Without revelation people run wild,
but one who listens to instruction will be happy.

The fear of man is a snare,
but the one who trusts in the Lord is protected.

A rod of correction imparts wisdom,
but a youth left to himself
is a disgrace to his mother.

When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice,
but when the wicked rule, people groan.

If a ruler listens to lies,
all his officials will be wicked.

One who becomes stiff-necked,
after many reprimands
will be shattered instantly—
beyond recovery.

An angry man stirs up conflict,
and a hot-tempered man increases rebellion.

A person’s pride will humble him,
but a humble spirit will gain honor.

A fool gives full vent to his anger,
but a wise man holds it in check.

The righteous person knows the rights of the poor,
but the wicked one does not understand these concerns.

By justice a king brings stability to a land,
but a man who demands “contributions”
demolishes it.

Discipline your son, and it will bring you peace of mind
and give you delight.

A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father,
but one who consorts with prostitutes destroys his wealth.

To be a thief’s partner is to hate oneself;
he hears the curse but will not testify.

Do you see a man who speaks too soon?
There is more hope for a fool than for him.

A man who flatters his neighbor
spreads a net for his feet.

A slave pampered from his youth
will become arrogant later on.

Mockers inflame a city,
but the wise turn away anger.

A slave cannot be disciplined by words;
though he understands, he doesn’t respond.

A king who judges the poor with fairness—
his throne will be established forever.

Bloodthirsty men hate an honest person,
but the upright care about him.

When the wicked increase, rebellion increases,
but the righteous will see their downfall.

An evil man is caught by sin,
but the righteous one sings and rejoices.

An unjust man is detestable to the righteous,
and one whose way is upright
is detestable to the wicked.

Many seek a ruler’s favor,
but a man receives justice from the Lord.

If a wise man goes to court with a fool,
there will be ranting and raving but no resolution.

The poor and the oppressor have this in common:
the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.