Proverbs 29 (Holman Christian Standard)

1 One who becomes stiff-necked, after many reprimands will be broken suddenly- and without a remedy.^a 2 When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, people groan.^b 3 A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but one who consorts with prostitutes destroys his wealth.^c 4 By justice a king brings stability to a land, but a man [who demands] "contributions"^d demolishes it. 5 A man who flatters^e his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.^f 6 An evil man is caught by sin,^g but the righteous one sings and rejoices. 7 The righteous person knows the rights^h of the poor, but the wicked one does not understand these concerns. 8 Mockers inflame a city, but the wise turn away anger.ⁱ 9 If a wise man goes to court with a fool, there will be ranting and raving but no resolution.^j 10 Bloodthirsty men hate an honest person, but the upright care about him.^k 11 A fool gives full vent to his anger,^l but a wise man holds it in check.^m 12 If a ruler listens to lies, all his servants will be wicked. 13 The poor and the oppressor have this in common:ⁿ the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.^o 14 A king who judges the poor with fairness- his throne will be established forever. 15 A rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a youth left to himself^p is a disgrace to his mother.^q 16 When the wicked increase, rebellion increases, but the righteous will see their downfall.^r 17 Discipline your son, and he will give you comfort; he will also give you delight. 18 Without revelation^s people run wild, but one who keeps the law will be happy. 19 A servant cannot be disciplined by words; though he understands, he doesn't respond. 20 Do you see a man who speaks too soon? There is more hope for a fool than for him.^t 21 A slave pampered from his youth will become arrogant^u later on. 22 An angry man stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered man^v increases rebellion.^w 23 A person's pride will humble him, but a humble spirit will gain honor.^x 24 To be a thief's partner is to hate oneself; he hears the curse but will not testify.^y 25 The fear of man is a snare, but the one who trusts in the Lord is protected.^{z aa} 26 Many seek a ruler's favor,^bb but a man receives justice from the Lord. 27 An unjust man is detestable to the righteous, and one whose way is upright is detestable to the wicked.^cc