11. Did you fail to rescue those who were being dragged off to death,those tottering, those near death,
12. because you said, “We didn’t know about it”?Surely, the Searcher of hearts knowsand will repay all according to their deeds.
13. If you eat honey, my son, because it is good,if pure honey is sweet to your taste,
14. Such, you must know, is wisdom to your soul.If you find it, you will have a future,and your hope will not be cut off.
15. Do not lie in wait at the abode of the just,do not ravage their dwelling places;
16. Though the just fall seven times, they rise again,but the wicked stumble from only one mishap.
17. Do not rejoice when your enemies fall,and when they stumble, do not let your heart exult,
18. Lest the Lord see it, be displeased with you,and withdraw his wrath from your enemies.
19. Do not be provoked at evildoers,do not envy the wicked;
20. For the evil have no future,the lamp of the wicked will be put out.
21. My son, fear the Lord and the king;have nothing to do with those who hate them;
23. These also are Words of the Wise:To show partiality in judgment is not good.
24. Whoever says to the guilty party, “You are innocent,”will be cursed by nations, scorned by peoples;
25. But those who render just verdicts will fare well,and on them will come the blessing of prosperity.
26. An honest reply—a kiss on the lips.
27. Complete your outdoor tasks,and arrange your work in the field;afterward you can build your house.
28. Do not testify falsely against your neighborand so deceive with your lips.
29. Do not say, “As they did to me, so will I do to them;I will repay them according to their deeds.”
30. I passed by the field of a sluggard,by the vineyard of one with no sense;
31. It was all overgrown with thistles;its surface was covered with nettles,and its stone wall broken down.