1He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck,

will suddenly be broken beyond healing.

2When the righteous increase, the people rejoice,

but when the wicked rule, the people groan.

3He who loves wisdom makes his father glad,

but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.

4By justice a king builds up the land,

but he who exacts gifts29:4 Or who taxes heavily tears it down.

5A man who flatters his neighbour

spreads a net for his feet.

6An evil man is ensnared in his transgression,

but a righteous man sings and rejoices.

7A righteous man knows the rights of the poor;

a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.

8Scoffers set a city aflame,

but the wise turn away wrath.

9If a wise man has an argument with a fool,

the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.

10Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless

and seek the life of the upright.29:10 Or but the upright seek his soul

11A fool gives full vent to his spirit,

but a wise man quietly holds it back.

12If a ruler listens to falsehood,

all his officials will be wicked.

13The poor man and the oppressor meet together;

the LORD gives light to the eyes of both.

14If a king faithfully judges the poor,

his throne will be established for ever.

15The rod and reproof give wisdom,

but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

16When the wicked increase, transgression increases,

but the righteous will look upon their downfall.

17Discipline your son, and he will give you rest;

he will give delight to your heart.

18Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,29:18 Or the people are discouraged

but blessed is he who keeps the law.

19By mere words a servant is not disciplined,

for though he understands, he will not respond.

20Do you see a man who is hasty in his words?

There is more hope for a fool than for him.

21Whoever pampers his servant from childhood

will in the end find him his heir.29:21 The meaning of the Hebrew word rendered his heir is uncertain

22A man of wrath stirs up strife,

and one given to anger causes much transgression.

23One's pride will bring him low,

but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honour.

24The partner of a thief hates his own life;

he hears the curse, but discloses nothing.

25The fear of man lays a snare,

but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.

26Many seek the face of a ruler,

but it is from the LORD that a man gets justice.

27An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous,

but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked.