15. My child, don’t go along with them!Stay far away from their paths.
16. They rush to commit evil deeds.They hurry to commit murder.
17. If a bird sees a trap being set,it knows to stay away.
18. But these people set an ambush for themselves;they are trying to get themselves killed.
19. Such is the fate of all who are greedy for money;it robs them of life.
20. Wisdom shouts in the streets.She cries out in the public square.
21. She calls to the crowds along the main street,to those gathered in front of the city gate:
22. “How long, you simpletons,will you insist on being simpleminded?How long will you mockers relish your mocking?How long will you fools hate knowledge?
23. Come and listen to my counsel.I’ll share my heart with youand make you wise.
24. “I called you so often, but you wouldn’t come.I reached out to you, but you paid no attention.
25. You ignored my adviceand rejected the correction I offered.
26. So I will laugh when you are in trouble!I will mock you when disaster overtakes you—
27. when calamity overtakes you like a storm,when disaster engulfs you like a cyclone,and anguish and distress overwhelm you.
28. “When they cry for help, I will not answer.Though they anxiously search for me, they will not find me.