The Upright and the Wicked Contrasted

101 The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.

2 Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death. 3 The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance [1] of the wicked.

4 He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

5 He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.

6 Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.

7 The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.

8 The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating [2] fool shall fall.

9 He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known.

10 He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall. [3]

11 The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.

12 Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.

13 In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding. [4]

14 Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.

15 The rich man's wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty.

16 The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.

17 He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth. [5]

18 He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.

19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.

20 The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth. 21 The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom. [6]

22 The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.

23 It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.

24 The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: but the desire of the righteous shall be granted. 25 As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.

26 As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him.

27 The fear of the Lord prolongeth [7] days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened. 28 The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.

29 The way of the Lord is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. 30 The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.

31 The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out. 32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness. [8]

111 A false [9] balance is abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is his delight.

2 When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.

4 Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.

5 The righteousness of the perfect shall direct [10] his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. 6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.

7 When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth.

8 The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.

9 An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.

10 When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting. 11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

12 He that is void [11] of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. 13 A talebearer [12] revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.

14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

15 He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [13] for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.

16 A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.

17 The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

18 The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.

19 As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.

20 They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the Lord: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.

21 Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.

22 As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without [14] discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.

24 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.

25 The liberal [15] soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

26 He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.

27 He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.

28 He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

29 He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth [16] souls is wise.

31 Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.

121 Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

2 A good man obtaineth favour of the Lord: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.

3 A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.

4 A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.

5 The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.

6 The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

7 The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.

8 A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

9 He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.

10 A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

11 He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

12 The wicked desireth the net [17] of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.

13 The wicked [18] is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.

14 A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

16 A fool's wrath is presently [19] known: but a prudent man covereth shame.

17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.

18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.

19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

21 There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.

22 Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.

23 A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

24 The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful [20] shall be under tribute.

25 Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.

26 The righteous is more excellent [21] than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.

27 The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.

28 In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.

131 A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.

2 A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.

3 He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.

4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

5 A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame.

6 Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner. [22]

7 There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.

8 The ransom of a man's life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.

9 The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp [23] of the wicked shall be put out.

10 Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour [24] shall increase.

12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

13 Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. [25]

14 The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

15 Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.

16 Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.

17 A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful [26] ambassador is health.

18 Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.

19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.

20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. [27]

21 Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed.

22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

23 Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.

24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

25 The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want.

141 Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.

2 He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the Lord: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.

3 In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.

5 A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.

6 A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.

7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.

9 Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

10 The heart knoweth his own [28] bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.

11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.

12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.

14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.

16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.

17 He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich [29] hath many friends.

21 He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

22 Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

23 In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

24 The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.

25 A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.

26 In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. 27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

28 In the multitude of people is the king's honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.

29 He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty [30] of spirit exalteth folly.

30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

31 He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.

32 The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.

33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.

34 Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

35 The king's favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.

151 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

4 A wholesome [31] tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

5 A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the Lord: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

10 Correction [32] is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.

11 Hell and destruction are before the Lord: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?

12 A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.

13 A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

16 Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith. 17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

18 A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

19 The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.

20 A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him that is destitute [33] of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

24 The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.

25 The Lord will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow.

26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord: but the words of the pure are pleasant [34] words.

27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.

31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.

32 He that refuseth instruction [35] despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

Other Translations of Proverbs 10:1-15:33

New International Version

The Upright and the Wicked Contrasted

101 The proverbs of Solomon: A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.

2 Ill-gotten treasures have no lasting value, but righteousness delivers from death. 3 The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.

4 Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.

5 He who gathers crops in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.

6 Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.Or "righteous, / but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence"

7 The name of the righteous is used in blessings,See Gen. 48:20. but the name of the wicked will rot.

8 The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin.

9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.

10 Whoever winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering fool comes to ruin.

11 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.

12 Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.

13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense.

14 The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.

15 The wealth of the rich is their fortified city, but poverty is the ruin of the poor.

16 The wages of the righteous is life, but the earnings of the wicked are sin and death.

17 Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.

18 Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.

19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.

20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. 21 The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of sense.

22 The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, without painful toil for it.

23 A fool finds pleasure in wicked schemes, but a person of understanding delights in wisdom.

24 What the wicked dread will overtake them; what the righteous desire will be granted. 25 When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever.

26 As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so are sluggards to those who send them.

27 The fear of the Lord adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short. 28 The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.

29 The way of the Lord is a refuge for the blameless, but it is the ruin of those who do evil. 30 The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land.

31 From the mouth of the righteous comes the fruit of wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be silenced. 32 The lips of the righteous know what finds favor, but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse.

111 The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.

2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

4 Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.

5 The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness. 6 The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires.

7 Hopes placed in mortals die with them; all the promise ofTwo Hebrew manuscripts; most Hebrew manuscripts, Vulgate, Syriac and Targum "When the wicked die, their hope perishes;" / "all they expected from" their power comes to nothing.

8 The righteous person is rescued from trouble, and it falls on the wicked instead.

9 With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors, but through knowledge the righteous escape.

10 When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. 11 Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.

12 Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue. 13 A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.

14 For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.

15 Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.

16 A kindhearted woman gains honor, but ruthless men gain only wealth.

17 Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.

18 A wicked person earns deceptive wages, but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.

19 Truly the righteous attain life, but whoever pursues evil finds death.

20 The Lord detests those whose hearts are perverse, but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.

21 Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free.

22 Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath.

24 One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

25 A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

26 People curse the one who hoards grain, but they pray God's blessing on the one who is willing to sell.

27 Whoever seeks good finds favor, but evil comes to one who searches for it.

28 Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.

29 Whoever brings ruin on their family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.

31 If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!

121 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.

2 Good people obtain favor from the Lord, but he condemns those who devise wicked schemes.

3 No one can be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted.

4 A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.

5 The plans of the righteous are just, but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.

6 The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.

7 The wicked are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous stands firm.

8 A person is praised according to their prudence, and one with a warped mind is despised.

9 Better to be a nobody and yet have a servant than pretend to be somebody and have no food.

10 The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.

11 Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

12 The wicked desire the stronghold of evildoers, but the root of the righteous endures.

13 Evildoers are trapped by their sinful talk, and so the innocent escape trouble.

14 From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward.

15 The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.

16 Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.

17 An honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies.

18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

19 Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

20 Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy.

21 No harm overtakes the righteous, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

22 The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.

23 The prudent keep their knowledge to themselves, but a fool's heart blurts out folly.

24 Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.

25 Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.

26 The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.

27 The lazy do not roastThe meaning of the Hebrew for this word is uncertain. any game, but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.

28 In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality.

131 A wise son heeds his father's instruction, but a mocker does not respond to rebukes.

2 From the fruit of their lips people enjoy good things, but the unfaithful have an appetite for violence.

3 Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.

4 A sluggard's appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.

5 The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked make themselves a stench and bring shame on themselves.

6 Righteousness guards the person of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner.

7 One person pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.

8 A person's riches may ransom their life, but the poor cannot respond to threatening rebukes.

9 The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out.

10 Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.

11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.

12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

13 Whoever scorns instruction will pay for it, but whoever respects a command is rewarded.

14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.

15 Good judgment wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful leads to their destruction.Septuagint and Syriac; the meaning of the Hebrew for this phrase is uncertain.

16 All who are prudent act withOr "prudent protect themselves through" knowledge, but fools expose their folly.

17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing.

18 Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.

19 A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.

20 Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.

21 Trouble pursues the sinner, but the righteous are rewarded with good things.

22 A good person leaves an inheritance for their children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous.

23 An unplowed field produces food for the poor, but injustice sweeps it away.

24 Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.

25 The righteous eat to their hearts' content, but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry.

141 The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

2 Whoever fears the Lord walks uprightly, but those who despise him are devious in their ways.

3 A fool's mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them.

4 Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests.

5 An honest witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.

6 The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.

7 Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.

9 Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright.

10 Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy.

11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.

13 Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief.

14 The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the good rewarded for theirs.

15 The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.

16 The wise fear the Lord and shun evil, but a fool is hotheaded and yet feels secure.

17 A quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who devises evil schemes is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 Evildoers will bow down in the presence of the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends.

21 It is a sin to despise one's neighbor, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.

22 Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good findOr "show" love and faithfulness.

23 All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.

24 The wealth of the wise is their crown, but the folly of fools yields folly.

25 A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful.

26 Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge. 27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.

28 A large population is a king's glory, but without subjects a prince is ruined.

29 Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.

30 A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.

31 Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

32 When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous seek refuge in God.

33 Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known.Hebrew; Septuagint and Syriac "discerning / but in the heart of fools she is not known"

34 Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.

35 A king delights in a wise servant, but a shameful servant arouses his fury.

151 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

4 The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.

5 A fool spurns a parent's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.

6 The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the income of the wicked brings ruin.

7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not upright.

8 The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him.

9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue righteousness.

10 Stern discipline awaits anyone who leaves the path; the one who hates correction will die.

11 Death and DestructionHebrew "Abaddon" lie open before the Lord- how much more do human hearts!

12 Mockers resent correction, so they avoid the wise.

13 A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.

14 The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.

15 All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

16 Better a little with the fear of the Lordthan great wealth with turmoil. 17 Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.

18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

19 The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway.

20 A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly brings joy to one who has no sense, but whoever has understanding keeps a straight course.

22 Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.

23 A person finds joy in giving an apt reply- and how good is a timely word!

24 The path of life leads upward for the prudent to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead.

25 The Lord tears down the house of the proud, but he sets the widow's boundary stones in place.

26 The Lord detests the thoughts of the wicked, but gracious words are pure in his sight.

27 The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live.

28 The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 Light in a messenger's eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.

31 Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.

32 Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.

33 Wisdom's instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor.

English Standard Version

The Upright and the Wicked Contrasted

101 The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother.

2 Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit, but righteousness delivers from death. 3 The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.

4 A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.

5 He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame.

6 Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.

7 The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.

8 The wise of heart will receive commandments, but a babbling fool will come to ruin.

9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.

10 Whoever winks the eye causes trouble, but a babbling fool will come to ruin.

11 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.

12 Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.

13 On the lips of him who has understanding, wisdom is found, but a rod is for the back of him who lacks sense.

14 The wise lay up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool brings ruin near.

15 A rich man's wealth is his strong city; the poverty of the poor is their ruin.

16 The wage of the righteous leads to life, the gain of the wicked to sin.

17 Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.

18 The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool.

19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.

20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver; the heart of the wicked is of little worth. 21 The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of sense.

22 The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.Or and toil adds nothing to it

23 Doing wrong is like a joke to a fool, but wisdom is pleasure to a man of understanding.

24 What the wicked dreads will come upon him, but the desire of the righteous will be granted. 25 When the tempest passes, the wicked is no more, but the righteous is established forever.

26 Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to those who send him.

27 The fear of the Lord prolongs life, but the years of the wicked will be short. 28 The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish.

29 The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the blameless, but destruction to evildoers. 30 The righteous will never be removed, but the wicked will not dwell in the land.

31 The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut off. 32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.

111 A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight.

2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.

4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.

5 The righteousness of the blameless keeps his way straight, but the wicked falls by his own wickedness. 6 The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the treacherous are taken captive by their lust.

7 When the wicked dies, his hope will perish, and the expectation of wealthOr of his strength, or of iniquity perishes too.

8 The righteous is delivered from trouble, and the wicked walks into it instead.

9 With his mouth the godless man would destroy his neighbor, but by knowledge the righteous are delivered.

10 When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices, and when the wicked perish there are shouts of gladness. 11 By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is overthrown.

12 Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent. 13 Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.

14 Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.

15 Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer harm, but he who hates striking hands in pledge is secure.

16 A gracious woman gets honor, and violent men get riches.

17 A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.

18 The wicked earns deceptive wages, but one who sows righteousness gets a sure reward.

19 Whoever is steadfast in righteousness will live, but he who pursues evil will die.

20 Those of crooked heart are an abomination to the Lord, but those of blameless ways are his delight.

21 Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered.

22 Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman without discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous ends only in good; the expectation of the wicked in wrath.

24 One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.

25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.

26 The people curse him who holds back grain, but a blessing is on the head of him who sells it.

27 Whoever diligently seeks good seeks favor,Or acceptance but evil comes to him who searches for it.

28 Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf.

29 Whoever troubles his own household will inherit the wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise.

31 If the righteous is repaid on earth, how much more the wicked and the sinner!

121 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.

2 A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but a man of evil devices he condemns.

3 No one is established by wickedness, but the root of the righteous will never be moved.

4 An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who brings shame is like rottenness in his bones.

5 The thoughts of the righteous are just; the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.

6 The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the mouth of the upright delivers them.

7 The wicked are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous will stand.

8 A man is commended according to his good sense, but one of twisted mind is despised.

9 Better to be lowly and have a servant than to play the great man and lack bread.

10 Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast, but the mercy of the wicked is cruel.

11 Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense.

12 Whoever is wicked covets the spoil of evildoers, but the root of the righteous bears fruit.

13 An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, but the righteous escapes from trouble.

14 From the fruit of his mouth a man is satisfied with good, and the work of a man's hand comes back to him.

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.

16 The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult.

17 Whoever speaksHebrew breathes out the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness utters deceit.

18 There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

19 Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but those who plan peace have joy.

21 No ill befalls the righteous, but the wicked are filled with trouble.

22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.

23 A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims folly.

24 The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor.

25 Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.

26 One who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor,Or The righteous chooses his friends carefully but the way of the wicked leads them astray.

27 Whoever is slothful will not roast his game, but the diligent man will get precious wealth.Or but diligence is precious wealth

28 In the path of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death.

131 A wise son hears his father's instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

2 From the fruit of his mouth a man eats what is good, but the desire of the treacherous is for violence.

3 Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life; he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.

4 The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.

5 The righteous hates falsehood, but the wicked brings shameOr stench and disgrace.

6 Righteousness guards him whose way is blameless, but sin overthrows the wicked.

7 One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.

8 The ransom of a man's life is his wealth, but a poor man hears no threat.

9 The light of the righteous rejoices, but the lamp of the wicked will be put out.

10 By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom.

11 Wealth gained hastilyOr by fraud will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.

12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.

13 Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.

14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.

15 Good sense wins favor, but the way of the treacherous is their ruin.Probable reading (compare Septuagint, Syriac, Vulgate); Hebrew is rugged, or is an enduring rut

16 In everything the prudent acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.

17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful envoy brings healing.

18 Poverty and disgrace come to him who ignores instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is honored.

19 A desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but to turn away from evil is an abomination to fools.

20 Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.

21 DisasterOr Evil pursues sinners, but the righteous are rewarded with good.

22 A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous.

23 The fallow ground of the poor would yield much food, but it is swept away through injustice.

24 Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.Or who loves him disciplines him early

25 The righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite, but the belly of the wicked suffers want.

141 The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down.

2 Whoever walks in uprightness fears the Lord, but he who is devious in his ways despises him.

3 By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back,Or In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride but the lips of the wise will preserve them.

4 Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean, but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox.

5 A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness breathes out lies.

6 A scoffer seeks wisdom in vain, but knowledge is easy for a man of understanding.

7 Leave the presence of a fool, for there you do not meet words of knowledge.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools is deceiving.

9 Fools mock at the guilt offering, but the upright enjoy acceptance.Hebrew but among the upright is acceptance

10 The heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy.

11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.Hebrew ways of death

13 Even in laughter the heart may ache, and the end of joy may be grief.

14 The backslider in heart will be filled with the fruit of his ways, and a good man will be filled with the fruit of his ways.

15 The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.

16 One who is wise is cautiousOr fears [the Lord] and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and careless.

17 A man of quick temper acts foolishly, and a man of evil devices is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow down before the good, the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor is disliked even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends.

21 Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.

22 Do they not go astray who devise evil? Those who devise good meetOr show steadfast love and faithfulness.

23 In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.

24 The crown of the wise is their wealth, but the folly of fools brings folly.

25 A truthful witness saves lives, but one who breathes out lies is deceitful.

26 In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. 27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.

28 In a multitude of people is the glory of a king, but without people a prince is ruined.

29 Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.

30 A tranquilOr healing heart gives life to the flesh, but envyOr jealousy makes the bones rot.

31 Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.

32 The wicked is overthrown through his evildoing, but the righteous finds refuge in his death.

33 Wisdom rests in the heart of a man of understanding, but it makes itself known even in the midst of fools.Or Wisdom rests quietly in the heart of a man of understanding, but makes itself known in the midst of fools

34 Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.

35 A servant who deals wisely has the king's favor, but his wrath falls on one who acts shamefully.

151 A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.

4 A gentleOr healing tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

5 A fool despises his father's instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous there is much treasure, but trouble befalls the income of the wicked.

7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools.Or the hearts of fools are not steadfast

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but the prayer of the upright is acceptable to him.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but he loves him who pursues righteousness.

10 There is severe discipline for him who forsakes the way; whoever hates reproof will die.

11 Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the Lord; how much more the hearts of the children of man!

12 A scoffer does not like to be reproved; he will not go to the wise.

13 A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed.

14 The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, but the mouths of fools feed on folly.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.

16 Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it. 17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is than a fattened ox and hatred with it.

18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.

19 The way of a sluggard is like a hedge of thorns, but the path of the upright is a level highway.

20 A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly is a joy to him who lacks sense, but a man of understanding walks straight ahead.

22 Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.

23 To make an apt answer is a joy to a man, and a word in season, how good it is!

24 The path of life leads upward for the prudent, that he may turn away from Sheol beneath.

25 The Lord tears down the house of the proud but maintains the widow's boundaries.

26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord, but gracious words are pure.

27 Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live.

28 The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and good news refreshesHebrew makes fat the bones.

31 The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.

32 Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence.

33 The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

The Message

The Upright and the Wicked Contrasted

101 Wise son, glad father; stupid son, sad mother.

2 Ill-gotten gain gets you nowhere; an honest life is immortal. 3 God won't starve an honest soul, but he frustrates the appetites of the wicked.

4 Sloth makes you poor; diligence brings wealth.

5 Make hay while the sun shines - that's smart; go fishing during harvest - that's stupid.

6 Blessings accrue on a good and honest life, but the mouth of the wicked is a dark cave of abuse.

7 A good and honest life is a blessed memorial; a wicked life leaves a rotten stench.

8 A wise heart takes orders; an empty head will come unglued.

9 Honesty lives confident and carefree, but Shifty is sure to be exposed.

10 An evasive eye is a sign of trouble ahead, but an open, face-to-face meeting results in peace.

11 The mouth of a good person is a deep, life-giving well, but the mouth of the wicked is a dark cave of abuse.

12 Hatred starts fights, but love pulls a quilt over the bickering.

13 You'll find wisdom on the lips of a person of insight, but the shortsighted needs a slap in the face.

14 The wise accumulate knowledge - a true treasure; know-it-alls talk too much - a sheer waste. The Road to Life Is a Disciplined Life

15 The wealth of the rich is their bastion; the poverty of the indigent is their ruin.

16 The wage of a good person is exuberant life; an evil person ends up with nothing but sin.

17 The road to life is a disciplined life; ignore correction and you're lost for good.

18 Liars secretly hoard hatred; fools openly spread slander.

19 The more talk, the less truth; the wise measure their words.

20 The speech of a good person is worth waiting for; the blabber of the wicked is worthless. 21 The talk of a good person is rich fare for many, but chatterboxes die of an empty heart. Fear-of-God Expands Your Life

22 God's blessing makes life rich; nothing we do can improve on God.

23 An empty-head thinks mischief is fun, but a mindful person relishes wisdom.

24 The nightmares of the wicked come true; what the good people desire, they get. 25 When the storm is over, there's nothing left of the wicked; good people, firm on their rock foundation, aren't even fazed.

26 A lazy employee will give you nothing but trouble; it's vinegar in the mouth, smoke in the eyes.

27 The Fear-of-God expands your life; a wicked life is a puny life. 28 The aspirations of good people end in celebration; the ambitions of bad people crash.

29 God is solid backing to a well-lived life, but he calls into question a shabby performance. 30 Good people last - they can't be moved; the wicked are here today, gone tomorrow.

31 A good person's mouth is a clear fountain of wisdom; a foul mouth is a stagnant swamp. 32 The speech of a good person clears the air; the words of the wicked pollute it.

111 God hates cheating in the marketplace; he loves it when business is aboveboard.

2 The stuck-up fall flat on their faces, but down-to-earth people stand firm.

3 The integrity of the honest keeps them on track; the deviousness of crooks brings them to ruin.

4 A thick bankroll is no help when life falls apart, but a principled life can stand up to the worst.

5 Moral character makes for smooth traveling; an evil life is a hard life. 6 Good character is the best insurance; crooks get trapped in their sinful lust.

7 When the wicked die, that's it - the story's over, end of hope.

8 A good person is saved from much trouble; a bad person runs straight into it.

9 The loose tongue of the godless spreads destruction; the common sense of the godly preserves them.

10 When it goes well for good people, the whole town cheers; when it goes badly for bad people, the town celebrates. 11 When right-living people bless the city, it flourishes; evil talk turns it into a ghost town in no time.

12 Mean-spirited slander is heartless; quiet discretion accompanies good sense. 13 A gadabout gossip can't be trusted with a secret, but someone of integrity won't violate a confidence.

14 Without good direction, people lose their way; the more wise counsel you follow, the better your chances.

15 Whoever makes deals with strangers is sure to get burned; if you keep a cool head, you'll avoid rash bargains.

16 A woman of gentle grace gets respect, but men of rough violence grab for loot. A God-Shaped Life

17 When you're kind to others, you help yourself; when you're cruel to others, you hurt yourself.

18 Bad work gets paid with a bad check; good work gets solid pay.

19 Take your stand with God's loyal community and live, or chase after phantoms of evil and die.

20 God can't stand deceivers, but oh how he relishes integrity.

21 Count on this: The wicked won't get off scot-free, and God's loyal people will triumph.

22 Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful face on an empty head.

23 The desires of good people lead straight to the best, but wicked ambition ends in angry frustration.

24 The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller.

25 The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped.

26 Curses on those who drive a hard bargain! Blessings on all who play fair and square!

27 The one who seeks good finds delight; the student of evil becomes evil.

28 A life devoted to things is a dead life, a stump; a God-shaped life is a flourishing tree.

29 Exploit or abuse your family, and end up with a fistful of air; common sense tells you it's a stupid way to live.

30 A good life is a fruit-bearing tree; a violent life destroys souls.

31 If good people barely make it, what's in store for the bad!

121 If you love learning, you love the discipline that goes with it - how shortsighted to refuse correction!

2 A good person basks in the delight of God, and he wants nothing to do with devious schemers.

3 You can't find firm footing in a swamp, but life rooted in God stands firm.

4 A hearty wife invigorates her husband, but a frigid woman is cancer in the bones.

5 The thinking of principled people makes for justice; the plots of degenerates corrupt.

6 The words of the wicked kill; the speech of the upright saves.

7 Wicked people fall to pieces - there's nothing to them; the homes of good people hold together.

8 A person who talks sense is honored; airheads are held in contempt.

9 Better to be ordinary and work for a living than act important and starve in the process.

10 Good people are good to their animals; the "good-hearted" bad people kick and abuse them.

11 The one who stays on the job has food on the table; the witless chase whims and fancies.

12 What the wicked construct finally falls into ruin, while the roots of the righteous give life, and more life. Wise People Take Advice

13 The gossip of bad people gets them in trouble; the conversation of good people keeps them out of it.

14 Well-spoken words bring satisfaction; well-done work has its own reward.

15 Fools are headstrong and do what they like; wise people take advice.

16 Fools have short fuses and explode all too quickly; the prudent quietly shrug off insults.

17 Truthful witness by a good person clears the air, but liars lay down a smoke screen of deceit.

18 Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise.

19 Truth lasts; lies are here today, gone tomorrow.

20 Evil scheming distorts the schemer; peace-planning brings joy to the planner.

21 No evil can overwhelm a good person, but the wicked have their hands full of it.

22 God can't stomach liars; he loves the company of those who keep their word.

23 Prudent people don't flaunt their knowledge; talkative fools broadcast their silliness.

24 The diligent find freedom in their work; the lazy are oppressed by work.

25 Worry weighs us down; a cheerful word picks us up.

26 A good person survives misfortune, but a wicked life invites disaster.

27 A lazy life is an empty life, but "early to rise" gets the job done.

28 Good men and women travel right into life; sin's detours take you straight to hell.

131 Intelligent children listen to their parents; foolish children do their own thing.

2 The good acquire a taste for helpful conversation; bullies push and shove their way through life.

3 Careful words make for a careful life; careless talk may ruin everything.

4 Indolence wants it all and gets nothing; the energetic have something to show for their lives.

5 A good person hates false talk; a bad person wallows in gibberish.

6 A God-loyal life keeps you on track; sin dumps the wicked in the ditch.

7 A pretentious, showy life is an empty life; a plain and simple life is a full life.

8 The rich can be sued for everything they have, but the poor are free of such threats.

9 The lives of good people are brightly lit streets; the lives of the wicked are dark alleys.

10 Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other's counsel.

11 Easy come, easy go, but steady diligence pays off.

12 Unrelenting disappointment leaves you heartsick, but a sudden good break can turn life around.

13 Ignore the Word and suffer; honor God's commands and grow rich.

14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, so, no more drinking from death-tainted wells!

15 Sound thinking makes for gracious living, but liars walk a rough road.

16 A commonsense person lives good sense; fools litter the country with silliness.

17 Irresponsible talk makes a real mess of things, but a reliable reporter is a healing presence.

18 Refuse discipline and end up homeless; embrace correction and live an honored life.

19 Souls who follow their hearts thrive; fools bent on evil despise matters of soul.

20 Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.

21 Disaster entraps sinners, but God-loyal people get a good life.

22 A good life gets passed on to the grandchildren; ill-gotten wealth ends up with good people.

23 Banks foreclose on the farms of the poor, or else the poor lose their shirts to crooked lawyers.

24 A refusal to correct is a refusal to love; love your children by disciplining them.

25 An appetite for good brings much satisfaction, but the belly of the wicked always wants more.

141 Lady Wisdom builds a lovely home; Sir Fool comes along and tears it down brick by brick.

2 An honest life shows respect for God; a degenerate life is a slap in his face.

3 Frivolous talk provokes a derisive smile; wise speech evokes nothing but respect.

4 No cattle, no crops; a good harvest requires a strong ox for the plow.

5 A true witness never lies; a false witness makes a business of it.

6 Cynics look high and low for wisdom - and never find it; the open-minded find it right on their doorstep!

7 Escape quickly from the company of fools; they're a waste of your time, a waste of your words.

8 The wisdom of the wise keeps life on track; the foolishness of fools lands them in the ditch.

9 The stupid ridicule right and wrong, but a moral life is a favored life.

10 The person who shuns the bitter moments of friends will be an outsider at their celebrations.

11 Lives of careless wrongdoing are tumbledown shacks; holy living builds soaring cathedrals.

12 There's a way of life that looks harmless enough; look again - it leads straight to hell.

13 Sure, those people appear to be having a good time, but all that laughter will end in heartbreak. Sift and Weigh Every Word

14 A mean person gets paid back in meanness, a gracious person in grace.

15 The gullible believe anything they're told; the prudent sift and weigh every word.

16 The wise watch their steps and avoid evil; fools are headstrong and reckless.

17 The hotheaded do things they'll later regret; the coldhearted get the cold shoulder.

18 Foolish dreamers live in a world of illusion; wise realists plant their feet on the ground.

19 Eventually, evil will pay tribute to good; the wicked will respect God-loyal people.

20 An unlucky loser is shunned by all, but everyone loves a winner.

21 It's criminal to ignore a neighbor in need, but compassion for the poor - what a blessing!

22 Isn't it obvious that conspirators lose out, while the thoughtful win love and trust?

23 Hard work always pays off; mere talk puts no bread on the table.

24 The wise accumulate wisdom; fools get stupider by the day.

25 Souls are saved by truthful witness and betrayed by the spread of lies.

26 The Fear-of-God builds up confidence, and makes a world safe for your children. 27 The Fear-of-God is a spring of living water so you won't go off drinking from poisoned wells.

28 The mark of a good leader is loyal followers; leadership is nothing without a following.

29 Slowness to anger makes for deep understanding; a quick-tempered person stockpiles stupidity.

30 A sound mind makes for a robust body, but runaway emotions corrode the bones.

31 You insult your Maker when you exploit the powerless; when you're kind to the poor, you honor God.

32 The evil of bad people leaves them out in the cold; the integrity of good people creates a safe place for living.

33 Lady Wisdom is at home in an understanding heart - fools never even get to say hello.

34 God-devotion makes a country strong; God-avoidance leaves people weak.

35 Diligent work gets a warm commendation; shiftless work earns an angry rebuke.

151 A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire.

2 Knowledge flows like spring water from the wise; fools are leaky faucets, dripping nonsense.

3 God doesn't miss a thing - he's alert to good and evil alike.

4 Kind words heal and help; cutting words wound and maim.

5 Moral dropouts won't listen to their elders; welcoming correction is a mark of good sense.

6 The lives of God-loyal people flourish; a misspent life is soon bankrupt.

7 Perceptive words spread knowledge; fools are hollow - there's nothing to them.

8 God can't stand pious poses, but he delights in genuine prayers.

9 A life frittered away disgusts God; he loves those who run straight for the finish line.

10 It's a school of hard knocks for those who leave God's path, a dead-end street for those who hate God's rules.

11 Even hell holds no secrets from God - do you think he can't read human hearts? Life Ascends to the Heights

12 Know-it-alls don't like being told what to do; they avoid the company of wise men and women.

13 A cheerful heart brings a smile to your face; a sad heart makes it hard to get through the day.

14 An intelligent person is always eager to take in more truth; fools feed on fast-food fads and fancies.

15 A miserable heart means a miserable life; a cheerful heart fills the day with song.

16 A simple life in the Fear-of-God is better than a rich life with a ton of headaches. 17 Better a bread crust shared in love than a slab of prime rib served in hate.

18 Hot tempers start fights; a calm, cool spirit keeps the peace.

19 The path of lazy people is overgrown with briers; the diligent walk down a smooth road.

20 Intelligent children make their parents proud; lazy students embarrass their parents.

21 The empty-headed treat life as a plaything; the perceptive grasp its meaning and make a go of it.

22 Refuse good advice and watch your plans fail; take good counsel and watch them succeed.

23 Congenial conversation - what a pleasure! The right word at the right time - beautiful!

24 Life ascends to the heights for the thoughtful - it's a clean about-face from descent into hell.

25 God smashes the pretensions of the arrogant; he stands with those who have no standing.

26 God can't stand evil scheming, but he puts words of grace and beauty on display.

27 A greedy and grasping person destroys community; those who refuse to exploit live and let live.

28 Prayerful answers come from God-loyal people; the wicked are sewers of abuse.

29 God keeps his distance from the wicked; he closely attends to the prayers of God-loyal people.

30 A twinkle in the eye means joy in the heart, and good news makes you feel fit as a fiddle.

31 Listen to good advice if you want to live well, an honored guest among wise men and women.

32 An undisciplined, self-willed life is puny; an obedient, God-willed life is spacious.

33 Fear-of-God is a school in skilled living - first you learn humility, then you experience glory.

New King James Version

The Upright and the Wicked Contrasted

101 The Proverbs of Solomon: A wise son makes a glad father, But a foolish son is the grief of his mother.

2 Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, But righteousness delivers from death. 3 The Lord will not allow the righteous soul to famish, But He casts away the desire of the wicked.

4 He who has a slack hand becomes poor, But the hand of the diligent makes rich.

5 He who gathers in summer is a wise son; He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame.

6 Blessings are on the head of the righteous, But violence covers the mouth of the wicked.

7 The memory of the righteous is blessed, But the name of the wicked will rot.

8 The wise in heart will receive commands, But a prating fool will fall.

9 He who walks with integrity walks securely, But he who perverts his ways will become known.

10 He who winks with the eye causes trouble, But a prating fool will fall.

11 The mouth of the righteous is a well of life, But violence covers the mouth of the wicked.

12 Hatred stirs up strife, But love covers all sins.

13 Wisdom is found on the lips of him who has understanding, But a rod is for the back of him who is devoid of understanding.

14 Wise people store up knowledge, But the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.

15 The rich man's wealth is his strong city; The destruction of the poor is their poverty.

16 The labor of the righteous leads to life, The wages of the wicked to sin.

17 He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, But he who refuses correction goes astray.

18 Whoever hides hatred has lying lips, And whoever spreads slander is a fool.

19 In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise.

20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver; The heart of the wicked is worth little. 21 The lips of the righteous feed many, But fools die for lack of wisdom.

22 The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.

23 To do evil is like sport to a fool, But a man of understanding has wisdom.

24 The fear of the wicked will come upon him, And the desire of the righteous will be granted. 25 When the whirlwind passes by, the wicked is no more, But the righteous has an everlasting foundation.

26 As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, So is the lazy man to those who send him.

27 The fear of the Lord prolongs days, But the years of the wicked will be shortened. 28 The hope of the righteous will be gladness, But the expectation of the wicked will perish.

29 The way of the Lord is strength for the upright, But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity. 30 The righteous will never be removed, But the wicked will not inhabit the earth.

31 The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, But the perverse tongue will be cut out. 32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, But the mouth of the wicked what is perverse.

111 Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, But a just weight is His delight.

2 When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright will guide them, But the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.

4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, But righteousness delivers from death.

5 The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way aright, But the wicked will fall by his own wickedness. 6 The righteousness of the upright will deliver them, But the unfaithful will be caught by their lust.

7 When a wicked man dies, his expectation will perish, And the hope of the unjust perishes.

8 The righteous is delivered from trouble, And it comes to the wicked instead.

9 The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, But through knowledge the righteous will be delivered.

10 When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices; And when the wicked perish, there is jubilation. 11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, But it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

12 He who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, But a man of understanding holds his peace. 13 A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.

14 Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.

15 He who is surety for a stranger will suffer, But one who hates being surety is secure.

16 A gracious woman retains honor, But ruthless men retain riches.

17 The merciful man does good for his own soul, But he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.

18 The wicked man does deceptive work, But he who sows righteousness will have a sure reward.

19 As righteousness leads to life, So he who pursues evil pursues it to his own death.

20 Those who are of a perverse heart are an abomination to the Lord, But the blameless in their ways are His delight.

21 Though they join forces, the wicked will not go unpunished; But the posterity of the righteous will be delivered.

22 As a ring of gold in a swine's snout, So is a lovely woman who lacks discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous is only good, But the expectation of the wicked is wrath.

24 There is one who scatters, yet increases more; And there is one who withholds more than is right, But it leads to poverty.

25 The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.

26 The people will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it.

27 He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, But trouble will come to him who seeks evil.

28 He who trusts in his riches will fall, But the righteous will flourish like foliage.

29 He who troubles his own house will inherit the wind, And the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, And he who wins souls is wise.

31 If the righteous will be recompensed on the earth, How much more the ungodly and the sinner.

121 Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, But he who hates correction is stupid.

2 A good man obtains favor from the Lord, But a man of wicked intentions He will condemn.

3 A man is not established by wickedness, But the root of the righteous cannot be moved.

4 An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, But she who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones.

5 The thoughts of the righteous are right, But the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.

6 The words of the wicked are, "Lie in wait for blood," But the mouth of the upright will deliver them.

7 The wicked are overthrown and are no more, But the house of the righteous will stand.

8 A man will be commended according to his wisdom, But he who is of a perverse heart will be despised.

9 Better is the one who is slighted but has a servant, Than he who honors himself but lacks bread.

10 A righteous man regards the life of his animal, But the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

11 He who tills his land will be satisfied with bread, But he who follows frivolity is devoid of understanding.

12 The wicked covet the catch of evil men, But the root of the righteous yields fruit.

13 The wicked is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, But the righteous will come through trouble.

14 A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth, And the recompense of a man's hands will be rendered to him.

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is wise.

16 A fool's wrath is known at once, But a prudent man covers shame.

17 He who speaks truth declares righteousness, But a false witness, deceit.

18 There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, But the tongue of the wise promotes health.

19 The truthful lip shall be established forever, But a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.

21 No grave trouble will overtake the righteous, But the wicked shall be filled with evil.

22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.

23 A prudent man conceals knowledge, But the heart of fools proclaims foolishness.

24 The hand of the diligent will rule, But the lazy man will be put to forced labor.

25 Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, But a good word makes it glad.

26 The righteous should choose his friends carefully, For the way of the wicked leads them astray.

27 The lazy man does not roast what he took in hunting, But diligence is man's precious possession.

28 In the way of righteousness is life, And in its pathway there is no death.

131 A wise son heeds his father's instruction, But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

2 A man shall eat well by the fruit of his mouth, But the soul of the unfaithful feeds on violence.

3 He who guards his mouth preserves his life, But he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction.

4 The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.

5 A righteous man hates lying, But a wicked man is loathsome and comes to shame.

6 Righteousness guards him whose way is blameless, But wickedness overthrows the sinner.

7 There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing; And one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches.

8 The ransom of a man's life is his riches, But the poor does not hear rebuke.

9 The light of the righteous rejoices, But the lamp of the wicked will be put out.

10 By pride comes nothing but strife, But with the well-advised is wisdom.

11 Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, But he who gathers by labor will increase.

12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life.

13 He who despises the word will be destroyed, But he who fears the commandment will be rewarded.

14 The law of the wise is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death.

15 Good understanding gains favor, But the way of the unfaithful is hard.

16 Every prudent man acts with knowledge, But a fool lays open his folly.

17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, But a faithful ambassador brings health.

18 Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction, But he who regards a rebuke will be honored.

19 A desire accomplished is sweet to the soul, But it is an abomination to fools to depart from evil.

20 He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed.

21 Evil pursues sinners, But to the righteous, good shall be repaid.

22 A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, But the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.

23 Much food is in the fallow ground of the poor, And for lack of justice there is waste.

24 He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.

25 The righteous eats to the satisfying of his soul, But the stomach of the wicked shall be in want.

141 The wise woman builds her house, But the foolish pulls it down with her hands.

2 He who walks in his uprightness fears the Lord, But he who is perverse in his ways despises Him.

3 In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them.

4 Where no oxen are, the trough is clean; But much increase comes by the strength of an ox.

5 A faithful witness does not lie, But a false witness will utter lies.

6 A scoffer seeks wisdom and does not find it, But knowledge is easy to him who understands.

7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, When you do not perceive in him the lips of knowledge.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way, But the folly of fools is deceit.

9 Fools mock at sin, But among the upright there is favor.

10 The heart knows its own bitterness, And a stranger does not share its joy.

11 The house of the wicked will be overthrown, But the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.

13 Even in laughter the heart may sorrow, And the end of mirth may be grief.

14 The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, But a good man will be satisfied from above.

15 The simple believes every word, But the prudent considers well his steps.

16 A wise man fears and departs from evil, But a fool rages and is self-confident.

17 A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, And a man of wicked intentions is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly, But the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil will bow before the good, And the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor man is hated even by his own neighbor, But the rich has many friends.

21 He who despises his neighbor sins; But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.

22 Do they not go astray who devise evil? But mercy and truth belong to those who devise good.

23 In all labor there is profit, But idle chatter leads only to poverty.

24 The crown of the wise is their riches, But the foolishness of fools is folly.

25 A true witness delivers souls, But a deceitful witness speaks lies.

26 In the fear of the Lord there is strong confidence, And His children will have a place of refuge. 27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death.

28 In a multitude of people is a king's honor, But in the lack of people is the downfall of a prince.

29 He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, But he who is impulsive exalts folly.

30 A sound heart is life to the body, But envy is rottenness to the bones.

31 He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy.

32 The wicked is banished in his wickedness, But the righteous has a refuge in his death.

33 Wisdom rests in the heart of him who has understanding, But what is in the heart of fools is made known.

34 Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people.

35 The king's favor is toward a wise servant, But his wrath is against him who causes shame.

151 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, Keeping watch on the evil and the good.

4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

5 A fool despises his father's instruction, But he who receives correction is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous there is much treasure, But in the revenue of the wicked is trouble.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge, But the heart of the fool does not do so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, But the prayer of the upright is His delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, But He loves him who follows righteousness.

10 Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way, And he who hates correction will die.

11 Hell and Destruction are before the Lord; So how much more the hearts of the sons of men.

12 A scoffer does not love one who corrects him, Nor will he go to the wise.

13 A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, But the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil, But he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast.

16 Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, Than great treasure with trouble. 17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, Than a fatted calf with hatred.

18 A wrathful man stirs up strife, But he who is slow to anger allays contention.

19 The way of the lazy man is like a hedge of thorns, But the way of the upright is a highway.

20 A wise son makes a father glad, But a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him who is destitute of discernment, But a man of understanding walks uprightly.

22 Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established.

23 A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, And a word spoken in due season, how good it is!

24 The way of life winds upward for the wise, That he may turn away from hell below.

25 The Lord will destroy the house of the proud, But He will establish the boundary of the widow.

26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord, But the words of the pure are pleasant.

27 He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, But he who hates bribes will live.

28 The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, But the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, And a good report makes the bones healthy.

31 The ear that hears the rebukes of life Will abide among the wise.

32 He who disdains instruction despises his own soul, But he who heeds rebuke gets understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, And before honor is humility.

New Living Translation

The Upright and the Wicked Contrasted

101 The proverbs of Solomon: A wise child brings joy to a father; a foolish child brings grief to a mother.

2 Tainted wealth has no lasting value, but right living can save your life. 3 The Lord will not let the godly go hungry, but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked.

4 Lazy people are soon poor; hard workers get rich.

5 A wise youth harvests in the summer, but one who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace.

6 The godly are showered with blessings; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.

7 We have happy memories of the godly, but the name of a wicked person rots away.

8 The wise are glad to be instructed, but babbling fools fall flat on their faces.

9 People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed.

10 People who wink at wrong cause trouble, but a bold reproof promotes peace.

11 The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.

12 Hatred stirs up quarrels, but love makes up for all offenses.

13 Wise words come from the lips of people with understanding, but those lacking sense will be beaten with a rod.

14 Wise people treasure knowledge, but the babbling of a fool invites disaster.

15 The wealth of the rich is their fortress; the poverty of the poor is their destruction.

16 The earnings of the godly enhance their lives, but evil people squander their money on sin.

17 People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray.

18 Hiding hatred makes you a liar; slandering others makes you a fool.

19 Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.

20 The words of the godly are like sterling silver; the heart of a fool is worthless. 21 The words of the godly encourage many, but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense.

22 The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.

23 Doing wrong is fun for a fool, but living wisely brings pleasure to the sensible.

24 The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled; the hopes of the godly will be granted. 25 When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, but the godly have a lasting foundation.

26 Lazy people irritate their employers, like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes.

27 Fear of the Lord lengthens one's life, but the years of the wicked are cut short. 28 The hopes of the godly result in happiness, but the expectations of the wicked come to nothing.

29 The way of the Lord is a stronghold to those with integrity, but it destroys the wicked. 30 The godly will never be disturbed, but the wicked will be removed from the land.

31 The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off. 32 The lips of the godly speak helpful words, but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words.

111 The Lord detests the use of dishonest scales, but he delights in accurate weights.

2 Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

3 Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people.

4 Riches won't help on the day of judgment, but right living can save you from death.

5 The godly are directed by honesty; the wicked fall beneath their load of sin. 6 The godliness of good people rescues them; the ambition of treacherous people traps them.

7 When the wicked die, their hopes die with them, for they rely on their own feeble strength.

8 The godly are rescued from trouble, and it falls on the wicked instead.

9 With their words, the godless destroy their friends, but knowledge will rescue the righteous.

10 The whole city celebrates when the godly succeed; they shout for joy when the wicked die. 11 Upright citizens are good for a city and make it prosper, but the talk of the wicked tears it apart.

12 It is foolish to belittle one's neighbor; a sensible person keeps quiet. 13 A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence.

14 Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.

15 There's danger in putting up security for a stranger's debt; it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt.

16 A gracious woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth.

17 Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you.

18 Evil people get rich for the moment, but the reward of the godly will last.

19 Godly people find life; evil people find death.

20 The Lord detests people with crooked hearts, but he delights in those with integrity.

21 Evil people will surely be punished, but the children of the godly will go free.

22 A beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in a pig's snout.

23 The godly can look forward to a reward, while the wicked can expect only judgment.

24 Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything.

25 The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.

26 People curse those who hoard their grain, but they bless the one who sells in time of need.

27 If you search for good, you will find favor; but if you search for evil, it will find you!

28 Trust in your money and down you go! But the godly flourish like leaves in spring.

29 Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind. The fool will be a servant to the wise.

30 The seeds of good deeds become a tree of life; a wise person wins friends.

31 If the righteous are rewarded here on earth, what will happen to wicked sinners?

121 To learn, you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.

2 The Lord approves of those who are good, but he condemns those who plan wickedness.

3 Wickedness never brings stability, but the godly have deep roots.

4 A worthy wife is a crown for her husband, but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones.

5 The plans of the godly are just; the advice of the wicked is treacherous.

6 The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives.

7 The wicked die and disappear, but the family of the godly stands firm.

8 A sensible person wins admiration, but a warped mind is despised.

9 Better to be an ordinary person with a servant than to be self-important but have no food.

10 The godly care for their animals, but the wicked are always cruel.

11 A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.

12 Thieves are jealous of each other's loot, but the godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit.

13 The wicked are trapped by their own words, but the godly escape such trouble.

14 Wise words bring many benefits, and hard work brings rewards.

15 Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others.

16 A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted.

17 An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies.

18 Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.

19 Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed.

20 Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil; joy fills hearts that are planning peace!

21 No harm comes to the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

22 The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.

23 The wise don't make a show of their knowledge, but fools broadcast their foolishness.

24 Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave.

25 Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.

26 The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray.

27 Lazy people don't even cook the game they catch, but the diligent make use of everything they find.

28 The way of the godly leads to life; that path does not lead to death.

131 A wise child accepts a parent's discipline; a mocker refuses to listen to correction.

2 Wise words will win you a good meal, but treacherous people have an appetite for violence.

3 Those who control their tongue will have a long life; opening your mouth can ruin everything.

4 Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.

5 The godly hate lies; the wicked cause shame and disgrace.

6 Godliness guards the path of the blameless, but the evil are misled by sin.

7 Some who are poor pretend to be rich; others who are rich pretend to be poor.

8 The rich can pay a ransom for their lives, but the poor won't even get threatened.

9 The life of the godly is full of light and joy, but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out.

10 Pride leads to conflict; those who take advice are wise.

11 Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time.

12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.

13 People who despise advice are asking for trouble; those who respect a command will succeed.

14 The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; those who accept it avoid the snares of death.

15 A person with good sense is respected; a treacherous person is headed for destruction.

16 Wise people think before they act; fools don't-and even brag about their foolishness.

17 An unreliable messenger stumbles into trouble, but a reliable messenger brings healing.

18 If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; if you accept correction, you will be honored.

19 It is pleasant to see dreams come true, but fools refuse to turn from evil to attain them.

20 Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.

21 Trouble chases sinners, while blessings reward the righteous.

22 Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren, but the sinner's wealth passes to the godly.

23 A poor person's farm may produce much food, but injustice sweeps it all away.

24 Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.

25 The godly eat to their hearts' content, but the belly of the wicked goes hungry.

141 A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.

2 Those who follow the right path fear the Lord ; those who take the wrong path despise him.

3 A fool's proud talk becomes a rod that beats him, but the words of the wise keep them safe.

4 Without oxen a stable stays clean, but you need a strong ox for a large harvest.

5 An honest witness does not lie; a false witness breathes lies.

6 A mocker seeks wisdom and never finds it, but knowledge comes easily to those with understanding.

7 Stay away from fools, for you won't find knowledge on their lips.

8 The prudent understand where they are going, but fools deceive themselves.

9 Fools make fun of guilt, but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation.

10 Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can fully share its joy.

11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the godly will flourish.

12 There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.

13 Laughter can conceal a heavy heart, but when the laughter ends, the grief remains.

14 Backsliders get what they deserve; good people receive their reward.

15 Only simpletons believe everything they're told! The prudent carefully consider their steps.

16 The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence.

17 Short-tempered people do foolish things, and schemers are hated.

18 Simpletons are clothed with foolishness, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 Evil people will bow before good people; the wicked will bow at the gates of the godly.

20 The poor are despised even by their neighbors, while the rich have many "friends."

21 It is a sin to belittle one's neighbor; blessed are those who help the poor.

22 If you plan to do evil, you will be lost; if you plan to do good, you will receive unfailing love and faithfulness.

23 Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty!

24 Wealth is a crown for the wise; the effort of fools yields only foolishness.

25 A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is a traitor.

26 Those who fear the Lord are secure; he will be a refuge for their children. 27 Fear of the Lord is a life-giving fountain; it offers escape from the snares of death.

28 A growing population is a king's glory; a prince without subjects has nothing.

29 People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness.

30 A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; jealousy is like cancer in the bones.

31 Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but helping the poor honors him.

32 The wicked are crushed by disaster, but the godly have a refuge when they die.

33 Wisdom is enshrined in an understanding heart; wisdom is not found among fools.

34 Godliness makes a nation great, but sin is a disgrace to any people.

35 A king rejoices in wise servants but is angry with those who disgrace him.

151 A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.

3 The Lord is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.

4 Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

5 Only a fool despises a parent's discipline; whoever learns from correction is wise.

6 There is treasure in the house of the godly, but the earnings of the wicked bring trouble.

7 The lips of the wise give good advice; the heart of a fool has none to give.

8 The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but he delights in the prayers of the upright.

9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue godliness.

10 Whoever abandons the right path will be severely disciplined; whoever hates correction will die.

11 Even Death and Destruction hold no secrets from the Lord . How much more does he know the human heart!

12 Mockers hate to be corrected, so they stay away from the wise.

13 A glad heart makes a happy face; a broken heart crushes the spirit.

14 A wise person is hungry for knowledge, while the fool feeds on trash.

15 For the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast.

16 Better to have little, with fear for the Lord, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil. 17 A bowl of vegetables with someone you love is better than steak with someone you hate.

18 A hot-tempered person starts fights; a cool-tempered person stops them.

19 A lazy person's way is blocked with briers, but the path of the upright is an open highway.

20 Sensible children bring joy to their father; foolish children despise their mother.

21 Foolishness brings joy to those with no sense; a sensible person stays on the right path.

22 Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success.

23 Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!

24 The path of life leads upward for the wise; they leave the grave behind.

25 The Lord tears down the house of the proud, but he protects the property of widows.

26 The Lord detests evil plans, but he delights in pure words.

27 Greed brings grief to the whole family, but those who hate bribes will live.

28 The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayers of the righteous.

30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health.

31 If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise.

32 If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding.

33 Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom; humility precedes honor.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 1:0

Complete     Concise

Chapter Contents

The use of the Proverbs. (1-6) Exhortations to fear God and obey parents. (7-9) To avoid the enticings of sinners. (10-19) The address of Wisdom to sinners. (20-33)

Commentary on Proverbs 1:1-6

(Read Proverbs 1:1-6)

The lessons here given are plain, and likely to benefit those who feel their own ignorance, and their need to be taught. If young people take heed to their ways, according to Solomon's Proverbs, they will gain knowledge and discretion. Solomon speaks of the most important points of truth, and a greater than Solomon is here. Christ speaks by his word and by his Spirit. Christ is the Word and the Wisdom of God, and he is made to us wisdom.

Commentary on Proverbs 1:7-9

(Read Proverbs 1:7-9)

Fools are persons who have no true wisdom, who follow their own devices, without regard to reason, or reverence for God. Children are reasonable creatures, and when we tell them what they must do, we must tell them why. But they are corrupt and wilful, therefore with the instruction there is need of a law. Let Divine truths and commands be to us most honourable; let us value them, and then they shall be so to us.

Commentary on Proverbs 1:10-19

(Read Proverbs 1:10-19)

Wicked people are zealous in seducing others into the paths of the destroyer: sinners love company in sin. But they have so much the more to answer for. How cautious young people should be! "Consent thou not." Do not say as they say, nor do as they do, or would have thee to do; have no fellowship with them. Who could think that it should be a pleasure to one man to destroy another! See their idea of worldly wealth; but it is neither substance, nor precious. It is the ruinous mistake of thousands, that they overvalue the wealth of this world. Men promise themselves in vain that sin will turn to their advantage. The way of sin is down-hill; men cannot stop themselves. Would young people shun temporal and eternal ruin, let them refuse to take one step in these destructive paths. Men's greediness of gain hurries them upon practices which will not suffer them or others to live out half their days. What is a man profited, though he gain the world, if he lose his life? much less if he lose his soul?

Commentary on Proverbs 1:20-33

(Read Proverbs 1:20-33)

Solomon, having showed how dangerous it is to hearken to the temptations of Satan, here declares how dangerous it is not to hearken to the calls of God. Christ himself is Wisdom, is Wisdoms. Three sorts of persons are here called by Him: 1. Simple ones. Sinners are fond of their simple notions of good and evil, their simple prejudices against the ways of God, and flatter themselves in their wickedness. 2. Scorners. Proud, jovial people, that make a jest of every thing. Scoffers at religion, that run down every thing sacred and serious. 3. Fools. Those are the worst of fools that hate to be taught, and have a rooted dislike to serious godliness. The precept is plain; Turn you at my reproof. We do not make a right use of reproofs, if we do not turn from evil to that which is good. The promises are very encouraging. Men cannot turn by any power of their own; but God answers, Behold, I will pour out my Spirit unto you. Special grace is needful to sincere conversion. But that grace shall never be denied to any who seek it. The love of Christ, and the promises mingled with his reproofs, surely should have the attention of every one. It may well be asked, how long men mean to proceed in such a perilous path, when the uncertainty of life and the consequences of dying without Christ are considered? Now sinners live at ease, and set sorrow at defiance; but their calamity will come. Now God is ready to hear their prayers; but then they shall cry in vain. Are we yet despisers of wisdom? Let us hearken diligently, and obey the Lord Jesus, that we may enjoy peace of conscience and confidence in God; be free from evil, in life, in death, and for ever.