16. One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealthand one who gives gifts to the rich – both come to poverty.Saying 1
17. Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise;apply your heart to what I teach,
18. for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heartand have all of them ready on your lips.
19. So that your trust may be in the Lord,I teach you today, even you.
20. Have I not written thirty sayings for you,sayings of counsel and knowledge,
21. teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth,so that you bring back truthful reportsto those you serve?Saying 2
22. Do not exploit the poor because they are poorand do not crush the needy in court,
23. for the Lord will take up their caseand will exact life for life.Saying 3
24. Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person,do not associate with one easily angered,
25. or you may learn their waysand get yourself ensnared.Saying 4
26. Do not be one who shakes hands in pledgeor puts up security for debts;
27. if you lack the means to pay,your very bed will be snatched from under you.Saying 5
28. Do not move an ancient boundary stoneset up by your ancestors.Saying 6
29. Do you see someone skilled in their work?They will serve before kings;they will not serve before officials of low rank.Saying 7