[1] The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
[2] A land in rebellion has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order.
[3] A destitute leader who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain that leaves no food.
[4] Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law resist them.
[5] Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD comprehend fully.
[6] Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse.
[7] A discerning son keeps the law, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.
[8] He who increases his wealth by interest and usury lays it up for one who is kind to the poor.
[9] Whoever turns his ear away from hearing the law, even his prayer is detestable.
[10] He who leads the upright along the path of evil will fall into his own pit, but the blameless will inherit what is good.
[11] A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man with discernment sees through him.
[12] When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, men hide themselves.
[13] He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.
[14] Blessed is the man who is always reverent, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble.
[15] Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people.
[16] A leader who lacks judgment is also a great oppressor, but he who hates dishonest profit will prolong his days.
[17] A man burdened by bloodguilt will flee into the Pit; let no one support him.
[18] He who walks with integrity will be kept safe, but whoever is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall.
[19] The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.
[20] A faithful man will abound with blessings, but one eager to be rich will not go unpunished.
[21] To show partiality is not good, yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.
[22] A stingy man hastens after wealth and does not know that poverty awaits him.
[23] He who rebukes a man will later find more favor than one who flatters with his tongue.
[24] He who robs his father or mother, saying, “It is not wrong,” is a companion to the man who destroys.
[25] A greedy man stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper.
[26] He who trusts in himself is a fool, but one who walks in wisdom will be safe.
[27] Whoever gives to the poor will not be in need, but he who hides his eyes will receive many curses.
[28] When the wicked come to power, people hide themselves; but when they perish, the righteous flourish.