1The wicked flee when no man pursueth ; But the righteous are bold as a lion . 2For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof; But by men of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged. 3A needy man that oppresseth the poor Is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food . 4They that forsake the law praise the wicked ; But such as keep the law contend with them . 5Evil men understand not justice ; But they that seek Jehovah understand all things .
The Consequences of Oppression
6Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity , Than he that is perverse in his ways , though he be rich . 7Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son ; But he that is a companion of gluttons shameth his father . 8He that augmenteth his substance by interest and increase , Gathereth it for him that hath pity on the poor . 9He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law , Even his prayer is an abomination . 10Whoso causeth the upright to go astray in an evil way , He shall fall himself into his own pit ; But the perfect shall inherit good .
The Importance of Wisdom and Understanding
11The rich man is wise in his own conceit ; But the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out . 12When the righteous triumph , there is great glory ; But when the wicked rise , men hide themselves. 13He that covereth his transgressions shall not prosper ; But whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall obtain mercy . 14Happy is the man that feareth alway ; But he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief .
The Role of Wealth and Generosity
15As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear , So is a wicked ruler over a poor people . 16The prince that lacketh understanding is also a great oppressor ; But he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days . 17A man that is laden with the blood of any person Shall flee unto the pit; let no man stay him . 18Whoso walketh uprightly shall be delivered ; But he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once . 19He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread ; But he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough . 20A faithful man shall abound with blessings ; But he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be unpunished .
The Call to Repentance and Humility
21To have respect of persons is not good ; Neither that a man should transgress for a piece of bread . 22He that hath an evil eye hasteth after riches , And knoweth not that want shall come upon him . 23He that rebuketh a man shall afterward find more favor Than he that flattereth with the tongue . 24Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression , The same is the companion of a destroyer . 25He that is of a greedy spirit stirreth up strife ; But he that putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat . 26He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool ; But whoso walketh wisely , he shall be delivered . 27He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack ; But he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse . 28When the wicked rise , men hide themselves ; But when they perish, the righteous increase .