[1] The LORD detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him. [2] When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. [3] The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. [4] Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. [5] The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness. [6] The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires. [7] Hopes placed in mortals die with them; all the promise of their power comes to nothing. [8] The righteous person is rescued from trouble, and it falls on the wicked instead. [9] With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors, but through knowledge the righteous escape. [10] When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. [11] Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed. [12] Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue. [13] A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret. [14] For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers. [15] Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.
