\id PRO - Christian Standard Bible® in English
\ide UTF-8
\rem Copyright © 2017-2020 by Holman Bible Publishers
\rem Language: English
\rem Text update February 2024
\toc3 Pr
\toc2 Proverbs
\toc1 Proverbs
\mt Proverbs
\c 1
\s1 The Purpose of Proverbs
\q1
\v 1 The proverbs of~Solomon~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:1 \ft \+xt 1Kg 4:32; Pr 10:1; 25:1; Ec 12:9\+xt*\f* son~of~David, king~of~Israel:
\q1
\v 2 For learning wisdom and~discipline;
\q for understanding insightful~sayings;
\q1
\v 3 for receiving prudent~instruction
\q in righteousness, justice, and~integrity;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:3 \ft \+xt Pr 2:9\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 4 for teaching shrewdness to~the~inexperienced,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:4 \ft Or \fqa simple\ft , or \fqa gullible\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:4 \ft \+xt Pr 8:5\+xt*\f*
\q knowledge and~discretion~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:4 \ft \+xt Pr 2:11; 3:21\+xt*\f* to~a~young~man~—
\q1
\v 5 let a wise person listen and~increase~learning,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:5 \ft \+xt Pr 9:9; 16:21,23\+xt*\f*
\q and let a~discerning~person obtain~guidance~—
\q1
\v 6 for understanding a~proverb or~a~parable,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:6 \ft Or \fqa an enigma\f*
\q the words of~the~wise, and~their~riddles.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:6 \ft \+xt Nm 12:8; Jdg 14:12; Ps 49:4; Hab 2:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 The fear of~the~\nd Lord\nd*
\q is the~beginning of~knowledge;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:7 \ft \+xt Jb 28:28; Ps 111:10; Pr 9:10; 15:33\+xt*\f*
\q fools despise wisdom and~discipline.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:7 \ft \+xt Eph 5:17\+xt*\f*
\s1 Avoid the Path of the Violent
\q1
\v 8 Listen, my son, to~your~father’s~instruction,
\q and don’t reject your~mother’s~teaching,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:8 \ft \+xt Pr 6:20; 31:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 for they will be a~garland~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:9 \ft \+xt Pr 4:9\+xt*\f* of~favor on~your~head
\q and pendants~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:9 \ft Lit \fqa chains\f* around~your~neck.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:9 \ft \+xt Gn 41:42; Pr 6:21; Dn 5:29\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 10 My son, if sinners entice~you,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:10 \ft \+xt Pr 16:29\+xt*\f*
\q don’t~be~persuaded.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:10 \ft \+xt Ps 141:4\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 11 If they say~#—~#“Come~with~us!
\q Let’s set an~ambush~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:11 \ft \+xt Pr 12:6; Jr 5:26\+xt*\f* and~kill~someone.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:11 \ft Lit \fqa Let’s ambush for blood\f*
\q Let’s attack some~innocent~person~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:11 \ft \+xt Ps 10:8\+xt*\f* just~for~fun!~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:11 \ft Lit \fqa person for no reason\f*
\q1
\v 12 Let’s swallow them alive,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:12 \ft \+xt Ps 124:3\+xt*\f* like~Sheol,
\q whole, like~those who~go~down to~the~Pit.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:12 \ft \+xt Ps 28:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 13 We’ll find all kinds of~valuable~property
\q and fill our~houses with~plunder.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:13 \ft \+xt Pr 24:4\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 14 Throw in your~lot with~us,
\q and we’ll all share the~loot”~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:14 \ft Lit\fqa us; one bag will be for all of us\f*~—
\q1
\v 15 my son, don’t travel that~road with~them~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:15 \ft \+xt Ps 1:1; Pr 4:14\+xt*\f*
\q or set foot on~their~path,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:15 \ft \+xt Ps 119:101; Pr 16:19\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 because their feet run toward~evil
\q and they hurry to~shed~blood.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:16 \ft \+xt Pr 6:17–18; Is 59:7; Rm 3:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 17 It is useless to~spread a~net
\q where any~bird can~see~it,
\q1
\v 18 but they set an~ambush to~kill~themselves;~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:18 \ft Lit \fqa they ambush for their blood\f*
\q they attack their~own~lives.
\q1
\v 19 Such are the paths of~all who~make profit~dishonestly;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:19 \ft \+xt Pr 15:27; Ezk 22:27; Hab 2:6–12\+xt*\f*
\q it takes the lives of~those who~receive~it.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:19 \ft Lit \fqa takes the life of its masters\f*
\s1 Wisdom’s Plea
\q1
\v 20 Wisdom calls out in~the~street;
\q she makes her~voice heard in~the~public~squares.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:20 \ft \+xt Pr 8:1–3; 9:3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 21 She cries out above~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:21 \ft Lit \fqa at the head of\f* the~commotion;
\q she speaks at the entrance of~the~city~gates:
\q1
\v 22 “How long, inexperienced~ones, will~you love~ignorance?
\q How long will you~mockers~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:22 \ft \+xt Ps 1:1\+xt*\f* enjoy~mocking
\q and you fools hate~knowledge?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:22 \ft \+xt Jb 21:14; Pr 1:29; 5:12\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 23 If you respond to my~warning,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 1:23 \ft Lit \fqa you turn back to my reprimand\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:23 \ft \+xt Pr 3:11; 15:5,31–32\+xt*\f*
\q then I will pour out my~spirit on~you~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:23 \ft \+xt Jl 2:28\+xt*\f*
\q and teach you my~words.
\q1
\v 24 Since I called out and~you~refused,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:24 \ft \+xt Is 65:12; 66:4; Jr 7:13; Zch 7:11\+xt*\f*
\q extended my~hand and~no~one paid~attention,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:24 \ft \+xt Is 65:2; Rm 10:21\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 25 since you neglected all my~counsel~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:25 \ft \+xt Ps 107:11; Lk 7:30\+xt*\f*
\q and did not accept my~correction,
\q1
\v 26 I, in turn, will~laugh at your~calamity.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:26 \ft \+xt Ps 2:4\+xt*\f*
\q I will mock when terror strikes~you,
\q1
\v 27 when terror strikes~you like~a~storm
\q and your calamity comes like~a~whirlwind,
\q when trouble and~stress overcome~you.
\q1
\v 28 Then they will call me, but~I~won’t~answer;
\q they will search for~me, but~won’t find~me.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:28 \ft \+xt 1Sm 8:18\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 29 Because they~hated~knowledge,
\q didn’t choose to~fear the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:29 \ft \+xt Pr 1:7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 30 were not interested in~my~counsel,
\q and rejected all~my~correction,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:30 \ft \+xt Pr 5:12; 15:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 31 they will eat the~fruit of~their~way~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:31 \ft \+xt Jr 6:19\+xt*\f*
\q and be glutted with their~own~schemes.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:31 \ft \+xt Pr 14:14; 28:19\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 32 For the apostasy of~the~inexperienced will~kill~them,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:32 \ft \+xt Jr 2:19\+xt*\f*
\q and the complacency of~fools will~destroy~them.
\q1
\v 33 But whoever listens to~me will~live~securely
\q and be undisturbed by~the~dread of~danger.”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 1:33 \ft \+xt Ps 112:7–8; Pr 3:24–26\+xt*\f*
\c 2
\s1 Wisdom’s Worth
\q1
\v 1 My son, if you~accept my~words~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:1 \ft \+xt Pr 4:10\+xt*\f*
\q and store up my~commands within~you,
\q1
\v 2 listening closely~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 2:2 \ft Lit \fqa you, stretching out your ear\f* to~wisdom
\q and directing your~heart to~understanding;
\q1
\v 3 furthermore, if you~call~out to~insight
\q and lift your voice to~understanding,
\q1
\v 4 if you seek it like~silver
\q and search for it like~hidden~treasure,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:4 \ft \+xt Jb 3:21; Mt 13:44\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 5 then you will understand the~fear of~the~\nd Lord\nd*
\q and discover the~knowledge of~God.
\q1
\v 6 For the \nd Lord\nd* gives wisdom;
\q from his mouth come knowledge and~understanding.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:6 \ft \+xt Jb 32:8\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 7 He stores up success~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 2:7 \ft Or \fqa resourcefulness\f* for~the~upright;
\q He is a shield for those who~live with~integrity~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:7 \ft \+xt Ps 84:11; Pr 10:9; 20:7; 28:18; 30:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 8 so that he may guard the~paths of~justice
\q and protect the~way of~his~faithful~followers.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:8 \ft \+xt 1Sm 2:9; Ps 66:9\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 Then you will understand righteousness, justice,
\q and integrity~#—~#every~good~path.
\q1
\v 10 For wisdom will~enter your~heart,
\q and knowledge will~delight~you.
\q1
\v 11 Discretion will~watch over~you,
\q and understanding will~guard~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:11 \ft \+xt Pr 4:6; 6:22\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 It will rescue you from~the~way of~evil~—
\q from anyone who~says perverse~things,
\q1
\v 13 from those who~abandon the~right~paths
\q to walk in~ways of~darkness,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:11–13 \ft \+xt Ps 82:5; Pr 15:19; 16:17; Jn 3:19,20\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 14 from those who~enjoy doing~evil~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:14 \ft \+xt Pr 10:23\+xt*\f*
\q and celebrate~perversion,
\q1
\v 15 whose paths are~crooked,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:15 \ft \+xt Ps 125:5; Pr 21:8\+xt*\f*
\q and whose ways are~devious.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:15 \ft \+xt Pr 3:32; 14:2\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 It will rescue you from~a~forbidden~woman,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:16 \ft \+xt Pr 9:13–18\+xt*\f*
\q from a wayward woman with~her~flattering~talk,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:16 \ft \+xt Pr 5:3,20; 6:24; 7:5,21; 23:27\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 17 who abandons the~companion of~her~youth~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:17 \ft \+xt Mal 2:14–15\+xt*\f*
\q and forgets the~covenant of~her~God;
\q1
\v 18 for her house sinks down to~death
\q and her ways to~the~land of~the~departed~spirits.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:18 \ft \+xt Pr 7:27; 9:18; 21:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 19 None return who~go to~her;
\q none reach the~paths of~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:16–19 \ft \+xt Ps 16:11; Pr 5:6; 7:5,21–27; 23:27–28; Ec 7:26\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 20 So follow the~way of~the~good,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:20 \ft \+xt Heb 6:12\+xt*\f*
\q and keep to the~paths of~the~righteous.
\q1
\v 21 For the upright will~inhabit the~land,
\q and those of integrity will~remain in~it;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:21 \ft \+xt Pr 10:30; Mt 5:5–6\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 22 but the wicked will~be cut~off from~the~land,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:22 \ft \+xt Ps 37:38\+xt*\f*
\q and the treacherous ripped out~of~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 2:22 \ft \+xt Dt 28:63; Ps 52:5\+xt*\f*
\c 3
\s1 Trust the \nd Lord\nd*
\q1
\v 1 My son, don’t forget my~teaching,
\q but let your heart keep my~commands;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:1 \ft \+xt Dt 30:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 2 for they will~bring~you
\q many days, a~full~life,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:2 \ft Lit \fqa days, years of life\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:2 \ft \+xt Ps 91:16; Pr 3:16; 4:10; 9:11; 10:27\+xt*\f* and~well-being.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:1–2 \ft \+xt Pr 4:1–4; 6:20–23; 7:1–3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 3 Never let loyalty and~faithfulness leave~you.
\q Tie them around your~neck;
\q write them on~the~tablet of~your~heart.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:3 \ft \+xt Pr 1:9; 6:21; 7:3; 2Co 3:3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 4 Then you will find favor and~high~regard
\q with God and~people.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:4 \ft \+xt Dt 4:6; 1Sm 2:26; Lk 2:52; Rm 14:18\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 Trust in the \nd Lord\nd* with~all your~heart,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:5 \ft \+xt Ps 37:3,5\+xt*\f*
\q and do not rely on your~own~understanding;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:5 \ft \+xt Jr 9:23\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 6 in all your~ways know~him,
\q and he will make your paths~straight.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:6 \ft \+xt Pr 11:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 7 Don’t be~wise in your own~eyes;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:7 \ft \+xt Pr 26:5,12; 28:11,26; Rm 12:16\+xt*\f*
\q fear the \nd Lord\nd* and~turn~away from~evil.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:7 \ft \+xt Jb 1:1; 28:28; Ps 37:27; Pr 16:6\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 8 This will be healing for~your~body~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:8 \ft Lit \fqa navel\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:8 \ft \+xt Pr 4:22\+xt*\f*
\q and strengthening for~your~bones.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:8 \ft \+xt Jb 21:24\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 Honor the \nd Lord\nd* with~your~possessions
\q and with the first produce of~your~entire~harvest;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:9 \ft \+xt Ex 23:19; Lv 23:9–14; Dt 26:2\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 10 then your barns will~be completely~filled,
\q and your vats will~overflow with~new~wine.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:10 \ft \+xt Dt 28:8; Mal 3:10\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 11 Do not despise the~\nd Lord\nd*’s~instruction, my~son,
\q and do not loathe his~discipline;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:11 \ft \+xt Pr 5:11–13; 15:5,31–33\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 for the \nd Lord\nd* disciplines the~one he~loves,
\q just as a father disciplines the~son in whom he~delights.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:12 \ft \+xt Dt 8:5; Jb 5:17–18; Pr 13:24; Heb 12:5–7\+xt*\f*
\s1 Wisdom Brings Happiness
\q1
\v 13 Happy is a~man who~finds~wisdom~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:13 \ft \+xt Pr 8:32,34\+xt*\f*
\q and who acquires understanding,
\q1
\v 14 for she is more profitable than~silver,
\q and her revenue is~better than~gold.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:14 \ft \+xt Jb 28:15–19; Pr 8:10,19; 16:16; 22:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 15 She is more precious than~jewels;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:15 \ft \+xt Jb 28:18\+xt*\f*
\q nothing you desire can equal~her.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:15 \ft \+xt Pr 8:11; 20:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 Long life~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:16 \ft Lit \fqa Length of days\f* is in~her~right~hand;
\q in her left, riches and~honor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:16 \ft \+xt Pr 8:18; 21:21; 22:4\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 17 Her ways are~pleasant,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:17 \ft \+xt Mt 11:19\+xt*\f*
\q and all her paths, peaceful.
\q1
\v 18 She is a tree of~life~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:18 \ft \+xt Gn 2:9; Pr 11:30; 13:12; 15:4; Rv 2:7\+xt*\f* to~those who~embrace~her,
\q and those who hold~on~to her are~happy.
\b
\q1
\v 19 The \nd Lord\nd* founded the~earth by~wisdom~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:19 \ft \+xt Ps 104:24; Pr 8:27\+xt*\f*
\q and established the~heavens by~understanding.
\q1
\v 20 By his knowledge the~watery~depths broke~open,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:20 \ft \+xt Gn 7:11\+xt*\f*
\q and the clouds dripped with~dew.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:20 \ft \+xt Dt 33:28; Jb 36:28\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 Maintain sound wisdom and~discretion.
\q My son, don’t lose sight of~them.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:21 \ft \+xt Pr 4:21\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 22 They will be life for~you~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:22 \ft Or \fqa be your throat\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:22 \ft \+xt Pr 4:22\+xt*\f*
\q and adornment~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:22 \ft Or \fqa grace\f* for~your~neck.
\q1
\v 23 Then you will go~safely on~your~way;
\q your foot will~not~stumble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:23 \ft \+xt Ps 91:12; Pr 4:12\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 24 When you lie~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 3:24 \ft LXX reads \fqa sit\f* down, you~will~not be~afraid;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:24 \ft \+xt Jb 11:19; Ps 3:5; Pr 6:22\+xt*\f*
\q you will lie down, and~your~sleep will~be~pleasant.
\q1
\v 25 Don’t fear sudden~danger
\q or the ruin of~the~wicked when~it~comes,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:25 \ft \+xt Jb 5:21; Ps 91:5; 1Pt 3:14\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 26 for the \nd Lord\nd* will~be your~confidence~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:26 \ft Or \fqa be at your side\f*
\q and will keep your~foot from~a~snare.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:26 \ft \+xt 1Sm 2:9\+xt*\f*
\s1 Treat Others Fairly
\q1
\v 27 When it is in your~power,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:27 \ft Lit \fqa in the power of your hands\f*
\q don’t withhold good~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:27 \ft \+xt Gl 6:10\+xt*\f* from~the~one to whom it~belongs.
\q1
\v 28 Don’t say to~your~neighbor, “Go~away! Come~back~later.
\q I’ll give it tomorrow”~#—~#when~it~is~there with~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:28 \ft \+xt Lv 19:13; Dt 24:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 29 Don’t plan any harm against~your~neighbor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:29 \ft \+xt Pr 6:14; 14:22\+xt*\f*
\q for he trusts you and~lives near~you.
\q1
\v 30 Don’t accuse anyone without~cause,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:30 \ft \+xt Pr 24:28; Rm 12:18\+xt*\f*
\q when he has done you no~harm.
\q1
\v 31 Don’t envy a~violent~man~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:31 \ft \+xt Ps 37:1; Pr 23:17; 24:1,19\+xt*\f*
\q or choose any of~his~ways;
\q1
\v 32 for the devious are~detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*,
\q but he is a friend~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:32 \ft Or \fqa confidential counsel\f* to~the~upright.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:32 \ft \+xt Ps 25:14; Pr 11:20; 12:22; 15:8–9\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 33 The \nd Lord\nd*’s curse is on~the~household of~the~wicked,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:33 \ft \+xt Zch 5:3–4; Mal 2:2\+xt*\f*
\q but he blesses the~home of~the~righteous;
\q1
\v 34 He mocks those who~mock
\q but gives grace to~the~humble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 3:34 \ft \+xt Jms 4:6; 1Pt 5:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 35 The wise will inherit honor,
\q but he holds up fools to~dishonor.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 3:35 \ft Or \fqa but haughty fools dishonor\ft , or \fqa but fools exalt dishonor\f*
\c 4
\s1 A Father’s Example
\q1
\v 1 Listen, sons, to~a~father’s~discipline,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:1 \ft \+xt Ps 34:11; Pr 1:8\+xt*\f*
\q and pay attention so~that you~may~gain~understanding,
\q1
\v 2 for I am giving you good~instruction.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:2 \ft \+xt Jb 11:4\+xt*\f*
\q Don’t abandon my~teaching.
\q1
\v 3 When I was a son with~my~father,
\q tender and precious to~my~mother,
\q1
\v 4 he taught me and~said,
\q “Your heart must hold~on to~my~words.
\q Keep my commands and~live.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:4 \ft \+xt Pr 3:1–2; 6:20–23; 7:1–2\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 5 Get wisdom, get~understanding;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:5 \ft \+xt Pr 16:16\+xt*\f*
\q don’t forget or~turn~away from~the~words from~my~mouth.
\q1
\v 6 Don’t abandon wisdom, and~she~will watch~over~you;
\q love her,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:6 \ft \+xt 2Th 2:10\+xt*\f* and~she~will guard~you.
\q1
\v 7 Wisdom is supreme~#—~#so~get~wisdom.
\q And whatever else you~get, get~understanding.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:7 \ft \+xt Pr 16:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 8 Cherish her, and~she~will exalt~you;
\q if you embrace her, she~will honor~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:8 \ft \+xt 1Sm 2:30\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 She will place a~garland of~favor on~your~head;
\q she will give you a~crown of~beauty.”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:9 \ft \+xt Pr 1:9; 16:31\+xt*\f*
\s1 Two Ways of Life
\q1
\v 10 Listen, my son. Accept~my~words,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:10 \ft \+xt Pr 2:1\+xt*\f*
\q and you will~live many~years.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:10 \ft \+xt Pr 3:2\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 11 I am teaching you the~way of~wisdom;
\q I am guiding you on~straight~paths.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:11 \ft \+xt 1Sm 12:23\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 When you walk, your~steps will~not be~hindered;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:12 \ft \+xt Jb 18:7; Ps 18:36\+xt*\f*
\q when you run, you~will~not~stumble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:12 \ft \+xt Pr 3:23\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 13 Hold on to instruction; don’t~let~go.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:13 \ft \+xt Pr 3:18\+xt*\f*
\q Guard it, for~it~is your~life.
\q1
\v 14 Keep off the~path of~the~wicked;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:14 \ft \+xt Ps 1:1; Pr 1:15\+xt*\f*
\q don’t proceed on~the~way of~evil~ones.
\q1
\v 15 Avoid it; don’t~travel on~it.
\q Turn away from it, and~pass~it~by.
\q1
\v 16 For they can’t sleep
\q unless they have~done what~is~evil;
\q they are robbed of~sleep
\q unless they make someone~stumble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:16 \ft \+xt Ps 36:4; Mc 2:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 17 They eat the~bread of~wickedness
\q and drink the~wine of~violence.
\q1
\v 18 The path of the righteous is like~the~light of~dawn,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:18 \ft \+xt 2Sm 23:4\+xt*\f*
\q shining brighter and~brighter until~midday.
\q1
\v 19 But the way of~the~wicked is like~the~darkest~gloom;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:19 \ft \+xt Is 59:9–10; Jr 23:12; Jn 12:35\+xt*\f*
\q they don’t know what makes them~stumble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:19 \ft \+xt Pr 24:16; Jn 11:10\+xt*\f*
\s1 The Straight Path
\q1
\v 20 My son, pay~attention to~my~words;
\q listen closely to~my~sayings.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:20 \ft \+xt Pr 5:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 21 Don’t lose sight of~them;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:21 \ft \+xt Pr 3:21\+xt*\f*
\q keep them within~your~heart.
\q1
\v 22 For they are life to~those who~find~them,
\q and health to one’s~whole~body.
\q1
\v 23 Guard your heart above~all~else,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 4:23 \ft Or \fqa heart with all diligence\f*
\q for it is the~source of~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:23 \ft \+xt Mt 15:19; Mk 7:18–23\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 24 Don’t let your mouth speak~dishonestly,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:24 \ft \+xt Pr 6:12\+xt*\f*
\q and don’t let your~lips talk~deviously.
\q1
\v 25 Let your eyes look forward;
\q fix your gaze~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 4:25 \ft Lit \fqa eyelids\f* straight ahead.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:25 \ft \+xt Heb 12:2\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 26 Carefully consider the~path~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 4:26 \ft Or \fqa Clear a path\f* for~your~feet,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:26 \ft \+xt Pr 5:6,21; Heb 12:13\+xt*\f*
\q and all your ways will~be~established.
\q1
\v 27 Don’t turn to the right or~to~the~left;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 4:27 \ft \+xt Dt 5:32–33; 28:13–14; Jos 1:7; 23:6; 1Kg 15:5\+xt*\f*
\q keep your feet away from~evil.
\c 5
\s1 Avoid Seduction
\q1
\v 1 My son, pay attention to~my~wisdom;
\q listen closely~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 5:1 \ft Lit \fqa wisdom; stretch out your ear\f* to~my~understanding~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:1 \ft \+xt Pr 4:20; 22:17\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 2 so that you may maintain discretion
\q and your lips safeguard knowledge.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:2 \ft \+xt Mal 2:7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 3 Though the lips of~the~forbidden~woman drip~honey
\q and her words are~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 5:3 \ft Lit \fqa her palate is\f* smoother~than~oil,
\q1
\v 4 in the end she’s as~bitter as~wormwood~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:4 \ft \+xt Pr 5:8–11; 6:32–33; Ec 7:26\+xt*\f*
\q and as sharp as a~double-edged~sword.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:4 \ft \+xt Ps 55:21; 57:4\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 5 Her feet go down to~death;
\q her steps head straight for~Sheol.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:5 \ft \+xt Pr 7:27; 9:18\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 6 She doesn’t consider the~path of~life;
\q she doesn’t know that~her~ways are~unstable.
\b
\q1
\v 7 So now, sons, listen~to~me,
\q and don’t turn away from~the~words from~my~mouth.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:7 \ft \+xt Pr 7:24\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 8 Keep your way far from~her.
\q Don’t go near the~door of~her~house.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:8 \ft \+xt Pr 2:18; 7:8; 9:14\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 Otherwise, you will give up your~vitality to~others
\q and your years to~someone~cruel;
\q1
\v 10 strangers will drain your~resources,
\q and your hard-earned pay will end up in~a~foreigner’s~house.
\q1
\v 11 At the end of your life, you~will~lament
\q when your physical~body has~been~consumed,
\q1
\v 12 and you will say, “How~I~hated~discipline,
\q and how my heart despised~correction.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:12 \ft \+xt Ps 107:11; Pr 1:7,28–31; 12:1; 13:18\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 13 I didn’t obey my~teachers
\q or listen closely~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 5:13 \ft Lit \fqa or turn my ear\f* to~my~instructors.
\q1
\v 14 I am on the verge of~complete~ruin
\q before the entire community.”
\s1 Enjoy Marriage
\q1
\v 15 Drink water from~your~own~cistern,
\q water flowing from~your~own~well.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:15 \ft \+xt Sg 4:12,15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 Should your springs flow in~the~streets,
\q streams in~the~public~squares?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:16 \ft \+xt Pr 7:12\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 17 They should be for~you~alone
\q and not for you to~share with~strangers.
\q1
\v 18 Let your fountain be~blessed,
\q and take pleasure in~the~wife of~your~youth.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:18 \ft \+xt Ec 9:9; Mal 2:14\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 19 A loving deer, a~graceful~doe~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 5:19 \ft Or \fqa graceful mountain goat\f*~—
\q let her breasts always~satisfy~you;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:19 \ft \+xt Sg 4:5\+xt*\f*
\q be lost in~her~love~forever.
\q1
\v 20 Why, my son, would~you lose~yourself
\q with~a~forbidden~woman
\q or embrace a~wayward~woman?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:20 \ft \+xt Pr 2:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 21 For a man’s ways are before the~\nd Lord\nd*’s~eyes,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:21 \ft \+xt Jb 14:16; Ps 119:168; Hs 7:2; Heb 4:13\+xt*\f*
\q and he considers all~his~paths.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:21 \ft \+xt Pr 4:25–26\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 22 A wicked man’s iniquities will trap~him;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:22 \ft \+xt Nm 32:23; Ps 7:15–16\+xt*\f*
\q he will become tangled in~the~ropes of~his~own~sin.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:22 \ft \+xt Pr 11:6\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 23 He will die because there~is no~discipline,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 5:23 \ft \+xt Jb 4:21\+xt*\f*
\q and be lost because~of his~great~stupidity.
\c 6
\s1 Financial Entanglements
\q1
\v 1 My son, if you have put~up~security for~your~neighbor~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 6:1 \ft Or \fqa friend\f*
\q or entered into an~agreement with~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 6:1 \ft Lit \fqa or slapped hands for\f*~a~stranger,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:1 \ft \+xt Pr 11:15; 17:18; 20:16; 22:26; 27:13\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 2 you have been snared by~the~words of~your~mouth~—
\q trapped by~the~words from~your~mouth.
\q1
\v 3 Do this, then, my~son, and~free~yourself,
\q for you have put yourself in~your~neighbor’s~power:
\q Go, humble yourself, and~plead with~your~neighbor.
\q1
\v 4 Don’t give sleep to~your~eyes
\q or slumber to~your~eyelids.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:4 \ft \+xt Ps 132:4\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 5 Escape like a~gazelle from~a~hunter,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 6:5 \ft Lit \fqa hand\f*
\q like a bird from a~hunter’s~trap.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 6:5 \ft Lit \fqa hand\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:5 \ft \+xt Ps 91:3; 124:7\+xt*\f*
\s1 Laziness
\q1
\v 6 Go to the ant,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:6 \ft \+xt Pr 30:24–25\+xt*\f* you~slacker!~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:6 \ft \+xt Pr 10:26; 13:4; 20:4; 26:16\+xt*\f*
\q Observe its ways and~become~wise.
\q1
\v 7 Without leader, administrator, or~ruler,
\q1
\v 8 it prepares its~provisions in~summer;
\q it gathers its food during~harvest.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:8 \ft \+xt Pr 10:5; 30:25\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 How long will you stay in~bed, you~slacker?
\q When will you get up from~your~sleep?
\q1
\v 10 A little sleep, a~little~slumber,
\q a little folding of~the~arms to~rest,
\q1
\v 11 and your poverty will~come like a~robber,
\q your need, like a~bandit.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:10–11 \ft \+xt Pr 20:13; 24:33–34; 26:14; Ec 4:5\+xt*\f*
\s1 The Malicious Man
\q1
\v 12 A worthless person,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:12 \ft \+xt 1Sm 25:25; Pr 16:27; 19:28\+xt*\f* a~wicked~man
\q goes around speaking~dishonestly,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:12 \ft \+xt Pr 4:24\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 13 winking~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:13 \ft \+xt Ps 35:19; Pr 10:10; 16:30\+xt*\f* his~eyes, signaling with~his~feet,
\q and gesturing with~his~fingers.
\q1
\v 14 He always plots evil~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:14 \ft \+xt Pr 3:29; Mc 2:1\+xt*\f* with~perversity in~his~heart;
\q he stirs up trouble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:14 \ft \+xt Pr 6:19; 16:27–28; 28:25\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 15 Therefore calamity will~strike~him~suddenly;
\q he will be shattered instantly, beyond~recovery.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:15 \ft \+xt 2Ch 36:16; Pr 24:22; 29:1; Is 30:13–14; Jr 19:11\+xt*\f*
\s1 What the \nd Lord\nd* Hates
\q1
\v 16 The \nd Lord\nd* hates six things;
\q in fact, seven are detestable to~him:
\q1
\v 17 arrogant eyes,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:17 \ft \+xt Ps 18:27; Pr 21:4; 30:13\+xt*\f* a~lying~tongue,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:17 \ft \+xt Ps 31:18; 120:2; Pr 12:22; 17:7\+xt*\f*
\q hands that shed innocent~blood,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:17 \ft \+xt Dt 19:10; Pr 1:16; Is 1:15; 59:7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 18 a heart that plots wicked~schemes,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:18 \ft \+xt Gn 6:5\+xt*\f*
\q feet eager to~run to~evil,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:18 \ft \+xt Pr 1:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 19 a lying witness who~gives false~testimony,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:19 \ft \+xt Ex 20:16; Ps 27:12; Pr 12:17; 14:5,25\+xt*\f*
\q and one who~stirs~up trouble among~brothers.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:19 \ft \+xt Pr 6:14; 16:27–28; 28:25\+xt*\f*
\s1 Warning against Adultery
\q1
\v 20 My son, keep your~father’s~command,
\q and don’t reject your~mother’s~teaching.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:20 \ft \+xt Pr 1:8; 31:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 21 Always bind them to~your~heart;
\q tie them around your~neck.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:21 \ft \+xt Pr 1:9; 3:3; 7:3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 22 When you walk here and~there, they~will guide~you;
\q when you lie down, they~will watch~over~you;
\q when you wake up, they~will talk~to~you.
\q1
\v 23 For a command is a~lamp, teaching~is~a~light,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:23 \ft \+xt Ps 119:105\+xt*\f*
\q and corrective discipline is the~way to~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:23 \ft \+xt Pr 3:1–2; 4:4; 7:2; 19:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 24 They will protect you from~an~evil~woman,~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 6:24 \ft LXX reads \fqa from a married woman\f*
\q from the flattering tongue of a~wayward~woman.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:24 \ft \+xt Pr 7:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 25 Don’t lust in your heart for~her~beauty~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:25 \ft \+xt Mt 5:28\+xt*\f*
\q or let her captivate you with~her~eyelashes.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:25 \ft \+xt Sg 4:9\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 26 For a prostitute’s fee is only~a~loaf of~bread,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 6:26 \ft Or \fqa On account of a prostitute, one is left with only a loaf of bread\f*
\q but the wife of another man~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 6:26 \ft Lit \fqa but a wife of a man\f* goes after a~precious~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:26 \ft \+xt Pr 2:18–19; 7:21–23,27; 23:27–28; Ezk 13:18\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 27 Can a man embrace fire
\q and his clothes not be~burned?
\q1
\v 28 Can a man walk on~burning~coals
\q without scorching his~feet?
\q1
\v 29 So it is with the one who~sleeps~with
\q another~man’s~wife;
\q no one who touches her will~go~unpunished.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:29 \ft \+xt Pr 16:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 30 People don’t despise the~thief if~he~steals
\q to satisfy himself when~he~is~hungry.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:30 \ft \+xt Jr 49:9; Ob 5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 31 Still, if caught, he must pay seven~times as~much;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:31 \ft \+xt Ex 22:1–4; Ps 79:12\+xt*\f*
\q he must give up~all~the~wealth in~his~house.
\q1
\v 32 The one who commits~adultery~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 6:32 \ft Lit \fqa commits adultery with a woman\f* lacks~sense;
\q whoever does so destroys~himself.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:32 \ft \+xt Pr 7:22–23\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 33 He will get a~beating~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 6:33 \ft Or \fqa plague\f* and~dishonor,
\q and his disgrace will never~be~removed.
\q1
\v 34 For jealousy enrages a~husband,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 6:34 \ft \+xt Pr 27:4; Sg 8:6\+xt*\f*
\q and he will show no~mercy when~he~takes~revenge.
\q1
\v 35 He will not be appeased by~anything
\q or be persuaded by~lavish~bribes.
\b
\c 7
\q1
\v 1 My son, obey my~words,
\q and treasure my~commands.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:1 \ft \+xt Pr 2:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 2 Keep my commands and~live,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:2 \ft \+xt Pr 3:1–2; 4:4; 6:23; 19:16\+xt*\f*
\q and guard my instructions
\q as you would the pupil of~your~eye.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:2 \ft \+xt Dt 32:10; Ps 17:8; Zch 2:8\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 3 Tie them to~your~fingers;
\q write them on~the~tablet of~your~heart.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:3 \ft \+xt Dt 11:18; Pr 3:3; 6:21\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 4 Say to wisdom, “You~are my~sister,”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:4 \ft \+xt Sg 4:9\+xt*\f*
\q and call understanding your~relative.
\q1
\v 5 She will keep you from~a~forbidden~woman,
\q a wayward woman with her~flattering~talk.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:5 \ft \+xt Pr 5:3,20; 6:24; 7:21\+xt*\f*
\s1 A Story of Seduction
\q1
\v 6 At the window of~my~house
\q I looked through my~lattice.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:6 \ft \+xt Jdg 5:28; Sg 2:9\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 7 I saw among the~inexperienced,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 7:7 \ft Or \fqa simple\ft , or \fqa gullible\ft , or \fqa naive\f*
\q I noticed among the~youths,
\q a young man lacking~sense.
\q1
\v 8 Crossing the street near~her~corner,
\q he strolled down the~road to~her~house
\q1
\v 9 at twilight, in~the~evening,
\q in the dark of~the~night.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:9 \ft \+xt Jb 24:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 10 A woman came to~meet~him
\q dressed like a~prostitute,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:10 \ft \+xt Gn 38:14–15\+xt*\f*
\q having~a~hidden~agenda.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 7:10 \ft Or \fqa prostitute with a guarded heart\f*
\q1
\v 11 She is loud and~defiant;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:11 \ft \+xt Pr 9:13\+xt*\f*
\q her feet do not stay at~home.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:11 \ft \+xt 1Tm 5:13\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 Now in the street, now~in~the~squares,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:12 \ft \+xt Pr 5:16; 9:14\+xt*\f*
\q she lurks at~every~corner.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:12 \ft \+xt Pr 23:28\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 13 She grabs him and~kisses~him;
\q she brazenly says~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 7:13 \ft Lit \fqa she makes her face strong and says\f* to~him,
\q1
\v 14 “I’ve made fellowship~offerings;
\q today I’ve fulfilled my~vows.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:14 \ft \+xt Lv 7:11–18; Dt 23:18; Ps 56:12\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 15 So I came out to~meet~you,
\q to search for you, and~I’ve~found~you.
\q1
\v 16 I’ve spread coverings on~my~bed~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:16 \ft \+xt Pr 31:22\+xt*\f*~—
\q richly colored linen from~Egypt.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:16 \ft \+xt Ezk 27:7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 17 I’ve perfumed my~bed
\q with myrrh, aloes, and~cinnamon.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:17 \ft \+xt Ex 30:23; Ps 45:8\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 18 Come, let’s drink deeply of~lovemaking until~morning.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:18 \ft \+xt Sg 5:1\+xt*\f*
\q Let’s feast on each~other’s~love!
\q1
\v 19 My husband isn’t~home;
\q he went on a~long~journey.
\q1
\v 20 He took a bag of silver with~him
\q and will come home at~the~time of~the~full~moon.”
\q1
\v 21 She seduces him with~her~persistent~pleading;
\q she lures with~her~flattering~talk.
\q1
\v 22 He follows her impulsively
\q like an ox going to~the~slaughter,
\q like a deer bounding toward~a~trap~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 7:22 \ft Text emended; MT reads \fqa like a shackle to the discipline of a fool\ft ; Hb obscure\f*
\q1
\v 23 until an arrow pierces its~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 7:23 \ft Or \fqa his\f*~liver,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:21–23 \ft \+xt Pr 2:16–19; 5:3–6; 23:27–28\+xt*\f*
\q like a bird darting into~a~snare~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:23 \ft \+xt Ec 9:12\+xt*\f*~—
\q he doesn’t know it~will~cost~him his~life.
\b
\q1
\v 24 Now, sons, listen~to~me,
\q and pay attention to~the~words from~my~mouth.
\q1
\v 25 Don’t let your heart turn~aside to~her~ways;
\q don’t stray onto~her~paths.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:25 \ft \+xt Pr 5:8\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 26 For she has brought many down~to~death;
\q her victims are~countless.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 7:26 \ft Or\fqa and powerful men are all her victims\f*
\q1
\v 27 Her house is the~road to~Sheol,
\q descending to~the~chambers of~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 7:27 \ft \+xt Pr 2:18; 5:5; 9:18; 1Co 6:9; Rv 22:15\+xt*\f*
\c 8
\s1 Wisdom’s Appeal
\q1
\v 1 Doesn’t wisdom~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:1–3 \ft \+xt Pr 1:20–21; 9:3,13–15\+xt*\f* call out?
\q Doesn’t understanding make her~voice heard?
\q1
\v 2 At the heights overlooking the~road,
\q at the crossroads, she~takes her~stand.
\q1
\v 3 Beside the gates~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:3 \ft \+xt Jb 29:7\+xt*\f* leading into~the~city,
\q at the main entrance, she~cries~out:
\q1
\v 4 “People, I call out to~you;
\q my cry is to~the children of Adam.
\q1
\v 5 Learn to be shrewd, you~who~are~inexperienced;
\q develop common sense, you~who~are~foolish.
\q1
\v 6 Listen, for I speak of~noble~things,
\q and what my lips say is~right.
\q1
\v 7 For my mouth tells the~truth,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:7 \ft \+xt Ps 37:30\+xt*\f*
\q and wickedness is~detestable to~my~lips.
\q1
\v 8 All the words from my~mouth are~righteous;
\q none of them are deceptive or~perverse.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:8 \ft \+xt Dt 32:5; Pr 2:15; Php 2:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 All of them are clear to~the~perceptive,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:9 \ft \+xt Pr 14:6\+xt*\f*
\q and right to~those who~discover~knowledge.
\q1
\v 10 Accept my instruction instead~of~silver,
\q and knowledge rather than~pure~gold.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:10 \ft \+xt Pr 3:14–15; 8:19; 16:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 11 For wisdom is better than~jewels,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:11 \ft \+xt Jb 28:12–19\+xt*\f*
\q and nothing desirable can~equal~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:11 \ft \+xt Pr 3:15; 20:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 I, wisdom, share a~home with~shrewdness
\q and have knowledge and~discretion.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:12 \ft \+xt Pr 1:4\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 13 To fear the \nd Lord\nd* is to~hate~evil.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:13 \ft \+xt Pr 16:6\+xt*\f*
\q I hate arrogant pride, evil~conduct,
\q and~perverse~speech.
\q1
\v 14 I possess good advice and~sound~wisdom;~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 8:14 \ft Or \fqa resourcefulness\f*
\q I have understanding and~strength.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:14 \ft \+xt Ec 7:19\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 15 It is by me that kings~reign~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:15 \ft \+xt 2Ch 1:10; Dn 2:21; Rm 13:1\+xt*\f*
\q and rulers enact just~law;
\q1
\v 16 by me, princes~lead,
\q as do nobles and~all~righteous~judges.~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 8:16 \ft Some Hb mss, LXX read \fqa nobles who judge the earth\f*
\q1
\v 17 I love those who~love~me,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:17 \ft \+xt 1Sm 2:30; Jn 14:21\+xt*\f*
\q and those who search for~me find~me.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:17 \ft \+xt Pr 1:28; 2:4–5; Jms 1:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 18 With me are riches and~honor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:18 \ft \+xt Pr 3:16\+xt*\f*
\q lasting wealth and~righteousness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:18 \ft \+xt Ps 112:3; Mt 6:33\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 19 My fruit is better than~solid~gold,
\q and my harvest than~pure~silver.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:19 \ft \+xt Jb 28:15; Pr 3:14; 8:10; 16:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 20 I walk in the ways of~righteousness,
\q along the paths of~justice,
\q1
\v 21 giving wealth as~an~inheritance to~those who~love~me,
\q and filling their~treasuries.
\b
\q1
\v 22 “The \nd Lord\nd* acquired~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 8:22 \ft Or \fqa possessed\ft , or \fqa made\f*~me
\q at the beginning of~his~creation,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 8:22 \ft Lit \fqa way\f*
\q before his~works of~long~ago.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:22 \ft \+xt Gn 1:1; Jb 28:26–28; Ps 104:24\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 23 I was formed~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 8:23 \ft Or \fqa consecrated\f* before~ancient~times,
\q from the beginning, before~the~earth~began.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:23 \ft \+xt Jn 1:1–3; 17:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 24 I was born
\q when~there~were no~watery~depths~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:24 \ft \+xt Gn 1:2; Pr 3:20\+xt*\f*
\q and no springs filled with~water.
\q1
\v 25 Before the mountains were~established,
\q prior~to~the~hills,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:25 \ft \+xt Ps 90:2\+xt*\f* I~was given~birth~#—
\q1
\v 26 before he made the~land, the~fields,
\q or the first soil on~earth.
\q1
\v 27 I was there when~he~established the~heavens,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:27 \ft \+xt Pr 3:19\+xt*\f*
\q when he laid out the~horizon on~the~surface of~the~ocean,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:27 \ft \+xt Jb 26:10\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 28 when he placed the~skies~above,
\q when the fountains of~the~ocean gushed~out,
\q1
\v 29 when he set a~limit for~the~sea
\q so that the waters would~not~violate his~command,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:29 \ft \+xt Jb 38:8–11; Ps 104:9\+xt*\f*
\q when he laid out the~foundations of~the~earth.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:29 \ft \+xt Jb 38:4–5; Ps 104:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 30 I was a skilled craftsman~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 8:30 \ft Or \fqa a confidant\ft , or \fqa a child\ft , or \fqa was constantly\f* beside~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:30 \ft \+xt Jb 28:20–27; 38–39; Pr 3:19–20; Jr 10:12; 51:15; Zch 13:7; Jn 1:2–3\+xt*\f*
\q I was his~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 8:30 \ft LXX; MT omits \fqa his\f* delight every~day,
\q always rejoicing before~him.
\q1
\v 31 I was rejoicing in his~inhabited~world,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:31 \ft \+xt Jb 38:4–7\+xt*\f*
\q delighting in the~children~of~Adam.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:31 \ft \+xt Heb 2:6–8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 32 “And now, sons, listen~to~me;
\q those who keep my~ways are~happy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:32 \ft \+xt Ps 119:1–2; 128:1; Lk 11:28\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 33 Listen to instruction and~be~wise;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:33 \ft \+xt Pr 4:1\+xt*\f*
\q don’t ignore it.
\q1
\v 34 Anyone who listens to~me is~happy,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:34 \ft \+xt Pr 3:13\+xt*\f*
\q watching at~my~doors every~day,
\q waiting by~the~posts of~my~doorway.
\q1
\v 35 For the one who~finds~me finds~life~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:35 \ft \+xt Pr 4:4,22; 7:2; 9:11; 12:28; Jn 17:3\+xt*\f*
\q and obtains favor from~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:35 \ft \+xt Pr 3:4; 12:2; 13:13; 18:22\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 36 but the one who~misses~me~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 8:36 \ft Or \fqa who sins against me\f* harms~himself;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:36 \ft \+xt Pr 15:32\+xt*\f*
\q all who hate me love~death.”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 8:36 \ft \+xt Pr 11:19; 21:6\+xt*\f*
\c 9
\s1 Wisdom versus Foolishness
\q1
\v 1 Wisdom has built her~house;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:1 \ft \+xt Pr 14:1; Eph 2:20–22; 1Pt 2:5\+xt*\f*
\q she has carved out her~seven~pillars.
\q1
\v 2 She has prepared her meat;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:2 \ft \+xt Mt 22:4\+xt*\f* she~has~mixed her~wine;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:2 \ft \+xt Sg 8:2\+xt*\f*
\q she has also set~her~table.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:2 \ft \+xt Lk 14:17\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 3 She has sent out her~female~servants;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:3 \ft \+xt Ps 68:11; Mt 22:3\+xt*\f*
\q she calls out from the~highest~points of~the~city:~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:3 \ft \+xt Pr 8:2–3; 9:14–15; Mt 10:27\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 4 “Whoever is inexperienced, enter~here!~”
\q To the one who lacks sense,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:4 \ft \+xt Pr 6:32\+xt*\f* she~says,
\q1
\v 5 “Come, eat my~bread,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:5 \ft \+xt Is 55:1; Jn 6:27,51\+xt*\f*
\q and drink the wine I~have~mixed.
\q1
\v 6 Leave inexperience behind, and~you~will~live;
\q pursue the way of~understanding.
\q1
\v 7 The one who corrects a~mocker
\q will~bring~abuse on~himself;
\q the one who rebukes the~wicked will~get~hurt.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 9:7 \ft Lit \fqa man: his blemish\f*
\q1
\v 8 Don’t rebuke a mocker, or~he~will hate~you;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:8 \ft \+xt Pr 15:12; Mt 7:6\+xt*\f*
\q rebuke the wise, and~he~will love~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:8 \ft \+xt Ps 141:5\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 Instruct the wise, and~he~will be wiser~still;
\q teach the righteous, and~he~will learn~more.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:9 \ft \+xt Pr 1:5; 16:21,23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 “The fear of the \nd Lord\nd* is the~beginning of~wisdom,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:10 \ft \+xt Jb 28:28; Ps 111:10; Pr 1:7; 15:33\+xt*\f*
\q and the knowledge of~the~Holy~One~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:10 \ft \+xt Pr 30:3; Hs 11:12; Rv 16:5\+xt*\f* is~understanding.
\q1
\v 11 For by me your~days will~be~many,
\q and years will be added to~your~life.
\q1
\v 12 If you are wise, you~are~wise for~your~own~benefit;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:12 \ft \+xt Jb 22:2\+xt*\f*
\q if you mock, you alone will~bear the~consequences.”
\b
\q1
\v 13 Folly is a~rowdy~woman;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:13 \ft \+xt Pr 7:11\+xt*\f*
\q she is gullible and~knows~nothing.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:13 \ft \+xt Pr 5:6\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 14 She sits by the~doorway of~her~house,
\q on a seat at the~highest~point of~the~city,
\q1
\v 15 calling to those who~pass~by,
\q who go straight ahead on~their~paths:~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:14–15 \ft \+xt Pr 7:11–12; 9:3–4\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 “Whoever is inexperienced, enter~here!~”
\q To the one who~lacks~sense, she~says,
\q1
\v 17 “Stolen water is~sweet,
\q and bread eaten secretly is~tasty!~”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:17 \ft \+xt Pr 20:17\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 18 But he doesn’t know that~the~departed~spirits are~there,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:18 \ft \+xt Pr 2:18; 21:16\+xt*\f*
\q that her guests are in~the~depths of~Sheol.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 9:18 \ft \+xt Pr 5:5; 7:27\+xt*\f*
\c 10
\s1 A Collection of Solomon’s Proverbs
\m
\v 1 Solomon’s proverbs:~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:1 \ft \+xt Pr 1:1\+xt*\f*
\q A wise son brings joy to~his~father,
\q but a foolish son, heartache to~his~mother.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:1 \ft \+xt Pr 15:20; 17:25; 23:24–25; 29:3,15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 Ill-gotten gains do~not profit~anyone,
\q but righteousness rescues from~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:2 \ft \+xt Pr 11:4,18; 12:28; 21:6; Ezk 7:19; Lk 12:19–20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 The \nd Lord\nd* will not let the~righteous go~hungry,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:3 \ft \+xt Ps 37:25; Mt 6:33\+xt*\f*
\q but he denies the~wicked what~they~crave.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:3 \ft \+xt Ps 112:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 Idle hands make one poor,
\q but diligent hands bring~riches.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:4 \ft \+xt Pr 12:24,27; 13:4,11; 19:15; 21:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 The son who gathers during~summer is~prudent;
\q the son who sleeps during~harvest is~disgraceful.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:5 \ft \+xt Pr 6:6–11; 30:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 Blessings are on~the~head of~the~righteous,
\q but the mouth of~the~wicked conceals~violence.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:6 \ft \+xt Pr 10:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 The remembrance of~the~righteous is a~blessing,
\q but the name of~the~wicked will~rot.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:7 \ft \+xt Ps 9:5–6; 112:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 A wise heart accepts~commands,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:8 \ft \+xt Mt 7:24\+xt*\f*
\q but foolish lips will~be~destroyed.
\b
\q1
\v 9 The one who lives with~integrity lives~securely,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:9 \ft \+xt Ps 23:4; Pr 2:7; 3:23; 19:1; 20:7; 28:6,18; Is 33:15–16\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever perverts his~ways will~be found~out.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:9 \ft \+xt Pr 26:26; Mt 10:26; 1Tm 5:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 A sly wink of~the~eye~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:10 \ft \+xt Ps 35:19; Pr 6:13; 16:30\+xt*\f* causes~grief,
\q and foolish lips will~be~destroyed.
\b
\q1
\v 11 The mouth of~the~righteous is a~fountain of~life,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:11 \ft \+xt Ps 37:30; Pr 13:14; 14:27; 16:22\+xt*\f*
\q but the mouth of~the~wicked conceals~violence.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:11 \ft \+xt Pr 10:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 Hatred stirs~up~conflicts,
\q but love covers all~offenses.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:12 \ft \+xt Pr 17:9; Jms 5:20; 1Pt 4:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 Wisdom is found on~the~lips of~the~discerning,
\q but a rod is for~the~back of~the~one who~lacks~sense.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:13 \ft \+xt Pr 19:29; 26:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 The wise store~up~knowledge,
\q but the mouth of~the~fool hastens~destruction.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:14 \ft \+xt Pr 10:8; 12:13; 13:3; 18:7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 The wealth of the rich is his~fortified~city;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:15 \ft \+xt Ps 52:7; Pr 18:11\+xt*\f*
\q the poverty of~the~poor is their~destruction.
\b
\q1
\v 16 The reward of~the~righteous is~life;
\q the wages of~the~wicked is~punishment.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:16 \ft \+xt Pr 11:19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 The one who~follows instruction is on~the~path to~life,
\q but the one who~rejects correction goes~astray.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:17 \ft \+xt Pr 5:12–13,22–23; 6:23; 13:13–14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 The one who conceals hatred has lying~lips,
\q and whoever spreads slander is a~fool.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:18 \ft \+xt Pr 11:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 When there are many~words, sin~is~unavoidable,
\q but the one who~controls his~lips is~prudent.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:19 \ft \+xt Pr 17:27–28; Jms 1:19; 3:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 The tongue of~the~righteous is pure~silver;
\q the heart of~the~wicked is of~little~value.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:20 \ft \+xt Pr 8:19; 10:32\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 The lips of~the~righteous feed~many,
\q but fools die for~lack of~sense.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:21 \ft \+xt Hs 4:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 The \nd Lord\nd*’s blessing enriches,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:22 \ft \+xt Gn 24:35; 26:12; Dt 8:18; Jms 1:17\+xt*\f*
\q and he adds no painful effort~to~it.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 10:22 \ft Or \fqa and painful effort adds nothing to it\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:22 \ft \+xt Mt 6:31–32\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 As shameful conduct is pleasure for~a~fool,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:23 \ft \+xt Pr 2:14; 15:21\+xt*\f*
\q so wisdom is for a~person of~understanding.
\b
\q1
\v 24 What the wicked dreads will~come to~him,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:24 \ft \+xt Pr 1:26–27; Is 66:4; Heb 10:27\+xt*\f*
\q but what the righteous desire will~be~given to~them.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:24 \ft \+xt Ps 37:4; 145:19; Pr 11:23; Mt 5:6; 1Jn 5:14–15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 When the whirlwind passes,
\q the~wicked~are no~more,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:25 \ft \+xt Jb 21:18; Is 29:5–7\+xt*\f*
\q but the righteous are~secure~forever.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:25 \ft \+xt Ps 15:5; Pr 10:30; 12:3,7; Mt 7:24–27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 Like vinegar to~the~teeth and~smoke to~the~eyes,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:26 \ft \+xt Pr 26:6\+xt*\f*
\q so the slacker is to~the~one who~sends~him on~an~errand.
\b
\q1
\v 27 The fear of~the~\nd Lord\nd* prolongs~life,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 10:27 \ft Lit \fqa \+nd Lord\+nd* adds to days\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:27 \ft \+xt Pr 3:2\+xt*\f*
\q but the years of~the~wicked are~cut~short.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:27 \ft \+xt Jb 15:32–33; Pr 14:26–27; 15:16; 19:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 The hope of~the~righteous is~joy,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:28 \ft \+xt Pr 11:23; 23:18; Jr 29:11\+xt*\f*
\q but the expectation of~the~wicked will~perish.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:28 \ft \+xt Jb 8:13; 14:9; Pr 11:7; Ezk 37:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 29 The way of the \nd Lord\nd* is~a~stronghold for~the~honorable,
\q but destruction awaits evildoers.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:29 \ft \+xt Pr 13:6; 21:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 30 The righteous will~never be~shaken,
\q but the wicked will~not~remain on~the~earth.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:30 \ft \+xt Ps 21:7; 37:29; 125:1; Pr 2:21–22; 12:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 31 The mouth of~the~righteous produces~wisdom,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:31 \ft \+xt Ps 37:30\+xt*\f*
\q but a perverse tongue will~be cut~out.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:31 \ft \+xt Ps 37:38; 120:2–4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 32 The lips of~the~righteous know what~is~appropriate,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:32 \ft \+xt Ec 10:12\+xt*\f*
\q but the mouth of~the~wicked, only~what~is~perverse.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 10:32 \ft \+xt Pr 2:12; 10:20; 15:28\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 11
\q1
\v 1 Dishonest scales are~detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:1 \ft \+xt Dt 25:13–16; Pr 20:10,23; Mc 6:10–11\+xt*\f*
\q but an accurate weight is his~delight.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:1 \ft \+xt Lv 19:36; Pr 16:11; Ezk 45:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 When arrogance comes, disgrace~follows,
\q but with humility comes~wisdom.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:2 \ft \+xt Pr 15:33; 18:12; 22:4; 29:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 The integrity of~the~upright guides~them,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:3 \ft \+xt Pr 13:6\+xt*\f*
\q but the perversity of~the~treacherous destroys~them.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:3 \ft \+xt Pr 11:17–19; 19:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 Wealth is not profitable on~a~day of~wrath,
\q but righteousness rescues from~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:4 \ft \+xt Gn 7:1; Pr 10:2; 11:28; 12:28; Zph 1:18\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 The righteousness of~the~blameless clears~his~path,
\q but the wicked person will~fall because~of his~wickedness.
\b
\q1
\v 6 The righteousness of~the~upright rescues~them,
\q but the treacherous are~trapped by~their~own~desires.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:6 \ft \+xt Ps 7:15–16; Pr 5:22; Ec 10:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 When the wicked person dies,
\q his~expectation comes~to~nothing,
\q and hope placed~in~wealth~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 11:7 \ft LXX reads \fqa hope of the ungodly\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 11:7 \ft Or \fqa strength\f* vanishes.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:7 \ft \+xt Jb 8:13; Pr 10:28; 24:14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 The righteous one is rescued from~trouble;
\q in his place, the~wicked one goes~in.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:8 \ft \+xt Pr 21:18\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 With his mouth the~ungodly destroys~his~neighbor,
\q but through knowledge the~righteous are~rescued.
\b
\q1
\v 10 When the righteous thrive, a~city~rejoices;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:10 \ft \+xt Pr 28:12\+xt*\f*
\q when the wicked die, there~is joyful~shouting.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:10 \ft \+xt 2Ch 21:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 A city is built up by~the~blessing of~the~upright,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:11 \ft \+xt Pr 14:34\+xt*\f*
\q but it is torn down by~the~mouth of~the~wicked.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:11 \ft \+xt Pr 14:1; 29:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 Whoever shows contempt for~his~neighbor lacks~sense,
\q but a person with~understanding keeps~silent.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:12 \ft \+xt Pr 14:21\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 A gossip goes around revealing a~secret,
\q but a trustworthy person keeps a~confidence.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:13 \ft \+xt Lv 19:16; Pr 10:18; 20:19; 1Tm 5:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 Without guidance, a~people will~fall,
\q but with many counselors there~is~deliverance.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:14 \ft \+xt Pr 15:22; 20:18; 24:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 If someone puts up security for~a~stranger,
\q he~will~suffer for~it,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:15 \ft \+xt Pr 6:1–2; 17:18; 22:26\+xt*\f*
\q but the one who~hates such~agreements is~protected.
\b
\q1
\v 16 A gracious woman gains~honor,
\q but violent~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 11:16 \ft Or \fqa ruthless\f* people gain only~riches.
\b
\q1
\v 17 A kind man benefits~himself,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:17 \ft \+xt Mt 5:7; 25:34–36\+xt*\f*
\q but a cruel person brings~ruin on~himself.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:17 \ft \+xt Pr 11:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 The wicked person earns an~empty~wage,
\q but the one who~sows~righteousness, a~true~reward.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:18 \ft \+xt Pr 10:2–3; Hs 10:12; Gl 6:8–9; Jms 3:18\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 Genuine righteousness leads to~life,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:19 \ft \+xt Pr 10:16–17; 19:23\+xt*\f*
\q but pursuing evil leads to~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:19 \ft \+xt Rm 6:23; Jms 1:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 Those with twisted minds are~detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*,
\q but those with blameless conduct are his~delight.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:20 \ft \+xt 1Ch 29:17; Ps 119:1; Pr 3:32; 12:22; 13:6; 15:8–9,26\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 Be assured~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 11:21 \ft Lit \fqa Hand to hand\f* that a~wicked~person
\q will~not go~unpunished,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:21 \ft \+xt Pr 16:5\+xt*\f*
\q but the offspring of~the~righteous will~escape.
\b
\q1
\v 22 A beautiful woman who~rejects good~sense
\q is like a gold ring in~a~pig’s~snout.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:22 \ft \+xt Gn 24:47\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 The desire of~the~righteous turns~out~well,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:23 \ft \+xt Ps 37:4–5; Pr 10:24; Jr 29:11\+xt*\f*
\q but the hope of~the~wicked leads~to~wrath.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:23 \ft \+xt Pr 10:28; 11:7; Rm 2:8–9\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 One person gives freely,
\q yet~gains~more;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:24 \ft \+xt Ps 112:9; Pr 11:25; 21:26\+xt*\f*
\q another withholds what~is~right,
\q only~to~become~poor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:24 \ft \+xt Pr 13:7; 22:16; 28:8,27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 A generous person will~be~enriched,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:25 \ft \+xt Pr 3:9–10; 2Co 9:6–11\+xt*\f*
\q and the one who gives a~drink of~water
\q will~receive~water.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:25 \ft \+xt Mt 5:7; 10:42\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 People will curse~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:26 \ft \+xt Pr 24:24\+xt*\f* anyone who~hoards~grain,
\q but a blessing will come to~the~one who~sells~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:26 \ft \+xt Gn 42:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 The one who searches for~what~is~good~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:27 \ft \+xt Php 4:8\+xt*\f* seeks~favor,
\q but if someone looks for trouble, it~will~come to~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:27 \ft \+xt Est 7:10; Ps 7:15–16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 Anyone trusting in~his~riches will~fall,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:28 \ft \+xt Ps 49:6\+xt*\f*
\q but the righteous will~flourish like~foliage.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:28 \ft \+xt Ps 1:3; 92:12; Pr 11:4; 14:11; Jr 17:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 29 The one who brings ruin on~his~household~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:29 \ft \+xt Pr 15:27\+xt*\f*
\q will~inherit the~wind,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:29 \ft \+xt Ec 5:16\+xt*\f*
\q and a fool will be a~slave
\q to~someone whose~heart is~wise.
\b
\q1
\v 30 The fruit of~the~righteous is a~tree of~life,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:30 \ft \+xt Pr 3:18\+xt*\f*
\q but a~cunning~person takes~lives.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:30 \ft \+xt Gn 3:1\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 31 If the righteous will~be repaid on~earth,
\q how much more the~wicked and~sinful.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 11:31 \ft \+xt Dt 32:25; Pr 13:21; 1Pt 4:18\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 12
\q1
\v 1 Whoever loves discipline loves~knowledge,
\q but one who~hates~correction is~stupid.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:1 \ft \+xt Pr 3:11; 5:11–13; 15:5,31–32\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 One who is good obtains favor from~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:2 \ft \+xt Pr 8:35\+xt*\f*
\q but he condemns a~person who~schemes.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:2 \ft \+xt Pr 14:17; 24:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 No one can be made secure by~wickedness,
\q but the root of~the~righteous is~immovable.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:3 \ft \+xt Ps 16:8; 21:7; Pr 10:30\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 A wife of noble character~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 12:4 \ft Or \fqa A wife of quality\ft , or \fqa A wife of good character\f* is her~husband’s~crown,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:4 \ft \+xt Pr 18:22; 19:14; 31:10\+xt*\f*
\q but a wife who~causes~shame
\q is like~rottenness in~his~bones.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:4 \ft \+xt Pr 14:30\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 The thoughts of~the~righteous are~just,
\q but guidance from~the~wicked is~deceitful.
\b
\q1
\v 6 The words of~the~wicked are a~deadly~ambush,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:6 \ft \+xt Pr 1:11\+xt*\f*
\q but the speech of~the~upright rescues~them.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:6 \ft \+xt Pr 14:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 The wicked are~overthrown and~perish,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:7 \ft \+xt Jb 34:25\+xt*\f*
\q but the house of~the~righteous will~stand.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:7 \ft \+xt Ps 103:17–18; Pr 10:25; Mt 7:24–27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 A man is praised for~his~insight,
\q but a twisted mind is~despised.
\b
\q1
\v 9 Better to be disregarded, yet~have a~servant,
\q than to act important but~have no~food.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:9 \ft \+xt Pr 11:24; 13:7; Rm 12:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 The righteous cares about his~animal’s~health,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:10 \ft \+xt Dt 25:4; Pr 27:23; Jnh 4:11\+xt*\f*
\q but even the~merciful~acts of~the~wicked are~cruel.
\b
\q1
\v 11 The one who works his~land will~have plenty of~food,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:11 \ft \+xt Pr 24:27\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever chases fantasies lacks~sense.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:11 \ft \+xt Pr 28:19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 The wicked desire what evil~people have~caught,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 12:12 \ft Or \fqa desire a stronghold of evil\f*
\q but the root of~the~righteous is~productive.
\b
\q1
\v 13 By rebellious speech an evil person is~trapped,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:13 \ft \+xt Pr 10:14; 13:3; 18:7\+xt*\f*
\q but a righteous person escapes from~trouble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:13 \ft \+xt Pr 21:23; 29:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 A person will be satisfied with~good
\q by~the~fruit of~his~mouth,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:14 \ft \+xt Pr 13:2; 18:20\+xt*\f*
\q and the work of a~person’s~hands will~reward~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:14 \ft \+xt Pr 1:31; 28:19; Is 3:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 A fool’s way is~right in~his~own~eyes,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:15 \ft \+xt Pr 16:2; 21:2\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever~listens to~counsel is~wise.
\b
\q1
\v 16 A fool’s displeasure is~known at~once,
\q but whoever~ignores an~insult is~sensible.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:16 \ft \+xt Pr 11:13; 12:23; 17:9; 29:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 Whoever speaks the~truth declares what~is~right,
\q but a false witness speaks deceit.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:17 \ft \+xt Pr 6:19; 14:5,25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 There is one who~speaks~rashly,
\q like~a~piercing~sword;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:18 \ft \+xt Ps 57:4\+xt*\f*
\q but the tongue of~the~wise brings~healing.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:18 \ft \+xt Pr 4:22; 15:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 Truthful lips endure~forever,
\q but a lying tongue, only~a~moment.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:19 \ft \+xt Ps 52:4–5; Pr 19:9\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 Deceit is in~the~hearts of~those who~plot~evil,
\q but those who promote peace have~joy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:20 \ft \+xt Pr 14:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 No disaster overcomes the~righteous,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:21 \ft \+xt Ps 91:10; 1Pt 3:13\+xt*\f*
\q but the wicked are~full of~misery.
\b
\q1
\v 22 Lying lips are~detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:22 \ft \+xt Rv 22:15\+xt*\f*
\q but faithful people are~his~delight.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:22 \ft \+xt Pr 3:32; 11:20; 15:8–9,26\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 A shrewd person conceals~knowledge,
\q but a foolish heart publicizes~stupidity.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:23 \ft \+xt Pr 11:13; 12:16; 13:16; 15:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 The diligent hand will~rule,
\q but laziness will~lead~to forced~labor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:24 \ft \+xt Pr 10:4; 13:4; 19:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs~it~down,
\q but a good word cheers~it~up.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:25 \ft \+xt Ps 94:19; Pr 15:13; 16:24; Mt 6:25–34\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 A righteous person is careful in~dealing with~his~neighbor,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 12:26 \ft Or \fqa person guides his neighbor\f*
\q but the ways of~the wicked lead~them~astray.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:26 \ft \+xt Pr 14:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 A lazy hunter doesn’t roast his~game,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:27 \ft \+xt Pr 19:15,24; 26:15\+xt*\f*
\q but to a diligent person, his~wealth is~precious.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:27 \ft \+xt Pr 10:4; 13:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 There is life in~the~path of~righteousness,
\q and in its path there is no~death.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 12:28 \ft Or \fqa righteousness, but the crooked way leads to death\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 12:28 \ft \+xt Pr 10:2; 13:14; 14:27\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 13
\q1
\v 1 A wise son responds~to~his father’s~discipline,
\q but a mocker doesn’t~listen to~rebuke.
\b
\q1
\v 2 From the fruit of~his~mouth,
\q a~person will~enjoy good~things,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:2 \ft \+xt Pr 12:14\+xt*\f*
\q but treacherous people have an~appetite for~violence.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:2 \ft \+xt Pr 1:10–12,31; 18:20–21; Is 32:6–8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 The one who guards his~mouth protects his~life;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:3 \ft \+xt Pr 18:21; 21:23; Jms 3:2\+xt*\f*
\q the one who opens his~lips invites his~own~ruin.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:3 \ft \+xt Pr 10:14; 12:13; 18:7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 The slacker craves, yet~has~nothing,
\q but the diligent is fully~satisfied.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:4 \ft \+xt Pr 10:4; 12:24,27; 19:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 The righteous hate lying,
\q but the wicked bring disgust~and~shame.
\b
\q1
\v 6 Righteousness guards people of~integrity,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 13:6 \ft Lit \fqa guards integrity of way\f*
\q but wickedness undermines the~sinner.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:6 \ft \+xt Pr 10:29; 11:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 One person pretends to~be~rich but~has~nothing;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:7 \ft \+xt Pr 11:24; Lk 12:20–21; 1Tm 6:17–19; Rv 3:17–18\+xt*\f*
\q another pretends to~be~poor but~has abundant~wealth.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:7 \ft \+xt Lk 12:33; 2Co 6:10; Jms 2:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 Riches are a~ransom for~a~person’s~life,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:8 \ft \+xt Jb 2:4; Pr 10:15\+xt*\f*
\q but a poor person hears~no~threat.
\b
\q1
\v 9 The light of the righteous shines~brightly,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:9 \ft \+xt Pr 4:18\+xt*\f*
\q but the lamp of~the~wicked is~put~out.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:9 \ft \+xt Jb 18:5–6; Pr 20:20; 24:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Arrogance leads to~nothing but~strife,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:10 \ft \+xt Pr 17:19\+xt*\f*
\q but wisdom is gained by~those who~take~advice.
\b
\q1
\v 11 Wealth obtained by~fraud will~dwindle,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:11 \ft \+xt Pr 10:2; 20:21; 23:5\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever earns it through~labor~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 13:11 \ft Lit \fqa whoever gathers upon his hand\f* will~multiply~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:11 \ft \+xt Pr 10:4; 21:5–6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 Hope delayed makes the~heart~sick,
\q but desire fulfilled is a~tree of~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:12 \ft \+xt Pr 11:30; 15:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 The one who has contempt for~instruction will~pay the~penalty,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:13 \ft \+xt Nm 15:31; 2Ch 36:16\+xt*\f*
\q but the one who respects a~command will~be~rewarded.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:13 \ft \+xt Pr 3:1–2; 4:4; 6:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 A wise person’s instruction is a~fountain of~life,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:14 \ft \+xt Pr 10:11; 14:27\+xt*\f*
\q turning people away from~the~snares of~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:14 \ft \+xt Ps 18:5; 116:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 Good sense wins favor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:15 \ft \+xt Pr 3:4\+xt*\f*
\q but the way of~the~treacherous never~changes.~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 13:15 \ft LXX, Syr, Tg read \fqa treacherous will perish\f*
\b
\q1
\v 16 Every sensible person acts~knowledgeably,
\q but a fool displays his~stupidity.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:16 \ft \+xt Pr 12:23; 15:2; Ec 10:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 A wicked envoy falls into~trouble,
\q but a trustworthy courier brings~healing.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:17 \ft \+xt Pr 25:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 Poverty and disgrace come~to~those
\q who~ignore~discipline,
\q but the one who accepts correction will~be~honored.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:18 \ft \+xt Pr 5:12–14; 12:1; 15:31–33\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 Desire fulfilled is~sweet to~the~taste,
\q but to turn from~evil is detestable to~fools.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:19 \ft \+xt Pr 16:22; 29:27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 The one who walks with~the~wise will~become~wise,
\q but a companion of~fools will~suffer~harm.
\b
\q1
\v 21 Disaster pursues sinners,
\q but good rewards the~righteous.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:21 \ft \+xt Ps 32:10; Pr 11:31; 13:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 A good man leaves an~inheritance to~his~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 13:22 \ft Or \fqa inheritance: his\f*~grandchildren,
\q but the sinner’s wealth is~stored~up for~the~righteous.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:22 \ft \+xt Jb 27:13–17; Pr 28:8; Ec 2:26\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 The uncultivated field of the poor yields abundant~food,
\q but without justice, it~is swept~away.
\b
\q1
\v 24 The one who will not use the~rod hates his~son,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:24 \ft \+xt Pr 19:18; 22:15; 23:13–14; 29:15,17\+xt*\f*
\q but the one who loves him disciplines him~diligently.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:24 \ft \+xt Dt 8:5; Pr 3:12; Heb 12:5–7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 A righteous person eats until~he~is~satisfied,
\q but the stomach of~the~wicked is~empty.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 13:25 \ft \+xt Pr 10:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 14
\q1
\v 1 Every wise woman builds her~house,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:1 \ft \+xt Ru 4:11; Pr 9:1; 24:3; 31:10–27\+xt*\f*
\q but a foolish one tears it down with~her~own~hands.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:1 \ft \+xt Pr 11:11; 29:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 Whoever lives with~integrity fears~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:2 \ft \+xt Pr 19:1; 28:6\+xt*\f*
\q but the one who is~devious in~his~ways despises~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:2 \ft \+xt Pr 2:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 The proud speech of~a~fool brings a~rod of~discipline,~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 14:3 \ft Some emend to \fqa In the mouth of a fool is a rod for his back\f*
\q but the lips of~the~wise protect~them.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:3 \ft \+xt Pr 12:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 Where there are no~oxen, the feeding~trough is~empty,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 14:4 \ft Or \fqa clean\f*
\q but an abundant harvest comes through the~strength of~an~ox.
\b
\q1
\v 5 An honest witness does~not~deceive,
\q but a dishonest witness utters~lies.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:5 \ft \+xt Ex 20:16; 23:1; Pr 6:19; 12:17; 14:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 A mocker seeks wisdom and~doesn’t~find~it,
\q but knowledge comes easily to~the~perceptive.
\b
\q1
\v 7 Stay away from~a~foolish~person;
\q you will gain no knowledge from~his~speech.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:7 \ft \+xt Pr 20:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 The sensible person’s wisdom is to~consider his~way,
\q but the stupidity of~fools deceives~them.
\b
\q1
\v 9 Fools mock at making reparation,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 14:9 \ft Or \fqa at guilt offerings\f*
\q but there is goodwill among~the~upright.
\b
\q1
\v 10 The heart knows its~own~bitterness,
\q and no outsider shares in~its~joy.
\b
\q1
\v 11 The house of~the~wicked will~be~destroyed,
\q but the tent of~the~upright will~flourish.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:11 \ft \+xt Pr 10:25; 11:28; 12:7; Mt 7:24–27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 There is a~way that~seems~right to~a~person,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:12 \ft \+xt Pr 12:15; 16:25\+xt*\f*
\q but its end is the~way to~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:12 \ft \+xt Pr 5:4; Rm 6:21\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 Even in laughter a~heart may~be~sad,
\q and joy may~end in~grief.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:13 \ft \+xt Ec 2:1–2; Lk 6:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 The disloyal one will~get what~his~conduct~deserves,
\q and a good one, what~his~deeds~deserve.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:14 \ft \+xt Pr 1:31; 12:14; 18:20; 28:19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 The inexperienced one believes~anything,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:15 \ft \+xt Eph 4:14; Jms 1:5–8\+xt*\f*
\q but the sensible one watches~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 14:15 \ft Lit \fqa the prudent understands\f* his~steps.
\b
\q1
\v 16 A wise person is~cautious and~turns from~evil,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:16 \ft \+xt Jb 28:28; Ps 34:14; Pr 3:7; 22:3\+xt*\f*
\q but a fool is easily angered and~is~careless.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 14:16 \ft Or \fqa and falls\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 A quick-tempered person acts~foolishly,
\q and one who~schemes is~hated.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:17 \ft \+xt Pr 12:2; 24:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 The inexperienced inherit foolishness,
\q but the sensible are~crowned with~knowledge.
\b
\q1
\v 19 The evil bow before~those who~are~good,
\q and the wicked, at~the~gates of~the~righteous.
\b
\q1
\v 20 A poor person is hated even by~his~neighbor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:20 \ft \+xt Pr 19:7\+xt*\f*
\q but there are many who~love the~rich.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:20 \ft \+xt Pr 19:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 The one who despises his~neighbor~sins,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:21 \ft \+xt Pr 11:12\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever shows kindness to~the~poor will~be~happy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:21 \ft \+xt Ps 41:1\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 Don’t those who plan evil go~astray?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:22 \ft \+xt Pr 6:14–15; 12:26\+xt*\f*
\q But those who plan good find~loyalty and~faithfulness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:22 \ft \+xt Pr 12:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 There is profit in all hard~work,
\q but endless talk~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 14:23 \ft Lit \fqa but word of lips\f* leads~only to~poverty.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:23 \ft \+xt Pr 21:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 The crown of~the~wise is their~wealth,
\q but the foolishness of~fools produces~foolishness.
\b
\q1
\v 25 A truthful witness rescues~lives,
\q but one who~utters~lies is~deceitful.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:25 \ft \+xt Pr 6:19; 12:17; 14:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 In the fear of~the~\nd Lord\nd* one~has strong~confidence
\q and his children have a~refuge.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:26 \ft \+xt Pr 29:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 The fear of~the~\nd Lord\nd* is a~fountain of~life,
\q turning people away from~the~snares of~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:27 \ft \+xt Pr 13:14; 16:22; 19:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 A large population is a~king’s~splendor,
\q but a shortage of~people is a~ruler’s~devastation.
\b
\q1
\v 29 A patient person shows great understanding,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:29 \ft \+xt Pr 16:32; 19:11; Ec 7:9; Jms 1:19\+xt*\f*
\q but a quick-tempered one promotes~foolishness.
\b
\q1
\v 30 A tranquil heart is life to~the~body,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:30 \ft \+xt Pr 3:8; 4:22; 16:24\+xt*\f*
\q but jealousy is rottenness to~the~bones.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:30 \ft \+xt Pr 12:4; 27:4; Jms 3:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 31 The one who oppresses the~poor person insults his~Maker,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:31 \ft \+xt Pr 17:5; 21:13; Mt 25:40; 1Jn 3:17\+xt*\f*
\q but one who is kind to~the~needy honors~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:31 \ft \+xt Pr 3:9; 14:21; 19:17; 22:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 32 The wicked one is thrown down by~his~own~sin,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:32 \ft \+xt Ps 17:15; 73:24; Pr 24:16; 2Co 1:9; 5:8; 2Tm 4:18\+xt*\f*
\q but the righteous one has a~refuge in~his~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:32 \ft \+xt Pr 10:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 33 Wisdom resides in~the~heart of~the~discerning;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:33 \ft \+xt Pr 15:14; 18:15; Ec 7:9\+xt*\f*
\q she is known~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 14:33 \ft LXX reads \fqa unknown\f* even among~fools.
\b
\q1
\v 34 Righteousness exalts a~nation,
\q but sin is a~disgrace to~any~people.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:34 \ft \+xt Pr 11:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 35 A king favors a~prudent~servant,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 14:35 \ft \+xt Pr 22:29; Mt 24:45–47; 25:21\+xt*\f*
\q but his anger falls on a~disgraceful~one.
\b
\c 15
\q1
\v 1 A gentle answer turns~away~anger,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:1 \ft \+xt Jdg 8:1–3; Pr 25:15; Ec 10:4\+xt*\f*
\q but a harsh word stirs~up~wrath.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:1 \ft \+xt 1Sm 25:10–13; 1Kg 12:13–16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 The tongue of~the~wise makes~knowledge~attractive,
\q but the mouth of~fools blurts~out~foolishness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:2 \ft \+xt Pr 12:23; 13:16; 15:28\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 The eyes of~the~\nd Lord\nd* are~everywhere,
\q observing the~wicked and~the~good.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:3 \ft \+xt 2Ch 16:9; Jb 31:4; Zch 4:10; Heb 4:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 The tongue that heals is a~tree of~life,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:4 \ft \+xt Pr 11:30; 13:12\+xt*\f*
\q but a devious tongue~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 15:4 \ft Lit \fqa but crookedness in it\f* breaks~the~spirit.
\b
\q1
\v 5 A fool despises his~father’s~discipline,
\q but a person who accepts~correction is~sensible.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:5 \ft \+xt Pr 3:11; 12:1; 15:31–33\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 The house of~the~righteous has~great~wealth,
\q but trouble accompanies the~income of~the~wicked.
\b
\q1
\v 7 The lips of~the~wise broadcast~knowledge,
\q but not so the~heart of~fools.
\b
\q1
\v 8 The sacrifice of~the~wicked is~detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:8 \ft \+xt Pr 21:27; 28:9; Ec 5:1; Is 1:11; Jr 6:20; Mc 6:7\+xt*\f*
\q but the prayer of~the~upright is his~delight.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:8 \ft \+xt Pr 15:29\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 The \nd Lord\nd* detests the~way of~the~wicked,
\q but he loves the~one who~pursues~righteousness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:9 \ft \+xt Pr 3:32; 11:20; 12:22; 1Tm 6:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Discipline is harsh for~the~one who~leaves the~path;
\q the one who hates correction will~die.
\b
\q1
\v 11 Sheol and Abaddon lie open before~the~\nd Lord\nd*~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:11 \ft \+xt Jb 26:6; Ps 139:8\+xt*\f*~—~
\q how much more, human~hearts.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:11 \ft \+xt 1Sm 16:7; 2Ch 6:30; Ps 44:21; Ac 1:24\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 A mocker doesn’t love one who~corrects~him;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:12 \ft \+xt Pr 9:8; Am 5:10\+xt*\f*
\q he will not consult the~wise.
\b
\q1
\v 13 A joyful heart makes a~face~cheerful,
\q but a sad heart produces a~broken~spirit.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:13 \ft \+xt Pr 12:25; 14:30; 15:30; 17:22; 18:14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 A discerning mind seeks~knowledge,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:14 \ft \+xt Pr 14:33; 18:15\+xt*\f*
\q but the mouth of~fools feeds on~foolishness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:14 \ft \+xt Mt 12:34\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 All the days of~the~oppressed are~miserable,
\q but a cheerful heart has a~continual~feast.
\b
\q1
\v 16 Better a little with~the~fear of~the~\nd Lord\nd*
\q than great treasure with~turmoil.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:16 \ft \+xt Ps 37:16; Pr 16:8; Ec 4:6; 1Tm 6:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 Better a meal of~vegetables where~there~is~love
\q than a fattened ox~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:17 \ft \+xt Mt 22:4; Lk 15:23\+xt*\f* with~hatred.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:17 \ft \+xt Pr 16:19; 17:1\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 A hot-tempered person stirs~up~conflict,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:18 \ft \+xt Pr 16:28; 26:21; 29:22\+xt*\f*
\q but one slow to anger~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:18 \ft \+xt Pr 14:29\+xt*\f* calms~strife.
\b
\q1
\v 19 A slacker’s way is like a~thorny~hedge,
\q but the path of~the~upright is a~highway.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:19 \ft \+xt Pr 16:17,31; 22:5–6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 A wise son brings joy to~his~father,
\q but a foolish man despises his~mother.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:20 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 23:24–25; 29:3,15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 Foolishness brings joy to~one without~sense,
\q but a person with understanding walks a~straight~path.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:21 \ft \+xt Pr 4:11,25; 10:23; Eph 5:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 Plans fail when there~is no~counsel,
\q but with many advisers they~succeed.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:22 \ft \+xt Pr 8:14–16; 11:14; 24:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 A person takes joy in~giving an~answer;~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 15:23 \ft Lit \fqa in an answer of his mouth\f*
\q and a timely word~#—~#how~good that~is!~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:23 \ft \+xt Pr 25:11; Is 50:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 For the prudent the~path of~life leads~upward,
\q so that he may avoid going~down to~Sheol.
\b
\q1
\v 25 The \nd Lord\nd* tears apart the~house of~the~proud,
\q but he protects the~widow’s~territory.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:25 \ft \+xt Ps 68:5; 146:9\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 The \nd Lord\nd* detests the~plans of~the one who is~evil,
\q but pleasant words are~pure.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:26 \ft \+xt Pr 11:20; 15:8–9; 16:24\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 The one who~profits dishonestly~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:27 \ft \+xt Pr 1:19; Jr 17:11\+xt*\f* troubles his~household,
\q but the one who~hates~bribes will~live.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:27 \ft \+xt Ex 23:8; Dt 16:19; Ps 15:5; Pr 17:23; 28:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 The mind of~the~righteous~person thinks before~answering,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:28 \ft \+xt Pr 18:13; 1Pt 3:15\+xt*\f*
\q but the mouth of~the~wicked blurts~out evil~things.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:28 \ft \+xt Pr 15:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 29 The \nd Lord\nd* is far from~the~wicked,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:29 \ft \+xt Ps 18:41; Pr 28:9\+xt*\f*
\q but he hears the~prayer of~the~righteous.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:29 \ft \+xt Ps 145:18–19; Pr 15:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 30 Bright eyes cheer the~heart;
\q good news strengthens~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 15:30 \ft Lit \fqa makes fat\f* the~bones.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:30 \ft \+xt Pr 14:30; 15:13; 17:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 31 One who~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 15:31 \ft Lit \fqa An ear that\f* listens to~life-giving~rebukes~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:31 \ft \+xt Pr 3:11\+xt*\f*
\q will be at home among~the~wise.
\b
\q1
\v 32 Anyone who ignores discipline despises~himself,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:32 \ft \+xt Pr 12:1\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever listens to~correction acquires good~sense.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 15:32 \ft Lit \fqa acquires a heart\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:32 \ft \+xt Pr 3:11; 5:12–14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 33 The fear of the \nd Lord\nd* is what wisdom~teaches,
\q and humility comes before~honor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 15:33 \ft \+xt Pr 18:12; 22:4; 29:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 16
\q1
\v 1 The reflections of~the~heart belong~to~mankind,
\q but the answer of~the~tongue is from~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:1 \ft \+xt Pr 16:9; 19:21\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 All a person’s ways seem~right to~him,
\q but the \nd Lord\nd* weighs~motives.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:2 \ft Lit \fqa spirits\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:2 \ft \+xt 1Sm 16:7; Pr 17:3; 19:21; 21:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 Commit your activities to~the~\nd Lord\nd*,
\q and your plans will~be~established.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:3 \ft \+xt Ps 37:4–5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 The \nd Lord\nd* has prepared everything for~his~purpose~—
\q even the wicked for~the~day of~disaster.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:4 \ft \+xt Ex 9:16; Rm 9:21–22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 Everyone with a~proud~heart is detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:5 \ft \+xt 2Ch 32:25; Pr 6:16–17; 8:13\+xt*\f*
\q be assured,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:5 \ft Lit \fqa hand to hand\f* he~will~not go~unpunished.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:5 \ft \+xt Ps 101:5; Pr 11:21; 16:18\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 Iniquity is atoned~for by~loyalty and~faithfulness,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:6 \ft \+xt Dn 4:27; Lk 11:41\+xt*\f*
\q and one turns from evil by~the~fear of~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:6 \ft \+xt Jb 28:28; Pr 3:7; 14:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 When a person’s ways please the~\nd Lord\nd*,
\q he makes even his~enemies to~be at~peace with~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:7 \ft \+xt 2Ch 17:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 Better a little with~righteousness
\q than great income with~injustice.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:8 \ft \+xt Ps 37:16; Pr 15:16–17; 16:19; 28:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 A person’s heart plans his~way,
\q but the \nd Lord\nd* determines his~steps.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:9 \ft \+xt Ps 37:23; Pr 16:1; 19:21; 20:24; Jr 10:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 God’s verdict is on~the~lips of~a~king;~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:10 \ft Or \fqa A divination is on the lips of a king\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:10 \ft \+xt 2Sm 14:17,20; 1Kg 3:28\+xt*\f*
\q his mouth should~not~give an~unfair~judgment.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:10 \ft \+xt 2Sm 23:2–3; Pr 18:14–15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 Honest balances and~scales are the~\nd Lord\nd*’s;
\q all the weights in~the~bag are his~concern.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:11 \ft \+xt Lv 19:36; Pr 11:1; Ezk 45:10; Mc 6:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 Wicked behavior is~detestable to~kings,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:12 \ft \+xt Pr 31:3–5\+xt*\f*
\q since a throne is~established through~righteousness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:12 \ft \+xt Ps 101; Pr 25:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 Righteous lips are a~king’s~delight,
\q and he loves one who~speaks~honestly.
\b
\q1
\v 14 A king’s fury is a~messenger of~death,
\q but a wise person appeases~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:14 \ft \+xt Ec 10:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 When a king’s face lights~up, there~is~life;
\q his favor is like a~cloud with~spring~rain.
\b
\q1
\v 16 Get wisdom~—
\q how~much~better it~is than~gold!
\q And get understanding~—
\q it~is~preferable to~silver.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:16 \ft \+xt Pr 3:14; 8:10,19; 22:1\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 The highway of~the~upright~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:17 \ft \+xt Is 35:8\+xt*\f* avoids~evil;
\q the one who guards his~way protects his~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:17 \ft \+xt Pr 2:11–13; 15:19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 Pride comes before destruction,
\q and an arrogant spirit before~a~fall.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:18 \ft \+xt Pr 11:2; 16:5; 18:12; 29:23; Dn 4:37; Ob 3–4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 Better to be lowly of~spirit with~the~humble~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 16:19 \ft Alt Hb tradition reads \fqa afflicted\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:19 \ft \+xt Pr 29:23; Is 57:15\+xt*\f*
\q than to divide plunder with~the~proud.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:19 \ft \+xt Ex 15:9; Ps 37:16; Pr 1:13–14; 15:16–17; 16:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 The one who understands a~matter finds~success,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:20 \ft \+xt Pr 19:8\+xt*\f*
\q and the one who trusts in~the~\nd Lord\nd* will~be~happy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:20 \ft \+xt Ps 2:12; 34:8; 40:4; 84:12; 146:5; Jr 17:7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 Anyone with a~wise~heart is~called~discerning,
\q and pleasant speech~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:21 \ft Lit \fqa and sweetness of lips\f* increases~learning.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:21 \ft \+xt Pr 1:5; 9:9; 16:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 Insight is a fountain of~life~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:22 \ft \+xt Pr 10:11; 13:14; 14:27\+xt*\f* for~its~possessor,
\q but the discipline of~fools is~folly.
\b
\q1
\v 23 The heart of a wise person instructs his~mouth;
\q it adds learning to~his~speech.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:23 \ft Lit \fqa learning upon his lips\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:23 \ft \+xt Ps 37:30; Pr 1:5; 9:9; Mt 12:34\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 Pleasant words are a~honeycomb:~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:24 \ft \+xt Ps 19:10; Pr 15:26\+xt*\f*
\q sweet to the taste~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:24 \ft Lit \fqa throat\f* and~health to~the~body.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:24 \ft Lit \fqa bones\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:24 \ft \+xt Pr 4:22; 15:30; 25:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 There is a way that~seems right to~a~person,
\q but its end is the~way to~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:25 \ft \+xt Pr 14:12; 24:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 A worker’s appetite works for~him
\q because his hunger~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:26 \ft Lit \fqa mouth\f* urges~him~on.
\b
\q1
\v 27 A worthless person digs~up~evil,
\q and his speech is like a~scorching~fire.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:27 \ft \+xt Pr 6:12; 19:28; 26:23; Jms 3:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 A contrary person spreads~conflict,
\q and a gossip separates close~friends.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:28 \ft \+xt Pr 6:14,19; 17:9; 26:20–21; 28:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 29 A violent person lures his~neighbor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:29 \ft \+xt Pr 1:10\+xt*\f*
\q leading him on a path that~is not~good.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:29 \ft \+xt 1Sm 12:23; Ps 36:4; Pr 28:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 30 The one who narrows his~eyes is~planning~deceptions;
\q the one who compresses his~lips brings~about~evil.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:30 \ft \+xt Ps 35:19; Pr 6:12–14; 10:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 31 Gray hair is a~glorious~crown;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:31 \ft \+xt Lv 19:32; Pr 4:9; 20:29\+xt*\f*
\q it is found in the~ways of~righteousness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:31 \ft \+xt Pr 3:1–2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 32 Patience is better than~power,
\q and controlling one’s emotions,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 16:32 \ft Lit \fqa and ruling over one’s spirit\f* than~capturing a~city.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:32 \ft \+xt Pr 25:15,28; 29:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 33 The lot is cast into~the~lap,
\q but its every decision is from~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 16:33 \ft \+xt Pr 16:1; 19:21; 21:31\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 17
\q1
\v 1 Better a dry crust with~peace
\q than a house full~of~feasting with~strife.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:1 \ft \+xt Pr 15:17; 21:9,19; 25:24\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 A prudent servant will rule~over a~disgraceful~son
\q and share an~inheritance among~brothers.
\b
\q1
\v 3 A crucible for silver, and a~smelter for~gold,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:3 \ft \+xt Pr 27:21\+xt*\f*
\q and the \nd Lord\nd* is the~tester of~hearts.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:3 \ft \+xt 1Ch 29:17; Ps 26:2; Pr 16:2; 21:2; Is 48:10; Jr 17:10; Mal 3:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 A wicked person listens~to malicious~talk;~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 17:4 \ft Lit \fqa to lips of iniquity\f*
\q a liar pays~attention~to a~destructive~tongue.
\b
\q1
\v 5 The one who mocks the~poor insults his~Maker,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:5 \ft \+xt Pr 14:31; 21:13\+xt*\f*
\q and one who rejoices~over calamity
\q will~not go~unpunished.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:5 \ft \+xt Jb 31:29; Pr 24:17; Lm 1:21–22; Ezk 25:6–7; 35:15; Ob 12\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 Grandchildren are the~crown of~the~elderly,
\q and the pride of~children is their~fathers.
\b
\q1
\v 7 Eloquent words are not~appropriate on~a~fool’s~lips;
\q how much worse are lies for~a~ruler.
\b
\q1
\v 8 A bribe~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:8 \ft \+xt Ex 23:8; Is 1:23; Am 5:12\+xt*\f* seems like a~magic~stone to~its~owner;
\q wherever he turns, he~succeeds.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:8 \ft \+xt Pr 18:16; 19:6; 21:14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 Whoever conceals an~offense promotes~love,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:9 \ft \+xt Pr 10:12; Jms 5:20; 1Pt 4:8\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever gossips about~it separates~friends.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:9 \ft \+xt Lv 19:16; Pr 11:13; 16:28\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 A rebuke cuts into a~perceptive~person
\q more than a~hundred~lashes into~a~fool.
\b
\q1
\v 11 An evil person desires only~rebellion;
\q a cruel messenger~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 17:11 \ft Or \fqa a merciless angel\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:11 \ft \+xt Ps 78:49\+xt*\f* will~be~sent against~him.
\b
\q1
\v 12 Better for a person to~meet a~bear robbed of~her~cubs~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:12 \ft \+xt 2Sm 17:8; Hs 13:8\+xt*\f*
\q than a fool in~his~foolishness.
\b
\q1
\v 13 If anyone returns evil for~good,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:13 \ft \+xt Ps 35:12; 109:5\+xt*\f*
\q evil will never depart from~his~house.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:13 \ft \+xt 2Sm 12:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 To start a conflict is to~release a~flood;
\q stop the dispute before it~breaks~out.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:14 \ft \+xt Pr 20:3; 25:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 Acquitting the guilty and~condemning the~just~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:15 \ft \+xt Ex 23:7; Pr 17:26; 18:5; 24:23–24; Is 5:23\+xt*\f*~—
\q both are detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*.
\b
\q1
\v 16 Why does a fool have~money in~his~hand
\q with no intention of~buying~wisdom?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:16 \ft \+xt Pr 4:5,7; 18:15; 23:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 A friend loves at~all~times,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:17 \ft \+xt Ru 1:16; Pr 18:24; 27:10\+xt*\f*
\q and a brother is~born for a~difficult~time.
\b
\q1
\v 18 One without sense enters an~agreement~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 17:18 \ft Lit \fqa sense slaps hands\f*
\q and puts up security for~his~friend.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:18 \ft \+xt Pr 6:1–5; 11:15; 22:26\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 One who loves to~offend loves~strife;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:19 \ft \+xt Pr 29:22\+xt*\f*
\q one who builds a~high~threshold invites~injury.
\b
\q1
\v 20 One with a twisted mind will~not~succeed,
\q and one with deceitful speech will~fall into~ruin.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:20 \ft \+xt Jr 23:36\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 A man fathers a~fool to~his~own~sorrow;
\q the father of~a~fool has no~joy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:21 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 17:25; 19:13; 23:24–25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 A joyful heart is good~medicine,
\q but a broken spirit dries~up the~bones.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:22 \ft \+xt Ps 22:15; Pr 14:30; 15:13; 18:14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 A wicked person secretly takes a~bribe~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:23 \ft \+xt Pr 17:8\+xt*\f*
\q to subvert the~course of~justice.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:23 \ft \+xt Dt 16:19; Ps 15:5; Pr 18:5; Mc 3:11; 7:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 Wisdom is the~focus of~the~perceptive,
\q but a fool’s eyes~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:24 \ft \+xt Ec 2:14\+xt*\f* roam to~the~ends of~the~earth.
\b
\q1
\v 25 A foolish son is grief to~his~father
\q and bitterness to~the~one who~bore~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:25 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 17:21; 19:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 It is certainly not good to~fine an~innocent~person
\q or to beat a noble for~his~honesty.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 17:26 \ft Or \fqa noble unfairly\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:26 \ft \+xt Pr 17:15; 18:5; 24:23–24\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 The one who has knowledge restrains his~words,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:27 \ft \+xt Pr 10:19; Jms 1:19; 3:2\+xt*\f*
\q and one who keeps a~cool~head~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 17:27 \ft Lit \fqa spirit\f*
\q is a~person of~understanding.
\b
\q1
\v 28 Even a fool is considered wise when~he~keeps~silent~#—
\q discerning, when~he~seals his~lips.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 17:28 \ft \+xt Jb 13:5; Pr 10:19\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 18
\q1
\v 1 One who isolates himself pursues selfish~desires;
\q he rebels against all~sound~wisdom.
\b
\q1
\v 2 A fool does not delight in~understanding,
\q but only wants to~show~off his~opinions.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 18:2 \ft Lit \fqa to uncover his heart\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:2 \ft \+xt Pr 12:23; 13:16; Ec 10:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 When a wicked person comes, contempt~also~comes,
\q and along with~dishonor, derision.
\b
\q1
\v 4 The words of~a~person’s~mouth are~deep~waters,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:4 \ft \+xt Pr 20:5\+xt*\f*
\q a flowing river, a~fountain of~wisdom.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 18:4 \ft Or \fqa waters; a fountain of wisdom is a flowing river\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 It is not good to~show~partiality to~the~guilty,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:5 \ft \+xt Lv 19:15; Dt 1:17; 24:17; Ps 15:5; 82:2; Pr 24:23–24; 28:21\+xt*\f*
\q denying an~innocent person~justice.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:5 \ft \+xt Pr 17:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 A fool’s lips lead to~strife,
\q and his mouth provokes a~beating.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:6 \ft \+xt Pr 19:29\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 A fool’s mouth is his~devastation,
\q and his lips are a~trap for~his~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:7 \ft \+xt Ps 64:8; 140:9; Pr 10:14; 12:13; 13:3; Ec 10:12\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 A gossip’s words are like~choice~food
\q that goes down to~one’s~innermost~being.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 18:8 \ft Lit \fqa to the chambers of the belly\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:8 \ft \+xt Pr 26:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 The one who is~lazy in~his~work
\q is brother to~a~vandal.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 18:9 \ft Lit \fqa master of destruction\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:9 \ft \+xt Pr 28:24\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 The~name of~the~\nd Lord\nd* is a~strong~tower;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:10 \ft \+xt Ps 18:2; 61:3; 91:2; 144:2\+xt*\f*
\q the righteous run to~it and~are~protected.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 18:10 \ft Lit \fqa raised high\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:10 \ft \+xt Pr 29:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 The wealth of the rich is his~fortified~city;
\q in his imagination it~is like~a~high~wall.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:11 \ft \+xt Pr 10:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 Before his downfall a~person’s~heart is~proud,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:12 \ft \+xt Pr 16:18\+xt*\f*
\q but humility comes before~honor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:12 \ft \+xt Pr 11:2; 15:33; 29:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 The one who gives an~answer before~he~listens~—
\q this is foolishness and~disgrace for~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:13 \ft \+xt Pr 15:28\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 A person’s spirit can endure~sickness,
\q but who can survive a~broken~spirit?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:14 \ft \+xt Pr 15:13; 17:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 The mind of~the~discerning acquires~knowledge,
\q and the ear of~the~wise seeks~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:15 \ft \+xt Pr 14:33; 15:14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 16 A person’s gift opens doors~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 18:16 \ft Lit \fqa gift makes room\f* for~him
\q and brings him before~the~great.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:16 \ft \+xt Gn 32:20; 1Sm 25:27; Pr 17:8; 19:6; 21:14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 The first to state his~case seems~right
\q until another comes and~cross-examines~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:17 \ft \+xt 1Kg 3:16–28\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 Casting the~lot~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:18 \ft \+xt Pr 16:33\+xt*\f* ends~quarrels
\q and separates powerful~opponents.
\b
\q1
\v 19 An offended brother is harder~to~reach~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 18:19 \ft LXX, Syr, Tg, Vg read \fqa is stronger\f*
\q than~a~fortified~city,
\q and quarrels are like~the~bars of~a~fortress.
\b
\q1
\v 20 From the fruit of~a person’s~mouth his~stomach is~satisfied;
\q he is filled with~the~product of~his~lips.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:20 \ft \+xt Pr 1:31; 12:14; 14:14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 Death and life are in~the~power of~the~tongue,
\q and those who love it will~eat its~fruit.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:21 \ft \+xt Pr 13:2; Mt 12:37; 15:11,18–20; Jms 3:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 A man who finds a~wife finds a~good~thing~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:22 \ft \+xt Pr 12:4; 19:14; 31:10–31\+xt*\f*
\q and obtains favor from~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:22 \ft \+xt Pr 8:35\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 The poor person pleads,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:23 \ft \+xt Pr 19:7\+xt*\f*
\q but the rich one answers~roughly.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:23 \ft \+xt Jms 2:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 One with many friends may~be~harmed,~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 18:24 \ft Some LXX mss, Syr, Tg, Vg read \fqa friends must be friendly\f*
\q but there is a friend who~stays~closer than~a~brother.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 18:24 \ft \+xt Pr 17:17; 27:10; Jn 15:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 19
\q1
\v 1 Better a poor person who~lives with~integrity~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:1 \ft \+xt Ps 26:11; 37:16; Pr 10:9; 14:2; 20:7; 28:6\+xt*\f*
\q than someone who~has deceitful~lips and~is a~fool.
\b
\q1
\v 2 Even zeal is not good without~knowledge,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:2 \ft \+xt Rm 10:2\+xt*\f*
\q and the one who~acts hastily~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 19:2 \ft Lit \fqa who is hasty with feet\f*~sins.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:2 \ft \+xt Pr 21:5; 28:20; 29:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 A person’s own foolishness~leads him~astray,
\q yet his heart rages against~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:3 \ft \+xt Is 8:21\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 Wealth attracts many friends,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:4 \ft \+xt Pr 14:20; 19:6\+xt*\f*
\q but a poor person is~separated from~his~friend.
\b
\q1
\v 5 A false witness will~not go~unpunished,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:5 \ft \+xt Dt 19:16–19; Pr 19:9; 21:28\+xt*\f*
\q and one who utters lies will~not~escape.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:5 \ft \+xt Pr 6:19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 Many seek a~ruler’s~favor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:6 \ft \+xt Pr 29:26\+xt*\f*
\q and everyone is a~friend of~one who~gives~gifts.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:6 \ft \+xt Pr 14:20; 17:8; 19:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 All the brothers of~a~poor~person hate~him;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:7 \ft \+xt Ps 38:11\+xt*\f*
\q how much more do his~friends
\q keep~their~distance from~him!
\q He may pursue~them with~words,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:7 \ft \+xt Pr 18:23\+xt*\f*
\q but~they are~not~there.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 19:7 \ft Hb uncertain\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 The one who acquires good~sense~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 19:8 \ft Lit \fqa acquires a heart\f* loves~himself;
\q one who safeguards understanding finds~success.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:8 \ft \+xt Pr 16:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 A false witness will~not go~unpunished,
\q and one who utters lies~perishes.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:9 \ft \+xt Pr 19:5; 21:28\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Luxury is not appropriate for~a~fool~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:10 \ft \+xt Pr 17:7; 26:1\+xt*\f*~#—~#
\q how much less for~a~slave to~rule over~princes!~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:10 \ft \+xt Pr 30:22; Ec 10:6–7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 A person’s insight gives him~patience,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:11 \ft \+xt Pr 14:29\+xt*\f*
\q and his virtue is to~overlook an~offense.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:11 \ft \+xt Pr 11:13; 17:9\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 A king’s rage is like the roaring of~a~lion,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:12 \ft \+xt Pr 16:14\+xt*\f*
\q but his favor is like dew on~the~grass.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:12 \ft \+xt Ps 133:3; Pr 20:2; 28:15; Hs 14:5; Mc 5:7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 A foolish son is his~father’s~ruin,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:13 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 17:25; 28:7\+xt*\f*
\q and a wife’s nagging is an~endless~dripping.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:13 \ft \+xt Pr 21:9,19; 27:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 A house and wealth are~inherited from~fathers,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:14 \ft \+xt 2Co 12:14\+xt*\f*
\q but a prudent wife is from~the~\nd Lord\nd*.
\b
\q1
\v 15 Laziness induces deep~sleep,
\q and a lazy person will~go~hungry.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:15 \ft \+xt Pr 6:9–11; 10:4; 13:4; 21:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 16 The one who keeps commands preserves~himself;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:16 \ft \+xt Lk 10:28\+xt*\f*
\q one who disregards~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 19:16 \ft Or \fqa despises\ft , or \fqa treats lightly\f* his~ways will~die.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:16 \ft \+xt Pr 3:1–2; 4:4; 13:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 Kindness to the~poor is a~loan to~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:17 \ft \+xt Dt 15:7–10; Pr 14:31; 28:27; Ec 11:1–2; Mt 10:42; 25:40; 2Co 9:6–8; Heb 6:10\+xt*\f*
\q and he will give a~reward to~the~lender.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 19:17 \ft Lit \fqa to him\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:17 \ft \+xt Lk 6:38\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 Discipline your son while~there~is~hope;
\q don’t set your~heart on~being the~cause of~his~death.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 19:18 \ft Lit \fqa don’t lift up your soul to his death\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:18 \ft \+xt Pr 13:24; 23:13–14; 29:17\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 A person with~intense~anger bears the~penalty;
\q if you rescue him, you’ll~have to~do it~again.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:19 \ft \+xt Pr 22:24–25; 29:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 Listen to counsel and~receive~instruction
\q so that you may be~wise later~in~life.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 19:20 \ft Lit \fqa in your end\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:20 \ft \+xt Pr 12:1; 15:5,31–32\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 Many plans are in~a~person’s~heart,
\q but the~\nd Lord\nd*’s~decree will~prevail.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:21 \ft \+xt Ps 33:10–11; Pr 16:1,9,33; 21:31; Is 14:26–27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 What is desirable in~a~person is his~fidelity;
\q better to be a~poor~person than~a~liar.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:22 \ft \+xt Pr 19:1; 28:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 The fear of the \nd Lord\nd* leads to~life;
\q one will sleep at~night~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 19:23 \ft Lit \fqa will spend the night satisfied\f* without~danger.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:23 \ft \+xt Pr 14:26–27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 The slacker buries his~hand in~the~bowl;
\q he doesn’t even bring it back to~his~mouth!~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:24 \ft \+xt Pr 12:27; 20:4; 26:14–15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 Strike a mocker, and~the~inexperienced learn a~lesson;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:25 \ft \+xt Pr 21:11\+xt*\f*
\q rebuke the discerning, and~he~gains~knowledge.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:25 \ft \+xt Pr 9:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 The one who plunders his~father and~evicts his~mother
\q is a disgraceful and~shameful~son.
\b
\q1
\v 27 If you stop listening to~correction, my~son,
\q you will stray from~the~words of~knowledge.
\b
\q1
\v 28 A worthless witness mocks~justice,
\q and a wicked mouth swallows~iniquity.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:28 \ft \+xt Jb 15:16; 34:7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 29 Judgments are~prepared for~mockers,
\q and beatings for~the~backs of~fools.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 19:29 \ft \+xt Pr 10:13; 18:6; 26:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 20
\q1
\v 1 Wine is a mocker,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:1 \ft \+xt Gn 9:21; Pr 23:29–30; Is 28:7; Hs 4:11\+xt*\f* beer is a~brawler;
\q whoever goes astray~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 20:1 \ft Or \fqa whoever staggers\f* because~of~them is~not~wise.
\b
\q1
\v 2 A king’s terrible wrath is like~the~roaring of~a~lion;
\q anyone who provokes him endangers~himself.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:2 \ft \+xt Nm 16:38; Est 4:11; Pr 8:36; 19:12; 28:15; Hab 2:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 Honor belongs~to~the~person who~ends a~dispute,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:3 \ft \+xt Pr 17:14\+xt*\f*
\q but any fool can~get himself into~a~quarrel.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:3 \ft \+xt Pr 15:18; 18:6; 22:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 The slacker does not plow during~planting~season;~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 20:4 \ft Lit \fqa plow in winter\f*
\q at harvest time he~looks,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 20:4 \ft Lit\fqa inquires\f* and~there~is nothing.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:4 \ft \+xt Pr 24:27,30–34\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 Counsel in a person’s heart is deep~water;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:5 \ft \+xt Pr 18:4\+xt*\f*
\q but a person of~understanding draws~it~out.
\b
\q1
\v 6 Many a person proclaims his~own~loyalty,
\q but who can find a~trustworthy~person?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:6 \ft \+xt Ps 53:2–3; Pr 28:20; Ec 7:28; Lk 18:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 A righteous person acts with~integrity;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:7 \ft \+xt Pr 2:7,20–21; 10:9; 13:6\+xt*\f*
\q his children who~come after~him will~be~happy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:7 \ft \+xt Ps 37:26; 112:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 A king sitting on a~throne to~judge
\q separates out all evil with~his~eyes.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:8 \ft \+xt Pr 20:26; 25:5; Mt 25:32\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 Who can say, “I~have~kept my~heart~pure;
\q I am cleansed from~my~sin”?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:9 \ft \+xt 1Kg 8:46; Jb 15:15–16; Ps 14:2–3; Ec 7:20; Rm 3:9–12; 1Jn 1:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Differing weights and~varying~measures~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 20:10 \ft Lit \fqa Stone and stone, measure and measure\f*~—
\q both are detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:10 \ft \+xt Dt 25:14–15; Pr 11:1; 20:23; Mc 6:10–11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 Even a young man is~known by~his~actions~—
\q by whether his behavior is~pure and~upright.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:11 \ft \+xt Pr 21:8; Mt 7:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 The hearing ear and~the~seeing~eye~—
\q the \nd Lord\nd* made them both.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:12 \ft \+xt Ex 4:11; Ps 94:9; Pr 22:2; 29:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 Don’t love sleep, or~you~will become~poor;
\q open your eyes, and~you’ll~have enough~to~eat.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:13 \ft \+xt Pr 6:10–11; 19:15; 24:33–34\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 “It’s worthless, it’s~worthless!~” the~buyer~says,
\q but after he is on~his~way, he~gloats.
\b
\q1
\v 15 There is gold and~a~multitude of~jewels,
\q but knowledgeable lips are a~rare~treasure.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:15 \ft \+xt Pr 3:15; 8:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 16 Take his garment,
\q for~he~has put~up security for~a~stranger;
\q get collateral if~it~is for~foreigners.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:16 \ft \+xt Dt 24:12–13; Pr 6:1–5; 11:15; 27:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 Food gained by~fraud is~sweet to~a~person,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:17 \ft \+xt Pr 9:17\+xt*\f*
\q but afterward his~mouth is~full of~gravel.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:17 \ft \+xt Lm 3:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 Finalize plans with~counsel,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:18 \ft \+xt Pr 11:14; 15:22\+xt*\f*
\q and wage war with sound~guidance.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:18 \ft \+xt Pr 24:6; Lk 14:31\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 The one who reveals secrets is a~constant~gossip;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:19 \ft \+xt Lv 19:16; Pr 11:13\+xt*\f*
\q avoid someone with~a~big~mouth.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:19 \ft \+xt Pr 13:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 Whoever curses his~father or~mother~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:20 \ft \+xt Ex 21:17; Pr 24:20; 30:11\+xt*\f*~#—~#
\q his lamp will~go~out in~deep~darkness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:20 \ft \+xt Jb 18:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 An inheritance gained prematurely
\q will not be blessed ultimately.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:21 \ft \+xt Pr 21:5; 23:5; 28:22; Lk 15:11–13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 Don’t say, “I~will~avenge this~evil!~”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:22 \ft \+xt Pr 24:29; Mt 5:39; Rm 12:17,19; 1Th 5:15; 1Pt 3:9\+xt*\f*
\q Wait on the \nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:22 \ft \+xt Ps 27:14\+xt*\f* and~he~will rescue~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:22 \ft \+xt Ps 37:7–9\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 Differing weights~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 20:23 \ft Lit \fqa A stone and a stone\f* are~detestable to~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:23 \ft \+xt Pr 20:10; Mc 6:11\+xt*\f*
\q and dishonest scales~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:23 \ft \+xt Pr 11:1\+xt*\f* are~unfair.
\b
\q1
\v 24 Even a courageous person’s steps are~determined by~the~\nd Lord\nd*,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:24 \ft \+xt Pr 16:9,33; 19:21\+xt*\f*
\q so how can anyone understand his~own~way?
\b
\q1
\v 25 It is a trap for~anyone to~dedicate something~rashly
\q and later to~reconsider his~vows.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:25 \ft \+xt Nm 30:2; Dt 23:21; Ec 5:4–6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 A wise king separates~out the~wicked~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:26 \ft \+xt Pr 20:8\+xt*\f*
\q and drives the~threshing~wheel~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:26 \ft \+xt Is 28:27\+xt*\f* over~them.
\b
\q1
\v 27 The \nd Lord\nd*’s lamp sheds~light~on a~person’s~life,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 20:27 \ft Lit \fqa breath\f*
\q searching the~innermost~parts.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 20:27 \ft Lit \fqa the chambers of the belly\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:27 \ft \+xt Ps 139:23; Pr 20:30; 1Co 2:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 Loyalty and faithfulness guard a~king;
\q through loyalty he~maintains his~throne.
\b
\q1
\v 29 The glory of~young~men is their~strength,
\q and the splendor of~old~men is gray~hair.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:29 \ft \+xt Lv 19:32; Pr 16:31\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 30 Lashes and wounds purge~away evil,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 20:30 \ft \+xt Is 53:5\+xt*\f*
\q and beatings cleanse the~innermost~parts.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 20:30 \ft Lit \fqa beatings the chambers of the belly\f*
\b
\c 21
\q1
\v 1 A king’s heart is like channeled~water in~the~\nd Lord\nd*’s~hand:
\q He directs it wherever he~chooses.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:1 \ft \+xt Ezr 6:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 All a person’s~ways seem~right to~him,
\q but the \nd Lord\nd* weighs~hearts.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:2 \ft \+xt Pr 12:15; 16:2; 17:3; 24:12; Lk 16:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 Doing what is righteous and~just
\q is more acceptable to~the~\nd Lord\nd* than~sacrifice.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:3 \ft \+xt 1Sm 15:22; Pr 15:8; Hs 6:6; Mc 6:7–8; Mt 9:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 The lamp that~guides the~wicked~—
\q haughty eyes and~an~arrogant~heart~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:4 \ft \+xt Ps 101:5; Pr 6:16–17; 30:13\+xt*\f*~#—~#is~sin.
\b
\q1
\v 5 The plans of~the~diligent certainly~lead to~profit,
\q but anyone who~is~reckless certainly~becomes~poor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:5 \ft \+xt Pr 10:4; 14:23; 21:20; 28:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 Making a fortune through~a~lying~tongue
\q is a vanishing mist,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 21:6 \ft Or \fqa a breath blown away\f* a~pursuit of~death.~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 21:6 \ft Some Hb mss, LXX, Vg read \fqa a snare of death\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 21:6 \ft Lit \fqa is vanity, ones seeking death\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:6 \ft \+xt Pr 8:36; 13:11; 20:21\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 The violence of~the~wicked sweeps~them~away
\q because they~refuse to~act~justly.
\b
\q1
\v 8 A~guilty~one’s~conduct is~crooked,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:8 \ft \+xt Pr 2:15\+xt*\f*
\q but the behavior of~the~innocent is~upright.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:8 \ft \+xt Pr 20:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 Better to live on~the~corner of~a~roof
\q than to share a~house with~a~nagging~wife.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:9 \ft \+xt Pr 15:16–17; 17:1; 21:19; 25:24\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 A wicked person desires evil;
\q he has no consideration~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 21:10 \ft Or\fqa favor\f* for~his~neighbor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:10 \ft \+xt Pr 14:21\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 When a mocker is~punished,
\q the~inexperienced become~wiser;
\q when one teaches a~wise~man,
\q he~acquires~knowledge.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:11 \ft \+xt Pr 19:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 The Righteous One~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 21:12 \ft Or \fqa righteous one\f* considers the~house of~the~wicked;
\q he brings the~wicked to~ruin.
\b
\q1
\v 13 The one who shuts his~ears to~the~cry of~the~poor
\q will himself also call~out and~not~be~answered.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:13 \ft \+xt Pr 14:31; 17:5; Mt 18:30–34; Jms 2:13; 1Jn 3:17\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 A secret gift soothes anger,
\q and a covert bribe, fierce~rage.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:14 \ft \+xt Pr 17:8; 18:16; 19:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 Justice executed is a~joy to~the~righteous
\q but a terror to~evildoers.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:15 \ft \+xt Pr 10:29; Rm 13:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 16 The person who strays from~the~way of~prudence
\q will come to rest in the~assembly of the~departed~spirits.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:16 \ft \+xt Ps 49:14; Pr 2:18; 9:18\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 The one who loves pleasure will~become~poor;
\q whoever loves wine and~oil will~not get~rich.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:17 \ft \+xt Ec 2:1–3,10–11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 The wicked are a~ransom for~the~righteous,
\q and the treacherous, for~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 21:18 \ft Or \fqa in place of\f*~the~upright.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:18 \ft \+xt Pr 11:8; Is 43:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 Better to live in~a~wilderness
\q than with a nagging and~hot-tempered~wife.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:19 \ft \+xt Pr 21:9\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 Precious treasure and~oil are in~the~dwelling of a~wise~person,
\q but a fool consumes them.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 21:20 \ft Lit \fqa it\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:20 \ft \+xt Jb 20:15,18; Ps 112:3; Pr 10:4; 28:20; Mt 25:1–13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 The one who pursues righteousness and~faithful~love
\q will find life, righteousness, and~honor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:21 \ft \+xt Pr 3:16; 8:18; 15:9; Mt 5:6; 6:33\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 A wise person went~up~against a~city of~warriors
\q and brought down its~secure~fortress.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:22 \ft \+xt 2Sm 5:6–9; Pr 14:26; 24:5; Ec 7:19; 9:14–18\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 The one who guards his~mouth and~tongue
\q keeps himself out~of~trouble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:23 \ft \+xt Pr 12:13; 13:3; Jms 3:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 The arrogant and~proud~person, named~“Mocker,”
\q acts with excessive arrogance.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:24 \ft \+xt Ps 1:1; Pr 1:22; 21:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 A slacker’s craving will~kill~him
\q because his hands refuse to~work.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:25 \ft \+xt Pr 10:4; 12:24; 13:4; 19:15,24\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 26 He is filled with~craving~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 21:26 \ft Lit \fqa He craves a craving\f* all~day~long,
\q but the righteous give and~don’t hold~back.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:26 \ft \+xt Ps 37:26; Pr 11:24–25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 The sacrifice of~a~wicked~person is~detestable~#—
\q how much more~so
\q when~he~brings~it with~ulterior~motives!~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:27 \ft \+xt Pr 15:8; 28:9; Is 66:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 A lying witness will~perish,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:28 \ft \+xt Pr 19:5,9\+xt*\f*
\q but the one who listens will~speak~successfully.
\b
\q1
\v 29 A wicked person puts~on a~bold~face,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:29 \ft \+xt Pr 7:13\+xt*\f*
\q but the upright~one considers his~way.
\b
\q1
\v 30 No wisdom, no~understanding, and~no~counsel
\q will prevail against~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:30 \ft \+xt Is 8:9–10; 1Co 3:19–20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 31 A horse is prepared for~the~day of~battle,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:31 \ft \+xt Ps 20:7; 33:17; 108:10–13; Is 31:1\+xt*\f*
\q but victory comes from~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 21:31 \ft \+xt Jr 3:23; 1Co 15:57\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 22
\q1
\v 1 A good name is to~be~chosen over~great~wealth;
\q favor is better than~silver and~gold.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:1 \ft \+xt Pr 10:7; 8:10; Ec 7:1\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 Rich and~poor have~this in~common:~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 22:2 \ft Lit \fqa poor meet\f*
\q the \nd Lord\nd* makes them~all.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:2 \ft \+xt Jb 31:13,15; Pr 29:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 A sensible person sees danger and~takes~cover,
\q but the inexperienced keep~going and~are~punished.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:3 \ft \+xt Pr 14:16; 27:12; Is 26:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 Humility, the fear of~the~\nd Lord\nd*,
\q results in wealth, honor, and~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:4 \ft \+xt Pr 15:33; 21:21; 29:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 There are thorns and~snares on~the~way of~the~crooked;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:5 \ft \+xt Pr 7:23; 15:19\+xt*\f*
\q the one who~guards himself stays far~from~them.
\b
\q1
\v 6 Start a youth out on~his~way;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:6 \ft \+xt Eph 6:4\+xt*\f*
\q even when he grows old he~will not~depart from~it.
\b
\q1
\v 7 The rich rule over the~poor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:7 \ft \+xt Pr 18:23; Jms 2:6\+xt*\f*
\q and the borrower is a~slave to~the~lender.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:7 \ft \+xt Dt 28:12–13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 The one who sows injustice will~reap~disaster,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:8 \ft \+xt Jb 4:8; Hs 10:13–14\+xt*\f*
\q and the rod of~his~fury will~be~destroyed.
\b
\q1
\v 9 A generous person~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 22:9 \ft Lit \fqa Good of eye\f* will~be~blessed,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:9 \ft \+xt Pr 19:17; 2Co 9:6\+xt*\f*
\q for he shares his~food with~the~poor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:9 \ft \+xt Lk 14:13–14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Drive out a mocker,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:10 \ft \+xt Gn 21:9–10\+xt*\f* and~conflict goes~too;
\q then quarreling and~dishonor will~cease.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:10 \ft \+xt Pr 26:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 The one who loves a~pure~heart
\q and gracious lips~#—~#the~king~is his~friend.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:11 \ft \+xt Pr 16:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 The \nd Lord\nd*’s eyes keep~watch over~knowledge,
\q but he overthrows the~words of~the~treacherous.
\b
\q1
\v 13 The slacker says, “There’s~a~lion~outside!
\q I’ll be killed in~the~public~square!~”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:13 \ft \+xt Pr 26:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 The mouth of~the~forbidden~woman is a~deep~pit;
\q a man cursed by~the~\nd Lord\nd* will~fall into~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:14 \ft \+xt Pr 2:16–19; 7:5,21,27; 23:27–28; Ec 7:26\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 Foolishness is bound to~the~heart of~a~youth;
\q a rod of discipline will~separate~it from~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:15 \ft \+xt Pr 13:24; 23:13–14; 29:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 16 Oppressing the~poor to~enrich~oneself,
\q and giving to~the~rich~#—~#both~lead only~to~poverty.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:16 \ft \+xt Pr 11:24; 22:7; 28:27\+xt*\f*
\s1 Words of the Wise
\q1
\v 17 Listen closely,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 22:17 \ft Lit \fqa Stretch out your ear\f* pay~attention to~the~words of~the~wise,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:17 \ft \+xt Pr 5:1\+xt*\f*
\q and apply your~mind to~my~knowledge.
\q1
\v 18 For it is pleasing if~you~keep~them within~you
\q and if they are~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 22:18 \ft Or \fqa you; let them be\ft , or \fqa you, so that they are\f* constantly on~your~lips.
\q1
\v 19 I have instructed you today~#—~#even~you~—
\q so that your confidence may~be in~the~\nd Lord\nd*.
\q1
\v 20 Haven’t I written for~you thirty~sayings~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 22:20 \ft Text emended; one Hb tradition reads \fqa you previously\ft ; alt Hb tradition reads \fqa you excellent things\ft ; LXX, Syr, Vg read \fqa you three times\f*
\q about counsel and~knowledge,
\q1
\v 21 in order to teach you true and~reliable~words,
\q so that you may give a~dependable~report~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 22:21 \ft Lit \fqa give dependable words\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:21 \ft \+xt Lk 1:3–4\+xt*\f*
\q to~those who~sent~you?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:21 \ft \+xt Pr 10:26; 25:13\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 Don’t rob a poor person because~he~is~poor,
\q and don’t crush the~oppressed~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:22 \ft \+xt Ex 23:6; Jb 31:16; Zch 7:10; Mal 3:5\+xt*\f* at the~city~gate,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:22 \ft \+xt Ru 4:11; Pr 24:7; Zch 8:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 23 for the \nd Lord\nd* will champion~their~cause~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:23 \ft \+xt 1Sm 25:39; Ps 12:5; 35:10; 68:5; 140:12; Pr 23:10–11; Is 3:13–15\+xt*\f*
\q and will plunder those who~plunder~them.
\b
\q1
\v 24 Don’t make friends with~an~angry~person,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 22:24 \ft Lit \fqa with a master of anger\f*
\q and don’t be a~companion of~a~hot-tempered~one,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:24 \ft \+xt Pr 15:18; 19:19\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 25 or you will learn his~ways~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:25 \ft \+xt 1Co 15:33\+xt*\f*
\q and entangle yourself in~a~snare.
\b
\q1
\v 26 Don’t be one of those who~enter~agreements,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 22:26 \ft Lit \fqa Don’t be among hand slappers\f*
\q who put up security for~loans.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:26 \ft \+xt Pr 6:1–5; 11:15; 17:18\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 27 If you have nothing~with which to~pay,
\q even your bed will~be~taken from~under~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:27 \ft \+xt Ex 22:26; Pr 20:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 Don’t move an~ancient~boundary~marker
\q that your ancestors set~up.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:28 \ft \+xt Dt 19:14; 27:17; Jb 24:2; Pr 23:10; Hs 5:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 29 Do you see a~person skilled in~his~work?
\q He will stand in~the~presence of~kings.
\q He will not stand in~the~presence of~the~unknown.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 22:29 \ft \+xt Gn 41:46; 1Kg 10:8; Pr 14:35\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 23
\q1
\v 1 When you sit down to~dine with~a~ruler,
\q consider carefully what~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 23:1 \ft Or \fqa who\f*~is before~you,
\q1
\v 2 and put a~knife to~your~throat
\q if you have a~big~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 23:2 \ft Lit \fqa you are the master of an\f*~appetite;
\q1
\v 3 don’t desire his~choice~food,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:3 \ft \+xt Gn 27:4; Pr 23:6; Dn 1:8\+xt*\f*
\q for that food is~deceptive.
\b
\q1
\v 4 Don’t wear yourself out to~get~rich;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:4 \ft \+xt Pr 15:27; 28:20; Mt 6:19; 1Tm 6:9–10; Heb 13:5\+xt*\f*
\q because you know~better, stop!
\q1
\v 5 As soon as your~eyes fly to~it, it~disappears,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:5 \ft \+xt Pr 27:24\+xt*\f*
\q for it makes wings for~itself
\q and flies like~an~eagle to~the~sky.
\b
\q1
\v 6 Don’t eat a~stingy~person’s~bread,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 23:6 \ft Lit \fqa eat bread of an evil eye\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:6 \ft \+xt Dt 15:9; Pr 28:22; Mt 6:23\+xt*\f*
\q and don’t desire his~choice~food,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:6 \ft \+xt Pr 23:3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 7 for it’s like someone calculating inwardly.~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 23:7 \ft LXX reads \fqa it is like someone swallowing a hair in the throat\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:7 \ft \+xt Mt 6:21; Lk 12:34\+xt*\f*
\q “Eat and drink,” he~says~to~you,
\q but his heart is not with~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:7 \ft \+xt Pr 26:24–25\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 8 You will vomit the~little you’ve~eaten
\q and waste your~pleasant~words.
\b
\q1
\v 9 Don’t speak to~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 23:9 \ft Lit \fqa in the ears of\f* a~fool,
\q for he will despise the~insight of~your~words.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:9 \ft \+xt Mt 7:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Don’t move an~ancient~boundary~marker,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:10 \ft \+xt Pr 22:28\+xt*\f*
\q and don’t encroach on~the~fields of~the~fatherless,
\q1
\v 11 for their Redeemer is~strong,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:11 \ft \+xt Jr 50:34\+xt*\f*
\q and he will champion their~cause against~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:11 \ft \+xt Pr 22:22–23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 Apply yourself to~discipline
\q and listen to~words of~knowledge.
\b
\q1
\v 13 Don’t withhold discipline from~a~youth;
\q if you punish him with~a~rod, he~will~not~die.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:13 \ft \+xt Pr 13:24; 19:18; 22:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 14 Punish him with~a~rod,
\q and you will rescue his~life from~Sheol.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:14 \ft \+xt 1Co 5:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 My son, if~your~heart is~wise,
\q my heart will~indeed~rejoice.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:15 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 15:20; 23:24–25; 29:3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 My innermost being will~celebrate
\q when your lips say what~is~right.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:16 \ft \+xt Pr 8:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 Don’t let your heart envy~sinners;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:17 \ft \+xt Ps 37:1; Pr 24:1,19\+xt*\f*
\q instead, always fear the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:17 \ft \+xt Pr 28:14\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 18 For then you will have a~future,
\q and your hope will~not be~dashed.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:18 \ft \+xt Ps 9:18; Pr 10:28; 24:14; Jr 29:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 Listen, my son, and~be~wise;
\q keep your mind on~the~right~course.
\q1
\v 20 Don’t associate with~those who~drink too~much~wine~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:20 \ft \+xt Pr 20:1; 23:29–30; Is 5:22; Mt 24:49; Lk 21:34; Rm 13:13; Eph 5:18\+xt*\f*
\q or with those who~gorge~themselves on~meat.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:20 \ft \+xt Pr 28:7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 21 For the drunkard and~the~glutton will~become~poor,
\q and grogginess will~clothe~them in~rags.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:21 \ft \+xt Pr 6:10–11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 Listen to your father who~gave you~life,
\q and don’t despise your~mother when~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 23:22 \ft Or \fqa because\f*~she~is~old.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:22 \ft \+xt Pr 1:8; 15:20; Eph 6:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 23 Buy~#—~#and~do~not~sell~#—~#truth,
\q wisdom, instruction, and~understanding.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:23 \ft \+xt Pr 4:5,7; 16:16; 18:15; Mt 13:44\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 24 The father of~a~righteous~son will~rejoice~greatly,
\q and one who fathers a~wise~son will~delight in~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:24 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 23:15; 29:3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 25 Let your father and~mother have~joy,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:25 \ft \+xt Pr 27:11\+xt*\f*
\q and let her who~gave~birth to~you rejoice.
\b
\q1
\v 26 My son, give me your~heart,
\q and let your eyes observe my~ways.
\q1
\v 27 For a prostitute is a~deep~pit,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:27 \ft \+xt Pr 22:14\+xt*\f*
\q and a wayward woman is a~narrow~well;
\q1
\v 28 indeed, she~sets an~ambush like~a~robber~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:28 \ft \+xt Pr 6:26; 7:12,22–23; Ec 7:26\+xt*\f*
\q and increases the number of~unfaithful~people.
\b
\q1
\v 29 Who has woe? Who~has~sorrow?
\q Who has conflicts? Who~has~complaints?
\q Who has wounds for~no~reason?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:29 \ft \+xt Pr 23:35\+xt*\f*
\q Who has red eyes?
\q1
\v 30 Those who linger over~wine;
\q those who go looking for~mixed~wine.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:30 \ft \+xt Is 5:11,22\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 31 Don’t gaze at~wine because~it~is~red,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:31 \ft \+xt Eph 5:18\+xt*\f*
\q because it gleams in~the~cup
\q and goes down smoothly.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:31 \ft \+xt Sg 7:9\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 32 In the end it~bites like a~snake
\q and stings like a~viper.
\q1
\v 33 Your eyes will~see strange~things,
\q and you will~say absurd~things.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 23:33 \ft Or \fqa will speak perversities\ft , or \fqa inverted things\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:33 \ft \+xt Is 28:7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 34 You’ll be like someone sleeping out~at~sea
\q or lying down on~the~top of~a~ship’s~mast.
\q1
\v 35 “They struck me, but~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 23:35 \ft LXX, Syr, Tg, Vg read \fqa me,” you will say, “but\f*~I~feel no~pain!
\q They beat me, but~I~didn’t know~it!~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:35 \ft \+xt Pr 23:29; Jr 5:3\+xt*\f*
\q When will I wake~up?
\q I’ll look for~another~drink.”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 23:35 \ft \+xt Is 56:12\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 24
\q1
\v 1 Don’t envy the~evil~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:1 \ft \+xt Ps 37:1; Pr 23:17; 24:19\+xt*\f*
\q or desire to~be with~them,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:1 \ft \+xt Ps 1:1; Pr 1:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 2 for their hearts plan~violence,
\q and their words stir~up~trouble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:2 \ft \+xt Ps 10:7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 A house is built by~wisdom,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:3 \ft \+xt Pr 14:1\+xt*\f*
\q and it is established by~understanding;
\q1
\v 4 by knowledge the~rooms are~filled
\q with every precious and~beautiful~treasure.
\b
\q1
\v 5 A wise warrior is better than~a~strong~one,~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 24:5 \ft LXX, Syr; MT reads \fqa is in strength\f*
\q and a man of knowledge than~one of~strength;~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 24:5 \ft LXX, Syr, Tg; MT reads \fqa knowledge exerts strength\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:5 \ft \+xt Pr 21:22\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 6 for you should wage~war with~sound~guidance~—
\q victory comes with~many~counselors.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:6 \ft \+xt Pr 11:14; 15:22; 20:18\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 Wisdom is inaccessible to~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 24:7 \ft Lit \fqa is too high for\f*~a~fool;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:7 \ft \+xt Pr 14:6; 17:16,24\+xt*\f*
\q he does not open his~mouth at~the~city~gate.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:7 \ft \+xt Jb 5:4; Ps 127:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 The one who plots evil~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:8 \ft \+xt Rm 1:30\+xt*\f*
\q will be called a~schemer.
\q1
\v 9 A foolish scheme is~sin,
\q and a mocker is~detestable to~people.
\b
\q1
\v 10 If you do nothing in~a~difficult~time,
\q your strength is~limited.
\q1
\v 11 Rescue those being taken~off to~death,
\q and save those stumbling toward~slaughter.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:11 \ft \+xt Ps 82:4; Is 58:6–7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 If you say, “But~we~didn’t~know about~this,”
\q won’t he who~weighs hearts~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:12 \ft \+xt 1Sm 16:7; Ps 44:21; Pr 21:2\+xt*\f* consider~it?
\q Won’t he who~protects your~life~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:12 \ft \+xt Ps 121:3–8\+xt*\f*~know?
\q Won’t he repay a~person according~to his~work?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:12 \ft \+xt Jb 34:11; Ps 62:12\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 Eat honey,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:13 \ft \+xt Pr 25:16\+xt*\f* my~son, for~it~is~good,
\q and the honeycomb is~sweet to~your~palate;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:13 \ft \+xt Sg 5:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 14 realize that wisdom is the~same for~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:14 \ft \+xt Ps 19:10; 119:103\+xt*\f*
\q If you find it, you~will~have a~future,
\q and your hope will~never~fade.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:14 \ft \+xt Pr 10:28; 23:18; Jr 29:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 Don’t set an~ambush, you wicked~one,
\q at~the~camp of~the~righteous~man;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:15 \ft \+xt Pr 10:9–10\+xt*\f*
\q don’t destroy his~dwelling.
\q1
\v 16 Though a righteous person falls seven~times,
\q he~will~get~up,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:16 \ft \+xt Jb 5:19; Ps 37:24\+xt*\f*
\q but the wicked will~stumble into~ruin.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:16 \ft \+xt Pr 14:32; 29:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 Don’t gloat when~your~enemy falls,
\q and don’t let your heart rejoice when~he~stumbles,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:17 \ft \+xt Ps 35:15,19; Pr 17:5; Ob 12; Mc 7:8\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 18 or the \nd Lord\nd* will see, be~displeased,
\q and turn his wrath away from~him.
\b
\q1
\v 19 Don’t be agitated by~evildoers,
\q and don’t envy the~wicked.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:19 \ft \+xt Ps 37:1; Pr 23:17; 24:1\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 20 For the evil have no~future;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:20 \ft \+xt Ps 37:38; Pr 14:11; 16:25\+xt*\f*
\q the lamp of~the~wicked will~be put~out.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:20 \ft \+xt 2Sm 21:17; Jb 18:5; 21:17; Pr 13:9; 20:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 My son, fear~the~\nd Lord\nd*, as~well~as the~king,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:21 \ft \+xt Mt 22:21; Rm 13:1–7; 1Pt 2:13–14,17\+xt*\f*
\q and don’t associate with~rebels,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 24:21 \ft Or \fqa those given to change\f*
\q1
\v 22 for destruction will come suddenly from~them;
\q who knows what~distress these~two can~bring?
\b
\q1
\v 23 These sayings also belong~to~the~wise:~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:23 \ft \+xt Pr 1:6; 22:17\+xt*\f*
\b
\q It is not good to~show~partiality in~judgment.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:23 \ft \+xt Dt 1:17; 16:19; Pr 18:5; 28:21\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 24 Whoever says to~the~guilty, “You~are~innocent”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:24 \ft \+xt Pr 17:15\+xt*\f*~—
\q peoples will curse him,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:24 \ft \+xt Pr 11:26\+xt*\f* and~nations will~denounce~him;
\q1
\v 25 but it will go well with~those who~convict the~guilty,
\q and a generous blessing will~come to~them.
\b
\q1
\v 26 He who gives an~honest~answer
\q gives a kiss on~the~lips.
\b
\q1
\v 27 Complete your outdoor work, and~prepare your~field;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:27 \ft \+xt Pr 20:4\+xt*\f*
\q afterward, build your~house.
\b
\q1
\v 28 Don’t testify against your~neighbor without~cause.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:28 \ft \+xt Ex 20:16; Pr 25:18\+xt*\f*
\q Don’t deceive with~your~lips.
\q1
\v 29 Don’t say, “I’ll~do~to~him what~he~did to~me;
\q I’ll repay the man for~what he~has~done.”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:29 \ft \+xt Dt 32:35; Pr 20:22; Mt 5:39; Rm 12:17,19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 30 I went by~the~field of~a~slacker
\q and by the vineyard of~one lacking~sense.
\q1
\v 31 Thistles had come up everywhere,
\q weeds covered the~ground,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:31 \ft \+xt Gn 3:18; Pr 20:4\+xt*\f*
\q and the stone wall was~ruined.
\q1
\v 32 I saw, and took it to~heart;
\q I looked, and~received~instruction:
\q1
\v 33 a little sleep, a~little~slumber,
\q a little folding of~the~arms to~rest,
\q1
\v 34 and your poverty will~come like~a~robber,
\q and your need, like~a~bandit.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 24:34 \ft \+xt Pr 6:10–11; 20:13\+xt*\f*
\c 25
\s1 Hezekiah’s Collection
\q1
\v 1 These too are proverbs of~Solomon,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:1 \ft \+xt Pr 1:1\+xt*\f*
\q which the men of~King~Hezekiah~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:1 \ft \+xt 2Kg 18–20\+xt*\f* of~Judah copied.
\b
\q1
\v 2 It is the glory of~God to~conceal a~matter~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:2 \ft \+xt Dt 29:29; Rm 11:33\+xt*\f*
\q and the glory of~kings to~investigate a~matter.
\q1
\v 3 As the heavens are high and~the~earth is~deep,
\q so the hearts of~kings cannot be~investigated.
\b
\q1
\v 4 Remove impurities from~silver,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:4 \ft \+xt Ezk 22:18; Mal 3:2–3\+xt*\f*
\q and material will~be~produced~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 25:4 \ft Lit \fqa will come out\ft ; Ex 32:24\f* for~a~silversmith.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 25:4 \ft Or \fqa and a vessel will be produced by a silversmith\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:4 \ft \+xt 2Tm 2:21\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 5 Remove the wicked from~the~king’s~presence,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:5 \ft \+xt Pr 20:8,26\+xt*\f*
\q and his throne will~be~established in~righteousness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:5 \ft \+xt Pr 16:12\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 Don’t boast about~yourself before~the~king,
\q and don’t stand in~the~place of~the~great;
\q1
\v 7 for it is better for~him to~say to~you, “Come~up~here!~”
\q than to demote you in~plain~view of~a~noble.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 25:7 \ft Lit \fqa you before a noble whom your eyes see\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:7 \ft \+xt Lk 14:7–11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 Don’t take a matter to~court~hastily.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:8 \ft \+xt Pr 17:14; Mt 5:25; 1Co 6:7\+xt*\f*
\q Otherwise, what will you~do~afterward
\q if your opponent~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 25:8 \ft Or \fqa neighbor\ft , also in v.~9\f* humiliates~you?
\q1
\v 9 Make your case with~your~opponent
\q without revealing another’s~secret;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:9 \ft \+xt Pr 17:9; Mt 18:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 10 otherwise, the one who~hears will~disgrace~you,
\q and you’ll never live~it~down.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 25:10 \ft Lit \fqa and your evil report will not turn back\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 A word spoken at~the~right~time
\q is like gold apples in~silver~settings.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:11 \ft \+xt Pr 8:10; 15:23; 16:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 A wise correction to~a~receptive~ear~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:12 \ft \+xt Pr 15:31\+xt*\f*
\q is like a gold ring or~an~ornament of~gold.
\b
\q1
\v 13 To those who send him, a~trustworthy~envoy
\q is like the coolness of~snow on~a~harvest~day;
\q he refreshes the~life of~his~masters.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:13 \ft \+xt Pr 13:17; 16:24; 25:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 The one who~boasts about~a~gift that~does~not~exist
\q is like clouds and~wind without~rain.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:14 \ft \+xt Jd 12\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 15 A ruler can~be~persuaded through~patience,
\q and a gentle tongue can~break a~bone.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:15 \ft \+xt Pr 15:1; 16:14,32; Ec 10:4\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 If you find honey,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:16 \ft \+xt Jdg 14:8; 1Sm 14:25\+xt*\f* eat~only what~you~need;
\q otherwise, you’ll~get~sick from~it and~vomit.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:16 \ft \+xt Pr 25:27\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 17 Seldom set foot in~your~neighbor’s~house;
\q otherwise, he’ll~get~sick of~you and~hate~you.
\b
\q1
\v 18 A person giving false~testimony against~his~neighbor~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:18 \ft \+xt Ex 20:16; Pr 24:28\+xt*\f*
\q is like a club, a~sword, or~a~sharp~arrow.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:18 \ft \+xt Ps 57:4; Pr 12:18\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 19 Trusting an unreliable person in~a difficult~time
\q is like a rotten tooth or~a~faltering~foot.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:19 \ft \+xt 2Kg 18:21\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 Singing songs to~a~troubled~heart
\q is like taking off clothing on~a~cold~day
\q or like pouring vinegar on~soda.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 25:20 \ft Lit \fqa natron,\ft or \fqa sodium carbonate\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:20 \ft \+xt Rm 12:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 If your enemy is~hungry, give~him food to~eat,
\q and if he is~thirsty, give~him water to~drink,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:21 \ft \+xt Ex 23:4–5; 2Kg 6:22; 2Ch 28:15; Mt 5:44; Rm 12:20\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 22 for you will heap burning coals on~his~head,
\q and the \nd Lord\nd* will~reward~you.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:22 \ft \+xt Mt 6:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 The north wind produces rain,
\q and a backbiting tongue, angry~looks.
\b
\q1
\v 24 Better to live on~the~corner of~a~roof
\q than to share a house with~a~nagging~wife.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:24 \ft \+xt Pr 15:17; 17:1; 21:9,19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 Good news from~a~distant~land
\q is like cold water to~a~parched~throat.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 25:25 \ft Or \fqa a weary person\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:25 \ft \+xt Pr 15:30\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 A righteous person who~yields to~the~wicked~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:26 \ft \+xt Dt 13:6–8; Gl 2:4–5\+xt*\f*
\q is like a muddied spring or~a~polluted~well.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:26 \ft \+xt Ezk 32:2; 34:18–19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 It is not good to~eat too~much~honey~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:27 \ft \+xt Pr 25:16\+xt*\f*
\q or to~seek glory after~glory.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 25:27 \ft Lit \fqa seek their glory, glory\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:27 \ft \+xt Pr 27:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 A person who~does~not control his~temper~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:28 \ft \+xt Pr 16:32; 29:11\+xt*\f*
\q is like a city whose~wall is~broken~down.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 25:28 \ft \+xt Neh 1:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 26
\q1
\v 1 Like snow in~summer and~rain at~harvest,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:1 \ft \+xt 1Sm 12:17\+xt*\f*
\q honor is inappropriate for~a~fool.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:1 \ft \+xt Pr 17:7; 19:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 Like a flitting sparrow or~a~fluttering~swallow,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:2 \ft \+xt Pr 27:8\+xt*\f*
\q an undeserved curse goes~nowhere.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:2 \ft \+xt Nm 23:8; Dt 23:5; 2Sm 16:12\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 A whip for~the~horse, a~bridle for~the~donkey,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:3 \ft \+xt Ps 32:9\+xt*\f*
\q and a rod for~the~backs of~fools.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:3 \ft \+xt Pr 10:13; 19:29\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 4 Don’t answer a~fool according~to his~foolishness~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:4 \ft \+xt Pr 23:9; 29:9; Mt 7:6; Lk 23:9\+xt*\f*
\q or you’ll be like~him~yourself.
\q1
\v 5 Answer a fool according~to his~foolishness~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:5 \ft \+xt Mt 16:1–4; 21:24–27\+xt*\f*
\q or he’ll become wise in~his~own~eyes.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:5 \ft \+xt Pr 26:12; 28:11; Rm 12:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 6 The one who sends a~message by~a~fool’s~hand~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:6 \ft \+xt Pr 10:26; 25:13\+xt*\f*
\q cuts off his own feet and~drinks~violence.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:6 \ft \+xt Pr 13:2\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 7 A proverb in~the~mouth of~a~fool
\q is like lame legs that~hang~limp.
\q1
\v 8 Giving honor to~a~fool
\q is like binding a~stone in~a~sling.
\q1
\v 9 A proverb in~the~mouth of~a~fool
\q is like a stick with~thorns,
\q brandished by~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 26:9 \ft Lit \fqa thorn that goes up into\f*~the~hand of~a~drunkard.
\q1
\v 10 The one who hires a~fool or~who~hires those~passing~by
\q is like an archer who~wounds~everyone indiscriminately.
\q1
\v 11 As a dog returns to~its~vomit,
\q so also a fool repeats his~foolishness.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:11 \ft \+xt 2Pt 2:22\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 Do you see a person who~is~wise in~his~own~eyes?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:12 \ft \+xt Pr 3:7; 26:5; Rm 12:16\+xt*\f*
\q There is more hope for~a~fool than~for~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:12 \ft \+xt Pr 29:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 The slacker says, “There’s~a~lion in~the~road~—
\q a lion in~the~public~square!~”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:13 \ft \+xt Pr 22:13\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 14 A door turns on~its~hinges,
\q and a slacker, on~his~bed.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:14 \ft \+xt Pr 6:9–10; 19:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 15 The slacker buries his~hand in~the~bowl;
\q he is too weary to~bring~it to~his~mouth!~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:15 \ft \+xt Pr 12:27; 19:24\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 In his own eyes, a~slacker is~wiser~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:16 \ft \+xt Pr 26:5,12; 28:11\+xt*\f*
\q than seven who~can~answer~sensibly.
\b
\q1
\v 17 A person who is passing by and meddles in~a~quarrel that’s~not~his
\q is like one who~grabs a~dog by~the~ears.
\q1
\v 18 Like a madman who~throws flaming~darts and~deadly~arrows,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:18 \ft \+xt Is 50:11\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 19 so is the person who~deceives his~neighbor
\q and says, “I~was~only~joking!~”
\b
\q1
\v 20 Without wood, fire~goes~out;
\q without a gossip, conflict~dies~down.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:20 \ft \+xt Pr 16:28; 22:10\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 21 As charcoal for~embers and~wood for~fire,
\q so is a quarrelsome person for~kindling~strife.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:21 \ft \+xt Pr 15:18\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 22 A gossip’s words are like~choice~food
\q that goes down to one’s~innermost~being.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 26:22 \ft Lit \fqa to the chambers of the belly\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:22 \ft \+xt Pr 18:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 Smooth~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 26:23 \ft LXX; MT reads \fqa Burning\f* lips with~an~evil~heart
\q are like glaze on~an~earthen~vessel.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:23 \ft \+xt Mt 23:27; Lk 11:39\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 24 A hateful person disguises~himself with~his~speech
\q and harbors deceit within.
\q1
\v 25 When he speaks graciously, don’t~believe~him,
\q for there are seven~detestable things in~his~heart.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:25 \ft \+xt Ps 28:3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 26 Though his hatred is~concealed by~deception,
\q his evil will~be~revealed in~the~assembly.
\q1
\v 27 The one who digs a~pit will~fall into~it,
\q and whoever rolls a~stone~—
\q it~will come~back on~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 26:27 \ft \+xt Est 7:10; Jb 4:8; Pr 28:10; Dn 6:24; Mt 26:52\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 28 A lying tongue hates those~it~crushes,
\q and a flattering mouth causes~ruin.
\b
\c 27
\q1
\v 1 Don’t boast about~tomorrow,
\q for you don’t know what a~day might~bring.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:1 \ft \+xt Lk 12:19–20; Jms 4:13–14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 Let another praise you, and~not your~own~mouth~—
\q a stranger, and~not your~own~lips.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:2 \ft \+xt Pr 25:27; 2Co 10:12,18; 12:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 A stone is heavy, and sand a~burden,
\q but aggravation from~a~fool outweighs~them~both.
\b
\q1
\v 4 Fury is cruel, and~anger a~flood,
\q but who can withstand jealousy?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:4 \ft \+xt Pr 6:34\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 Better an open reprimand
\q than concealed love.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:5 \ft \+xt Pr 28:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 The wounds of~a~friend are~trustworthy,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:6 \ft \+xt Ps 141:5\+xt*\f*
\q but the kisses of~an~enemy are~excessive.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:6 \ft \+xt Lk 22:48\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 A person who is full tramples on~a~honeycomb,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:7 \ft \+xt Pr 25:16\+xt*\f*
\q but to a hungry person, any~bitter~thing is~sweet.
\b
\q1
\v 8 Anyone wandering from~his~home
\q is like a bird wandering from~its~nest.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:8 \ft \+xt Pr 26:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 Oil~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:9 \ft \+xt Ps 23:5\+xt*\f* and incense bring joy to~the~heart,
\q and the sweetness of~a~friend is~better than~self-counsel.~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 27:9 \ft LXX reads \fqa heart, but the soul is torn up by affliction\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Don’t abandon your~friend or~your~father’s~friend,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:10 \ft \+xt 2Sm 10:2\+xt*\f*
\q and don’t go to~your~brother’s~house
\q in~your~time of~calamity;
\q better a neighbor nearby than~a~brother far~away.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:10 \ft \+xt Pr 17:17\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 Be wise, my son, and~bring my~heart~joy,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:11 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 23:24–25; 29:3\+xt*\f*
\q so that I can answer anyone who~taunts~me.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:11 \ft \+xt Ps 119:42; 127:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 A sensible person sees~danger and~takes~cover;
\q the inexperienced keep~going and~are~punished.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:12 \ft \+xt Pr 22:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 Take his garment,
\q for~he~has put~up security for~a~stranger;
\q get collateral if~it~is for~foreigners.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 27:13 \ft Lit \fqa a foreign woman\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:13 \ft \+xt Pr 6:1–5; 11:15; 20:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 If one blesses his~neighbor
\q with~a~loud~voice early in~the~morning,
\q it will be counted as~a~curse to~him.
\b
\q1
\v 15 An endless dripping on~a~rainy~day
\q and a nagging wife are~alike;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:15 \ft \+xt Pr 19:13\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 the one who~controls~her controls the~wind
\q and grasps oil with~his~right~hand.
\b
\q1
\v 17 Iron sharpens iron,
\q and one person sharpens~another.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 27:17 \ft Lit \fqa and a man sharpens his friend’s face\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 Whoever tends a~fig~tree~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:18 \ft \+xt Am 7:14\+xt*\f* will~eat its~fruit,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:18 \ft \+xt Sg 8:12; 1Co 3:8; 9:7; 2Tm 2:6\+xt*\f*
\q and whoever looks~after his~master will~be~honored.
\b
\q1
\v 19 As water reflects the~face,
\q so the heart reflects the~person.
\b
\q1
\v 20 Sheol and Abaddon~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:20 \ft \+xt Jb 26:6; Pr 15:11\+xt*\f* are never~satisfied,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:20 \ft \+xt Pr 30:15–16; Hab 2:5\+xt*\f*
\q and people’s eyes are never~satisfied.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:20 \ft \+xt Ec 1:8; 4:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 As a crucible refines~silver,
\q and a~smelter refines~gold,
\q so a person should refine his~praise.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:21 \ft \+xt Pr 16:2; 17:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 Though you grind a~fool
\q in~a~mortar with~a~pestle along~with~grain,
\q you will not separate his~foolishness from~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:22 \ft \+xt Pr 23:35; 26:11; Jr 5:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 Know well the~condition of~your~flock,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:23 \ft \+xt Ezk 34:12; Jn 10:3,14; Ac 20:28\+xt*\f*
\q and pay attention to~your~herds,
\q1
\v 24 for wealth is not forever;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:24 \ft \+xt Lk 16:9\+xt*\f*
\q not even a crown lasts for~all~time.
\q1
\v 25 When hay is~removed and~new~growth~appears
\q and the grain from~the~hills is~gathered~in,
\q1
\v 26 lambs will provide your~clothing,
\q and goats, the~price of~a~field;
\q1
\v 27 there will be enough goat’s~milk for~your~food~—
\q food for your household
\q and~nourishment for~your female~servants.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 27:27 \ft \+xt Pr 31:15\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 28
\q1
\v 1 The wicked flee when~no~one is~pursuing~them,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:1 \ft \+xt Lv 26:17; Ps 53:5\+xt*\f*
\q but the righteous are as~bold as~a~lion.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:1 \ft \+xt Eph 6:19–20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 When a land is in~rebellion, it~has many~rulers,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:2 \ft \+xt 1Kg 16:8–28; 2Kg 15:8–15\+xt*\f*
\q but with a discerning and~knowledgeable~person, it~endures.
\b
\q1
\v 3 A destitute leader~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 28:3 \ft LXX reads \fqa A wicked man\f* who~oppresses the~poor
\q is like a driving rain that~leaves no~food.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:3 \ft \+xt Ex 9:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 Those who reject the~law praise~the~wicked,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:4 \ft \+xt Rm 1:32\+xt*\f*
\q but those who keep the~law pit themselves against~them.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:4 \ft \+xt 1Kg 18:18; Neh 13:11,15; Mt 3:7; 14:4; Eph 5:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 The evil do not understand~justice,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:5 \ft \+xt Ps 92:6\+xt*\f*
\q but those who seek the~\nd Lord\nd* understand~everything.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:5 \ft \+xt Ps 119:100; Jn 7:17; 1Co 2:15; Jms 1:5; 1Jn 2:20,27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 Better the poor person who~lives with~integrity~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:6 \ft \+xt Pr 19:1; 20:7\+xt*\f*
\q than the rich one who distorts right and~wrong.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 28:6 \ft Lit \fqa who twists two ways\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:6 \ft \+xt Pr 16:8,19; 19:22; Is 5:20\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 A discerning son keeps the~law,
\q but a companion of~gluttons humiliates his~father.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:7 \ft \+xt Dt 21:20; Pr 17:25; 23:20; 29:3\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 8 Whoever increases his~wealth through~excessive~interest~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:8 \ft \+xt Ex 22:25; Lv 25:36\+xt*\f*
\q collects it for one who~is~kind to~the~poor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:8 \ft \+xt Jb 27:17; Pr 13:22; Ec 2:26; Ezk 18:13,17\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 9 Anyone who turns his~ear away~from~hearing the~law~—
\q even his prayer is~detestable.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:9 \ft \+xt Ps 109:7; Pr 15:8,29; 21:27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 The one who leads the~upright into~an~evil~way
\q will fall into~his~own~pit,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:10 \ft \+xt Ps 7:15; Pr 16:29; 26:27; Mt 18:6\+xt*\f*
\q but the blameless will~inherit what~is~good.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:10 \ft \+xt Mt 5:6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 A rich person is wise in his~own~eyes,
\q but a poor one who~has~discernment sees~through~him.
\b
\q1
\v 12 When the righteous triumph,
\q there~is great~rejoicing,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 28:12 \ft Lit \fqa glory\f*
\q but when the wicked come to~power,
\q people~hide.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:12 \ft \+xt Pr 11:10; 28:28; 29:2; Ec 10:5–6\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 13 The one who conceals his~sins
\q will~not~prosper,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:13 \ft \+xt Jb 31:33; Ps 32:3\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever confesses and~renounces~them
\q will~find~mercy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:13 \ft \+xt Ps 32:5; Jms 5:16; 1Jn 1:9\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 Happy is the~one who~is always reverent,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:14 \ft \+xt 2Ch 19:7; Pr 23:17\+xt*\f*
\q but one who~hardens his~heart falls into~trouble.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:14 \ft \+xt Ps 95:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 A wicked ruler over a~helpless~people~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:15 \ft \+xt Ex 1:14; Pr 29:2; Mt 2:16\+xt*\f*
\q is like a roaring lion or~a~charging~bear.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:15 \ft \+xt Pr 19:12; 1Pt 5:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 16 A leader who~lacks understanding
\q is very~oppressive,
\q but one who~hates dishonest profit
\q prolongs his~life.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:16 \ft \+xt 1Kg 12:1–19; Ps 15:5; Pr 15:27\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 Someone burdened by~bloodguilt~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 28:17 \ft Lit \fqa the blood of a person\f*
\q will be a fugitive until~death.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:17 \ft \+xt Gn 4:14; 9:6; Ex 21:14\+xt*\f*
\q Let no one help~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:17 \ft \+xt Nm 35:31\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 The one who lives with~integrity will~be~helped,
\q but one who distorts right and~wrong~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 28:18 \ft Lit \fqa who is twisted regarding two ways\f*
\q will~suddenly~fall.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:18 \ft \+xt Pr 2:7; 10:9; 20:7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 The one who works his~land
\q will~have plenty~of~food,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:19 \ft \+xt Pr 24:27\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever chases~fantasies
\q will~have his~fill of~poverty.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:19 \ft \+xt Pr 1:31; 12:11,14; 14:14\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 A faithful person will~have many~blessings,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:20 \ft \+xt Pr 10:6; Mt 25:21\+xt*\f*
\q but one in a hurry to~get~rich~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:20 \ft \+xt Pr 20:21; 28:22; 1Tm 6:9\+xt*\f*
\q will~not~go unpunished.
\b
\q1
\v 21 It is not good to~show~partiality~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:21 \ft \+xt Pr 18:5; 24:23\+xt*\f*~—
\q yet even a courageous person may sin for~a~piece of~bread.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:21 \ft \+xt Ezk 13:19\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 22 A greedy one~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 28:22 \ft Lit \fqa A man with an evil eye\f* is in~a~hurry for~wealth;
\q he doesn’t know that~poverty will~come to~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:22 \ft \+xt Pr 13:11; 20:21; 21:5; 22:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 One who rebukes a~person will~later~find more~favor~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:23 \ft \+xt Pr 27:5–6\+xt*\f*
\q than one who flatters with~his~tongue.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:23 \ft \+xt Pr 26:28; 29:5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 The one who robs his~father or~mother~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:24 \ft \+xt Pr 19:26\+xt*\f*
\q and~says, “That’s~no~sin,”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:24 \ft \+xt Pr 30:20; Mk 7:11\+xt*\f*
\q is a companion to~a~person who~destroys.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:24 \ft \+xt Pr 18:9\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 A greedy person stirs up~conflict,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:25 \ft \+xt Pr 15:18\+xt*\f*
\q but whoever trusts in~the~\nd Lord\nd* will~prosper.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:25 \ft \+xt Ps 37:3–5; Pr 3:5–6; Jr 17:7–8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 The one who trusts in~himself~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 28:26 \ft Lit \fqa his heart\f* is a~fool,
\q but one who walks in~wisdom will~be~safe.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:26 \ft \+xt Pr 3:5–7\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 The one who gives to~the~poor
\q will~not~be in~need,
\q but one who turns his~eyes~away~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 28:27 \ft Lit \fqa who shuts his eyes\f*
\q will~receive many~curses.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:27 \ft \+xt Pr 11:24; 19:17; 22:16\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 28 When the wicked come to~power,
\q people~hide,
\q but when they are destroyed,
\q the~righteous~flourish.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 28:28 \ft \+xt Pr 28:12; 29:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\c 29
\q1
\v 1 One who becomes stiff-necked,
\q after~many~reprimands
\q will be shattered~instantly~—
\q beyond~recovery.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:1 \ft \+xt Pr 1:24–31; 6:14–15\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 When the righteous flourish, the~people~rejoice,
\q but when the wicked rule, people~groan.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:2 \ft \+xt Ex 2:23; Est 8:15; Pr 11:10; 28:12,28\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 3 A man who loves wisdom brings~joy to~his~father,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:3 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 15:20; 23:24–25; 27:11; 28:7\+xt*\f*
\q but one who consorts with~prostitutes destroys~his~wealth.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:3 \ft \+xt Pr 5:9–10; 6:26; Lk 15:13,30\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 4 By justice a king brings stability to~a~land,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:4 \ft \+xt 2Ch 9:8; Pr 29:14\+xt*\f*
\q but a person who~demands “contributions”~\f + \cat (III)\cat* \fr 29:4 \ft The Hb word for \fqa contributions \ft usually refers to offerings in worship.\f*
\q demolishes~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:4 \ft \+xt Pr 17:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 5 A person who flatters his~neighbor
\q spreads a net for~his~feet.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:5 \ft \+xt Pr 26:28; 27:6; 28:23\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 6 An evil person is caught by~sin,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:6 \ft \+xt Pr 12:13; 18:7; Ec 9:12\+xt*\f*
\q but the righteous one sings and~rejoices.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:6 \ft \+xt Ex 15:1\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 The righteous person knows the~rights~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:7 \ft Lit \fqa justice\f* of~the~poor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:7 \ft \+xt Jb 29:16; Ps 41:1\+xt*\f*
\q but the wicked one does not understand these~concerns.
\b
\q1
\v 8 Mockers inflame a~city,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:8 \ft \+xt Pr 11:11; 26:21; 29:22\+xt*\f*
\q but the wise turn~away~anger.
\b
\q1
\v 9 If a wise person goes to~court with~a~fool,
\q there will be ranting and~raving but~no~resolution.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:9 \ft Lit \fqa rest\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:9 \ft \+xt Pr 26:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Bloodthirsty men hate an~honest~person,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:10 \ft \+xt Gn 4:5–8; 1Jn 3:12\+xt*\f*
\q but the upright care about~him.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:10 \ft Or \fqa person, and seek the life of the upright\f*
\b
\q1
\v 11 A fool gives full vent to~his~anger,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:11 \ft Lit \fqa spirit\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:11 \ft \+xt Pr 12:16\+xt*\f*
\q but a wise person holds it in~check.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:11 \ft \+xt Pr 16:32; 25:28\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 12 If a ruler listens to~lies,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:12 \ft \+xt 1Kg 22:8,21–23\+xt*\f*
\q all his officials will~be~wicked.
\b
\q1
\v 13 The poor and the~oppressor have~this in~common:~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:13 \ft Lit \fqa oppressor meet\f*
\q the \nd Lord\nd* gives light to~the~eyes of~both.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:13 \ft \+xt Pr 22:2\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 14 A king who judges the~poor with~fairness~—
\q his throne will~be established~forever.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:14 \ft \+xt Ps 72:4; Pr 16:12; 25:5; Is 11:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 15 A rod of correction imparts~wisdom,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:15 \ft \+xt Pr 13:24; 22:15\+xt*\f*
\q but a youth left to~himself~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:15 \ft Lit \fqa youth sent away\f*
\q is a~disgrace to~his~mother.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:15 \ft \+xt Pr 10:1; 17:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 16 When the wicked increase, rebellion~increases,
\q but the righteous will see their~downfall.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:16 \ft \+xt Ps 37:34,36; 58:10; 91:8; 92:11\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 17 Discipline your child,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:17 \ft \+xt Pr 13:24\+xt*\f* and it~will~bring you peace~of~mind
\q and give you~delight.
\b
\q1
\v 18 Without revelation~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:18 \ft Lit \fqa vision\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:18 \ft \+xt 1Sm 3:1; Ps 74:9; Am 8:11–12\+xt*\f* people run~wild,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:18 \ft \+xt Ex 32:25\+xt*\f*
\q but one who follows divine~instruction will~be~happy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:18 \ft \+xt Ps 119:2; Pr 8:32; Jn 13:17; Jms 1:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 19 A servant cannot be disciplined by~words;
\q though he understands, he~doesn’t~respond.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:19 \ft \+xt Mt 18:17\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 20 Do you see someone who~speaks too~soon?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:20 \ft \+xt Lv 5:4; Jdg 11:30–31,34; Pr 10:19; 17:27; 19:2; 20:25\+xt*\f*
\q There is more hope for~a~fool than~for~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:20 \ft \+xt Pr 26:12\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 A servant pampered from~his~youth
\q will become arrogant~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:21 \ft Hb obscure\f* later~on.
\b
\q1
\v 22 An angry person stirs~up~conflict,
\q and a hot-tempered one~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:22 \ft Lit \fqa a master of rage\f* increases~rebellion.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:22 \ft \+xt Pr 15:18; 26:21; 28:25\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 23 A person’s pride will~humble~him,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:23 \ft \+xt 2Sm 22:28; Mt 23:12; Jms 4:6\+xt*\f*
\q but a humble spirit will~gain~honor.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:23 \ft \+xt Pr 11:2; 15:33; 18:12; 22:4\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 24 To be a thief’s partner is to~hate~oneself;
\q he hears the curse but will~not~testify.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:24 \ft \+xt Lv 5:1; Jos 7:19; Zch 5:3–4; Jn 9:24\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 25 The fear of mankind is a~snare,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:25 \ft \+xt Gn 12:12; 20:2; 1Sm 13:11; Lk 12:4; Jn 12:42–43\+xt*\f*
\q but the one who~trusts in~the~\nd Lord\nd* is~protected.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 29:25 \ft Lit \fqa raised high\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:25 \ft \+xt Pr 14:27; 18:10\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 26 Many desire a ruler’s favor,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:26 \ft \+xt Pr 16:15; 19:6\+xt*\f*
\q but a person receives justice from~the~\nd Lord\nd*.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:26 \ft \+xt Is 49:4; 1Co 4:4–5\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 27 An unjust person is~detestable to~the~righteous,
\q and one whose way is~upright
\q is~detestable to~the~wicked.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 29:27 \ft \+xt Pr 29:10; Mt 10:22; Jn 15:18; 1Jn 3:13\+xt*\f*
\c 30
\s1 The Words of Agur
\m
\v 1 The words of~Agur son~of~Jakeh. The~pronouncement.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 30:1 \ft Or \fqa son of Jakeh from Massa\ft ; Pr 31:1\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:1 \ft \+xt Nm 24:3; Pr 31:1; Nah 1:1; Hab 1:1; Zch 9:1; Mal 1:1\+xt*\f*
\b
\q The man’s oration to~Ithiel, to~Ithiel and~Ucal:~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 30:1 \ft Hb uncertain. Sometimes read with different word division as \fqa oration: I am weary, God, I am weary, God, and I am exhausted\ft , or \fqa oration: I am not God, I am not God, that I should prevail.\ft LXX reads \fqa My son, fear my words and when you have received them repent. The man says these things to the believers in God, and I pause.\f*
\b
\q1
\v 2 I am more stupid than any~other~person,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 30:2 \ft Lit \fqa I am more stupid than a man\f*
\q and I lack a human’s ability to~understand.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:2 \ft \+xt 1Kg 3:7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 3 I have not gained wisdom,
\q and I have no knowledge of~the~Holy~One.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:3 \ft \+xt Pr 9:10\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 4 Who has gone up to~heaven and~come~down?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:4 \ft \+xt Jn 3:13; Eph 4:9–10\+xt*\f*
\q Who has gathered the~wind in~his~hands?
\q Who has bound up the~waters in~a~cloak?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:4 \ft \+xt Jb 26:8; 38:9\+xt*\f*
\q Who has established all~the~ends of~the~earth?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:4 \ft \+xt Jb 38:4–5; Ps 93:1; 119:90; Is 45:18\+xt*\f*
\q What is his name,
\q and~what~is the~name of~his~son~—
\q if you know?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:4 \ft \+xt Mt 11:27; Rv 19:12–13\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 5 Every word of~God is~pure;~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 30:5 \ft Lit \fqa refined\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:5 \ft \+xt Ps 12:6; 18:30\+xt*\f*
\q he is a shield to~those who~take~refuge in~him.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:5 \ft \+xt Ps 3:3\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 6 Don’t add to~his~words,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:6 \ft \+xt Dt 4:2; 12:32; Rv 22:18\+xt*\f*
\q or he will rebuke you, and~you~will~be proved a~liar.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:6 \ft \+xt Dt 18:22\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 7 Two things I~ask of~you;
\q don’t deny them to~me before~I~die:
\q1
\v 8 Keep falsehood and~deceitful~words far~from~me.
\q Give me neither poverty nor~wealth;
\q feed me with the~food I~need.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:8 \ft \+xt Jb 23:12; Mt 6:11; Php 4:11–12\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 9 Otherwise, I~might~have too~much~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:9 \ft \+xt Dt 6:10–12; 8:11–14\+xt*\f*
\q and deny you,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:9 \ft \+xt Jos 24:27; Jb 31:28\+xt*\f* saying, “Who~is~the~\nd Lord\nd*?~”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:9 \ft \+xt Ex 5:2\+xt*\f*
\q or I might have nothing and~steal,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:9 \ft \+xt Ex 20:5; Eph 4:28\+xt*\f*
\q profaning~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 30:9 \ft Lit \fqa grabbing\f* the~name of~my~God.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:9 \ft \+xt Lv 19:11–12\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 10 Don’t slander a~servant to~his~master
\q or he will curse you,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:10 \ft \+xt Ec 7:21\+xt*\f* and~you~will become~guilty.
\b
\q1
\v 11 There is a generation that~curses its~father
\q and does not bless its~mother.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:11 \ft \+xt Ex 21:17; Pr 20:20\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 12 There is a generation that~is~pure in~its~own~eyes,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:12 \ft \+xt Pr 16:2; Lk 18:11\+xt*\f*
\q yet is not washed from~its~filth.
\q1
\v 13 There is a generation~#—~#how~haughty its~eyes
\q and pretentious its~looks.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 30:13 \ft Lit \fqa and its eyelids lifted up\f*
\q1
\v 14 There is a generation whose~teeth are~swords,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:14 \ft \+xt Ps 57:4\+xt*\f*
\q whose fangs are~knives,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:14 \ft \+xt Jb 29:17\+xt*\f*
\q devouring the~oppressed from~the~land~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:14 \ft \+xt Ps 14:4\+xt*\f*
\q and the needy from~among mankind.
\b
\q1
\v 15 The leech has two~daughters: “Give,~Give!~”
\q Three things~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:15 \ft \+xt Pr 6:16; 30:18,21,29\+xt*\f* are never~satisfied;
\q four never say, “Enough!~”:
\q1
\v 16 Sheol;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:16 \ft \+xt Pr 27:20; Hab 2:5\+xt*\f* a~childless~womb;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:16 \ft \+xt Gn 30:1\+xt*\f*
\q earth, which is never~satisfied with~water;
\q and fire, which never says, “Enough!~”
\b
\q1
\v 17 As for the eye that~ridicules a~father~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:17 \ft \+xt Gn 9:22\+xt*\f*
\q and despises obedience to~a~mother,
\q may ravens of~the~valley pluck~it~out
\q and young vultures eat~it.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:17 \ft \+xt Dt 28:26\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 18 Three things are too wondrous for~me;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:18 \ft \+xt Jb 42:3; Ps 131; 139:6\+xt*\f*
\q four I can’t understand:
\q1
\v 19 the way of~an~eagle in~the~sky,
\q the way of~a~snake on~a~rock,
\q the way of~a~ship at~sea,
\q and the way of~a~man with~a~young~woman.
\b
\q1
\v 20 This is the~way of~an~adulteress:
\q she eats and~wipes her~mouth
\q and says, “I’ve~done nothing~wrong.”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:20 \ft \+xt Pr 28:24; 1Jn 1:8\+xt*\f*
\b
\q1
\v 21 The earth trembles under~three~things;
\q it cannot bear up under~four:
\q1
\v 22 a servant when~he~becomes~king,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:22 \ft \+xt Pr 19:10; Ec 10:7\+xt*\f*
\q a fool when~he~is~stuffed with~food,
\q1
\v 23 an unloved woman when~she~marries,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:23 \ft \+xt Gn 29:30–31; Dt 21:15\+xt*\f*
\q and a servant girl when~she~ousts her~queen.
\b
\q1
\v 24 Four things on earth are~small,
\q yet they are extremely wise:
\q1
\v 25 ants are not a~strong~people,
\q yet they store up their~food in~the~summer;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:25 \ft \+xt Pr 6:6–8\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 26 hyraxes are not a~mighty~people,
\q yet they make their~homes in~the~cliffs;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:26 \ft \+xt Lv 11:5; Ps 104:18\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 27 locusts have no~king,
\q yet all of them march in~ranks;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:27 \ft \+xt Jl 2:7–8\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 28 a lizard~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 30:28 \ft Or \fqa spider\f* can~be~caught in~your~hands,
\q yet it lives in~kings’~palaces.
\b
\q1
\v 29 Three things are~stately in~their~stride;
\q four are~stately in~their~walk:
\q1
\v 30 a lion, which~is mightiest among~beasts
\q and doesn’t retreat before~anything;
\q1
\v 31 a strutting rooster;~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 30:31 \ft Or \fqa a greyhound\f* a~goat;
\q and a king at~the~head of~his~army.~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 30:31 \ft LXX reads \fqa king addressing his people\f*
\b
\q1
\v 32 If you have been foolish by~exalting~yourself
\q or if you’ve been scheming,
\q put~your~hand over~your~mouth.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:32 \ft \+xt Jb 21:5; Mc 7:16\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 33 For the churning of~milk produces~butter,
\q and twisting a~nose draws~blood,
\q and stirring up anger produces~strife.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 30:33 \ft \+xt Pr 10:12; 29:22\+xt*\f*
\c 31
\s1 The Words of Lemuel
\q1
\v 1 The words of King~Lemuel,
\q a pronouncement~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:1 \ft Or \fqa of Lemuel, king of Massa\ft , or \fqa of King Lemuel, a burden\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:1 \ft \+xt Pr 30:1\+xt*\f* that his~mother taught~him:
\b
\q1
\v 2 What should~I~say, my~son?
\q What, son of~my~womb?~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:2 \ft \+xt Is 49:15\+xt*\f*
\q What, son of~my~vows?
\q1
\v 3 Don’t spend your energy~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:3 \ft \+xt Pr 5:9\+xt*\f* on~women
\q or your efforts on~those who~destroy~kings.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:3 \ft \+xt Dt 17:17; 1Kg 11:1; Neh 13:26\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 4 It is not for kings, Lemuel,
\q it is not for kings~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:4 \ft \+xt 1Kg 16:9; 20:16; Ec 10:17\+xt*\f* to~drink~wine~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:4 \ft \+xt Pr 20:1\+xt*\f*
\q or for rulers to~desire~beer.
\q1
\v 5 Otherwise, he~will~drink,
\q forget~what~is~decreed,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:5 \ft \+xt Hs 4:11\+xt*\f*
\q and pervert justice for~all the~oppressed.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:5 \ft Lit \fqa sons of affliction\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:5 \ft \+xt Ps 72:1–2; Is 28:7\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 6 Give beer to~one who~is~dying
\q and wine to one whose~life is~bitter.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:6 \ft \+xt Jb 3:20\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 7 Let him drink so~that he~can~forget his~poverty
\q and remember his~trouble no~more.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:7 \ft \+xt Ps 104:15\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 8 Speak up~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:8 \ft Lit \fqa Open your mouth\ft , also in v.~9\f* for those who~have no~voice,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:8 \ft Lit \fqa who are mute\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:8 \ft \+xt Jb 29:12–17\+xt*\f*
\q for the justice of all who~are~dispossessed.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:8 \ft Lit \fqa all the sons of passing away\f*
\q1
\v 9 Speak up, judge righteously,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:9 \ft \+xt Lv 19:15; Dt 1:16\+xt*\f*
\q and defend the~cause~of the~oppressed and~needy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:9 \ft \+xt Is 1:17; Jr 22:16\+xt*\f*
\s1 In Praise of a Wife of Noble Character
\q1
\v 10 Who can find a~wife of~noble~character?~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:10 \ft Or \fqa a wife of quality\ft , or \fqa a capable wife\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:10 \ft \+xt Ru 3:11; Pr 12:4; 18:22; 19:14\+xt*\f*
\q She is far more precious than~jewels.~\f + \cat (III)\cat* \fr 31:10 \ft Vv. 10–31 form an acrostic.\f*
\q1
\v 11 The heart of her husband trusts in~her,
\q and he will not~lack anything~good.
\q1
\v 12 She rewards him with~good, not~evil,
\q all the days of~her~life.
\q1
\v 13 She selects wool and~flax
\q and works with~willing~hands.
\q1
\v 14 She is like the~merchant~ships,
\q bringing her food from~far~away.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:14 \ft \+xt 1Kg 10:22\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 15 She rises while it is still night~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:15 \ft \+xt Pr 20:13\+xt*\f*
\q and provides food for~her~household
\q and portions~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:15 \ft Or \fqa tasks\f* for her~female~servants.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:15 \ft \+xt Pr 27:27; Lk 12:42\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 16 She evaluates a~field and~buys~it;
\q she plants a~vineyard with~her~earnings.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:16 \ft Or \fqa vineyard by her own labors\f*\sup ,\sup*\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:16 \ft \+xt Mt 21:33\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 17 She draws on~her~strength~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:17 \ft Lit \fqa She wraps strength around her like a belt\f*
\q and reveals that~her~arms are~strong.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:17 \ft \+xt Pr 31:25\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 18 She sees that her~profits are~good,
\q and her lamp never goes~out at~night.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:18 \ft \+xt Mt 25:8\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 19 She extends her~hands to~the~spinning~staff,
\q and her hands hold the~spindle.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:19 \ft \+xt Pr 31:13\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 20 Her hands reach~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:20 \ft Lit \fqa Her hand reaches\f*~out to~the~poor,
\q and she extends her~hands to~the~needy.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:20 \ft \+xt Dt 15:11; Pr 22:9; 31:9; Rm 12:13; Eph 4:28\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 21 She is not afraid for~her~household when~it~snows,
\q for all in her household are~doubly~clothed.~\f + \cat (I)\cat* \fr 31:21 \ft LXX, Vg; MT reads \fqa are dressed in scarlet\f*
\q1
\v 22 She makes her~own~bed~coverings;~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:22 \ft \+xt Pr 7:16\+xt*\f*
\q her clothing is fine linen~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:22 \ft \+xt Gn 41:42; Rv 19:8,14\+xt*\f* and~purple.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:22 \ft \+xt Jdg 8:26; Lk 16:19\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 23 Her husband is~known at~the~city~gates,
\q where he sits among the~elders of~the~land.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:23 \ft \+xt Ru 4:1–2; Pr 24:7; 31:31\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 24 She makes and~sells linen~garments;
\q she delivers belts~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:24 \ft Or \fqa sashes\f* to~the~merchants.
\q1
\v 25 Strength~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:25 \ft \+xt Pr 31:17\+xt*\f* and honor are her~clothing,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:25 \ft \+xt 1Tm 2:9–10\+xt*\f*
\q and she can laugh at~the~time to~come.~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:25 \ft \+xt Pr 31:21\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 26 Her~mouth speaks~wisdom,
\q and loving instruction~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:26 \ft Or \fqa and the teaching of kindness\f* is on~her~tongue.
\q1
\v 27 She watches over the~activities of~her~household~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:27 \ft \+xt Pr 31:15\+xt*\f*
\q and is never idle.~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:27 \ft Lit \fqa and does not eat the bread of idleness\f*
\q1
\v 28 Her children rise up and~call~her~blessed;
\q her husband also praises~her:
\q1
\v 29 “Many women~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:29 \ft Lit \fqa daughters\f* have done noble~deeds,
\q but you surpass them~all!~”~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:29 \ft \+xt Pr 12:4; 31:10; Sg 6:8–9\+xt*\f*
\q1
\v 30 Charm is deceptive and~beauty is~fleeting,~\f + \cat (IV)\cat* \fr 31:30 \ft \+xt 1Pt 3:3–4\+xt*\f*
\q but a woman who~fears the~\nd Lord\nd* will~be~praised.
\q1
\v 31 Give her the~reward of~her~labor,~\f + \cat (II)\cat* \fr 31:31 \ft Lit \fqa the fruit of her hands\f*
\q and let her works praise her at~the~city~gates.
