[1] The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes. [2] Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But the Lord weighs the hearts. [3] To do righteousness and justice Is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. [4] A haughty look, a proud heart, And the plowing of the wicked are sin. [5] The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty. [6] Getting treasures by a lying tongue Is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death. [7] The violence of the wicked will destroy them, Because they refuse to do justice. [8] The way of a guilty man is perverse; But as for the pure, his work is right. [9] Better to dwell in a corner of a housetop, Than in a house shared with a contentious woman. [10] The soul of the wicked desires evil; His neighbor finds no favor in his eyes. [11] When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise; But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge. [12] The righteous God wisely considers the house of the wicked, Overthrowing the wicked for their wickedness. [13] Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor Will also cry himself and not be heard. [14] A gift in secret pacifies anger, And a bribe behind the back, strong wrath. [15] It is a joy for the just to do justice, But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity. [16] A man who wanders from the way of understanding Will rest in the assembly of the dead. [17] He who loves pleasure will be a poor man; He who loves wine and oil will not be rich. [18] The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, And the unfaithful for the upright. [19] Better to dwell in the wilderness, Than with a contentious and angry woman. [20] There is desirable treasure, And oil in the dwelling of the wise, But a foolish man squanders it. [21] He who follows righteousness and mercy Finds life, righteousness, and honor. [22] A wise man scales the city of the mighty, And brings down the trusted stronghold. [23] Whoever guards his mouth and tongue Keeps his soul from troubles. [24] A proud and haughty man—“Scoffer” is his name; He acts with arrogant pride. [25] The desire of the lazy man kills him, For his hands refuse to labor. [26] He covets greedily all day long, But the righteous gives and does not spare. [27] The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; How much more when he brings it with wicked intent! [28] A false witness shall perish, But the man who hears him will speak endlessly. [29] A wicked man hardens his face, But as for the upright, he establishes his way. [30] There is no wisdom or understanding Or counsel against the Lord. [31] The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But deliverance is of the Lord.