The Words of Lemuel
1 The words of King Lemuel,
a pronouncement 31:1 Or of Lemuel, king of Massa, or of King Lemuel, a burden, 31:1 Pr 30:1 that his mother taught him:
2 What should I say, my son?
What, son of my womb? 31:2 Is 49:15
What, son of my vows?
3 Don’t spend your energy 31:3 Pr 5:9 on women
or your efforts on those who destroy kings. 31:3 Dt 17:17; 1Kg 11:1; Neh 13:26
4 It is not for kings, Lemuel,
it is not for kings 31:4 1Kg 16:9; 20:16; Ec 10:17 to drink wine 31:4 Pr 20:1
or for rulers to desire beer.
8 Speak up 31:8 Lit Open your mouth, also in v. 9 for those who have no voice, 31:8 Lit who are mute, 31:8 Jb 29:12–17
for the justice of all who are dispossessed. 31:8 Lit all the sons of passing away
9 Speak up, judge righteously, 31:9 Lv 19:15; Dt 1:16
and defend the cause of the oppressed and needy. 31:9 Is 1:17; Jr 22:16