Better is the Poor Man with Integrity

3The folly of a man spoils his ways: and he blames God in his heart.

4Wealth acquires many friends; but the poor is deserted even of the friend he has.

5A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that accuses unjustly shall not escape.

6Many court the favour of kings; but every bad man becomes a reproach to another man.

7Every one who hates his poor brother shall also be far from friendship. Good understanding will draw near to them that know it, and a sensible man will find it. He that does much harm perfects mischief; and he that used provoking words shall not escape.

8He that procures wisdom loves himself; and he that keeps wisdom shall find good.

9A false witness shall not be unpunished; and whosoever shall kindle mischief shall perish by it.

10Delight does not suit a fool, nor is it seemly if a servant should begin to rule with haughtiness.

11A merciful man is long-suffering; and his triumph overtakes transgressors.

12The threatening of a king is like the roaring of a lion; but as dew on the grass, so is his favour.

13A foolish son is a disgrace to his father: vows paid out of the hire of a harlot are not pure.

14Fathers divide house and substance to their children: but a wife is suited to a man by the Lord.

15Cowardice possesses the effeminate man; and the soul of the sluggard shall hunger.

16He that keeps the commandment keeps his own soul; but he that despises his ways shall perish.

17He that has pity on the poor lends to the Lord; and he will recompense to him according to his gift.

18Chasten thy son, for so he shall be hopeful; and be not exalted in thy soul to haughtiness.

19A malicious man shall be severely punished, and if he commit injury, he shall also lose his life.

20Hear, son, the instruction of thy father, that thou mayest be wise at thy latter end.

21There are many thoughts in a man's heart; but the counsel of the Lord abides for ever.

22Mercy is a fruit to a man: and a poor man is better than a rich liar.

23The fear of the Lord is life to a man: and he shall lodge without fear in places where knowledge is not seen.

24He that unjustly hides his hands in his bosom, will not even bring them up to his mouth.

25When a pestilent character is scourged, a simple man is made wiser: and if thou reprove a wise man, he will understand discretion.

26He that dishonours his father, and drives away his mother, shall be disgraced and shall be exposed to reproach.

27A son who ceases to attend to the instruction of a father will cherish evil designs.

28He that becomes surety for a foolish child will despise the ordinance: and the mouth of ungodly men shall drink down judgment.

29Scourges are preparing for the intemperate, and punishments likewise for fools.