[1] When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what is before you, [2] and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony. [3] Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive. [4] Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. [5] Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle. [6] Do not eat the food of a begrudging host, do not crave his delicacies; [7] for he is the kind of person who is always thinking about the cost. “Eat and drink,” he says to you, but his heart is not with you. [8] You will vomit up the little you have eaten and will have wasted your compliments. [9] Do not speak to fools, for they will scorn your prudent words. [10] Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, [11] for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you. [12] Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. [13] Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die. [14] Punish them with the rod and save them from death. [15] My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad indeed; [16] my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right. [17] Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD. [18] There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.
