14 A gift in secret pacifies anger,

And a bribe 6behind the back, strong wrath.

15 It is a joy for the just to do justice,

But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.

16 A man who wanders from the way of understanding

Will rest in the assembly of the kdead.

17 He who loves pleasure will be a poor man;

He who loves wine and oil will not be rich.

18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous,

And the unfaithful for the upright.

19 Better to dwell 7in the wilderness,

Than with a contentious and angry woman.

20 lThere is desirable treasure,

And oil in the dwelling of the wise,

But a foolish man squanders it.

21 mHe who follows righteousness and mercy

Finds life, righteousness and honor.

22 A nwise man 8scales the city of the mighty,

And brings down the trusted stronghold.

23 oWhoever guards his mouth and tongue

Keeps his soul from troubles.

24 A proud and haughty man—“Scoffer” is his name;

He acts with arrogant pride.

25 The pdesire of the lazy man kills him,

For his hands refuse to labor.

26 He covets greedily all day long,

But the righteous qgives and does not spare.

27 rThe sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination;

How much more when he brings it with wicked intent!

28 A false witness shall perish,

But the man who hears him will speak endlessly.

29 A wicked man hardens his face,

But as for the upright, he 9establishes his way.

30 sThere is no wisdom or understanding

Or counsel against the Lord.

31 The horse is prepared for the day of battle,

But tdeliverance is of the Lord.