Parallel Bible results for "Proverbs 31:1-9"

Proverbs 31:1-9

1 The words of King Lemuel, an oracle that his mother taught him:

1 The sayings of King Lemuel—an inspired utterance his mother taught him.

2 What [should I say], my son? What, son of my womb? What, son of my vows?

2 Listen, my son! Listen, son of my womb! Listen, my son, the answer to my prayers!

3 Don't spend your energy on women or your efforts on those who destroy kings.

3 Do not spend your strength on women, your vigor on those who ruin kings.

4 It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine or for rulers [to desire] beer.

4 It is not for kings, Lemuel— it is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer,

5 Otherwise, they will drink, forget what is decreed, and pervert justice for all the oppressed.

5 lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.

6 Give beer to one who is dying, and wine to one whose life is bitter.

6 Let beer be for those who are perishing, wine for those who are in anguish!

7 Let him drink so that he can forget his poverty and remember his trouble no more.

7 Let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.

8 Speak up for those who have no voice, for the justice of all who are dispossessed.

8 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.

9 Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the oppressed and needy.

9 Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.