1. WHOEVER LOVES instruction and correction loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is like a brute beast, stupid and indiscriminating.
2. A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but a man of wicked devices He condemns.
3. A man shall not be established by wickedness, but the root of the [uncompromisingly] righteous shall never be moved.
4. A virtuous and worthy wife [earnest and strong in character] is a crowning joy to her husband, but she who makes him ashamed is as rottenness in his bones. [Prov. 31:23; I Cor. 11:7.]
5. The thoughts and purposes of the [consistently] righteous are honest and reliable, but the counsels and designs of the wicked are treacherous.
6. The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them and the innocent ones [thus endangered].
7. The wicked are overthrown and are not, but the house of the [uncompromisingly] righteous shall stand.
8. A man shall be commended according to his Wisdom [godly Wisdom, which is comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God], but he who is of a perverse heart shall be despised.
9. Better is he who is lightly esteemed but works for his own support than he who assumes honor for himself and lacks bread.
10. A [consistently] righteous man regards the life of his beast, but even the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. [Deut. 25:4.]
11. He who tills his land shall be satisfied with bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits is lacking in sense and is without understanding.
12. The wicked desire the booty of evil men, but the root of the [uncompromisingly] righteous yields [richer fruitage].