14
As a generous person has cause to rejoice, so lawbreakers will utterly fail.
15
The children of the ungodly put out few branches; they are unhealthy roots on sheer rock.
16
The reeds by any water or river bank are plucked up before any grass;
17
but kindness is like a garden of blessings, and almsgiving endures forever.
18
Wealth and wages make life sweet, but better than either is finding a treasure.
19
Children and the building of a city establish one's name, but better than either is the one who finds wisdom. Cattle and orchards make one prosperous; but a blameless wife is accounted better than either.
20
Wine and music gladden the heart, but the love of friends is better than either.
21
The flute and the harp make sweet melody, but a pleasant voice is better than either.
22
The eye desires grace and beauty, but the green shoots of grain more than either.
23
A friend or companion is always welcome, but a sensible wife is better than either.
24
Kindred and helpers are for a time of trouble, but almsgiving rescues better than either.