1The folly of a man spoils his ways: and he blames God in his heart.2Wealth acquires many friends; but the poor is deserted even of the friend he has.3A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that accuses unjustly shall not escape.4Many court the favour of kings; but every bad man becomes a reproach to another man.5Every one who hates his poor brother shall also be far from friendship. Good understanding will draw near to them that know it, and a sensible man will find it. He that does much harm perfects mischief; and he that uses provoking words shall not escape.6He that procures wisdom loves himself; and he that keeps wisdom shall find good.7A false witness shall not be unpunished; and whosoever shall kindle mischief shall perish by it.8Delight does not suit a fool, nor is it seemly if a servant should begin to rule with haughtiness.9A merciful man is long-suffering; and his triumph overtakes transgressors.10The threatening of a king is like the roaring of a lion; but as dew on the grass, so is his favour.11A foolish son is a disgrace to his father: vows paid out of the hire of a harlot are not pure.12Fathers divide house and substance to their children: but a wife is suited to a man by the Lord.13Cowardice possesses the effeminate man; and the soul of the sluggard shall hunger.14He that keeps the commandment keeps his own soul; but he that despises his ways shall perish.15He that has pity on the poor lends to the Lord; and he will recompense to him according to his gift.16Chasten thy son, for so he shall be hopeful; and be not exalted in thy soul to haughtiness.17A malicious man shall be severely punished, and if he commit injury, he shall also lose his life.18Hear, son, the instruction of thy father, that thou mayest be wise at thy latter end.19There are many thoughts in a man's heart; but the counsel of the Lord abides for ever.20Mercy is a fruit to a man: and a poor man is better than a rich liar.21The fear of the Lord is life to a man: and he shall lodge without fear in places where knowledge is not seen.22He that unjustly hides his hands in his bosom, will not even bring them up to his mouth.23When a pestilent character is scourged, a simple man is made wiser: and if thou reprove a wise man, he will understand discretion.24He that dishonours his father, and drives away his mother, shall be disgraced and shall be exposed to reproach.25A son who ceases to attend to the instruction of a father will cherish evil designs.26He that becomes surety for a foolish child will despise the ordinance: and the mouth of ungodly men shall drink down judgments.27Scourges are preparing for the intemperate, and punishments likewise for fools.
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