1
The evil man goes running away when no man is after him, but the upright are without fear, like the lion.
2
Because of the sin of the land, its troubles are increased; but by a man of wisdom and knowledge they will be put out like a fire.
3
A man of wealth who is cruel to the poor is like a violent rain causing destruction of food.
4
Those who have no respect for the law give praise to the evil-doer; but such as keep the law are against him.
5
Evil men have no knowledge of what is right; but those who go after the Lord have knowledge of all things.
6
Better is the poor man whose ways are upright, than the man of wealth whose ways are not straight.
7
He who keeps the law is a wise son, but he who keeps company with feasters puts shame on his father.
8
He who makes his wealth greater by taking interest, only gets it together for him who has pity on the poor.
9
As for the man whose ear is turned away from hearing the law, even his prayer is disgusting.
10
Anyone causing the upright to go wandering in an evil way, will himself go down into the hole he has made; but the upright will have good things for their heritage.
11
The man of wealth seems to himself to be wise, but the poor man who has sense has a low opinion of him.