
{1}1{/}

[\u0095]_{R}_{I}1_{/}These are proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of 
Israel:
{I}2_{/}for you to obtain wisdom and instruction,
to penetrate words of significance,
{I}3_{/}to acquire well-ordered knowledge,
and become just with discernment and integrity.
{I}4_{/}Simple people will become clever
and the young will acquire understanding and foresight.
{R}_{I}5_{/}Let the wise man listen: he will add to his learning,
and the man of sound judgment will acquire skill,
{I}6_{/}to understand the proverbs and sayings,
the words of the wise and their riddles.
[=]_{I}7_{/}The beginning of knowledge is the fear of Yahweh,
only fools have contempt for wisdom and discipline.

{N}AVOID THE COMPANY OF EVILDOERS{/}

{I}8_{/}Listen, my son, to the teaching of your father, do not ignore 
your mother's instruction: [=]_{I}9_{/}for they will be your graceful 
crown, a precious chain around your neck.
{I}10_{/}My son, if sinners try to tempt you, do not give in.
{R}_{I}11_{/}They will invite you, "Come with us, let us spill blood, let 
us ambush the innocent without a second thought. [*]_I}12_{/}We will 
engulf them as does the netherworld and snatch them suddenly as 
does death. {I}13_{/}We will help ourselves to many riches and fill 
our houses with booty. {I}14_{/}Join forces with us; one purse will be 
shared between us!"
{I}15_{/}My son, do not go with them, do not set foot along their way. 
{I}16_{/}See how they speed on to evil! How they hasten to spill 
blood!
{I}17_{/}What bird would fall into a trap if you set it up in its 
sight? {I}18_{/}But these men stalk themselves and set a trap for 
their own lives.
{I}19_{/}Such is the lot of all who live by plunder: plunder will rob 
them of their own lives.

{N}LISTEN TO ME TODAY{/}

[\u0095]_[=]_{I}20_{/}Wisdom shouts aloud in the streets, she raises her 
voice in the marketplace; {I}21_{/}at street corners she cries; she 
delivers her speeches at the city gates:
{I}22_{/}"You ignorant people, how long will you continue to cling to 
your foolishness? How long will mockers revel in{I}_{/}their mockery, 
and fools have contempt for knowledge?
{R}_{I}23_{/}Listen to my warning. I will now pour my spirit upon you and 
make you know my words.
[=]_{I}24_{/}Indeed if I cry out and you refuse to listen, if I offer 
my hand and no one cares, {I}25_{/}if you ignore my advice and reject 
my warning, {I}26_{/}I, in turn, will laugh at your disaster, I will 
sneer when terror grips you; {I}27_{/}when terror comes down on you 
like a hurricane, and distress and anxiety befall you.
[=]_{I}28_{/}Then people will cry to me but I will not respond. They 
will seek me but will not find me, {I}29_{/}because they despised 
knowledge and did not choose the fear of Yahweh; {I}30_{/}they would 
not listen to any advice and they rejected all my warnings.
{I}31_{/}They will harvest the fruit of their evil ways and have their 
fill of their own designs. {R}_{I}32_{/}For the error of the ignorant 
leads to death, the idleness of fools brings about their ruin.
{I}33_{/}But whoever listens to me will feel secure and at ease, 
without fear of evil."

{N}IT IS GOOD TO ACQUIRE WISDOM{/}

{1}2{/}

[\u0095]_{I}1_{/}My son, if you heed my words and value my commands, 
{I}2_{/}with your ear attentive to wisdom and your heart obedient to 
understanding; {I}3_{/}if you call for perception and raise your voice 
for insight; {I}4_{/}if you seek it as silver and search for it more 
than any treasure [=]_{R}_{I}5_{/}then you will understand the fear of 
Yahweh, and you will find the knowledge of God.
{I}6_{/}For Yahweh gives wisdom and from his mouth come knowledge and 
insight. {I}7_{/}He reserves his help for the upright and is a shield 
for those who walk in integrity; {I}8_{/}he guards the ways of the 
just and protects the steps of his faithful.
{I}9_{/}Then you will understand justice, discernment and integrity - 
all that leads you to happiness.
{I}10_{/}Wisdom will abide in your heart and knowledge will comfort 
your inner self. {I}11_{/}Foresight will guide you and understanding 
will protect you. {I}12_{/}It will guard you from evil, from people of 
misleading speech, {I}13_{/}from those who have abandoned the ways of 
honesty to walk the roads of darkness; {I}14_{/}they rejoice in 
evildoing, they revel in perversions; {I}15_{/}their paths are crooked 
and their ways devious.
{I}16_{/}Wisdom keeps you from the alien woman, from the stranger with 
her smooth words, {R}_{I}17_{/}who deserts the partner of her youth and 
forgets the covenant of her God.
[=]_{R}_{I}18_{/}For her house inclines towards death, her paths towards 
the grave. {R}_{I}19_{/}Those who go to her never return, they do not 
regain the paths of life.
{I}20_{/}So you will walk along the way of the good, and keep to the 
paths of the virtuous. [=]_{I}21_{/}For the honest will inherit the 
land; the people of integrity will live on it.
[=]_{I}22_{/}The evildoers instead will be cut off from the land. The 
wicked will be rooted out of it.

{1}3{/}

{I}1_{/}My son,do not forget my instruction, my commands; keep them in 
your heart. {I}2_{/}For they will bring you length of days, years of 
life and peace.
[=]_{I}3_{/}Let loyalty and kindness never leave you; tie them around 
your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, {R}_{I}4_{/}that you 
may find favor and a good name in the eyes of God and man.

{N}PUT WISDOM INTO PRACTICE{/}

[\u0095]_{I}5_{/}Trust in Yahweh with all your heart; do not rely on your 
own insight. {I}6_{/}Let his presence pervade all your ways and he 
will protect your foot  from the snare.
{R}_{I}7_{/}Do not consider yourself wise, fear God, and turn away from 
evil. {I}8_{/}This will be a medicine to your body and a relief to 
your bones.
{I}9_{/}Honor Yahweh, giving him from what you have, the first fruits 
of all your produce. {I}10_{/}Then your barns will be filled to 
overflowing, your vats will brim over with wine.
{I}11_{/}My son, do not scorn the discipline of Yahweh; do not ignore 
his correction. [=]_{I}12_{/}For Yahweh corrects those he loves, as a 
father does his beloved son.
{I}13_{/}Happy the one who finds wisdom and gains insight. {I}14_{/}For 
she is of more value than silver and more useful than gold. 
{I}15_{/}She is more precious than pearls; nothing you could wish for 
would compare with her. {I}16_{/}With her right hand she offers you 
length of days, with her left, riches and glory. {I}17_{/}She leads 
you through delightful ways; all her roads are peace.
[=]_{I}18_{/}She is a tree of life for those who clasp her; those who 
possess her are happy.
[=]_{I}19_{/}It is by his wisdom that Yahweh founded the earth; by his 
understanding that he made firm the heavens. {I}20_{/}By his knowledge 
the depths were scooped out, and the clouds rained down dew.
{I}21_{/}My son, hold on to sound judgment and discretion and do not 
let them out of your sight. {I}22_{/}They will give life to your inner 
self, and adorn your neck.
{I}23_{/}Then you can go your way safely and your foot will not 
stumble. {I}24_{/}You will have no fear when you lie down and your 
sleep will be peaceful. {I}25_{/}You will not fear sudden terror or 
the attack of evildoers. {I}26_{/}For Yahweh is at your side and he 
guards your steps from the snare.
{I}27_{/}Do not hold back from those who ask your help, when it is in 
your power to do it. {I}28_{/}Do not say to your neighbor, "Go away! 
Come another time; tomorrow I will give it to you!" when you can 
help him now.
[=]_{I}29_{/}Do not plot evil against your neighbor who lives 
trustingly beside you, {R}_{I}30_{/}nor fight a man without cause when he 
has done you no wrong. {R}_{I}31_{/}Do not envy the man of violence or 
follow his example.
{I}32_{/}For Yahweh hates the wicked but guides the honest. {I}33_{/}He 
curses the house of the evildoer but blesses the home of the 
upright. [=]_{I}34_{/}If there are mockers, he mocks them in turn but 
he shows his favor to the humble. The wise will possess his glory 
while the foolish will inherit disgrace.

{N}KEEP TO THE RIGHT PATH{/}

{1}4{/}

{I}1_{/}Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction and pay attention 
so that you may gain insight. {I}2_{/}For I have given you good 
principles; do not discard my teaching!
{I}3_{/}For when I, too, was a young boy, and my mother fondly looked 
on me as special, {I}4_{/}my father taught me and said to me: Treasure 
my words in your heart; listen to my directions and you will live.
{I}5_{/}Acquire wisdom and insight and do not forget or reject the 
words of my mouth. {I}6_{/}Do not abandon wisdom for she will protect 
you. Love her and she will be your salvation.
{I}7_{/}The beginning of wisdom is to work to acquire it. At  the cost 
of all you possess, strive to gain insight. {I}8_{/}Hold her close, 
for she will exalt you and bring you honor if you embrace her. 
{I}9_{/}She will crown you with grace and put a diadem of splendor on 
your head.
{I}10_{/}Listen, my son, and take my words to heart; then the years of 
your life will be multiplied.
{I}11_{/}Because I have taught you the way of wisdom and have guided 
you along honest ways, {I}12_{/}you will walk with ease and run 
without falling. {I}13_{/}Hold firm to discipline; never let her go. 
Guard her well for she is your salvation.
{I}14_{/}Do not follow the way of the wicked nor walk with evildoers. 
{I}15_{/}Avoid them, turn your back on them and pass on. {I}16_{/}For they 
do not sleep unless they have done evil; they cannot rest unless 
they have caused someone's downfall. {I}17_{/}Wickedness is their 
bread and violence their wine.
{I}18_{/}The way of the upright is like the dawn that becomes brighter 
until the fullness of day. {I}19_{/}The way of the wicked is total 
darkness and they do not notice that which will make them fall.
{I}20_{/}My son, be attentive and listen carefully to my words. 
{I}21_{/}Never let them out of your   sight but guard them in the 
bottom of your heart. {R}_{I}22_{/}For they are life to those who cling 
to them and healing for the inner spirit.
[\u0095]_{I}23_{/}Above all else, guard your heart, for therein is the 
source of life. {I}24_{/}Keep your  mouth from{I}_{/} lies{I}_{/} and{I}_{/} 
let{I}_{/} not{I}_{/} deceit{I}_{/} come{I}_{/} from{I}_{/} your lips.
{I}25_{/}Keep your sight on what is ahead and your eyes directed 
straight in front of you. {I}26_{/}Test the ground under your feet and 
all your ways will be secure. {I}27_{/}Turn neither to left nor to 
right and keep your path from evil.

{N}BEWARE OF THE ADULTERESS{/}

{1}5{/}

{I}1_{/}My son, pay heed to my wisdom and listen to my insights; 
{I}2_{/}remember my counsel and let your lips not depart from this 
knowledge.
{I}3_{/}Know that the lips of the adulteress are sweet as honey and 
her words smoother than oil, {I}4_{/}but the outcome is bitter as 
herbs. It is as sharp as a double-edged sword.
{R}_{I}5_{/}Her feet go down to the grave and her steps lead to death. 
{I}6_{/}She pays no attention to the path of life and strays without 
knowing it.
{I}7_{/}Now then, my son, listen to me and do not forget my words: 
{I}8_{/}Stay away from her and never approach the door of her house, 
{I}9_{/}lest you surrender your honor to strangers and your best years 
to cruel men, {I}10_{/}lest others benefit from your goods, and your 
earnings go to an alien house.
{I}11_{/}You will complain in the end, when your body and flesh are 
already devoured and {I}12_{/}you will say, "Why did I reject 
instruction and turn my back on sound advice? {I}13_{/}Why did I not 
listen to the voice of my teachers and follow their counsel? 
{I}14_{/}For I have come to the depths of disgrace in the midst of the 
whole community."
[\u0095]_{R}_{I}15_{/}Drink, then, from the water of your own cistern, from 
that which flows in your own well. {I}16_{/}Do not let your fountains 
be wasted elsewhere nor in the public streets. {I}17_{/}They are for 
you alone and not for strangers.
[=]_{I}18_{/}May your fountainhead be blessed and may you find joy in 
the wife of your youth, {I}19_{/}your beautiful hind and graceful 
gazelle! May her breasts be your delight at all times: be always 
in love with her.
{I}20_{/}My son, why be infatuated with an adulteress and embrace a 
strange woman? {I}21_{/}For Yahweh watches the ways of men and he 
observes all their paths.
{I}22_{/}The wicked will be caught in his own evil and remain 
entangled in the nets of his own sin. {I}23_{/}He will die for want of 
discipline and will drown in the rising tide of his own evil.

{1}6{/}

[\u0095]_{I}1_{/}My son, if you have stood bail for your neighbor or 
guaranteed the word of a stranger; {I}2_{/}if you have committed 
yourself with your own lips, know that you have trapped yourself 
with your own words. {I}3_{/}Then do this, my son: release yourself. 
If you  have fallen into the hands of your neighbor, go speedily, 
kneel down and plead with him; {I}4_{/}do not give sleep to your eyes 
or rest to your eyelids. {I}5_{/}Break free, like a gazelle from the 
trap or a bird from the hand.

{N}THE IDLERS AND THE FOOLS{/}

{I}6_{/}You idler, go to the ant, watch her ways and be wise. {I}7_{/}She 
has no master, no steward or overseer. {I}8_{/}She secures food in 
summer and stores up provisions during harvest time.
{I}9_{/}How long, you idler, are you going to lie around? When do you 
intend to rise from sleep? {I}10_{/}A little sleep, a little 
drowsiness and your laziness creeps upon you and then, like a 
tramp, [=]_{I}11_{/}poverty comes, bringing misery like a vagabond.
{R}_{I}12_{/}The villain, the unjust man, goes about with a sneer on his 
lips, {I}13_{/}winking his eye, shuffling his feet and beckoning with 
his finger. {I}14_{/}His heart is deceitful; he is forever plotting 
evil and causing arguments. {I}15_{/}Therefore, disaster will suddenly 
and irrevocably overtake him.
{I}16_{/}There are six things Yahweh hates; seven his inner being 
detests: {I}17_{/}the proud look, the lying tongue, hands which spill 
innocent blood, {I}18_{/}the depraved heart, feet which speed towards 
evil, {I}19_{/}a false and lying witness and the one who sows discord 
among people.
{I}20_{/}My son, respect your father's instruction and do not reject 
your mother's teaching. {I}21_{/}Hold them forever in your heart and 
hang them around your neck. {I}22_{/}These will guard your footsteps, 
protect you when you sleep and speak to you on waking.
{I}23_{/}For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light; 
correction teaches you the way of life.
{I}24_{/}It will protect you from the evil woman, the smooth talking 
of the stranger. {I}25_{/}Do not covet her beauty in your heart or let 
her captivate you with her looks. {I}26_{/}For the prostitute deserves 
a piece of bread but the adulteress hunts after your worthy life.
{I}27_{/}Can you hold fire in your pocket without setting fire to your 
clothes or {I}28_{/}walk on hot coals without burning your feet? 
{R}_{I}29_{/}So it is for the man who approaches his neighbor's wife: all 
who touch her will be punished.
{I}30_{/}One does not condemn the hungry thief who steals to fill his 
stomach; {I}31_{/}nevertheless, if he is caught, he must pay sevenfold 
and give all the goods in his house. {I}32_{/}How senseless is the 
adulterer! Whoever commits adultery destroys himself. {I}33_{/}He will 
reap blows and contempt and  his disgrace will not be erased.
{I}34_{/}Jealousy inflames the husband's heart and when he can take 
revenge he will have no mercy. {I}35_{/}He will accept nothing, 
neither reparation nor lavish gifts.

{1}7{/}

{I}1_{/}My son, keep my words and remain faithful to my commands. 
{I}2_{/}Hold fast to my instruction and you will have life; treasure 
my teachings as the apple of your eye. {I}3_{/}Bind them on your 
fingers, write them on the tablets of your heart. {I}4_{/}Let wisdom 
be your sister and knowledge your friend, {I}5_{/}so that you will be 
saved from the adulterous woman, from the stranger with her 
enticing words.
{I}6_{/}From my window I was looking out through the lattice and {I}7_{/}I 
saw among the young men, an inexperienced youth {I}8_{/}who walked 
along the road near her corner, towards the path to her house. 
{I}9_{/}It was dusk, daylight was fading - the time of darkness and 
shadow. {I}10_{/}And look! Out comes this woman to meet him, dressed 
like a prostitute, covered with a veil.
{I}11_{/}She is brazen and shameless, unable to remain in the house. 
{I}12_{/}Now at the corner, now in the square, she is on the lookout. 
{I}13_{/}She throws herself at him, kisses him and confidently says, 
{I}14_{/}"I have to offer sacrifices and terminate my vows; because of 
this {I}15_{/}I came out to meet you. I sought and found you. {R}_{I}16_{/}I 
have spread on my bed quilts and fine Egyptian sheets and 
{I}17_{/}sprinkled it with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon. {I}18_{/}Come, let 
us abandon ourselves to pleasure and drink our fill of love all 
night, {I}19_{/}for my husband is not at home but away on a long 
journey. {R}_{I}20_{/}He has taken his moneybags and will not return 
before the full moon."
{I}21_{/}She led him astray with such smooth and seductive words.
{I}22_{/}At once he followed her, as an ox led to slaughter or a deer 
caught in a snare [=]_{I}23_{/}until its liver is pierced by an arrow; 
as a bird springs at the snare unaware that its life is at stake.
{I}24_{/}Now then, my sons, listen and pay attention to my words. 
{I}25_{/}Do not be led astray or lose yourself on her paths. {R}_{I}26_{/}For 
she has brought many to their death and the strongest were all her 
victims. {R}_{I}27_{/}Her house leads to hell and death.

{N}WISDOM CALLS{/}

{1}8{/}

[\u0095]_{I}1_{/}Who calls? Is it not Wisdom?
Who lifts up her voice?
{I}2_{/}Is it not Knowledge?
She shouts from the hilltops
and waits by the crossroads;
[=]_{I}3_{/}in the vicinity of the city gates she speaks,
{I}4_{/}"It is you, O men, I address
for my message is directed to all mankind,
{I}5_{/}so that the ignorant may learn
and the thoughtless come to their senses.
{I}6_{/}Listen to me for I speak of vital things
and everything I say is true.
{I}7_{/}Truthful words come from my mouth
and my lips do not lend themselves to evil.
{I}8_{/}All my words are right,
none are twisted or deceitful.

{I}9_{/}The intelligent will verify their truth,
the wise perceive their sincerity.
{I}10_{/}Prefer my teaching to silver
and seek wisdom rather than gold,
{I}11_{/}because wisdom has more value than any jewel
and none of men's desires can equal it.

{I}12_{/}I, Wisdom, dwell with discretion
and count prudence among my friends.
{I}13_{/}The fear of Yahweh is rejection of evil.
I hate all pride, arrogance, wicked ways and lies,
[=]_{I}14_{/}but I love counsel, discretion, prudence and strength.
{R}_{I}15_{/}Kings reign by my power,
their ministers issue just laws;
[=]_{I}16_{/}by me princes govern,
and the great and noble of the earth as well.
{I}17_{/}I love those who love me
and go to meet those who seek me.
{I}18_{/}Riches and honor are with me,
true well-being and upright living.
{I}19_{/}More precious than silver and gold
are my fruit and my yield.
{I}20_{/}I proceed on the path of righteousness
and make use of the ways of justice,
{I}21_{/}giving riches to those who love me,
and filling their cellars.

{N}YAHWEH FORMED ME AT THE BEGINNING{/}

[\u0095]_[=]_{I}22_{/}Yahweh created me first,
at the beginning of his works.
[=]_{I}23_{/}He formed me from of old,
from eternity, even before the earth.
{R}_{I}24_{/}The abyss did not exist when I was born,
the springs of the sea had not gushed forth,
{I}25_{/}the mountains were still not set in their place
nor the hills, when I was born
{I}26_{/}before he made the earth or countryside,
or the first grains of the world's dust.
{I}27_{/}I was there when he made the skies
and drew the earth's compass on the abyss,
{I}28_{/}when he formed the clouds above
and when the springs of the ocean emerged;
[=]_{R}_{I}29_{/}when he made the sea with its limits,
that it might not overflow.
When he laid the foundations of the earth,
{I}30_{/}I was close beside him,
the designer of his works,
and I was his daily delight,
forever playing in his presence,
[=]_{I}31_{/}playing throughout the world
and delighting to be with the sons of men.
{I}32_{/}Now then, my sons, listen to me:
happy are those who follow my ways.
{I}33_{/}Listen to my teaching and gain wisdom;
do not ignore it.
{I}34_{/}Happy are those who listen to me
and wait at my gates every day,
watching, close to my threshold.
{I}35_{/}Those who find me find life:
theirs is Yahweh's blessing.
{R}_{I}36_{/}Those who offend me will undergo affliction;
they hate me for they love death.

{N}WISDOM INVITES TO HER TABLE{/}

{1}9{/}

[\u0095]_{I}1_{/}Wisdom has built her house
set upon seven pillars;
{I}2_{/}she has slaughtered her beasts,
prepared her wine and laid her table.
{I}3_{/}Next, she sent her servants to call
from the central square of the city,
{I}4_{/}"Pass by here, you who are fools."
To the senseless she says,
[=]_{I}5_{/}"Come, eat and drink
of the bread and wine I have prepared.
{I}6_{/}Give up your foolishness and you will live;
take the straight path of discernment."
{I}7_{/}He who corrects a mocker gains insults; and he who reprimands 
an evildoer receives abuse. {I}8_{/}Do not rebuke the mocker lest he 
hate you, but counsel the wise who will be grateful. {R}_{I}9_{/}Give to 
the wise man and he will become wiser each day; teach an upright 
man and he will increase his wisdom.
[=]_{I}10_{/}Fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom and to know the 
Holy One brings discernment. {I}11_{/}Then I will multiply your days 
and increase your years of life. {I}12_{/}If you are wise your wisdom 
will work to your advantage, but if you mock you alone will be 
harmed.
{I}13_{/}Lady Foolishness is impetuous, a simpleton who knows nothing. 
{I}14_{/}She sits at the door of her house, on a throne in the central 
square of the city, {I}15_{/}to invite all passersby, "Come here, 
whoever is ignorant." {I}16_{/}To the foolish she says, {I}17_{/}"Stolen 
waters are sweet and pilfered bread is the tastiest."
{R}_{I}18_{/}But he does not see the Shadow world lying there; nor 
realize that its guests are heading towards the abyss of death.

{C}SECOND PART: THE PROVERBS OF SOLOMON{/}

{1}10{/}

{I}1_{/}A wise son is his father's joy, a foolish one his mother's 
heartbreak.
{R}_{I}2_{/}Treasures wrongfully acquired are of no value but upright 
living saves from death.
{R}_{I}3_{/}Yahweh does not let the upright man go hungry but he denies 
satisfaction to the evildoers.
{I}4_{/}The lazy hand brings poverty; the diligent hand brings wealth.
{R}_{I}5_{/}The prudent man reaps in summer; the one who sleeps at 
harvest time deserves scorn.
{R}_{I}6_{/}Blessings on the head of the upright man! Violence silences 
the cry of the wicked.
{R}_{I}7_{/}The upright man will be remembered with blessings, the name 
of the wicked will rot away.
{R}_{I}8_{/}The sensible man is open to instruction, the chattering fool 
speeds towards ruin.
{I}9_{/}He who behaves honorably will walk safely, but the follower of 
crooked ways will be punished.
{I}10_{/}The wink of an eye brings trouble; but a rebuke wins peace.
{R}_{I}11_{/}The mouth of an upright man is a source of life, but 
violence is concealed in the mouths of evildoers.
[=]_{I}12_{/}Hatred enkindles disputes, love covers over all offenses.
{R}_{I}13_{/}Wisdom is to be found on the lips of the discerning man; the 
stick is for the fool's back.
{R}_{I}14_{/}The wise man stores up learning but the mouth of the fool 
makes way for ruin.
{R}_{I}15_{/}The rich man's fortune is his fortress, the poverty of the 
poor is their undoing.
{R}_{I}16_{/}The virtuous man's toil brings him life, while the sins of 
the evil man destroy him.
{I}17_{/}Respect for discipline is the path of life; he who ignores 
correction is doomed.
{I}18_{/}Hypocritical is he who tolerates hatred; he who slanders is a 
fool.
[=]_{I}19_{/}Sin will not be lacking where too many words are spoken; 
the prudent man controls his tongue.
{R}_{I}20_{/}The upright man's tongue is pure silver, but the hearts of 
evildoers have little value.
{R}_{I}21_{/}The lips of one upright man feed many people while fools die 
for lack of sense.
[=]_{I}22_{/}The blessing of Yahweh brings riches, no effort can 
replace it.
{R}_{I}23_{/}The fool delights in doing evil and the wise man in 
acquiring wisdom.
{R}_{I}24_{/}The evildoer will encounter the evil he dreaded whereas the 
upright man will receive what he looked forward to.
{R}_{I}25_{/}After the storm the wicked man is seen no more, but the 
upright man remains forever.
{R}_{I}26_{/}The lazy man is like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the 
eyes of his master.
{I}27_{/}Fear of Yahweh lengthens one's life, but the years of the 
wicked will be cut short.
{I}28_{/}The hope of the upright ends in happiness but the 
expectations of the wicked come to nothing.
{I}29_{/}The ways of Yahweh are a fortress for the upright but for 
evildoers only ruin.
{R}_{I}30_{/}The virtuous man will never be disturbed but evildoers will 
not survive on the land.
{I}31_{/}Wisdom springs forth from the mouth of the virtuous but the 
corrupt tongue will be torn out. {I}32_{/}Goodness dwells on the lips 
of the upright, corruption in the mouth of the wicked.

{1}11{/}

{I}1_{/}Yahweh detests a false scale but a just weight pleases him.
{I}2_{/}Disgrace always accompanies pride; wisdom resides with the 
humble.
{I}3_{/}Honesty illumines the path of the upright; but the corrupt are 
confounded by their own evil.
{R}_{I}4_{/}On the day of vengeance riches will prove useless but honest 
living will save from death.
{R}_{I}5_{/}The virtuous man's integrity smooths his way, while the 
wicked man falls by his own evil.
{I}6_{/}Upright living saves the virtuous while evildoers are caught 
in their own greed.
{I}7_{/}The hope of the wicked is buried with them and their trust in 
riches is of no avail.
{R}_{I}8_{/}The upright will escape from distress; a wicked man will take 
his place.
{R}_{I}9_{/}The godless man uses his mouth to destroy his neighbor but 
the virtuous use their wisdom to save themselves.
{I}10_{/}The city rejoices in the good fortune of the upright and 
delights in the ruin of the wicked.
{I}11_{/}A city is raised on the blessing of honest men and destroyed 
by the mouth of the wicked.
{R}_{I}12_{/}Whoever mocks his neighbor is a fool; the wise man chooses 
silence.
{R}_{I}13_{/}The gossip reveals secrets, but the trustworthy man keeps a 
secret.
{I}14_{/}Lack of guidance leads to a nation's decline whereas numerous 
counselors bring success.
{I}15_{/}He who stands bail for a stranger harms himself; he who 
avoids going bail will be safe.
{I}16_{/}A gracious woman wins renown, and bold men acquire riches.
{R}_{I}17_{/}The generous man does himself a favor while a cruel man 
wounds his own flesh.
{R}_{I}18_{/}The pay of the wicked is an illusion; while the upright man 
reaps a sure reward.
{R}_{I}19_{/}Upright living leads to life but the way of evil leads to 
death.
{I}20_{/}Yahweh detests the corrupt of heart but loves those whose 
life is upright.
{I}21_{/}Be assured that the wicked will not go unpunished, and the 
sons of the virtuous will be saved.
{I}22_{/}The pretty woman without discretion is like a gold ring in 
the snout of a pig.
{I}23_{/}The upright desire nothing but good; the desires of the 
wicked are in vain.
{I}24_{/}Those who are generous increase their riches; others are 
misers and impoverish themselves.
{R}_{I}25_{/}The warmhearted soul will prosper; he who waters will 
himself be watered.
[=]_{I}26_{/}He who hoards wheat is cursed by the people; blessed is 
he who sells his seeds.
{I}27_{/}Yahweh rewards the one who seeks good; but he who pursues 
evil will be caught by it.
{I}28_{/}He who trusts in riches will stumble; while the upright will 
flourish like leaves.

{I}29_{/}Whoever mismanages his house will inherit only wind; the fool 
will end up a slave of the wise.
{I}30_{/}The fruit of the upright is a tree of life while the wicked 
are uprooted before their time.
{I}31_{/}If here on earth the upright get their due, how much more the 
wicked and the sinner!

{1}12{/}

{I}1_{/}He who loves discipline, loves knowledge; foolish is he who 
rejects correction.
{R}_{I}2_{/}The good man wins the favor of Yahweh who condemns the one of 
evil schemes.
{R}_{I}3_{/}No man is made secure by evil but nothing undermines the 
roots of the upright.
{I}4_{/}A good wife is her husband's crown while the shameless woman 
is like a cancer in his bones.
{I}5_{/}The plans of the upright are honest and the plottings of the 
wicked deceitful.
{I}6_{/}The words of the wicked are mortal snares but the virtuous 
refute and elude them.
{I}7_{/}The evildoers are thrown down and are no more; but the house 
of the virtuous will never crumble.
{I}8_{/}Everyone is praised in proportion to his prudence; while the 
corrupt of heart will be met with contempt.
{R}_{I}9_{/}Better to be a common man and have a servant than to feel 
oneself great and run short of bread.
{R}_{I}10_{/}The upright man looks after his animals but the wicked are 
heartless.
{I}11_{/}He who cultivates the earth will have his fill of bread, 
while the fool chases after illusions.
{I}12_{/}The desires of the wicked produce evil, but the roots of the 
virtuous produce fruit.
{R}_{I}13_{/}The wicked man is entangled in his own lies, but the 
virtuous man will be saved from misfortune.
{I}14_{/}Those who meditates on wisdom will attain all that is good; 
each one is rewarded according to the works of his hands.
{R}_{I}15_{/}The fool considers his way right while the wise man listens 
to advice.
{R}_{I}16_{/}The fool shows his annoyance immediately, but the discreet 
man overlooks an insult.
{I}17_{/}The trustworthy witness leads to the truth, and the liar to 
confusion.
{I}18_{/}The one who speaks thoughtlessly pierces like a sword; but 
the words of the wise bring healing.
{I}19_{/}Truthful words endure forever but lies, for only a moment.
{I}20_{/}Deceit dwells in the heart of the schemer, happiness in those 
who pursue peace.
{I}21_{/}No misfortune will befall the virtuous but the wicked will 
have their fill of troubles.
{I}22_{/}Yahweh hates the lips of liars and loves those who speak the 
truth.
{R}_{I}23_{/}The discreet man conceals his wisdom while fools make public 
their nonsense.
{I}24_{/}The hardworking hand will rule; and the lazy will have to 
obey.
{I}25_{/}Intense grief depresses the heart while a friendly word makes 
it glad.
{R}_{I}26_{/}The just man guides his neighbor while the way of the wicked 
leads them astray.
{I}27_{/}The lazy hand will have no game to cook: being industrious is 
the secret of wealth.
[=]_{R}_{I}28_{/}Life is to be found on the path of virtue, the way of 
the wicked leads to death.

{1}13{/}

{I}1_{/}An intelligent son listens to his father's advice, but a 
mocker listens to no correction.
{R}_{I}2_{/}A man can taste goodness from the fruit of his own mouth, but 
the treacherous feed on violence.
{I}3_{/}He who guards his mouth preserves his life, the constant 
talker is lost.
{R}_{I}4_{/}The lazy man hopes but his desires are in vain, whereas hard 
workers have their desires fulfilled.
{R}_{I}5_{/}The upright man hates lying words but the evildoer slanders 
and defames.
{I}6_{/}Virtue protects men of honest life; while sin brings ruin to 
the wicked.
{I}7_{/}One pretends to be rich but has nothing, another, of great 
wealth, feigns poverty.
[=]_{R}_{I}8_{/}A man's wealth lets him ransom his life but the poor man 
has nothing with which to do so.
{I}9_{/}The light of the virtuous is bright, the lamp of the godless 
is extinguished.
{I}10_{/}Arrogance only brings trouble; wisdom is found in those who 
take advice.
{I}11_{/}Sudden riches will decrease, he who gathers little by little 
will be enriched.
{I}12_{/}Delayed hope makes the heart languish, but desire fulfilled 
is a tree of life.
[=]_{I}13{/}The one who scorns teaching will be in want, those who 
respect the commandment will be rewarded.
[=]_{R}_{I}14_{/}The wise man's teaching is a life-giving fountain for 
escaping the snares of death.
{I}15_{/}Prudent intelligence wins favor, the way of liars leads 
nowhere.
{R}_{I}16_{/}Every prudent man acts with reflection, the fool parades his 
stupidity.
{I}17_{/}A wicked messenger falls on misfortune, the reliable one 
brings healing.
{I}18_{/}Poverty and shame to the one who rejects correction; honor to 
him who accepts rebuke.
{R}_{I}19_{/}Desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul; but fools spurn 
rejection of evil.
{I}20_{/}Walk with the wise and you will gain wisdom; those who 
befriend fools become wicked.
{I}21_{/}Misfortune hounds the sinner, while the upright abound in 
good fortune.
{R}_{I}22_{/}A good man's inheritance is for his children's children, a 
sinner's wealth will be kept for the virtuous.
{I}23_{/}The tillage of the poor supplies food, while others perish 
because of their lack of righteousness.
{I}24_{/}Unloved is the child whom the father hates to punish; the 
loving father frequently corrects.
{R}_{I}25_{/}The upright man eats his fill, while the stomach of the 
wicked goes hungry.

{1}14{/}

{I}1_{/}Wisdom builds her house, foolishness destroys it with her own 
hands.
{I}2_{/}Upright living is fear of Yahweh, but he who is devious in his 
ways scorns him.
{R}_{I}3_{/}From the fool's mouth comes the rod of his pride, the wise 
man's lips protect him.
{I}4_{/}Where there's no oxen, there's no wheat, in the oxen's 
strength there's abundant harvest.
{I}5_{/}The truthful witness does not lie; the false witness breathes 
deceit.
{R}_{I}6_{/}The mocker searches for wisdom in vain; knowledge comes 
easily to the discreet man.
{I}7_{/}Keep away from the fool for you will find no wisdom in his 
words.
{R}_{I}8_{/}The wisdom of the discreet man lies in guarding his conduct, 
but the foolishness of fools is full of deceit.
{I}9_{/}Fools never make amends, while goodwill dwells among the 
upright.
{I}10_{/}The heart understands its own grief; no stranger can share in 
its joy.
{I}11_{/}The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of 
the upright will stand firm.
{R}_{I}12_{/}To one, his way appears correct, but in the end it leads to 
death.
{I}13_{/}The heart feels pain in the midst of laughter, and joy ends 
in sorrow.
{R}_{I}14_{/}The reckless man reaps the fruit of his ways; the good man 
will earn reward.
{R}_{I}15_{/}The simpleton believes all he's told, the prudent man 
watches his step.
{R}_{I}16_{/}The wise man fears and avoids evil, the fool goes near and 
feels safe.
{R}_{I}17_{/}The angry man does foolish things, the crafty man makes 
himself hated.
{I}18_{/}Foolishness is the inheritance of fools, the prudent choose 
wisdom as their crown.
{I}19_{/}The wicked shall kneel before the good, and the godless, 
before the gates of the virtuous.
{R}_{I}20_{/}The poor man is detestable even to his neighbor while the 
rich man has many friends.
{I}21_{/}A sinner is he who looks down on his neighbor, happy is he 
who shows pity to the poor.
{I}22_{/}Does evil plotting not lead to ruin? Do goodness and 
sincerity not belong to those devoted to good?
{I}23_{/}Hard work yields a profit but the idler brings misfortune.
{R}_{I}24_{/}Wealth is the wise man's crown, foolishness the diadem of 
fools.
{I}25_{/}A truthful witness saves lives; he who lies will be lost.
{I}26_{/}There is great security in the fear of Yahweh, his sons find 
refuge in him.
{R}_{I}27_{/}The fear of Yahweh is a life-giving fountain for escaping 
the snares of death.
{R}_{I}28_{/}Numerous people are a king's glory; lack of subjects ruins a 
prince.
{R}_{I}29_{/}The discerning man is slow to anger, the impatient one 
displays stupidity.
{I}30_{/}A peaceful heart is the body's life but the passions are a 
cancer in the bones.
{I}31_{/}Oppression of the weak insults their creator, he is honored 
by those who have compassion on the needy.
{R}_{I}32_{/}The evildoer is overthrown by his own evil, the upright man 
feels safe up to death.
{I}33_{/}Wisdom resides in the heart of the discerning; who ever sees 
her among fools?
{I}34_{/}Virtue makes a nation great; the sinner disgraces a people.
{R}_{I}35_{/}The clever servant enjoys the king's favor but the fool has 
to suffer his anger.

{1}15{/}

{R}_{I}1_{/}A kind answer soothes anger; while a cutting word increases 
wrath. 
{I}2_{/}The tongue of the wise speaks knowledge, but the mouth of 
fools spreads stupidity.
{I}3_{/}The eyes of Yahweh are everywhere, watching the good and the 
evil.
{I}4_{/}The pacifying tongue is a tree of life, while the viper's 
tongue destroys the heart.
{I}5_{/}Paternal correction is scorned by the fool, but the one who 
listens shows discretion.
{I}6_{/}Abundance resides in the house of the virtuous, but disgrace 
descends on the profits of the wicked.
{I}7_{/}Wise men's lips sow knowledge whereas the fool's thoughts are 
not safe.
{R}_{I}8_{/}Yahweh detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but listens to 
the prayer of the honest man.
{I}9_{/}Yahweh abhors the conduct of the wicked but loves him who 
seeks virtue.
{I}10_{/}Correct severely him who strays from the way; whoever hates 
being rebuked will die.
{I}11_{/}Yahweh sees into hell and the abyss; how much more into the 
hearts of the sons of men!
{I}12_{/}The mocker does not like being reprimanded; he does not go to 
the wise.
{I}13{/}A glad heart brightens the face, a sad one weighs down the 
spirit.
{I}14_{/}A discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of fools 
feeds on stupidity.
{I}15_{/}Every day is evil to the afflicted one; while the happy heart 
is always feasting.
[=]_{I}16_{/}Better to have little but fear the Lord than to have a 
fortune accompanied by anxiety.
{I}17_{/}Better to have vegetables where there is love than to have a 
fattened ox with nothing but hatred.
{R}_{I}18_{/}The hotheaded man provokes disputes, while the one slow to 
anger reconciles differences.
{R}_{I}19_{/}The way of the lazy man is strewn with thorns, but the path 
of hard workers is a spacious road.
{R}_{I}20_{/}The wise son is his father's joy, the foolish man despises 
his mother.
{R}_{I}21_{/}Foolishness appeals to the man with no sense but the 
discerning man goes on his way.
{I}22_{/}Plans fall through for lack of deliberation; a multitude of 
counselors ensures success.
{I}23_{/}Happy is he who knows how to answer. Welcome indeed is the 
apt word!
{R}_{I}24_{/}To the discerning man, the way of life leads upward; he will 
be saved from the place of darkness below.
[=]_{I}25_{/}Yahweh tears down the house of the proud, but he 
strengthens the widow's boundaries.
{I}26_{/}Yahweh detests corrupt designs but words of goodness are 
pleasing to him.
[=]_{I}27_{/}He who craves dishonest gain brings trouble on his house; 
he who accepts no tempting bribes will live.
{R}_{I}28_{/}The man of upright heart thinks before he speaks, the mouth 
of the wicked pours out evil.
{I}29_{/}Yahweh stays far away from the wicked but hears the prayer of 
the virtuous.
{I}30_{/}A kind look delights the heart, good news revives one's 
strength.
{I}31_{/}The ear which listens to helpful correction is found among 
the wise.
{I}32_{/}He who ignores correction despises himself, he who heeds the 
reprimand acquires discernment.
{I}33_{/}The fear of Yahweh is a school of wisdom; humility precedes 
praise.

{1}16{/}

{R}_{I}1_{/}Man's heart makes plans but it is Yahweh who answers.
{I}2_{/}Although people are satisfied with all of their deeds Yahweh 
considers the motives.
{I}3_{/}Entrust all you do to Yahweh and your plans will be realized.
{I}4_{/}Yahweh made everything for a purpose, even the evildoer for 
the day of punishment.
{I}5_{/}Yahweh hates the arrogant heart; you can be sure it will not 
go unpunished.
{I}6_{/}With goodness and faithfulness you atone for your sin; with 
fear of Yahweh you may turn away from evil.
{R}_{I}7_{/}When Yahweh is pleased with a man's conduct, he reconciles 
even his enemies with him.
{I}8_{/}Better to have little but be just than to have a great income 
without honesty.
{R}_{I}9_{/}Man's heart seeks the right way but it is Yahweh who makes 
his footsteps sure.
{R}_{I}10_{/}The lips of the king utter oracles; he will not be mistaken 
when he judges.
{I}11_{/}Yahweh demands a just balance and scales; the weights are the 
work of his hands.
{R}_{I}12_{/}Kings who do evil are an abomination; it is justice that 
supports the kingship.
{R}_{I}13_{/}He who judges according to justice wins the king's favor, 
honest men are pleasing to him.
[=]_{R}_{I}14_{/}The king's anger is a messenger of death but the wise 
man knows how to appease him.
{R}_{I}15_{/}The king's serene countenance means life, his favor is like 
the spring rain.
{I}16_{/}Better to have acquired wisdom rather than gold, discernment 
rather than silver.
{R}_{I}17_{/}The way of the honest man is to turn away from evil; he who 
watches his steps keeps his life safe.
{R}_{I}18_{/}Pride goes before destruction, an arrogant spirit before a 
fall.
{I}19_{/}Better be humble among the lowly than share loot with the 
proud.
{I}20_{/}He who listens to the word will find happiness; blessed is he 
who trusts in Yahweh.
{I}21_{/}He whose heart is wise will be proclaimed discerning; 
moderate speech brings knowledge.
{R}_{I}22_{/}Good sense is a life-giving fountain to those who possess 
it, foolishness is the punishment of fools.
{R}_{I}23_{/}The wise man's heart keeps guard over his mouth, making his 
words more effective.
{R}_{I}24_{/}Kind words are like a honeycomb: sweet to the spirit and 
healthy to the body.
{R}_{I}25_{/}To one, his way seems honest, but ultimately it leads to 
death.
{I}26_{/}The worker's appetite works to his benefit; the need to eat 
spurs him on.
[=]_{I}27_{/}The troublemaker prepares disgrace, a scorching fire is 
on his lips.
{I}28_{/}The scoundrel stirs up trouble; his critical comments split 
up friends.
{R}_{I}29_{/}A violent man deceives his neighbor and leads him along a 
path that is not good.
{I}30_{/}He who closes his eyes and purses his lips to plot deceit 
already commits evil.
[=]_{I}31_{/}White hairs are a magnificent crown for the one who has 
followed the path of virtue.
{R}_{I}32_{/}The patient man is to be preferred to the hero; better the 
man who masters himself than the conqueror of cities.
{I}33_{/}Fate is thrown in the bag but the decision depends on Yahweh.

{1}17{/}

{I}1_{/}Better a crust of dry bread in peace than the discord of a 
house full of feasting.
{I}2_{/}A shrewd servant will replace the foolish son of the master 
and will share the inheritance as one of the brothers.
{I}3_{/}A crucible for silver and a furnace for gold but Yahweh is the 
tester of hearts.
{I}4_{/}The evil plotter listens to the lips of liars; and the liar 
gives an ear to the corrupt tongue.
{I}5_{/}He who mocks the poor insults their Creator, he who laughs at 
the deprived will not go unpunished.
{I}6_{/}The crown of the aged is their children's children, the 
children's glory is their father.
{I}7_{/}Noble language does not suit the fool and even less do lies 
suit a prince.
{I}8_{/}The giver of gifts possesses a treasure, wherever he goes he 
will succeed.
{I}9_{/}Whoever covers over a fault promotes friendships, but he who 
reveals a word divides friends.
{R}_{I}10_{/}A discerning man is more impressed by a reprimand than a 
fool is by a hundred lashes.
{R}_{I}11_{/}The wicked man seeks nothing but rebellion; a cruel 
messenger will be sent against him.
{I}12_{/}It is better to meet with a bear deprived of her cubs than 
with a fool in his foolishness.
{I}13_{/}He who repays good with evil will not rid his house of evil.
{I}14_{/}To begin legal proceedings is like opening a dam; withdraw 
before the dispute erupts.
{I}15_{/}To excuse the guilty and condemn the just: both are 
detestable to Yahweh.
{I}16_{/}What good is money in a fool's hand? How can he buy wisdom? 
He has no sense.
{I}17_{/}A friend will love you at all times, a brother has been born 
to you for times of adversity.
{I}18_{/}He who is full of promises and goes bail for his neighbor has 
no sense.
{R}_{I}19_{/}The sinner loves disputes, the man of arrogant words hastens 
his own ruin.
{R}_{I}20_{/}The man of double-dealing does not find happiness, the sly 
tongue falls into disgrace.
{I}21_{/}He who fathers a fool has acquired misery, there is no joy 
for a fool's father.
{R}_{I}22_{/}A joyful heart gives health to the body, while a sad spirit 
dries up the bones.
{R}_{I}23_{/}The corrupt man takes bribes to pervert the course of 
justice.
{R}_{I}24_{/}The discerning man keeps wisdom before his eyes; the fool's 
eyes are on every corner of the world.
{I}25_{/}The foolish son is a worry to his father and distress to her 
who gave him birth.
{I}26_{/}It is not right to fine the upright; the noble ought not to 
be beaten.
{R}_{I}27_{/}The prudent of speech are wise; he who keeps his temper is 
an educated man.
{R}_{I}28_{/}Then the fool, if silent, can pass as wise; the clever man 
keeps his lips sealed.

{1}18{/}

{I}1_{/}He who holds himself aloof follows his own whims and is 
annoyed at others' advice.
{I}2_{/}The fool does not relish reflection but only the airing of his 
own views.
{I}3_{/}When the wicked come, scorn also comes, and offense brings 
shame.
{R}_{I}4_{/}Man's words are like deep waters; an overflowing torrent is 
the fountain of wisdom.
{I}5_{/}It is not good to give consideration to the wicked or to harm 
the virtuous when giving judgment.
{I}6_{/}The fool's lips cause disputes and his mouth attracts blows.
{I}7_{/}The fool's mouth is his undoing; his lips will ensnare his 
life.
{I}8_{/}The gossiper's words are tasty mouthfuls which go right to the 
bottom of the stomach.
{I}9_{/}He who dawdles at work is a brother of the destroyer.
{I}10_{/}Yahweh's name is a strong tower, the virtuous rely on it and 
are safe.
{R}_{I}11_{/}The rich man's wealth is his fortress; he relies on it as on 
a high wall.
{I}12_{/}Before its downfall, the heart is wrapped in pride; while 
humility goes before honor.
{I}13_{/}To argue before listening to the facts shows stupidity which 
leads to disgrace.
{R}_{I}14_{/}The spirit of man sustains him when ill but who will lift 
the one of broken spirit?
{I}15_{/}The discerning heart obtains wisdom, the ear of the wise 
searches out knowledge.
{I}16_{/}A present opens all doors to you and brings you into the 
company of the powerful.
{I}17_{/}The first to plead his case seems to be right, but his 
opponent appears and there is matter for trial.
{I}18_{/}Casting lots terminates disputes and decides between the 
powerful.
{I}19_{/}A brother who is helped is more steadfast than a{I}_{/}fortress 
but quarrels are like the bars of a castle.
{R}_{I}20_{/}A man is filled with what comes from his mouth and is 
nourished by what his lips provide.
{R}_{I}21_{/}The tongue has power over life and death, those who like 
speaking will eat its fruit.
{I}22_{/}He who finds a wife finds happiness, he has won Yahweh's 
favor.
{R}_{I}23_{/}The poor man pleads, while the rich man responds harshly.
{I}24_{/}Some friends only bring ruin, others are closer than a 
brother.

{1}19{/}

{R}_{I}1_{/}Better the poor man who lives honestly than the fool who 
lies.
{I}2_{/}It is bad for men not to reflect, and acting too quickly can 
lead one astray.
{R}_{I}3_{/}A man spoils his chances through his own stupidity but it is 
against Yahweh that his heart rages.
{R}_{I}4_{/}Wealth multiplies friends, but the poor man is deprived of 
his only friend.
{I}5_{/}The false witness will not go unpunished, the liar will not 
escape.
{R}_{I}6_{/}Many are the flatterers of the noble man, the whole world is 
a friend to the rich man.
{R}_{I}7_{/}A poor man is hated by all his brothers, and even more so do 
his friends desert him. He searches for someone to talk to but 
finds no one.
{I}8_{/}He who acquires wisdom loves himself, he who respects 
knowledge will be happy.
{I}9_{/}The false witness will not go unpunished, the liar will 
perish.
[=]_{I}10_{/}It is not good that a fool live luxuriously, still less 
that a slave command princes.
{R}_{I}11_{/}A clever man is slow to anger; his glory lies in forgetting 
offenses.
{R}_{I}12_{/}The angry king is like a roaring lion but his favor is like 
the dew on the grass.
{I}13_{/}The foolish son is the ruination of his father; the nagging 
wife is like a dripping gutter.
[=]_{I}14_{/}House and wealth are inherited from a father but a 
sensible wife is a gift from Yahweh.
{R}_{I}15_{/}Laziness makes a man fall asleep, the idler will go hungry.
{I}16_{/}He who keeps the commandment keeps his life; he who despises 
it dies.
{I}17_{/}He who shows compassion to the poor lends to Yahweh, who will 
repay his good deed.
{R}_{I}18_{/}Correct your son as long as there is hope, lest you be 
responsible for his death.
{R}_{I}19_{/}The violent man leaves himself open to a fine; if you spare 
him he will continue.
{I}20_{/}Listen to counsel and accept correction, and you will be wise 
in the end.
{I}21_{/}Plans abound in the human heart but only Yahweh's purpose 
will be realized.
{R}_{I}22_{/}Goodness is attractive in a person; better a poor man than a 
liar.
{I}23_{/}Love of Yahweh leads you to life; you will have your fill and 
live without fear.
{R}_{I}24_{/}The lazy man dips his hand in the dish but he cannot even 
lift it to his mouth.
{R}_{I}25_{/}Punish the mocker and the ignorant will be more careful; 
rebuke a discerning man and he will listen to reason.
{I}26_{/}He who dispossesses his father and evicts his mother is a 
shameful and degenerate son.
{I}27_{/}My son, listen to instruction and stop straying from the 
words of wisdom.
{I}28_{/}An unworthy witness makes a mockery of justice; the mouth of 
the wicked feeds on evil.
{I}29_{/}Punishments were made for mockers and blows, for the backs of 
fools.

{1}20{/}

{I}1_{/}Wine leads to vulgarity and strong drink, to bravado; he who 
strays in it will never be wise.
{R}_{I}2_{/}The angry king is like a roaring lion; whoever provokes him 
risks his life.
{R}_{I}3_{/}It is good for man to avoid quarrels; it is the fool who does 
not master himself.
{I}4_{/}Autumn is over, yet the fool does no work; come the harvest, 
he searches and finds nothing.
{R}_{I}5_{/}Counsel is like deep water in the heart, the discerning man 
has only to draw it out.
{R}_{I}6_{/}Many are called good but where can the trustworthy man be 
found?
{R}_{I}7_{/}The upright man who works honestly will make his sons happy 
after him.
{R}_{I}8_{/}The king who sits in judgment discovers evil at a single 
glance.
[=]_{I}9_{/}Who can say, "I have purified my heart, I am cleansed from 
sin?"
{I}10_{/}The crooked measure and scales - these are the things that 
Yahweh detests.
{I}11_{/}The child reveals himself in his deeds: whether his actions 
are honest and upright.
[=]_{I}12_{/}The ear that hears, the eye that sees, Yahweh has made 
them both.
{I}13_{/}Do not love sleep lest you become poor; keep your eyes open 
and you will have your fill of bread.
{I}14_{/}"No good, no good," says the buyer but off he goes 
congratulating himself.
{I}15_{/}Although you have gold and abundance of pearls, the most 
valuable adornment is lips which speak wisely.
{I}16_{/}Get rid of his clothes because he has stood bail for a 
stranger; arrest him for the profit of those unknown!
{I}17_{/}Stolen bread tastes good but later on your mouth is full of 
sand.
{I}18_{/}Plans take shape, thanks to advice; do battle, then, with 
wise strategies.
{I}19_{/}The gossiper reveals secrets; have nothing to do with 
chatterers.
{I}20_{/}Whoever curses his father and mother will see his lamp 
extinguished in the midst of darkness.
{I}21_{/}Advantage hastily gained in the beginning will not be blessed 
in the long run.
{I}22_{/}Never say, "I will take revenge." Trust in Yahweh; he will 
save you.
{I}23_{/}Yahweh detests false weights; it does no good to have false 
scales.
{R}_{I}24_{/}Yahweh directs a man's steps, who can know where his way 
leads?
[=]_{I}25_{/}It is dangerous to make hasty promises to Yahweh and only 
then reflect on them.
{R}_{I}26_{/}A king throws evildoers to the wind and runs the thresher 
over them.
[=]_{R}_{I}27_{/}Man's spirit is Yahweh's lamp which searches the hidden 
places of the heart.
[=]_{R}_{I}28_{/}Goodness and loyalty keep guard over the king; his 
throne stands due to goodness.
{I}29_{/}Energy is the adornment of youth, white hair the dignity of 
age.
{I}30_{/}Bleeding wounds purify evil, blows bring healing to the inner 
self.

{1}21{/}

{R}_{I}1_{/}In the hands of Yahweh, the heart of the king is like running 
water; he directs it wherever he wishes.
[=]_{R}_{I}2_{/}To the eyes of man all his ways are honest but it is 
Yahweh who weighs the heart.
{R}_{I}3_{/}To do what is upright and just pleases Yahweh more than 
sacrifice.
{I}4_{/}Haughty looks, proud heart, the light of the wicked is sin.
{R}_{I}5_{/}The plans of a hardworking man result in earnings; poverty is 
for those who act too hastily.
{R}_{I}6_{/}To make a fortune by means of deceit is like running after 
the wind; the end is death.
{I}7_{/}The violence of the wicked carries them away because they 
refuse to practice justice.
{R}_{I}8_{/}The way of the criminal is devious; but honest are the ways 
of the innocent man.
{I}9_{/}Better the corner of a barn to live in than a house shared 
with a raging woman.
{R}_{I}10_{/}The soul of the wicked desires nothing but evil; not even 
his friend is treated with compassion.
{R}_{I}11_{/}When the mocker is punished the ignorant man grows wise; 
when the wise man is instructed he grows in knowledge.
{R}_{I}12_{/}The Just One watches the house of the evildoer and hurls the 
wicked into misfortune.
{R}_{I}13_{/}He who is deaf to the poor man's cry will not be heard when 
he himself calls out.
{I}14_{/}A discreet gift pacifies anger, a bribe diverts violent rage.
{I}15_{/}Upright men are glad when justice reigns but evildoers 
tremble.
{I}16_{/}He who departs from the ways of prudence will sleep in the 
assembly of the Shades.
{I}17_{/}Pleasure-lovers remain poor, he who loves wine and perfume 
will never grow rich.
{R}_{I}18_{/}The wicked man will pay for the virtuous and the treacherous 
man, for the honest.
{I}19_{/}Better to live in a deserted place than with a raging and 
abusive woman.
{R}_{I}20_{/}There is oil and precious treasure in the wise man's house, 
things which the fool squanders.
{I}21_{/}He who seeks justice and mercy will gain life, prosperity and 
honor.
[=]_{R}_{I}22_{/}The wise man conquers a city of warriors and tears down 
the walls they trust in.
{I}23_{/}He who keeps guard over his mouth and tongue saves himself 
from anguish.
{I}24_{/}"Mocker" is the name of the arrogant and haughty, he in whom 
pride abounds.
{R}_{I}25_{/}The idler's desires lead him to death because his hands 
refuse to work. {R}_{I}26_{/}He covets all day long while the upright man 
gives without stinting.
{R}_{I}27_{/}Yahweh detests the sacrifice of the wicked, above all when 
they offer it for an unjust cause.
{I}28_{/}The lying witness will perish but he who listens wisely will 
be given time to speak.
{R}_{I}29_{/}The wicked man tries to appear firm and table while the 
honest man confirms his way.
{I}30_{/}No wisdom, prudence or advice can withstand the look of 
Yahweh.
[=]_{I}31_{/}The horse is equipped for the day of battle but it is 
Yahweh who gives the victory.

{1}22{/}

{I}1_{/}A good name is better than great wealth; fame is preferable to 
silver or gold.
[=]_{I}2_{/}Rich and poor have something in common, Yahweh has made 
them all.
{R}_{I}3_{/}The discreet man foresees disgrace and hides, the ignorant 
keep going at their own expense.
{I}4_{/}The reward of humility is fear of Yahweh, wealth, honor and 
life.
{I}5_{/}The path of the wicked is paved with thorns and traps, he who 
loves his life will keep his distance.
[=]_{I}6_{/}Teach a child the way he should go, he will not stray from 
it while he lives.
{R}_{I}7_{/}The rich man lords it over the poor, the borrower is the 
moneylender's slave.
{I}8_{/}Whoever sows injustice reaps disaster; the power of the wicked 
will be broken.
{R}_{I}9_{/}The warmhearted man will be blessed since he shares his bread 
with the poor.
{I}10_{/}Throw out the mocker and the dispute will cease, fighting and 
insults will end.
{R}_{I}11_{/}He who loves purity of heart and speaks sensibly will find a 
friend in the king.
{R}_{I}12_{/}Yahweh's look protects the wise man and discredits the words 
of the liar.
{R}_{I}13_{/}The lazy man says, "There is a lion outside, he will kill me 
in the street."
{I}14_{/}The adulterous woman's mouth is a deep pit, he whom Yahweh 
wishes to punish will fall into it.
{I}15_{/}The heart of the child is naturally foolish, the beating of 
instruction will cure it.
{I}16_{/}When you oppress the poor, you make them grow; when you give 
to the rich, you waste everything.

{N}THE PROVERBS OF THE WISE{/}

{I}17_{/}Give ear, listen to the words of the wise and apply yourself 
to understanding them, {I}18_{/}because it will be your delight to 
keep them deep within you, to have them always ready on your lips.
{I}19_{/}I wish now to teach you, so that you will place your trust in 
Yahweh. {I}20_{/}Have I not written for you thirty chapters of advice 
and knowledge {I}21_{/}so that you may recognize the truth and be able 
to answer rightly him who sent you?
{R}_{I}22_{/}Do not take from the poor man just because he is poor or 
condemn the one in misfortune, {I}23_{/}because Yahweh will intercede 
for them and will carry off the life of their oppressors.
{R}_{I}24_{/}Do not befriend the angry man or be a companion to the one 
of rage, {I}25_{/}for fear you adopt their ways and lose your life in 
their midst.
{I}26_{/}Do not be one of those who undertake a commitment and act as 
guarantor of debts; {I}27_{/}if you cannot pay, they will take from 
you the very bed in which you sleep.
[=]_{I}28_{/}Do not move the ancient boundaries established by your 
forefathers.
{R}_{I}29_{/}You see a clever man at work? He will enter the service of 
kings; he will not stay in the service of people of no renown.

{1}23{/}

{R}_{I}1_{/}If you sit at a table with a great man, beware of what is in 
front of you; {I}2_{/}if your appetite is too great, put a knife to 
your throat. {I}3_{/}Do not greedily desire his fine food for it is 
deceptive nourishment.
{I}4_{/}Do not wear yourself out trying to be rich, do not dwell on 
it. {I}5_{/}Set your eyes on wealth and it no longer exists; it 
sprouts wings and flies into the sky like an eagle.
{R}_{I}6_{/}Do not eat with the wicked man or be greedy for his choice 
food. {I}7_{/}All is appearance, for he plots in his heart. "Eat and 
drink," he says but he is not to be trusted. {I}8_{/}You will spit it 
out as soon as it is tasted and your words of praise will be 
wasted.
{I}9_{/}Do not speak with a fool; he will not be able to appreciate 
your remarks.
{I}10_{/}Do not move the ancient boundaries or take possession of the 
orphan's land because his Avenger is powerful; {I}11_{/}he will take 
sides against you.
{I}12_{/}Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of 
wisdom.
{I}13_{/}Do not hold back from correcting a youth; the rod will not 
kill him. {R}_{I}14_{/}With several strokes, you save him from death.
{I}15_{/}My son, if your heart is wise, then my own heart is glad, 
{I}16_{/}and my whole being will rejoice when you speak the truth.
{I}17_{/}Do not envy sinners but, each day, fear Yahweh; then you will 
have a future and {I}18_{/}your hope will not be in vain.
{I}19_{/}Listen, my son, and you will be wise and you will make your 
heart go straight on its way.
{I}20_{/}Do not be one of those who get drunk with wine or who stuff 
themselves with meat, {I}21_{/}since the drunkard and the glutton 
impoverish themselves and the sleepyhead is clothed in rags.
{I}22_{/}Listen to your father who begot you; do not despise your 
mother in her old age.
{I}23_{/}Acquire truth and never sell it; gain wisdom, discipline and 
discernment.
{R}_{I}24_{/}Happy the father of a virtuous man! How he will rejoice, 
{R}_{I}25_{/}he who fathers a wise man! May your father and mother 
rejoice and may she who bore you be glad.
{I}26_{/}My son, give me your heart, that your eyes may delight in my 
ways. {I}27_{/}You should know that the prostitute is a deep abyss and 
the unknown woman a narrow well. {I}28_{/}Like a thief she lies in 
wait and she increases the sinners among men.
{I}29_{/}For whom are the cries and laments? For whom the complaints 
and sighs? For whom the blows without reason? For whom the eyes 
which see double?
{I}30_{/}For those who abandon themselves to wine and go in search of 
the well-blended wine. {R}_{I}31_{/}Do not consider the wine: how red it 
is and how sparkling the glass! How smoothly it flows!
{R}_{I}32_{/}In the end, it bites like a snake and stings like a viper. 
{I}33_{/}Your eyes will see strange things and you will end up 
speaking nonsense. {R}_{I}34_{/}You will be like a man asleep on the high 
seas or at the rudder: "They hit me but I am not hurt. {I}35_{/}They 
beat me but I feel nothing. When will I wake up? I will go in 
search of more."

{1}24{/}

{I}1_{/}Do not envy the wicked or desire their company, {I}2_{/}for their 
hearts dream only of violence and their lips speak nothing but 
evil.
{I}3_{/}With wisdom a house is built. {I}4_{/}It is strengthened by 
prudence. Its granaries are filled by knowledge with all that is 
good, precious and desirable.
{R}_{I}5_{/}The wise man is powerful; the one of knowledge adds to his 
strength. [=]_{I}6_{/}Because of this, he goes into battle with wise 
plans, since success depends on many advisers.
{I}7_{/}Wisdom is beyond the reach of the fool; let him not open his 
mouth in the assembly.
{I}8_{/}The plotter of evil is called an unscrupulous mastermind.
{I}9_{/}The fool dreams only of sin, the mocker deserves only 
contempt.
{I}10_{/}If you lose heart when misfortune comes, miserable is your 
strength.
{I}11_{/}Rescue those who are being carried away to die; save those 
who are being dragged away to torture. [=]_{R}_{I}12_{/}Afterwards you 
will say, "We did not know." But he who weighs the heart, does he 
not understand? He who watches over the soul is aware and he will 
give to each one according to his deeds.
{I}13_{/}Eat honey, my son, because it is good; the honeycomb is sweet 
to the taste. {R}_{I}14_{/}So also will wisdom be to your soul. If you 
find it, you have a future and your hope will not be in vain.
{R}_{I}15_{/}Evildoer, do not spy on the house of the virtuous man, do 
not disturb his home. {R}_{I}16_{/}Because even though the virtuous man 
falls seven times, he gets up again, while the wicked sink in 
their adversity.
{I}17_{/}Do not rejoice if your enemy falls or let your heart be glad 
if he stumbles, [=]_{I}18_{/}lest Yahweh see and be displeased and his 
anger be turned on you.
{I}19_{/}Do not be incensed by the wicked or envious of the ungodly, 
{I}20_{/}since there is no future in evil and the lamp of the wicked 
will be extinguished.
{R}_{I}21_{/}Fear Yahweh and the king, my son; make no deals with 
agitators, {I}22_{/}for disaster will befall them without warning and 
who knows when their ruin will come?

{N}OTHER PROVERBS OF THE WISE{/}

{R}_{I}23_{/}It is not good for judges to show partiality. People curse 
and nations hate him {R}_{I}24_{/}who says to the wicked man, "You are 
just." {I}25_{/}But those who punish the evildoer can boast; blessing 
and happiness will be theirs.
{I}26_{/}An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.
{I}27_{/}Finish your work out-of-doors and plan your work in the 
fields; afterwards, you can think of building your house.
{I}28_{/}Do not lightly bear witness against your neighbor lest you 
lie.
{I}29_{/}Do not say, "I will do to him what he did to me; I will repay 
him for his deeds."
{R}_{I}30_{/}I passed by the lazy man's field, near the vineyard of the 
senseless man. {I}31_{/}Everywhere it was full of weeds; thistles 
covered the ground and the stonewall was fallen apart. {I}32_{/}Seeing 
all this, I reflected and drew this lesson from what I saw. {I}33_{/}A 
little sleep, a little drowsiness and {I}34_{/}your laziness creeps 
upon you and then, like a tramp, poverty comes, bringing misery 
like a vagabond.

{N}SOLOMON'S PROVERBS{/}

{1}25{/}

{R}_{I}1_{/}These are also Proverbs of Solomon, recorded in the time of 
Heze- kiah, king of Judah.
{R}_{I}2_{/}The glory of God is in hiding secrets and the glory of the 
king, in revealing them. {R}_{I}3_{/}As high as the skies, as deep as the 
earth, such is the heart of kings.
{I}4_{/}Remove the impurity from silver and it will become a vessel in 
the hands of the silversmith. {R}_{I}5_{/}Remove the wicked from the 
king's presence and he will affirm his power through justice.
{R}_{I}6_{/}Do not boast before the king or put yourself among the great. 
[=]_{I}7_{/}It would be better to be invited, "Come up here," than to 
be humiliated after having seen the prince.
{I}8_{/}Do not be too hasty in accusing your neighbor for what would 
happen to you should he confound you?
{I}9_{/}Defend your case against your neighbor but do not reveal the 
secret of another, {I}10_{/}lest he overhear it and despise you and 
your reputation be lost.
{I}11_{/}An opportune word is like golden apples encased in silver. 
{R}_{I}12_{/}A gold ring or an ornament of fine gold, such is the wise 
man's rebuke to a responsive person.
{R}_{I}13_{/}The trustworthy messenger is like the coolness of snow at 
harvest time, to him who sends him: he revives the soul of his 
master.

{I}14_{/}Clouds and wind but no rain, such is the one who promises but 
does not fulfill.
{I}15_{/}With a little patience you will persuade the judge; a soft 
tongue can break bones.
{I}16_{/}If you find honey, eat enough but not too much, lest you 
bring it up again.
{I}17_{/}Go rarely to your neighbor's house lest he tire of you and 
grow to hate you.
{I}18_{/}A mace, a sword, a keen arrow: such is the one who lies about 
his neighbor.
{I}19_{/}A decaying tooth, a lame foot, such is the trust put in the 
ungodly on the day of trouble.
{I}20_{/}Singing songs to a grieving person is like taking off your 
cloak in frosty weather or pouring vinegar into a wound.
{I}21_{/}If your enemy is hungry give him something to eat, if 
thirsty, something to drink; [=]_{R}_{I}22_{/}thus you pile up red-hot 
coals on his head and Yahweh will reward you.
{I}23_{/}As the north wind brings the rain, so{I}_{/}the gossiping tongue 
leaves angry faces.
{I}24_{/}Better the corner of a barn to live in than a house shared 
with a whimsical woman.
{R}_{I}25_{/}Good news from a distant country is like cool water to a dry 
throat.
{R}_{I}26_{/}A churning river or a polluted spring is like the virtuous 
man who trembles before the evildoer.
{I}27_{/}It is not good to eat too much honey and even less good to be 
greedy for honors.
{R}_{I}28_{/}The man who cannot contain his anger is like an open city, 
without defenses.

{1}26{/}

{I}1_{/}Honors do not suit the fool any more than snow in summer and 
rain at harvest.
{I}2_{/}The sparrow escapes, the swallow flies off, so the motiveless 
curse will have no effect.
{I}3_{/}A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, a stick for the 
backs of fools.
{I}4_{/}Do not answer the stupidity of fools lest you become like 
them.
{I}5_{/}Answer the stupidity of the fool lest he consider himself 
intelligent.
{I}6_{/}He who sends messages by a fool is cutting his own feet.
{R}_{I}7_{/}Like the unsteady legs of a lame man, such is a proverb in 
the mouth of fools.
{I}8_{/}Honoring a fool is like tying a stone in a sling.
{I}9_{/}Like a thorn branch in a drunkard's hands, such is a proverb 
in the mouth of fools.
{I}10_{/}Like an archer wounding all passersby, so is he who employs a 
fool.
[=]_{I}11_{/}The fool reverts to his stupidity just as a dog returns 
to his vomit.
{R}_{I}12_{/}See that man who thinks himself wise? There is more hope for 
a fool!
{R}_{I}13_{/}"There's a lion in the street," the lazy man says, "a lion 
in the square."
{R}_{I}14_{/}The door turns on its hinges and the lazy man, on his bed. 
{I}15_{/}The idler dips his hand in the dish but is too tired to lift 
it to his mouth. {I}16_{/}The idler considers himself wiser than many 
people who answer tactfully.
{I}17_{/}Interfering in the disputes of others is like grabbing a 
passing dog by the tail.
{I}18_{/}As a madman hurls flaming, deadly arrows, {I}19_{/}so does the 
one who lies to his friend and then says, "It was just a joke."
{I}20_{/}For lack of wood, the fire goes out; for want of a gossiper, 
the quarrel dies down.
{R}_{I}21_{/}Charcoal on hot coals, wood on a fire, and a quarrelsome man 
for stirring up disputes.
{I}22_{/}The words of the gossiper are delicious mouthfuls which go 
right down to the bottom of the stomach. {I}23_{/}Like silver on 
earthenware, so are smooth lips with a corrupt heart.
{I}24_{/}The one who hates, disguises his words and keeps his 
treachery inside; {I}25_{/}do not trust his sweet language for seven 
evils fill his heart. {I}26_{/}But although he conceals his hatred 
like a hypocrite, his evil will be revealed in the assembly.
{I}27_{/}He who digs a pit falls in it and the rock he rolls away 
falls back on him.
{I}28_{/}The liar hates his victims, the flattering mouth brings 
destruction.

{1}27{/}

[=]_{I}1_{/}Do not feel confident about tomorrow since you do not know 
how today will end.
{I}2_{/}Let another praise you but not your own mouth; a stranger but 
not your own lips.
{I}3_{/}Heavy the stone and weighty the sand but the fool's anger 
outweighs both.
{I}4_{/}Wrath is cruel and anger, impulsive but who can withstand 
jealousy?
{I}5_{/}Better an honest rebuke than false affection.
{I}6_{/}Worthy of trust is the friend who speaks honestly; the enemy 
is he who multiplies caresses.
{I}7_{/}The full mouth looks down on honey, the hungry one finds any 
bitter thing sweet.
{I}8_{/}Like a bird far from its nest, so is the one who wanders from 
his own place.
{R}_{I}9_{/}Oil and perfume gladden the heart; so too does the sweetness 
of friendship comfort the soul.
{R}_{I}10_{/}Never desert your friend or your father's friend; do not 
hasten to your brother's house when troubles strike: better a 
friend nearby than a brother far away.
{I}11_{/}Learn to be wise, my son, and make me happy so that I can 
reply to those who insult me.
{R}_{I}12_{/}The discerning man foresees danger and takes cover, but 
fools keep going, to their own loss.
{I}13_{/}Get rid of his clothes since he has gone surety for a 
stranger, seize him for the benefit of those unknown.
{I}14_{/}If he, at dawn, blesses his neighbor in a loud voice, it 
shall be interpreted as a curse.
{I}15_{/}The constant dripping of a gutter on a rainy day and a 
nagging woman have something in common. {I}16_{/}Stopping her is like 
stopping the wind and grasping oil in one's hand.
{R}_{I}17_{/}Iron is sharpened with iron, contact with a neighbor 
sharpens a man's wit.
{I}18_{/}He who tends the fig tree eats its fruit, he who looks after 
his master will be honored.
{R}_{I}19_{/}As the face is reflected in water, so man finds himself in 
his own heart.
{R}_{I}20_{/}Death and hell are never satisfied; so, also, the eyes of 
men.
{R}_{I}21_{/}A crucible for silver, a furnace for gold; you will know a 
man by his reputation.
{I}22_{/}Even though you grind the fool in a mortar, you will not rid 
him of his stupidity.
{I}23_{/}Know well the state of your herd and tend to your flock 
{I}24_{/}because wealth does not last forever and riches are not 
handed down from generation to generation. {I}25_{/}Once the pasture 
is mowed and the aftergrowth appears and the hay is gathered in 
from the hills, {I}26_{/}you should have lambs to clothe you and goats 
to pay for your fields, {I}27_{/}sufficient goats' milk to feed you, 
to sustain your household and provide for your serving girls.

{1}28{/}

{R}_{I}1_{/}The wicked man runs away even when no one is after him but 
the virtuous man feels as safe as a lion.
{I}2_{/}A country, for its sins, has many rulers; but with one wise 
ruler there is stability.
{I}3_{/}The evildoer oppressing the poor is like destructive floods 
which leave no food.
{R}_{I}4_{/}Those who foresake the Law applaud evil; those faithful to 
the Law fight evil.
[=]_{I}5_{/}The wicked have no understanding of justice but those who 
seek Yahweh understand all.
{I}6_{/}Better the poor but honest life than devious living, with 
riches.
{R}_{I}7_{/}A clever man keeps the Law, while he who associates with 
scoundrels brings shame to his father.
{I}8_{/}He who adds to his wealth by usury and greed amasses it for 
another who has compassion on the poor.
{R}_{I}9_{/}If anyone turns a deaf ear to the Law, even his prayer is 
contaminated by sin.
{I}10_{/}He who leads the virtuous astray will fall into his own trap. 
The upright will inherit happiness.
{R}_{I}11_{/}The rich man thinks himself wise while the poor but sensible 
man knows how to show him up.
{I}12_{/}When the virtuous triumph, there is great feasting, but when 
the wicked dominate, everybody hides.
[=]_{I}13_{/}Whoever conceals his faults will not prosper, but he who 
confesses and renounces them will be shown mercy.
{R}_{I}14_{/}Happy the one who always lives in the fear of God; he who 
hardens his heart will fall on disaster.
{I}15_{/}A roaring lion, a hungry bear, such is the bad leader of a 
poor people.
{I}16_{/}The ruler lacking intelligence multiplies oppression; but he 
who abhors greed will endure.
{R}_{I}17_{/}The man wanted for murder will be on the run until death. 
Let him go!
{I}18_{/}He who goes his way honestly will be saved, he who vacillates 
between two ways will fall in one of them.
{I}19_{/}He who tends his land will have an abundance of bread, while 
he who chases illusions will have his fill of misery.
{R}_{I}20_{/}The trustworthy man will be heaped with blessings, but he 
who is preoccupied with getting rich will not be guiltless.
{R}_{I}21_{/}It is not good to show partiality but a man will do wrong 
for a mouthful of bread.
{R}_{I}22_{/}The greedy-eyed man is on the lookout for wealth not knowing 
that misfortune will befall him.
{I}23_{/}He who reproves another will eventually enjoy more favor than 
the flatterer.
{I}24_{/}He who steals from his father and mother saying, "It's not a 
sin," is just like a criminal.
{R}_{I}25_{/}The greedy man brings about trouble; but he who trusts in 
Yahweh will be filled with good things.
{I}26_{/}He who trusts in himself is just like a fool; while he who 
walks wisely will be saved.
{I}27_{/}He who gives to the poor will not be in need; but he who 
turns a blind eye to them will have his fill of disgrace.
{I}28_{/}When the wicked triumph, everybody hides; but when they 
perish, the virtuous multiply.

{1}29{/}

{I}1_{/}He who resists correction will be broken suddenly and without 
remedy.
{I}2_{/}When the virtuous rule, the people are happy, but they groan 
when the wicked are in power.
[=]_{I}3_{/}He who loves wisdom makes his father happy, but whoever 
maintains prostitutes will lose his wealth.
{R}_{I}4_{/}Through justice a king makes his country prosper; but the 
extortioner brings it to ruin.
{I}5_{/}The one who flatters his neighbor lays a snare at his feet.
{R}_{I}6_{/}In the wicked man's sins lies a snare for himself, while the 
upright man runs on rejoicing.
{R}_{I}7_{/}The virtuous man is concerned about the problems of the poor; 
the evildoer, however, understands nothing.
{I}8_{/}Mockers create disturbances in the city but the wise turn 
troubles away.
{R}_{I}9_{/}When the wise man argues with the fool, whether he is annoyed 
or joking, he will get nowhere.
{R}_{I}10_{/}The violent hate the blameless man but the virtuous seek out 
his presence.
{R}_{I}11_{/}The fool gives free rein to his rage; while the wise man 
restrains it.
{I}12_{/}When a ruler listens to false reports, all his ministers will 
be scoundrels.
{R}_{I}13_{/}The poor man and usurer have something in common: both 
receive the light of day from God.
{R}_{I}14_{/}The king who judges the poor with justice will affirm his 
throne forever.
{I}15_{/}Both the stick and rebuke bring wisdom, while the spoilt 
child brings shame to his mother.
{I}16_{/}When the wicked rule, sin abounds, but the virtuous shall 
witness their downfall.
{I}17_{/}Correct your son and he will bring you rest; you will be 
happy in him.
{R}_{I}18_{/}Where prophets are lacking, the people get out of hand; 
happy is he who obeys the Law.
{I}19_{/}A slave is not corrected by words; even if he understands he 
will take no notice.
{R}_{I}20_{/}You see a man dying to speak? There is more hope for a fool.
{I}21_{/}If you spoil your slave from childhood, he will end up a 
rebel.
{R}_{I}22_{/}The hot-tempered man provokes disputes, his anger multiplies 
his sins.
{R}_{I}23_{/}A man's pride results in his humiliation, but he who humbles 
himself will achieve honors.
{I}24_{/}He who shares with the thief harms himself; even you who kept 
silent when you should have denounced him.
{I}25_{/}To be afraid of men is a trap; but whoever trusts in Yahweh 
will be safe.
{R}_{I}26_{/}Many seek a ruler's favor but each one's fate comes from 
God.
{R}_{I}27_{/}The upright man detests the wicked and the evildoer hates 
the honest man.

{N}SAYINGS OF AGUR{/}

{1}30{/}

{I}1_{/}The sayings of Agur, Son of Jakeh, of Massa.
{R}_{I}2_{/}He says, "My God, my God, I am worn-out and weary. Too stupid 
to be human, I am devoid of intelligence; {I}3_{/}I have not acquired 
wisdom or grasped the knowledge of the Holy One."
[=]_{I}4_{/}Who has ascended the heavens and descended? Who has 
gathered the wind in his hands? Who has encircled the waters with 
his cloak? Who has established the limits of the earth? What is 
his name or the name of his son?

{N}DO YOU KNOW?{/}

{R}_{I}5_{/}Every word of God is true, he is a shield in whom man can 
find refuge. {I}6_{/}Add nothing to his words lest he rebuke you and 
take you for a liar.
{R}_{I}7_{/}O God, two things I beg of you, do not deny me them before I 
die. {I}8_{/}Keep lying and falsehood far away from me, give me 
neither poverty nor riches. Give me just as much food as I need 
lest, {R}_{I}9_{/}satisfied, I deny you and say, "Who is Yahweh?" Or 
else, out of necessity, I steal and profane the name of my God.
{I}10_{/}Do not accuse a slave to his master's face lest he curse you 
and you have to pay.
{I}11_{/}What a people are those who curse their father and do not 
bless their mother, {I}12_{/}who consider themselves pure but their 
sins have not been cleansed! {I}13_{/}They have a haughty look and 
disdainful eye; {I}14_{/}their teeth are like daggers and their fangs, 
like blades to devour the weak of the land and the poor of the 
people.
{I}15_{/}The leech has two daughters, "Give me!" and "Give me!"
{R}_{I}16_{/}There are three insatiable things and four which never say, 
"Enough": the grave, the sterile womb, the earth longing for water 
and the fire which never cries, "Enough."
{I}17_{/}The eye which challenges a father and despises his aging 
mother, will be gouged out by the ravens of the valley and 
devoured by the eagles.
{I}18_{/}There are three things which I cannot comprehend and four 
which I do not understand: {R}_{I}19_{/}the way of the eagle through the 
sky, the way of the snake on the rock, the way of the ship on high 
seas and the way of the human being within the mother.
{I}20_{/}What can I say of the adulterous woman? She eats, and having 
wiped her mouth, she says, "I have done nothing wrong."
{I}21_{/}Three things make the earth tremble; there are four which it 
cannot withstand: {R}_{I}22_{/}the slave who becomes king, the fool 
stuffed with bread, {I}23_{/}the unbearable woman who marries and the 
maid who inherits from her mistress.
{I}24_{/}There are four tiny creatures on the earth that are among the 
wisest of the wise: {I}25_{/}the ants that are without strength, but 
in summer make sure of their supplies; {I}26_{/}the rock-rabbits that 
are without vigor, but make their home in the rocks; {R}_{I}27_{/}the 
locusts that have no king, but move forward in organized groups; 
{R}_{I}28_{/}the lizard which can be caught by hand, but lives in the 
palaces of kings.
{I}29_{/}Three things have a stately step and four have a noble 
bearing: {I}30_{/}the lion, the bravest of animals, that retreats 
before nothing; {R}_{I}31_{/}the cock that struts proudly among the hens; 
the he-goat that leads his flock, and the king at the head of his 
army.
{I}32_{/}If you have been foolish enough to get angry and afterwards 
regret it, cover your mouth with your hand. {I}33_{/}Since by churning 
the milk butter is produced, by squeezing the nose blood flows, 
and by stirring up anger arguments arise.

{N}THE SAYINGS OF LEMUEL{/}

{1}31{/}

{R}_{I}1_{/}The sayings of Lemuel, king of Massa, taught him by his 
mother.

{I}2_{/}No, my son! Son of my womb, no!
No, my most beloved son!
[=]_{R}_{I}3_{/}Do not waste your strength on women, or your life on 
those who destroy kings.
{R}_{I}4_{/}It is not for kings, O Lemuel, not for kings to drink wine or 
for rulers to love strong drink. {I}5_{/}Lest in drinking they forget 
what they have decreed and override the cause of the helpless.
{I}6_{/}Give strong drink to the one about to die and wine to the 
heart full of bitterness: {I}7_{/}so that he may drink and forget his 
misfortune and remember his pain no more. {I}8_{/}Speak on behalf of 
the dumb and defend the cause of all who are destitute.
{I}9_{/}Open your mouth, pronounce just sentences, defend the needy 
and the poor.

{N}THE PERFECT WIFE{/}

[\u0095]_[=]_{I}10_{/}The woman of character, where is she to be found? She 
is more precious than any jewel.
{I}11_{/}Her husband has complete confidence in her; she will be of 
great benefit to him.
{I}12_{/}She brings him only good and not evil, all the days of her 
life.
{I}13_{/}She has obtained wool and flax, and works them with skillful 
hands.
{I}14_{/}She is like the merchant ships which bring provisions from 
afar.
{I}15_{/}She gets up while it is still dark, feeds her household and 
allots tasks to the servants.
{I}16_{/}If she sets her heart on a field, she buys it and plants a 
vineyard with her own hands.
{I}17_{/}She is full of energy and her arms show her strength.
{I}18_{/}She knows her work is successful and, at night, her light 
remains unextinguished.
{I}19_{/}She puts her hand to the distaff and her fingers hold the 
spindle.
{I}20_{/}She reaches out her hand to the helpless and gives to the 
poor.
{I}21_{/}When snow comes, she has no fears for her household since 
they are all doubly clothed.
{I}22_{/}She makes her own quilts and her clothes are purple and fine 
linen.
{I}23_{/}Her husband is well-respected; he sits in council with the 
elders of the people.
{I}24_{/}She weaves linen cloth and sells it;{I}_{/}she supplies the 
merchants with sashes.
{I}25_{/}She is strong and dignified and looks with confidence to the 
future.
{I}26_{/}She speaks wisely and her words are kind.
{I}27_{/}She keeps an eye on the conduct of her household and is never 
idle.
{I}28_{/}Her sons rise up and call her blessed, her husband sings her 
praises:
{I}29_{/}"Many women have done wonders but you surpass them all."
{I}30_{/}Charm is deceptive and beauty useless; the woman who is wise 
is the one to praise.
{I}31_{/}May she enjoy the fruits of her labor and may all praise her 
for her works.

