1 One who becomes stiff-necked,

after many reprimands

will be shattered instantly —

beyond recovery.  *

2 When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice,

but when the wicked rule, people groan.  *

3 A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father,  *

but one who consorts with prostitutes destroys his wealth.  *

4 By justice a king brings stability to a land,  *

but a person who demands "contributions"  *

demolishes it.  *

5 A person who flatters his neighbor

spreads a net for his feet.  *

6 An evil person is caught by sin,  *

but the righteous one sings and rejoices.  *

7 The righteous person knows the rights  * of the poor,  *

but the wicked one does not understand these concerns.

8 Mockers inflame a city,  *

but the wise turn away anger.

9 If a wise person goes to court with a fool,

there will be ranting and raving but no resolution.  *,*

10 Bloodthirsty men hate an honest person,  *

but the upright care about him.  *

11 A fool gives full vent to his anger,  *,*

but a wise person holds it in check.  *

12 If a ruler listens to lies,  *

all his officials will be wicked.

13 The poor and the oppressor have this in common:  *

the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.  *

14 A king who judges the poor with fairness —

his throne will be established forever.  *

15 A rod of correction imparts wisdom,  *

but a youth left to himself  *

is a disgrace to his mother.  *

16 When the wicked increase, rebellion increases,

but the righteous will see their downfall.  *

17 Discipline your child,  * and it will bring you peace of mind

and give you delight.

18 Without revelation  *,* people run wild,  *

but one who follows divine instruction will be happy.  *

19 A servant cannot be disciplined by words;

though he understands, he doesn’t respond.  *

20 Do you see someone who speaks too soon?  *

There is more hope for a fool than for him.  *

21 A servant pampered from his youth

will become arrogant  * later on.

22 An angry person stirs up conflict,

and a hot-tempered one  * increases rebellion.  *

23 A person’s pride will humble him,  *

but a humble spirit will gain honor.  *

24 To be a thief’s partner is to hate oneself;

he hears the curse but will not testify.  *

25 The fear of mankind is a snare,  *

but the one who trusts in the  Lord is protected.  *,*

26 Many desire a ruler’s favor,  *

but a person receives justice from the  Lord.  *

27 An unjust person is detestable to the righteous,

and one whose way is upright

is detestable to the wicked.  *