1 In the hands of Yahweh, the heart of the king is like running water; he directs it wherever he wishes.
2 To the eyes of man all his ways are honest but it is Yahweh who weighs the heart.
3 To do what is upright and just pleases Yah weh more than sacrifice.
4 Haughty looks, proud heart, the light of the wicked is sin.
5 The plans of a hardworking man result in earnings; poverty is for those who act too hastily.
6 To make a fortune by means of deceit is like running after the wind; the end is death.
7 The violence of the wicked carries them away because they refuse to practice justice.
8 The way of the criminal is devious; but honest are the ways of the innocent man.
9 Better the corner of a barn to live in than a house shared with a raging woman.
10 The soul of the wicked desires nothing but evil; not even his friend is treated with compassion.
11 When the mocker is punished the ignorant man grows wise; when the wise man is instructed he grows in knowledge.
12 The Just One watches the house of the evildoer and hurls the wicked into misfortune.
13 He who is deaf to the poor man’s cry will not be heard when he himself calls out.
14 A discreet gift pacifies anger, a bribe diverts violent rage.
15 Upright men are glad when justice reigns but evildoers tremble.
16 He who departs from the ways of prudence will sleep in the assembly of the Shades.
17 Pleasure-lovers remain poor, he who loves wine and perfume will never grow rich.
18 The wicked man will pay for the virtuous and the treacherous man, for the honest.
19 Better to live in a deserted place than with a raging and abusive woman.
20 There is oil and precious treasure in the wise man’s house, things which the fool squanders.
21 He who seeks justice and mercy will gain life, prosperity and honor.
22 The wise man conquers a city of warriors and tears down the walls they trust in.
23 He who keeps guard over his mouth and tongue saves himself from anguish.
24 “Mocker” is the name of the arrogant and haughty, he in whom pride abounds.
25 The idler’s desires lead him to death because his hands refuse to work.
26 He covets all day long while the upright man gives without stinting.
27 Yahweh detests the sacrifice of the wicked, above all when they offer it for an unjust cause.
28 The lying witness will perish but he who listens wisely will be given time to speak.
29 The wicked man tries to appear firm and stable while the honest man confirms his way.
30 No wisdom, prudence or advice can withstand the look of Yahweh.
31 The horse is equipped for the day of battle but it is Yahweh who gives the victory.