It is foolish to spread a net
where any bird can see it,

For they can’t sleep
unless they have done what is evil;
they are robbed of sleep
unless they make someone stumble.

Can a man embrace fire
and his clothes not be burned?

Can a man walk on burning coals
without scorching his feet?

For wisdom is better than jewels,
and nothing desirable can compare with it.

A man’s spirit can endure sickness,
but who can survive a broken spirit?

It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute,
but any fool can get himself into a quarrel.

Many a man proclaims his own loyalty,
but who can find a trustworthy man?

Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure;
I am cleansed from my sin”?

A man’s steps are determined by the Lord,
so how can anyone understand his own way?

for destruction from them will come suddenly;
who knows what distress these two can bring?

A ruler can be persuaded through patience,
and a gentle tongue can break a bone.

In his own eyes, a slacker is wiser
than seven men who can answer sensibly.

Fury is cruel, and anger a flood,
but who can withstand jealousy?

Be wise, my son, and bring my heart joy,
so that I can answer anyone who taunts me.

Three things are beyond me;
four I can’t understand:

a lizard can be caught in your hands,
yet it lives in kings’ palaces.

Let him drink so that he can forget his poverty
and remember his trouble no more.

Who can find a capable wife?
She is far more precious than jewels.

Strength and honor are her clothing,
and she can laugh at the time to come.