On the top of the heights beside the way,
Where the paths meet, wisdom takes her stand;

Where there is no [wise, intelligent] guidance, the people fall [and go off course like a ship without a helm],
But in the abundance of [wise and godly] counselors there is victory.

Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean,
But much revenue [because of good crops] comes by the strength of the ox.

The naive or inexperienced person [is easily misled and] believes every word he hears,
But the prudent man [is discreet and astute and] considers well where he is going.

Better is a dinner of vegetables and herbs where love is present
Than a fattened ox served with hatred.

Without consultation and wise advice, plans are frustrated,
But with many counselors they are established and succeed.

Do not rob the poor because he is poor [and defenseless],
Nor crush the afflicted [by legal proceedings] at the gate [where the city court is held],

Wisdom is too exalted for a [hardened, arrogant] fool;
He does not open his mouth in the gate [where the city’s rulers sit in judgment].

For lack of wood the fire goes out,
And where there is no whisperer [who gossips], contention quiets down.

Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained;
But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God].