[1] Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a fool whose lips are perverse.
[2] Even zeal is no good without knowledge, and he who hurries his footsteps misses the mark.
[3] A man’s own folly subverts his way, yet his heart rages against the LORD.
[4] Wealth attracts many friends, but a poor man is deserted by his friend.
[5] A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who utters lies will not escape.
[6] Many seek the favor of the prince, and everyone is a friend of the gift giver.
[7] All the brothers of a poor man hate him— how much more do his friends avoid him! He may pursue them with pleading, but they are nowhere to be found.
[8] He who acquires wisdom loves himself; one who safeguards understanding will find success.
[9] A false witness will not go unpunished, and one who pours out lies will perish.
[10] Luxury is unseemly for a fool— how much worse for a slave to rule over princes!
[11] A man’s insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense.
[12] A king’s rage is like the roar of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass.
[13] A foolish son is his father’s ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping.
[14] Houses and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.
[15] Laziness brings on deep sleep, and an idle soul will suffer hunger.
[16] He who keeps a commandment preserves his soul, but he who is careless in his ways will die.
[17] Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.
[18] Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be party to his death.
[19] A man of great anger must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do so again.
[20] Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.
[21] Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.
[22] The desire of a man is loving devotion; better to be poor than a liar.
[23] The fear of the LORD leads to life, that one may rest content, without visitation from harm.
[24] The slacker buries his hand in the dish; he will not even bring it back to his mouth.
[25] Strike a mocker, and the simple will beware; rebuke the discerning man, and he will gain knowledge.
[26] He who assaults his father or evicts his mother is a son who brings shame and disgrace.
[27] If you cease to hear instruction, my son, you will stray from the words of knowledge.
[28] A corrupt witness mocks justice, and a wicked mouth swallows iniquity.
[29] Judgments are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools.