1He , that being often reproved hardeneth his neck , shall suddenly be destroyed , and that without remedy . 2When the righteous are in authority , the people rejoice : but when the wicked beareth rule , the people mourn . 3Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father : but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance . 4The king by judgment establisheth the land : but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it. 5A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet .
The Consequences of Foolishness
6In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare : but the righteous doth sing and rejoice . 7The righteous considereth the cause of the poor : but the wicked regardeth not to know it . 8Scornful men bring a city into a snare : but wise men turn away wrath . 9If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man , whether he rage or laugh , there is no rest . 10The bloodthirsty hate the upright : but the just seek his soul .
The Role of Discipline and Correction
11A fool uttereth all his mind : but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards . 12If a ruler hearken to lies , all his servants are wicked . 13The poor and the deceitful man meet together : the LORD lighteneth both their eyes . 14The king that faithfully judgeth the poor , his throne shall be established for ever .
The Dangers of Pride and Anger
15The rod and reproof give wisdom : but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame . 16When the wicked are multiplied , transgression increaseth : but the righteous shall see their fall . 17Correct thy son , and he shall give thee rest ; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul . 18Where there is no vision , the people perish : but he that keepeth the law , happy is he. 19A servant will not be corrected by words : for though he understand he will not answer . 20Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words ? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
The Value of Wisdom and Understanding
21He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child shall have him become his son at the length . 22An angry man stirreth up strife , and a furious man aboundeth in transgression . 23A man’s pride shall bring him low : but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit . 24Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul : he heareth cursing , and bewrayeth it not. 25The fear of man bringeth a snare : but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe . 26Many seek the ruler’s favour ; but every man’s judgment cometh from the LORD . 27An unjust man is an abomination to the just : and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked .