1  He who is often ^treproved, yet stiffens his neck,

will ^usuddenly be broken beyond healing.

2  ^vWhen the righteous increase, the people rejoice,

but when the wicked rule, the people groan.

3  ^wHe who loves wisdom makes his father glad,

but a ^xcompanion of prostitutes ^ysquanders his wealth.

4  By justice a king builds up the land,

but he who exacts gifts¹ tears it down.

5  A man who flatters his neighbor

spreads a net for his feet.

6  ^zAn evil man is ensnared in his transgression,

but a righteous man sings and rejoices.

7  A righteous man ^aknows the rights of the poor;

a wicked man ^bdoes not understand such knowledge.

8  Scoffers set a city aflame,

but the wise turn away wrath.

9  ^cIf a wise man has an argument with a fool,

the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.

10  Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless

and seek the life of the upright.²

11  ^dA fool gives full vent to his spirit,

but a wise man quietly holds it back.

12  If a ruler listens to falsehood,

all his officials will be wicked.

13  ^eThe poor man and the oppressor meet together;

the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.

14  If a king faithfully judges the poor,

^fhis throne will be established forever.