1. These, too, are parables of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah, transferred.
2. It is to the glory of God to conceal a word, and it is to the glory of kings to investigate speech.
3. Heaven above, and earth below, and the heart of kings are each unsearchable.
4. Take away the tarnish from silver, and a most pure vessel will go forth.
5. Take away impiety from the face of the king, and his throne shall be made firm by justice.
6. Do not appear glorious before the king, and do not stand in the place of the great.
7. For it is better that it should be said to you, "Ascend to here," than that you should be humbled before the prince.
8. The things that your eyes have seen, do not offer hastily in a quarrel, lest afterward you may not be able to make amends, when you have dishonored your friend.
9. Argue your case with your friend, and do not reveal the secret to an outsider,
10. lest perhaps he may insult you, when he has heard it, and he might not cease to reproach you. Grace and friendship free a man; preserve these for yourself, lest you fall under reproach.