[1] One who stays stubborn after many corrections will be suddenly broken, beyond healing. [2] When the righteous become numerous, the people rejoice, but when the wicked dominate, the people moan. [3] A man who loves wisdom makes his father rejoice, but one who spends time with prostitutes destroys riches. [4] A king gives stability to the land by justice, but one who imposes heavy taxes tears it down. [5] People who flatter their friends spread out a net for their feet. [6] The wicked are snared by their own sin; the righteous sing and rejoice. [7] The righteous know the rights of the poor, but the wicked don’t understand. [8] Mockers set a city on fire, but the wise turn back anger. [9] When the wise make a legal charge against the foolish, the fools shout, they laugh—there is no calm. [10] Murderous people hate the innocent, and they seek the lives of the virtuous. [11] Fools show all their anger, but the wise hold it back. [12] If a ruler listens to lies, those who serve him will be wicked. [13] The poor and their oppressors have a common bond—the LORD gives light to the eyes of both. [14] If a king judges the poor honestly, his throne will be established forever. [15] The rod and correction lead to wisdom, but children out of control shame their mothers. [16] When the wicked become numerous, so do crimes; the righteous will see their downfall. [17] Instruct your children; they will give you peace of mind and bring delight into your life. [18] When there’s no vision, the people get out of control, but whoever obeys instruction is happy. [19] Servants aren’t disciplined by words; they might understand, but they don’t respond. [20] Do you see people who are quick to speak? There is more hope for fools than for them. [21] Pamper servants from a young age, and later on there will be trouble. [22] Angry people stir up conflict; hotheads cause much offense. [23] Pride lays people low, but those of humble spirit gain honor. [24] Those who share plunder with thieves hate themselves; even under oath, they don’t testify. [25] People are trapped by their fear of others; those who trust the LORD are secure. [26] Many seek access to the ruler, but justice comes from the LORD. [27] The unjust person is disgusting to the righteous; the straight path is disgusting to the wicked.
