1He who is often rebuked and stiffens his neck
will be destroyed suddenly, with no remedy. 2When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice;
but when the wicked rule, the people groan. 3Whoever loves wisdom brings joy to his father;
but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. 4The king by justice makes the land stable,
but he who takes bribes tears it down. 5A man who flatters his neighbor
spreads a net for his feet. 6An evil man is snared by his sin,
but the righteous can sing and be glad. 7The righteous care about justice for the poor.
The wicked aren’t concerned about knowledge. 8Mockers stir up a city,
but wise men turn away anger. 9If a wise man goes to court with a foolish man,
the fool rages or scoffs, and there is no peace. 10The bloodthirsty hate a man of integrity;
and they seek the life of the upright. 11A fool vents all of his anger,
but a wise man brings himself under control. 12If a ruler listens to lies,
all of his officials are wicked. 13The poor man and the oppressor have this in common:
Yahweh gives sight to the eyes of both. 14The king who fairly judges the poor,
his throne shall be established forever. 15The rod of correction gives wisdom,
but a child left to himself causes shame to his mother. 16When the wicked increase, sin increases;
but the righteous will see their downfall.