2  It is the glory of God to conceal things,

but the glory of kings is to search things out.

3  As the heavens for height, and the earth for depth,

so the heart of kings is unsearchable.

4  Take away the ^vdross from the silver,

and the smith has material for a vessel;

5  take away the wicked from the presence of the king,

and ^whis throne will be established in righteousness.

6  ^xDo not put yourself forward in the king’s presence

or stand in the place of the great,

7  for it is better to be told, “Come up here,”

than to be put lower in the presence of a noble.

^yWhat your eyes have seen

8  do not hastily bring into court,¹

for² what will you do in the end,

when your neighbor puts you to shame?

9  ^zArgue your case with your neighbor himself,

and do not reveal another’s secret,

10  lest he who hears you bring shame upon you,

and your ill repute have no end.

11  ^aA word fitly spoken

is ^blike apples of gold in a setting of silver.

12  Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold

is a wise ^creprover to a listening ear.

13  Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest

is a faithful messenger to those who send him;

he refreshes the soul of his masters.

14  Like clouds and wind without rain

is a man who boasts of a gift he does not give.