Proverbs 20:23-30

23 Differing weights^[a] are detestable to the Lord, and dishonest scales are unfair.^[b]

24 A man's steps are determined by the Lord,^[c] so how can anyone understand his own way?

25 It is a trap for anyone to dedicate something rashly and later to reconsider his vows.^[d]

26 A wise king separates out the wicked and drives the threshing wheel over them.

27 A person's breath is the lamp of the Lord, searching the innermost parts.^{[e] [f]}

28 Loyalty and faithfulness deliver a king; through loyalty he maintains his throne.

29 The glory of young men is their strength, and the splendor of old men is gray hair.^[g]

30 Lashes and wounds purge away evil, and beatings cleanse the innermost parts.^[h]

Footnotes

• [a]. Lit A stone and a stone
• [b]. Pr 11:1; 20:10; Mc 6:11
• [c]. Pr 16:9,33; 19:21
• [d]. Nm 30:2; Dt 23:21; Ec 5:4-6
• [e]. Lit the chambers of the belly
• [f]. Pr 20:30; Ps 139:23
• [g]. Pr 16:31; Lv 19:32
• [h]. Lit beatings the chambers of the belly