The Bible in Basic English BBE
New International Version NIV
14 The wrath of the king is like those who give news of death, but a wise man will put peace in place of it.
14
A king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but the wise will appease it.
15 In the light of the king's face there is life; and his approval is like a cloud of spring rain.
15
When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.
16 How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! and to get knowledge is more to be desired than silver.
16
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!
17 The highway of the upright is to be turned away from evil: he who takes care of his way will keep his soul.
17
The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives.
18 Pride goes before destruction, and a stiff spirit before a fall.
18
Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
19 Better it is to have a gentle spirit with the poor, than to take part in the rewards of war with men of pride.
19
Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.
20 He who gives attention to the law of right will get good; and whoever puts his faith in the Lord is happy.
20
Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers,and blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD.
21 The wise-hearted will be named men of good sense: and by pleasing words learning is increased.
21
The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction.
22 Wisdom is a fountain of life to him who has it; but the punishment of the foolish is their foolish behaviour.
22
Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent, but folly brings punishment to fools.
23 The heart of the wise man is the teacher of his mouth, and gives increased learning to his lips.
23
The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction.
24 Pleasing words are like honey, sweet to the soul and new life to the bones.
24
Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
The Bible in Basic English is in the public domain.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.