1Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,

but one who hates correction is stupid.a

2One who is good obtains favor from the Lord,a

but he condemns a person who schemes.b

3No one can be made secure by wickedness,

but the root of the righteous is immovable.a

4A wife of noble characterA is her husband’s crown,a

but a wife who causes shame

is like rottenness in his bones.b

5The thoughts of the righteous are just,

but guidance from the wicked is deceitful.

6The words of the wicked are a deadly ambush,a

but the speech of the upright rescues them.b

7The wicked are overthrown and perish,a

but the house of the righteous will stand.b

8A man is praised for his insight,

but a twisted mind is despised.

9Better to be disregarded, yet have a servant,

than to act important but have no food.a

10The righteous cares about his animal’s health,a

but even the merciful acts of the wicked are cruel.

11The one who works his land will have plenty of food,a

but whoever chases fantasies lacks sense.b

12The wicked desire what evil people have caught,A

but the root of the righteous is productive.

13By rebellious speech an evil person is trapped,a

but a righteous person escapes from trouble.b

14A person will be satisfied with good

by the fruit of his mouth,a

and the work of a person’s hands will reward him.b

15A fool’s way is right in his own eyes,a

but whoever listens to counsel is wise.

16A fool’s displeasure is known at once,

but whoever ignores an insult is sensible.a

17Whoever speaks the truth declares what is right,

but a false witness speaks deceit.a

18There is one who speaks rashly,

like a piercing sword;a

but the tongue of the wise brings healing.b

19Truthful lips endure forever,

but a lying tongue, only a moment.a

20Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil,

but those who promote peace have joy.a

21No disaster overcomes the righteous,a

but the wicked are full of misery.

22Lying lips are detestable to the Lord,a

but faithful people are his delight.b

23A shrewd person conceals knowledge,

but a foolish heart publicizes stupidity.a

24The diligent hand will rule,

but laziness will lead to forced labor.a

25Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs it down,

but a good word cheers it up.a

26A righteous person is careful in dealing with his neighbor,A

but the ways of the wicked lead them astray.a

27A lazy hunter doesn’t roast his game,a

but to a diligent person, his wealth is precious.b

28There is life in the path of righteousness,

and in its path there is no death.a a