Proverbs 28:1-16 ▼

1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

2 For the transgression of a land many [are] the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding [and] knowledge the state [thereof] shall be prolonged.

3 A poor man that oppresseth the poor [is like] a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.

4 They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them.

5 Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all [things].

6 Better [is] the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than [he that is] perverse [in his] ways, though he [be] rich.

7 Whoso keepeth the law [is] a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous [men] shameth his father.

8 He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.

9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer [shall be] abomination.

10 Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit: but the upright shall have good [things] in possession.

11 The rich man [is] wise in his own conceit; but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out.

12 When righteous [men] do rejoice, [there is] great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.

13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh [them] shall have mercy.

14 Happy [is] the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

15 [As] a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; [so is] a wicked ruler over the poor people.

16 The prince that wanteth understanding [is] also a great oppressor: [but] he that hateth covetousness shall prolong [his] days.