1 The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel:
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3 to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity;
4 to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young man:
5 that the wise man may hear, and increase in learning; that the man of understanding may attain to sound counsel:
6 to understand a proverb, and parables, the words and riddles of the wise.
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8 My son, listen to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching:
9 for they will be a garland to grace your head, and a necklace around your neck.
10 My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.
11 If they say, “Come with us, Let’s lie in wait for blood; let’s lurk secretly for the innocent without cause;
12 let’s swallow them up alive like Sheol, and whole, like those who go down into the pit.
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15 My son, do not walk in the way with them. Keep your foot from their path,
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21 She calls at the head of noisy places. At the entrance of the city gates, she utters her words:
22 “How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? How long will mockers delight themselves in mockery, and fools hate knowledge?
23 Turn at my reproof. Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you. I will make known my words to you.
24 Because I have called, and you have refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no one has paid attention;
25 but you have ignored all my counsel, and wanted none of my reproof;
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27 when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when your disaster comes on like a whirlwind; when distress and anguish come on you.
28 Then will they call on me, but I will not answer. They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me;
29 because they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD.
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31 Therefore they will eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own schemes.
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33 But whoever listens to me will dwell securely, and will be at ease, without fear of harm.”
1 My son, if you will receive my words, and store up my commandments within you;
2 So as to turn your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding;
3 Yes, if you call out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding;
4 If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures:
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
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8 that he may guard the paths of justice, and preserve the way of his holy ones.
9 Then you will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path.
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11 Discretion will watch over you. Understanding will keep you,
12 to deliver you from the way of evil, from the men who speak perverse things;
13 who forsake the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness;
14 who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the perverseness of evil;
15 who are crooked in their ways, and wayward in their paths:
16 To deliver you from the strange woman, even from the foreigner who flatters with her words;
17 who forsakes the friend of her youth, and forgets the covenant of her God:
18 for her house leads down to death, her paths to the dead.
19 None who go to her return again, neither do they attain to the paths of life:
20 that you may walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous.
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1 My son, do not forget my teaching; but let your heart keep my commandments:
2 for length of days, and years of life, and peace, will they add to you.
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4 So you will find favor, and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes. Fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
8 It will be health to your body, and nourishment to your bones.
9 Honor the LORD with your substance, with the first fruits of all your increase:
10 so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.
11 My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline, neither be weary of his reproof:
12 for whom the LORD loves, he reproves; even as a father reproves the son in whom he delights. 3:11-12 Hebrews 12:5-6
13 Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gets understanding.
14 For her good profit is better than getting silver, and her return is better than fine gold.
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18 She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her, and those who hold on to her are blessed.
19 By wisdom the LORD founded the earth. By understanding, he established the heavens.
20 By his knowledge, the depths were broken up, and the skies drop down the dew.
21 My son, let them not depart from your eyes. Keep sound wisdom and discretion:
22 so they will be life to your soul, and grace for your neck.
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24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid. Yes, you will lie down, and your sleep will be sweet.
25 Do not be afraid of sudden fear, or of the storm of the wicked when it comes:
26 for the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being taken.
27 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do it.
28 Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come again; tomorrow I will give it to you,” when you have it by you.
29 Do not devise evil against your neighbor, seeing he dwells securely by you.
30 Do not strive with a man without cause, if he has done you no harm.
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32 For the perverse is an abomination to the LORD, but his friendship is with the upright.
33 The LORD’s curse is in the house of the wicked, but he blesses the habitation of the righteous.
34 Surely he is scornful to scoffers, but he gives grace to the humble. 3:34 James 4:6; 1Peter 5:5
35 The wise will inherit glory, but shame will be the promotion of fools.
1 Listen, sons, to a father’s instruction. Pay attention and know understanding;
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3 For I was a son to my father, tender and an only child in the sight of my mother.
4 He taught me, and said to me: “Let your heart retain my words. Keep my commandments, and live.
5 Get wisdom. Get understanding. Do not forget, neither swerve from the words of my mouth.
6 Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you. Love her, and she will keep you.
7 Wisdom is supreme. Get wisdom. Yes, though it costs all your possessions, get understanding.
8 Esteem her, and she will exalt you. She will bring you to honor, when you embrace her.
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10 Listen, my son, and receive my sayings. The years of your life will be many.
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12 When you go, your steps will not be hampered. When you run, you will not stumble.
13 Take firm hold of instruction. Do not let her go. Keep her, for she is your life.
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15 Avoid it, and do not pass by it. Turn from it, and pass on.
16 For they do not sleep, unless they do evil. Their sleep is taken away, unless they make someone fall.
17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
18 But the path of the righteous is like the dawning light, that shines more and more until the perfect day.
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20 My son, attend to my words. Turn your ear to my sayings.
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22 For they are life to him who finds them, and health to all of his body.
23 Guard your heart with all diligence, for out of it is the wellspring of life.
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1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom. Turn your ear to my understanding:
2 that you may maintain discretion, that your lips may preserve knowledge.
3 For the lips of an adulteress drip honey. Her mouth is smoother than oil,
4 But in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a two-edged sword.
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6 She gives no thought to the way of life. Her ways are crooked, and she doesn’t know it.
7 Now therefore, my sons, listen to me. Do not depart from the words of my mouth.
8 Remove your way far from her. Do not come near the door of her house,
9 lest you give your honor to others, and your years to the cruel one;
10 lest strangers feast on your wealth, and your labors enrich another man’s house.
11 You will groan at your latter end, when your flesh and your body are consumed,
12 and say, “How I have hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;
13 neither have I obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor turned my ear to those who instructed me!
14 I have come to the brink of utter ruin, in the midst of the gathered assembly.”
15 Drink water out of your own cistern, running water out of your own well.
16 Should your springs overflow in the streets, streams of water in the public squares?
17 Let them be for yourself alone, not for strangers with you.
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20 For why should you, my son, be captivated with an adulteress? Why embrace the bosom of another?
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23 He will die for lack of instruction. In the greatness of his folly, he will go astray.
1 My son, if you have become collateral for your neighbor, if you have struck your hands in pledge for a stranger;
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3 Do this now, my son, and deliver yourself, seeing you have come into the hand of your neighbor.Go, humble yourself. Press your plea with your neighbor.
4 Give no sleep to your eyes, nor slumber to your eyelids.
5 Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.
6 Go to the ant, you sluggard. Consider her ways, and be wise;
7 which having no chief, overseer, or ruler,
8 provides her bread in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest.
9 How long will you sleep, sluggard? When will you arise out of your sleep?
10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:
11 so your poverty will come as a robber, and your scarcity as an armed man.
12 A worthless person, a man of iniquity, is he who walks with a perverse mouth;
13 who winks with his eyes, who signals with his feet, who motions with his fingers;
14 in whose heart is perverseness, who devises evil continually, who always sows discord.
15 Therefore his calamity will come suddenly. He will be broken suddenly, and that without remedy.
16 There are six things which the LORD hates; yes, seven which are an abomination to him:
17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood;
18 a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are swift in running to mischief,
19 a false witness who utters lies, and he who sows discord among brothers.
20 My son, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
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22 When you walk, it will lead you. When you sleep, it will watch over you. When you awake, it will talk with you.
23 For the commandment is a lamp, and the Law is light. Reproofs of instruction are the way of life,
24 to keep you from the immoral woman, from the flattery of the wayward wife’s tongue.
25 Do not lust after her beauty in your heart, neither let her captivate you with her eyelids.
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27 Can a man scoop fire into his lap, and his clothes not be burned?
28 Or can one walk on hot coals, and his feet not be scorched?
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30 Men do not despise a thief, if he steals to satisfy himself when he is hungry:
31 but if he is found, he shall restore seven times. He shall give all the wealth of his house.
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35 He won’t regard any ransom, neither will he rest content, though you give many gifts.
1 My son, keep my words. Lay up my commandments within you.
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4 Tell wisdom, “You are my sister.” Call understanding your relative,
5 that they may keep you from the strange woman, from the foreigner who flatters with her words.
6 For at the window of my house, I looked out through my lattice.
7 I saw among the simple ones. I discerned among the youths a young man void of understanding,
8 passing through the street near her corner, he went the way to her house,
9 in the twilight, in the evening of the day, in the middle of the night and in the darkness.
10 Behold, there a woman met him with the attire of a prostitute, and with crafty intent.
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12 Now she is in the streets, now in the squares, and lurking at every corner.
13 So she caught him, and kissed him. With an impudent face she said to him:
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15 Therefore I came out to meet you, to diligently seek your face, and I have found you.
16 I have spread my couch with carpets of tapestry, with striped cloths of the yarn of Egypt.
17 I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.
18 Come, let’s take our fill of loving until the morning. Let’s solace ourselves with loving.
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21 With persuasive words, she led him astray. With the flattering of her lips, she seduced him.
22 He followed her immediately, as an ox goes to the slaughter, as a fool stepping into a noose.
23 Until an arrow strikes through his liver, as a bird hurries to the snare, and doesn’t know that it will cost his life.
24 Now therefore, sons, listen to me. Pay attention to the words of my mouth.
25 Do not let your heart turn to her ways. Do not go astray in her paths,
26 for she has thrown down many wounded. Yes, all her slain are a mighty army.
27 Her house is the way to Sheol, going down to the chambers of death.
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2 On the top of high places by the way, where the paths meet, she stands.
3 Beside the gates, at the entry of the city, at the entry doors, she cries aloud:
4 “To you men, I call! I send my voice to the sons of mankind.
5 You simple, understand prudence. You fools, be of an understanding heart.
6 Hear, for I will speak excellent things. The opening of my lips is for right things.
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9 They are all plain to him who understands, right to those who find knowledge.
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12 “I, wisdom, have made prudence my dwelling. Find out knowledge and discretion.
13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil. I hate pride, arrogance, the evil way, and the perverse mouth.
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15 By me kings reign, and rulers decree justice.
16 By me princes rule; nobles, and all the righteous rulers of the earth.
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18 With me are riches, honor, enduring wealth, and prosperity.
19 My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold; my yield than choice silver.
20 I walk in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of justice;
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22 “The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his work, before his deeds of old.
23 I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, before the earth existed.
24 When there were no depths, I was brought forth, when there were no springs abounding with water.
25 Before the mountains were settled in place, before the hills, I was brought forth;
26 while as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the beginning of the dust of the world.
27 When he established the heavens, I was there; when he set a circle on the surface of the deep,
28 when he established the clouds above, when the springs of the deep became strong,
29 when he gave to the sea its boundary, that the waters should not violate his commandment, when he marked out the foundations of the earth;
30 then I was the craftsman by his side. I was a delight day by day, always rejoicing before him,
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32 “Now therefore, my sons, listen to me, for blessed are those who keep my ways!
33 Hear instruction, and be wise. Do not refuse it.
34 Blessed is the man who hears me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at my door posts!
35 For whoever finds me, finds life, and will obtain favor from the LORD.
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4 “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!” As for him who is void of understanding, she says to him,
5 “Come, eat some of my bread, Drink some of the wine which I have mixed!
6 Leave your simple ways, and live. Walk in the way of understanding.”
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8 Do not reprove a scoffer, lest he hate you. Reprove a wise man, and he will love you.
9 Instruct a wise man, and he will be still wiser. Teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.
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12 If you are wise, you are wise for yourself. If you mock, you alone will bear it.
13 The foolish woman is loud, Undisciplined, and knows nothing.
14 She sits at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,
15 To call to those who pass by, who go straight on their ways,
16 “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here.” as for him who is void of understanding, she says to him,
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18 But he doesn’t know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of Sheol.
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2 Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, but righteousness delivers from death.
3 The LORD will not allow the soul of the righteous to go hungry, but he thrusts away the desire of the wicked.
4 He becomes poor who works with a lazy hand, but the hand of the diligent brings wealth.
5 He who gathers in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during the harvest is a son who causes shame.
6 Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked.
7 The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot.
8 The wise in heart accept commandments, but a chattering fool will fall.
9 He who walks blamelessly walks surely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out.
10 One winking with the eye causes sorrow, but a chattering fool will fall.
11 The mouth of the righteous is a spring of life, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked.
12 Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all wrongs.
13 Wisdom is found on the lips of him who has discernment, but a rod is for the back of him who is void of understanding.
14 Wise men lay up knowledge, but the mouth of the foolish is near ruin.
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17 He is in the way of life who heeds correction, but he who forsakes reproof leads others astray.
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19 In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, but he who restrains his lips does wisely.
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21 The lips of the righteous feed many, but the foolish die for lack of understanding.
22 The LORD’s blessing brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it.
23 It is a fool’s pleasure to do wickedness, but wisdom is a man of understanding’s pleasure.
24 What the wicked fear, will overtake them, but the desire of the righteous will be granted.
25 When the whirlwind passes, the wicked is no more; but the righteous stand firm forever.
26 As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to those who send him.
27 The fear of the LORD prolongs days, but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.
28 The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hope of the wicked will perish.
29 The way of the LORD is a stronghold to the upright, but it is a destruction to the workers of iniquity.
30 The righteous will never be removed, but the wicked will not dwell in the land.
31 The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut off.
32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked is perverse.
1 A false balance is an abomination to the LORD, but accurate weights are his delight.
2 When pride comes, then comes shame, but with humility comes wisdom.
3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them, but the perverseness of the treacherous shall destroy them.
4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.
5 The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way, but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.
6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them, but the unfaithful will be trapped by evil desires.
7 When a wicked man dies, hope perishes, and expectation of power comes to nothing.
8 A righteous person is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked takes his place.
9 With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbor, but the righteous will be delivered through knowledge.
10 When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices. When the wicked perish, there is shouting.
11 By the blessing of the upright, the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
12 One who despises his neighbor is void of wisdom, but a man of understanding holds his peace.
13 One who brings gossip betrays a confidence, but one who is of a trustworthy spirit is one who keeps a secret.
14 Where there is no wise guidance, the nation falls, but in the multitude of counselors there is victory.
15 He who is collateral for a stranger will suffer for it, but he who refuses pledges of collateral is secure.
16 A gracious woman obtains honor, but violent men obtain riches.
17 The merciful man does good to his own soul, but he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.
18 Wicked people earn deceitful wages, but one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.
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20 Those who are perverse in heart are an abomination to the LORD, but those whose ways are blameless are his delight.
21 Most certainly, the evil man will not be unpunished, but the seed of the righteous will be delivered.
22 Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout, is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion.
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24 There is one who scatters, and increases yet more. There is one who withholds more than is appropriate, but gains poverty.
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26 People curse someone who withholds grain, but blessing will be on the head of him who sells it.
27 He who diligently seeks good seeks favor, but he who searches after evil, it shall come to him.
28 He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous shall flourish as the green leaf.
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31 Behold, the righteous shall be repaid in the earth; how much more the wicked and the sinner!
1 Whoever loves correction loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.
2 A good man shall obtain favor from the LORD, but he will condemn a man of wicked devices.
3 A man shall not be established by wickedness, but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.
4 A worthy woman is the crown of her husband, but a disgraceful wife is as rottenness in his bones.
5 The thoughts of the righteous are just, but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.
6 The words of the wicked are about lying in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.
7 The wicked are overthrown, and are no more, but the house of the righteous shall stand.
8 A man shall be commended according to his wisdom, but he who has a warped mind shall be despised.
9 Better is he who is lightly esteemed, and has a servant, than he who honors himself, and lacks bread.
10 A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.
11 He who tills his land shall have plenty of bread, but he who chases fantasies is void of understanding.
12 The wicked desires the plunder of evil men, but the root of the righteous flourishes.
13 An evil man is trapped by sinfulness of lips, but the righteous shall come out of trouble.
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15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who is wise listens to counsel.
16 A fool shows his annoyance the same day, but one who overlooks an insult is prudent.
17 He who is truthful testifies honestly, but a false witness lies.
18 There is one who speaks rashly like the piercing of a sword, but the tongue of the wise heals.
19 Truth’s lips will be established forever, but a lying tongue is only momentary.
20 Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil, but joy comes to the promoters of peace.
21 No mischief shall happen to the righteous, but the wicked shall be filled with evil.
22 Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who do the truth are his delight.
23 A prudent man keeps his knowledge, but the hearts of fools proclaim foolishness.
24 The hands of the diligent ones shall rule, but laziness ends in slave labor.
25 Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a kind word makes it glad.
26 A righteous person is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
27 The slothful man doesn’t roast his game, but the possessions of diligent men are prized.
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1 A wise son listens to his father’s instruction, but a scoffer doesn’t listen to rebuke.
2 By the fruit of his lips, a man enjoys good things; but the unfaithful crave violence.
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4 The soul of the sluggard desires, and has nothing, but the desire of the diligent shall be fully satisfied.
5 A righteous man hates lies, but a wicked man brings shame and disgrace.
6 Righteousness guards the way of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner.
7 There are some who pretend to be rich, yet have nothing. There are some who pretend to be poor, yet have great wealth.
8 The ransom of a man’s life is his riches, but the poor hear no threats.
9 The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out.
10 Pride only breeds quarrels, but with ones who take advice is wisdom.
11 Wealth gained dishonestly dwindles away, but he who gathers by hand makes it grow.
12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when longing is fulfilled, it is a tree of life.
13 Whoever despises instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command will be rewarded.
14 The teaching of the wise is a spring of life, to turn from the snares of death.
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16 Every prudent man acts from knowledge, but a fool exposes folly.
17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy gains healing.
18 Poverty and shame come to him who refuses discipline, but he who heeds correction shall be honored.
19 Longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.
20 One who walks with wise men grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.
21 Misfortune pursues sinners, but prosperity rewards the righteous.
22 A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the wealth of the sinner is stored for the righteous.
23 An abundance of food is in poor people’s fields, but injustice sweeps it away.
24 One who spares the rod hates his son, but one who loves him is careful to discipline him.
25 The righteous one eats to the satisfying of his soul, but the belly of the wicked goes hungry.
1 Every wise woman builds her house, but the foolish one tears it down with her own hands.
2 He who walks in his uprightness fears the LORD, but he who is perverse in his ways despises him.
3 The fool’s talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.
4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean, but much increase is by the strength of the ox.
5 A truthful witness will not lie, but a false witness pours out lies.
6 A scoffer seeks wisdom, and doesn’t find it, but knowledge comes easily to a discerning person.
7 Stay away from a foolish man, for you won’t find knowledge on his lips.
8 The wisdom of the prudent is to think about his way, but the folly of fools is deceit.
9 Fools mock at making atonement for sins, but among the upright there is good will.
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11 The house of the wicked will be overthrown, but the tent of the upright will flourish.
12 There is a way which seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.
13 Even in laughter the heart may be sorrowful, and mirth may end in heaviness.
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15 A simple man believes everything, but the prudent man carefully considers his ways.
16 A wise man fears, and shuns evil, but the fool is hotheaded and reckless.
17 He who is quick to become angry will commit folly, and a crafty man is hated.
18 The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
19 The evil bow down before the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.
20 The poor person is shunned even by his own neighbor, but the rich person has many friends.
21 He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who shows kindness to the poor.
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23 In all hard work there is profit, but the talk of the lips leads only to poverty.
24 The crown of the wise is their riches, but the folly of fools crowns them with folly.
25 A truthful witness saves souls, but a false witness is deceitful.
26 In the fear of the LORD is a secure fortress, and he will be a refuge for his children.
27 The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning people from the snares of death.
28 In the multitude of people is the king’s glory, but in the lack of people is the destruction of the prince.
29 He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a quick temper displays folly.
30 The life of the body is a heart at peace, but envy rots the bones.
31 He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for his Maker, but he who is kind to the needy honors him.
32 The wicked is brought down in his calamity, but in death, the righteous has a refuge.
33 Wisdom rests in the heart of one who has understanding, and is even made known in the inward part of fools.
34 Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.
35 The king’s favor is toward a servant who deals wisely, but his wrath is toward one who causes shame.
1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
2 The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of fools gush out folly.
3 The eyes of the LORD are everywhere, keeping watch on the evil and the good.
4 A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but deceit in it crushes the spirit.
5 A fool despises his father’s correction, but he who heeds reproof shows prudence.
6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure, but the income of the wicked brings trouble.
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8 The sacrifice made by the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, but he loves him who follows after righteousness.
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14 The heart of one who has understanding seeks knowledge, but the mouths of fools feed on folly.
15 All the days of the afflicted are wretched, but one who has a cheerful heart enjoys a continual feast.
16 Better is little, with the fear of the LORD, than great treasure with trouble.
17 Better is a dinner of herbs, where love is, than a fattened calf with hatred.
18 A wrathful man stirs up contention, but one who is slow to anger appeases strife.
19 The way of the sluggard is like a thorn patch, but the path of the upright is a highway.
20 A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother.
21 Folly is joy to one who is void of wisdom, but a man of understanding keeps his way straight.
22 Where there is no counsel, plans fail; but in a multitude of counselors they are established.
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24 The path of life leads upward for the wise, to keep him from going downward to Sheol.
25 The LORD will uproot the house of the proud, but he will keep the widow’s borders intact.
26 The LORD detests the thoughts of the wicked, but the thoughts of the pure are pleasing.
27 He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, but he who hates bribes will live.
28 The heart of the righteous weighs answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes out evil.
29 The LORD is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.
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31 The ear that listens to reproof lives, and will be at home among the wise.
32 He who refuses correction despises his own soul, but he who listens to reproof gets understanding.
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1 The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.
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3 Commit your deeds to the LORD, and your plans shall succeed.
4 The LORD has made everything for its own end— yes, even the wicked for the day of evil.
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7 When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
8 Better is a little with righteousness, than great revenues with injustice.
9 A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD directs his steps.
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12 It is an abomination for kings to do wrong, for the throne is established by righteousness.
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14 The king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but a wise man will pacify it.
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16 How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! Yes, to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
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18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
19 It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor, than to divide the plunder with the proud.
20 He who heeds the Word finds prosperity, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD!
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22 Understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it, but the punishment of fools is their folly.
23 The heart of the wise instructs his mouth, and adds learning to his lips.
24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
25 There is a way which seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.
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29 A man of violence entices his neighbor, and leads him in a way that is not good.
30 One who winks his eyes to plot perversities, one who compresses his lips, is bent on evil.
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32 One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty; one who rules his spirit, than he who takes a city.
33 The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.
1 Better is a dry morsel with quietness, than a house full of feasting with strife.
2 A servant who deals wisely will rule over a son who causes shame, and shall have a part in the inheritance among the brothers.
3 The refining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the hearts.
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5
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7 Arrogant speech isn’t fitting for a fool, much less do lying lips fit a prince.
8 A bribe is a precious stone in the eyes of him who gives it; wherever he turns, he prospers.
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12 Let a bear robbed of her cubs meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly.
13 Whoever rewards evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.
14 The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam, therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.
15 He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the righteous, both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD.
16 Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, seeing he has no understanding?
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18 A man void of understanding strikes hands, and becomes collateral in the presence of his neighbor.
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20 One who has a perverse heart doesn’t find prosperity, and one who has a deceitful tongue falls into trouble.
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22 A cheerful heart makes good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
23 A wicked man receives a bribe in secret, to pervert the ways of justice.
24 Wisdom is before the face of one who has understanding, but the eyes of a fool wander to the ends of the earth.
25 A foolish son brings grief to his father, and bitterness to her who bore him.
26 Also to punish the righteous is not good, nor to flog officials for their integrity.
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28 Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is counted wise. When he shuts his lips, he is thought to be discerning.
1 An unfriendly man pursues selfishness, and defies all sound judgment.
2 A fool has no delight in understanding, but only in revealing his own opinion.
3 When wickedness comes, contempt also comes, and with shame comes disgrace.
4
5 To be partial to the faces of the wicked is not good, nor to deprive the innocent of justice.
6 A fool’s lips come into strife, and his mouth invites beatings.
7 A fool’s mouth is his destruction, and his lips are a snare to his soul.
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9
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11 The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, like an unscalable wall in his own imagination.
12 Before destruction the heart of man is proud, but before honor is humility.
13 He who gives answer before he hears, that is folly and shame to him.
14 A man’s spirit will sustain him in sickness, but a crushed spirit, who can bear?
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16 A man’s gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.
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18 The lot settles disputes, and keeps strong ones apart.
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22 Whoever finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor of the LORD.
23 The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.
24 A man of many companions may be ruined, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
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2
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4 Wealth adds many friends, but the poor is separated from his friend.
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6 Many will entreat the favor of a ruler, and everyone is a friend to a man who gives gifts.
7 All the relatives of the poor shun him: how much more do his friends avoid him! He pursues them with pleas, but they are gone.
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10 Delicate living is not appropriate for a fool, much less for a servant to have rule over princes.
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12 The king’s wrath is like the roaring of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass.
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14 House and riches are an inheritance from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.
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16 He who keeps the commandment keeps his soul, but he who is contemptuous in his ways shall die.
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18 Discipline your son, for there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death.
19 A hot-tempered man must pay the penalty, for if you rescue him, you must do it again.
20 Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter end.
21 There are many plans in a man’s heart, but the LORD’s counsel will prevail.
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23 The fear of the LORD leads to life, then contentment; he rests and will not be touched by trouble.
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25 Flog a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke one who has understanding, and he will gain knowledge.
26 He who robs his father and drives away his mother, is a son who causes shame and brings reproach.
27 If you stop listening to instruction, my son, you will stray from the words of knowledge.
28 A corrupt witness mocks justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down iniquity.
29 Penalties are prepared for scoffers, and beatings for the backs of fools.
1 Wine is a mocker, and beer is a brawler. Whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
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4 The sluggard will not plow by reason of the winter; therefore he shall beg in harvest, and have nothing.
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6 Many men claim to be men of unfailing love, but who can find a faithful man?
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9 Who can say, “I have made my heart pure. I am clean and without sin?”
10 Differing weights and differing measures, both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD.
11 Even a child makes himself known by his doings, whether his work is pure, and whether it is right.
12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, The LORD has made even both of them.
13 Do not love sleep, lest you come to poverty. Open your eyes, and you shall be satisfied with bread.
14 “It’s no good, it’s no good,” says the buyer; but when he is gone his way, then he boasts.
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17 Fraudulent food is sweet to a man, but afterwards his mouth is filled with gravel.
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20 Whoever curses his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in blackness of darkness.
21 An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning, won’t be blessed in the end.
22 Do not say, “I will pay back evil.” Wait for the LORD, and he will save you.
23 The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales are not pleasing.
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25 It is a snare to a man to make a rash dedication, then later to consider his vows.
26 A wise king winnows out the wicked, and drives the threshing wheel over them.
27 The spirit of man is the LORD’s lamp, searching all his innermost parts.
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30 Wounding blows cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the innermost parts.
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2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the hearts.
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4 A high look, and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, is sin.
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7 The violence of the wicked will drive them away, because they refuse to do what is right.
8 The way of the guilty is devious, but the conduct of the innocent is upright.
9 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than to share a house with a contentious woman.
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11 When the mocker is punished, the simple gains wisdom. When the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.
12 The Righteous One considers the house of the wicked, and brings the wicked to ruin.
13 Whoever stops his ears at the cry of the poor, he will also cry out, but shall not be heard.
14 A gift in secret pacifies anger; and a bribe in the cloak, strong wrath.
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19 It is better to dwell in a desert land, than with a contentious and fretful woman.
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21 He who follows after righteousness and kindness finds life, righteousness, and honor.
22 A wise man scales the city of the mighty, and brings down the strength of its confidence.
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24 The proud and haughty man, “scoffer” is his name; he works in the arrogance of pride.
25 The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.
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27 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination: how much more, when he brings it with a wicked mind!
28 A false witness will perish, and a man who listens speaks to eternity.
29 A wicked man hardens his face; but as for the upright, he establishes his ways.
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31
1 A good name is more desirable than great riches, and loving favor is better than silver and gold.
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3 A prudent man sees danger, and hides himself; but the simple pass on, and suffer for it.
4 The result of humility and the fear of the LORD is wealth, honor, and life.
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6 Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.
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8 He who sows wickedness reaps trouble, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed.
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10 Drive out the mocker, and strife will go out; yes, quarrels and insults will stop.
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13 The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside! I will be killed in the streets!”
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16 Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich, both come to poverty.
17 Turn your ear, and listen to the words of the wise. Apply your heart to my teaching.
18 For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips.
19 That your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today, even you.
20 Haven’t I written to you thirty excellent things of counsel and knowledge,
21 To teach you truth, reliable words, to give sound answers to the ones who sent you?
22 Do not exploit the poor, because he is poor; and do not crush the needy in court;
23 for the LORD will plead their case, and plunder the life of those who plunder them.
24 Do not befriend a hot-tempered man, and do not associate with one who harbors anger:
25 lest you learn his ways, and ensnare your soul.
26 Do not be one of those who strike hands, of those who are collateral for debts.
27 If you do not have means to pay, why should he take away your bed from under you?
28 Do not move the ancient boundary stone, which your fathers have set up.
29
1 When you sit to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before you;
2 put a knife to your throat, if you are a man given to appetite.
3 Do not be desirous of his dainties, seeing they are deceitful food.
4 Do not weary yourself to be rich. In your wisdom, show restraint.
5
6 Do not eat the food of him who has a stingy eye, and do not crave his delicacies:
7 for as he thinks about the cost, so he is. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, but his heart is not with you.
8 The morsel which you have eaten you shall vomit up, and lose your good words.
9 Do not speak in the ears of a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words.
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11
12 Apply your heart to instruction, and your ears to the words of knowledge.
13 Do not withhold correction from a child. If you punish him with the rod, he will not die.
14 Punish him with the rod, and save his soul from Sheol.
15 My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad, even mine:
16 yes, my heart will rejoice, when your lips speak what is right.
17
18 Indeed surely there is a future hope, and your hope will not be cut off.
19 Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path!
20 Do not be among ones drinking too much wine, or those who gorge themselves on meat:
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22 Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.
23 Buy the truth, and do not sell it. Get wisdom, discipline, and understanding.
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26 My son, give me your heart; and let your eyes keep in my ways.
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28 Yes, she lies in wait like a robber, and increases the unfaithful among men.
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31 Do not look at the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly.
32 In the end, it bites like a serpent, and poisons like a viper.
33 Your eyes will see strange things, and your mind will imagine confusing things.
34 Yes, you will be as he who lies down in the midst of the sea, or as he who lies on top of the rigging:
35 “They hit me, and I was not hurt! They beat me, and I do not feel it! When will I wake up? I can do it again. I can find another.”
1
2 for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about mischief.
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10 If you falter in the time of trouble, your strength is small.
11 Rescue those who are being led away to death! Indeed, hold back those who are staggering to the slaughter!
12 If you say, “Behold, we did not know this;” doesn’t he who weighs the hearts consider it?He who keeps your soul, doesn’t he know it? Shall he not render to every man according to his work? 24:12 Romans 2:6
13 My son, eat honey, for it is good; the droppings of the honeycomb, which are sweet to your taste:
14 so you shall know wisdom to be to your soul; if you have found it, then there will be a reward, your hope will not be cut off.
15 Do not lie in wait, wicked man, against the habitation of the righteous. Do not destroy his resting place:
16 for a righteous man falls seven times, and rises up again; but the wicked are overthrown by calamity.
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18 lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.
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21 My son, fear the LORD and the king. Do not join those who are rebellious:
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23 These also are sayings of the wise.To show partiality in judgment is not good.
24 He who says to the wicked, “You are righteous;” peoples shall curse him, and nations shall abhor him—
25 but it will go well with those who convict the guilty, and a rich blessing will come on them.
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27 Prepare your work outside, and get your fields ready. Afterwards, build your house.
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29 Do not say, “I will do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work.”
30 I went by the field of the sluggard, by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;
31 Behold, it was all grown over with thorns. Its surface was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down.
32 Then I saw, and considered well. I saw, and received instruction:
33 a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep;
34 so your poverty will come as a robber, and your want as an armed man.
1 These also are proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out.
2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.
3 As the heavens for height, and the earth for depth, so the hearts of kings are unsearchable.
4 Take away the dross from the silver, and material comes out for the refiner;
5 Take away the wicked from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established in righteousness.
6 Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king, or claim a place among great men;
7 for it is better that it be said to you, “Come up here,” than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, whom your eyes have seen.
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9 Debate your case with your neighbor, and do not betray the confidence of another;
10 lest one who hears it put you to shame, and your bad reputation never depart.
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12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover to an obedient ear.
13 As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to those who send him; for he refreshes the soul of his masters.
14 As clouds and wind without rain, so is he who boasts of gifts deceptively.
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16 Have you found honey? Eat as much as is sufficient for you, lest you eat too much, and vomit it.
17 Let your foot be seldom in your neighbor’s house, lest he be weary of you, and hate you.
18 A man who gives false testimony against his neighbor is like a club, a sword, or a sharp arrow.
19 Confidence in someone unfaithful in time of trouble is like a bad tooth, or a lame foot.
20 As one who takes away a garment in cold weather, or vinegar on soda, so is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.
21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat. If he is thirsty, give him water to drink:
22 for you will heap coals of fire on his head, 25:21-22 Romans 12:20 and the LORD will reward you.
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24 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than to share a house with a contentious woman.
25 Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.
26 Like a muddied spring, and a polluted well, so is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.
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1 Like snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honor is not fitting for a fool.
2 Like a fluttering sparrow, like a darting swallow, so the undeserved curse doesn’t come to rest.
3 A whip is for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the back of fools!
4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like him.
5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own eyes.
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7
8 As one who binds a stone in a sling, so is he who gives honor to a fool.
9 Like a thornbush that goes into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
10 As an archer who wounds all, so is he who hires a fool or he who hires those who pass by.
11 As a dog that returns to his vomit, 26:11 2Peter 2:22 so is a fool who repeats his folly.
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13 The sluggard says, “There is a lion in the road! A fierce lion roams the streets!”
14 As the door turns on its hinges, so does the sluggard on his bed.
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16
17
18 Like a madman who shoots firebrands, arrows, and death,
19 is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, “Am I not joking?”
20 Without wood a fire goes out. Without gossip, contention ceases.
21 As coals are to hot embers, and wood to fire, so is a contentious man to kindling strife.
22 The words of a whisperer are as dainty morsels, they go down into the innermost parts.
23
24 A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but he harbors evil in his heart.
25 When his speech is charming, do not believe him; for there are seven abominations in his heart.
26 His malice may be concealed by deception, but his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.
27 Whoever digs a pit shall fall into it. Whoever rolls a stone, it will come back on him.
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2 Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.
3 A stone is heavy, and sand is a burden; but a fool’s provocation is heavier than both.
4 Wrath is cruel, and anger is overwhelming; but who is able to stand before jealousy?
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7 A full soul loathes a honeycomb; but to a hungry soul, every bitter thing is sweet.
8 As a bird that wanders from her nest, so is a man who wanders from his home.
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11 Be wise, my son, and bring joy to my heart, then I can answer my tormentor.
12 A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge; but the simple pass on, and suffer for it.
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14 He who blesses his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse by him.
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16 restraining her is like restraining the wind, or like grasping oil in his right hand.
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19 As water reflects a face, so a man’s heart reflects the man.
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21 The crucible is for silver, and the furnace for gold; but man is refined by his praise.
22 Though you grind a fool in a mortar with a pestle along with grain, yet his foolishness will not be removed from him.
23 Know well the state of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds:
24 for riches are not forever, nor does even the crown endure to all generations.
25 The hay is removed, and the new growth appears, the grasses of the hills are gathered in.
26 The lambs are for your clothing, and the goats are the price of a field.
27 There will be plenty of goats’ milk for your food, for your family’s food, and for the nourishment of your servant girls.
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2 In rebellion, a land has many rulers, but order is maintained by a man of understanding and knowledge.
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6 Better is the poor who walks in his integrity, than he who is perverse in his ways, and he is rich.
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9 He who turns away his ear from hearing the Law, even his prayer is an abomination.
10 Whoever causes the upright to go astray in an evil way, he will fall into his own trap; but the blameless will inherit good.
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12 When the righteous triumph, there is great glory; but when the wicked rise, men hide themselves.
13 He who conceals his sins doesn’t prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
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15 As a roaring lion or a charging bear, so is a wicked ruler over helpless people.
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22 A stingy man hurries after riches, and doesn’t know that poverty waits for him.
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24 Whoever robs his father or his mother, and says, “It’s not wrong.” He is a partner with a destroyer.
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28 When the wicked rise, men hide themselves; but when they perish, the righteous thrive.
1 He who is often rebuked and stiffens his neck will be destroyed suddenly, with no remedy.
2 When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan.
3
4 The king by justice makes the land stable, but he who takes bribes tears it down.
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6 An evil man is snared by his sin, but the righteous can sing and be glad.
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8 Mockers stir up a city, but wise men turn away anger.
9 If a wise man goes to court with a foolish man, the fool rages or scoffs, and there is no peace.
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11 A fool vents all of his anger, but a wise man brings himself under control.
12 If a ruler listens to lies, all of his officials are wicked.
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14 The king who fairly judges the poor, his throne shall be established forever.
15 The rod of correction gives wisdom, but a child left to himself causes shame to his mother.
16 When the wicked increase, sin increases; but the righteous will see their downfall.
17 Correct your son, and he will give you peace; yes, he will bring delight to your soul.
18 Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but he who keeps the law is blessed!
19 A servant can’t be corrected by words. Though he understands, yet he will not respond.
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22 An angry man stirs up strife, and a wrathful man abounds in sin.
23 A man’s pride brings him low, but one of lowly spirit gains honor.
24 Whoever is an accomplice of a thief is an enemy of his own soul. He takes an oath, but dares not testify.
25 The fear of man proves to be a snare, but whoever puts his trust in the LORD is kept safe.
26 Many seek the ruler’s favor, but a man’s justice comes from the LORD.
27 A dishonest man detests the righteous, and the upright in their ways detest the wicked.
1 The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, the oracle:the man says to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal:
2 “Surely I am the most ignorant man, and do not have a man’s understanding.
3 I have not learned wisdom, neither do I have the knowledge of the Holy One.
4 Who has ascended up into heaven, and descended? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has bound the waters in his garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son’s name, if you know?
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6 Do not add to his words, lest he reprove you, and you be found a liar.
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8
9 lest I be full, deny you, and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ or lest I be poor, and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.
10 “Do not slander a servant to his master, lest he curse you, and you be held guilty.
11 There is a generation that curses their father, and doesn’t bless their mother.
12 There is a generation that is pure in their own eyes, yet are not washed from their filthiness.
13 There is a generation, oh how lofty are their eyes! Their eyelids are lifted up.
14 There is a generation whose teeth are like swords, and their jaws like knives, to devour the poor from the earth, and the needy from among men.
15 “The leach has two daughters: ‘Give, give.’“There are three things that are never satisfied; four that do not say, ‘Enough:’
16 Sheol, the barren womb; the earth that is not satisfied with water; and the fire that doesn’t say, ‘Enough.’
17 “The eye that mocks at his father, and scorns obedience to his mother: the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, the young eagles shall eat it.
18 “There are three things which are too amazing for me, four which I do not understand:
19
20 “So is the way of an adulterous woman: she eats and wipes her mouth, and says, ‘I have done nothing wrong.’
21 “For three things the earth tremble, and under four, it can’t bear up:
22
23
24 “There are four things which are little on the earth, but they are exceedingly wise:
25 the ants are not a strong people, yet they provide their food in the summer.
26 The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks.
27 The locusts have no king, yet they advance in ranks.
28 You can catch a lizard with your hands, yet it is in kings’ palaces.
29 “There are three things which are stately in their march, four which are stately in going:
30 The lion, which is mightiest among animals, and doesn’t turn away for any;
31 the greyhound, the male goat also; and the king against whom there is no rising up.
32 “If you have done foolishly in lifting up yourself, or if you have thought evil,put your hand over your mouth.
33 For as the churning of milk brings forth butter, and the wringing of the nose brings forth blood; so the forcing of wrath brings forth strife.”
1
2 “Oh, my son! Oh, son of my womb! Oh, son of my vows!
3 Do not give your strength to women, nor your ways to that which destroys kings.
4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel; it is not for kings to drink wine, or for princes to take strong drink,
5 lest they drink, and forget the decree, and pervert the justice due to anyone who is afflicted.
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7 Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.
8 Open your mouth for the mute, in the cause of all who are left desolate.
9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, and serve justice to the poor and needy.”
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12 GIMEL She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.
13 DALET She seeks wool and flax, and works eagerly with her hands.
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15 VAV She rises also while it is yet night, gives food to her household, and portions for her servant girls.
16 ZAYIN She considers a field, and buys it. With the fruit of her hands, she plants a vineyard.
17 HET She girds her waist with strength, and makes her arms strong.
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19 YOD She lays her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.
20 KAPH She opens her arms to the poor; yes, she extends her hands to the needy.
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23 NUN Her husband is respected in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.
24 SAMEKH She makes linen garments and sells them, and delivers sashes to the merchant.
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27 TZADE She looks well to the ways of her household, and doesn’t eat the bread of idleness.
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29 RESH “Many women do noble things, but you excel them all.”
30 SHIN Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain; but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
31