[1] He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck will suddenly be broken
beyond healing. [2] When the righteous are in authority, the people
rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan. [3] He who loves
wisdom makes his father glad, but one who keeps company with harlots
squanders his substance. [4] By justice a king gives stability to the land,
but one who exacts gifts ruins it. [5] A man who flatters his neighbor
spreads a net for his feet. [6] An evil man is ensnared in his
transgression, but a righteous man sings and rejoices. [7] A righteous man
knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such
knowledge. [8] Scoffers set a city aflame, but wise men turn away wrath.
[9] If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and
laughs, and there is no quiet. [10] Bloodthirsty men hate one who is
blameless, and the wicked seek his life. [11] A fool gives full vent to his
anger, but a wise man quietly holds it back. [12] If a ruler listens to
falsehood, all his officials will be wicked. [13] The poor man and the
oppressor meet together; the LORD gives light to the eyes of both. [14] If
a king judges the poor with equity his throne will be established for ever.
[15] The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings
shame to his mother. [16] When the wicked are in authority, transgression
increases; but the righteous will look upon their downfall. [17] Discipline
your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.
[18] Where there is no prophecy the people cast off restraint, but blessed
is he who keeps the law. [19] By mere words a servant is not disciplined,
for though he understands, he will not give heed. [20] Do you see a man who
is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him. [21] He
who pampers his servant from childhood, will in the end find him his heir.
[22] A man of wrath stirs up strife, and a man given to anger causes much
transgression. [23] A man's pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly
in spirit will obtain honor. [24] The partner of a thief hates his own
life; he hears the curse, but discloses nothing. [25] The fear of man lays
a snare, but he who trusts in the LORD is safe. [26] Many seek the favor of
a ruler, but from the LORD a man gets justice. [27] An unjust man is an
abomination to the righteous, but he whose way is straight is an
abomination to the wicked.