✧He who is often rebuked and stiffens his neck will be destroyed suddenly, with no remedy. ✧2When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan. ✧3Whoever loves wisdom brings joy to his father; but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. ✧4The king by justice makes the land stable, but he who takes bribes tears it down. ✧5A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet. ✧6An evil man is snared by his sin, but the righteous can sing and be glad. ✧7The righteous care about justice for the poor. The wicked aren’t concerned about knowledge. ✧8Mockers stir up a city, but wise men turn away anger. ✧9If a wise man goes to court with a foolish man, the fool rages or scoffs, and there is no peace. ✧10The bloodthirsty hate a man of integrity; and they seek the life of the upright. ✧11A fool vents all of his anger, but a wise man brings himself under control. ✧12If a ruler listens to lies, all of his officials are wicked. ✧13The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: The LORD gives sight to the eyes of both. ✧14The king who fairly judges the poor, his throne shall be established forever. ✧15The rod of correction gives wisdom, but a child left to himself causes shame to his mother. ✧16When the wicked increase, sin increases; but the righteous will see their downfall. ✧17Correct your son, and he will give you peace; yes, he will bring delight to your soul. ✧18Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but one who keeps the law is blessed. ✧19A servant can’t be corrected by words. Though he understands, yet he will not respond. ✧20Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him. ✧21He who pampers his servant from youth will have him become a son in the end. ✧22An angry man stirs up strife, and a wrathful man abounds in sin. ✧23A man’s pride brings him low, but one of lowly spirit gains honor. ✧24Whoever is an accomplice of a thief is an enemy of his own soul. He takes an oath, but dares not testify. ✧25The fear of man proves to be a snare, but whoever puts his trust in the LORD is kept safe. ✧26Many seek the ruler’s favor, but a man’s justice comes from the LORD. ✧27A dishonest man detests the righteous, and the upright in their ways detest the wicked.