10. For the life of every living thing is in his hand,and the breath of every human being.
11. The ear tests the words it hearsjust as the mouth distinguishes between foods.
12. Wisdom belongs to the aged,and understanding to the old.
13. “But true wisdom and power are found in God;counsel and understanding are his.
14. What he destroys cannot be rebuilt.When he puts someone in prison, there is no escape.
15. If he holds back the rain, the earth becomes a desert.If he releases the waters, they flood the earth.
16. Yes, strength and wisdom are his;deceivers and deceived are both in his power.
17. He leads counselors away, stripped of good judgment;wise judges become fools.
18. He removes the royal robe of kings.They are led away with ropes around their waist.
19. He leads priests away, stripped of status;he overthrows those with long years in power.
20. He silences the trusted adviserand removes the insight of the elders.
21. He pours disgrace upon princesand disarms the strong.