ranks;
- 28
- a lizard can be caught with the hand, yet it is found in
kings' palaces.
- 29
- "There are three things that are stately in their stride,
four that move
with stately bearing:
- 30
- a lion, mighty among beasts, who retreats before nothing;
- 31
- a strutting rooster, a he-goat, and a king with his army
around him. [57]
- 32
- "If you have played the fool and exalted yourself, or if
you have planned
evil, clap your hand over your mouth!
- 33
- For as churning the milk produces butter, and as twisting
the nose produces
blood, so stirring up anger produces strife."
Proverbs 31
- 1
- The sayings of King Lemuel--an oracle [58]
his mother taught him:
- 2
- "O my son, O son of my womb, O son of my vows, [59]
- 3
- do not spend your strength on women, your vigor on those
who ruin kings.
- 4
- "It is not for kings, O Lemuel-- not for kings to drink
wine, not for rulers
to crave beer,
- 5
- lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and
deprive all the oppressed
of their rights.
- 6
- Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are
in anguish;
- 7
- let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their
misery no more.
- 8
- "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for
the rights of
all who are destitute.
- 9
- Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor
and needy."
- 10
- [60]
A wife of noble character
who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.
- 11
- Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of
value.
- 12
- She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
- 13
- She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
- 14
- She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.
- 15
- She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for
her family and
portions for her servant girls.
- 16
- She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she
plants a vineyard.
- 17
- She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for
her tasks.
- 18
- She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does
not go out at
night.
- 19
- In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle
with her fingers.
- 20
- She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the
needy.
- 21
- When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all
of them are clothed
in scarlet.
- 22
- She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine
linen and purple.
- 23
- Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes
his seat among
the elders of the land.
- 24
- She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the
merchants with
sashes.
- 25
- She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at
the days to
come.
- 26
- She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her
tongue.
- 27
- She watches over the affairs of her household and does not
eat the bread
of idleness.
- 28
- Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also,
and he praises
her:
- 29
- "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
- 30
- Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who
fears the LORD
is to be praised.
- 31
- Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring
her praise
at the city gate.
- 7 The Hebrew words rendered fool
in Proverbs, and often elsewhere
in the Old Testament, denote one who is morally deficient.
- 12 Hebrew Sheol
- 21 Hebrew; Septuagint / on the tops of the walls
- 22 The Hebrew word rendered simple in
Proverbs generally
denotes one without moral direction and inclined to evil.
- 17 Or covenant of her God
- 6 Or will direct your paths
- 12 Hebrew; Septuagint / and he punishes
- 7 Or Whatever else you get
- 26 Or Consider the
- 5 Hebrew Sheol
- 11 Or like a vagrant / and scarcity like a beggar
- 14 Traditionally peace offerings
- 22 Syriac (see also Septuagint); Hebrew fool
- 22 The meaning of the Hebrew for this line is
uncertain.
- 27 Hebrew Sheol
- 16 Many Hebrew manuscripts and Septuagint; most
Hebrew manuscripts and
nobles--all righteous rulers
- 22 Or way; or dominion
- 22 Or The LORD possessed me at the beginning of
his work;
or The LORD brought me forth at the beginning of his work
- 23 Or fashioned
- 18 Hebrew Sheol
- 6 Or but the mouth of the wicked conceals
violence; also
in verse 11
- 26 Or man is a guide to his neighbor
- 27 The meaning of the Hebrew for this word is
uncertain.
- 15 Or unfaithful does not endure
- 22 Or show
- 33 Hebrew; Septuagint and Syriac / but in the
heart of fools
she is not known
- 11 Hebrew Sheol and Abaddon
- 24 Hebrew Sheol
- 33 Or Wisdom teaches the fear of the LORD
- 21 Or words make a man persuasive
- 23 Or mouth / and makes his lips persuasive
- 1 Hebrew sacrifices
- 7 Or Eloquent
- 7 The meaning of the Hebrew for this sentence is
uncertain.
- 22 Or A man's greed is his shame
- 27 Or The spirit of man is the LORD's lamp
- 6 Some Hebrew manuscripts, Septuagint and Vulgate;
most Hebrew manuscripts vapor
for those who seek death
- 12 Or The righteous man
- 21 Or righteousness
- 28 Or / but the words of an obedient man will
live on
- 6 Or Start
- 20 Or not formerly written; or not
written excellent
- 1 Or who
- 7 Or for as he thinks within himself, / so he is;
or for
as he puts on a feast, / so he is
- 14 Hebrew Sheol
- 34 Or like a vagrant / and scarcity like a beggar
- 4 Or comes a vessel from
- [7,8] Or nobleman / on whom you had set your eyes. /
[8] Do not go
- 23 With a different word division of the Hebrew;
Masoretic Text of
silver dross
- 20 Hebrew Sheol and Abaddon
- 3 Or A poor man
- 21 The meaning of the Hebrew for this word is
uncertain.
- 1 Or Jakeh of Massa
- 1 Masoretic Text; with a different word division of
the Hebrew declared,
"I am weary, O God; / I am weary, O God, and faint.
- 16 Hebrew Sheol
- 26 That is, the hyrax or rock badger
- 31 Or king secure against revolt
- 1 Or of Lemuel king of Massa, which
- 2 Or / the answer to my prayers
- 10 Verses 10-31 are an acrostic, each verse
beginning with a successive
letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International
Bible Society. All rights reserved. For usage information, please
read
the NIV
Copyright
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