4. A king gives stability to the land by justice,but one who imposes heavy taxes tears it down.
5. People who flatter their friendsspread out a net for their feet.
6. The wicked are snared by their own sin;the righteous sing and rejoice.
7. The righteous know the rights of the poor,but the wicked don’t understand.
8. Mockers set a city on fire,but the wise turn back anger.
9. When the wise make a legal charge against the foolish,the fools shout, they laugh—there is no calm.
10. Murderous people hate the innocent,and they seek the lives of the virtuous.
11. Fools show all their anger,but the wise hold it back.
12. If a ruler listens to lies,those who serve him will be wicked.
13. The poor and their oppressors have a common bond—the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.
14. If a king judges the poor honestly,his throne will be established forever.
15. The rod and correction lead to wisdom,but children out of control shame their mothers.
16. When the wicked become numerous, so do crimes;the righteous will see their downfall.