[1] The evil man goes running away when no man is after him, but the
upright are without fear, like the lion. [2] Because of the sin of the
land, its troubles are increased; but by a man of wisdom and knowledge they
will be put out like a fire. [3] A man of wealth who is cruel to the poor
is like a violent rain causing destruction of food. [4] Those who have no
respect for the law give praise to the evil-doer; but such as keep the law
are against him. [5] Evil men have no knowledge of what is right; but those
who go after the Lord have knowledge of all things. [6] Better is the poor
man whose ways are upright, than the man of wealth whose ways are not
straight. [7] He who keeps the law is a wise son, but he who keeps company
with feasters puts shame on his father. [8] He who makes his wealth greater
by taking interest, only gets it together for him who has pity on the poor.
[9] As for the man whose ear is turned away from hearing the law, even his
prayer is disgusting. [10] Anyone causing the upright to go wandering in an
evil way, will himself go down into the hole he has made; but the upright
will have good things for their heritage. [11] The man of wealth seems to
himself to be wise, but the poor man who has sense has a low opinion of
him. [12] When the upright do well, there is great glory; but when
evil-doers are lifted up, men do not let themselves be seen. [13] He who
keeps his sins secret will not do well; but one who is open about them, and
gives them up, will get mercy. [14] Happy is the man in whom is the fear of
the Lord at all times; but he whose heart is hard will come into trouble.
[15] Like a loud-voiced lion and a wandering bear, is an evil ruler over a
poor people. [16] The prince who has no sense is a cruel ruler; but he who
has no desire to get profit for himself will have long life. [17] One who
has been the cause of a man's death will go in flight to the underworld:
let no man give him help. [18] He whose ways are upright will be safe, but
sudden will be the fall of him whose ways are twisted. [19] By ploughing
his land a man will have bread in full measure; but he who goes after
good-for-nothing persons will be poor enough. [20] A man of good faith will
have great blessing, but one attempting to get wealth quickly will not go
free from punishment. [21] It is not good to have respect for a man's
position: for a man will do wrong for a bit of bread. [22] He who is ever
desiring wealth goes running after money, and does not see that need will
come on him. [23] He who says words of protest to a man will later have
more approval than one who says smooth words with his tongue. [24] He who
takes from his father or his mother what is theirs by right, and says, It
is no sin; is the same as a taker of life. [25] He who is ever desiring
profit is a cause of fighting; but he who puts his faith in the Lord will
be made fat. [26] He whose faith is in himself is foolish; but everyone
walking wisely will be kept safe. [27] He who gives to the poor will never
be in need, but great curses will be on him who gives no attention to them.
[28] When evil-doers are lifted up, men take cover; but when destruction
overtakes them, the upright are increased.
