1 A gentle answer turns away wrath,

but a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge,

but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,

keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

4 The soothing tongue is a tree of life,

but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.

5 A fool spurns a parent’s discipline,

but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.

6 The house of the righteous contains great treasure,

but the income of the wicked brings ruin.

7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge,

but the hearts of fools are not upright.

8 The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked,

but the prayer of the upright pleases him.

9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked,

but he loves those who pursue righteousness.

10 Stern discipline awaits anyone who leaves the path;

the one who hates correction will die.

11 Death and Destruction lie open before the Lord—

how much more do human hearts!

12 Mockers resent correction,

so they avoid the wise.

13 A happy heart makes the face cheerful,

but heartache crushes the spirit.

14 The discerning heart seeks knowledge,

but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.

15 All the days of the oppressed are wretched,

but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

16 Better a little with the fear of the Lord

than great wealth with turmoil.

17 Better a small serving of vegetables with love

than a fattened calf with hatred.

18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict,

but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

19 The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns,

but the path of the upright is a highway.

20 A wise son brings joy to his father,

but a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly brings joy to one who has no sense,

but whoever has understanding keeps a straight course.

22 Plans fail for lack of counsel,

but with many advisers they succeed.

23 A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—

and how good is a timely word!

24 The path of life leads upward for the prudent

to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead.

25 The Lord tears down the house of the proud,

but he sets the widow’s boundary stones in place.

26 The Lord detests the thoughts of the wicked,

but gracious words are pure in his sight.

27 The greedy bring ruin to their households,

but the one who hates bribes will live.

28 The heart of the righteous weighs its answers,

but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked,

but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart,

and good news gives health to the bones.

31 Whoever heeds life-giving correction

will be at home among the wise.

32 Those who disregard discipline despise themselves,

but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.

33 Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord,

and humility comes before honor.

1 A soft answer turneth away wrath:

But grievous words stir up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright:

But the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place,

Beholding the evil and the good.

4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life:

But perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

5 A fool despiseth his father’s instruction:

But he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure:

But in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge:

But the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord:

But the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the Lord:

But he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

10 Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way:

And he that hateth reproof shall die.

11 Hell and destruction are before the Lord:

How much more then the hearts of the children of men?

12 A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him:

Neither will he go unto the wise.

13 A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance:

But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge:

But the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil:

But he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

16 Better is little with the fear of the Lord

Than great treasure and trouble therewith.

17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is,

Than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

18 A wrathful man stirreth up strife:

But he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

19 The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns:

But the way of the righteous is made plain.

20 A wise son maketh a glad father:

But a foolish man despiseth his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom:

But a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed:

But in the multitude of counsellers they are established.

23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth:

And a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

24 The way of life is above to the wise,

That he may depart from hell beneath.

25 The Lord will destroy the house of the proud:

But he will establish the border of the widow.

26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord:

But the words of the pure are pleasant words.

27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house;

But he that hateth gifts shall live.

28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer:

But the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked:

But he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart:

And a good report maketh the bones fat.

31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life

Abideth among the wise.

32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul:

But he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom;

And before honour is humility.

1 A gentle answer deflects anger,

but harsh words make tempers flare.

2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing,

but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.

3 The Lord is watching everywhere,

keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.

4 Gentle words are a tree of life;

a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

5 Only a fool despises a parent’s discipline;

whoever learns from correction is wise.

6 There is treasure in the house of the godly,

but the earnings of the wicked bring trouble.

7 The lips of the wise give good advice;

the heart of a fool has none to give.

8 The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked,

but he delights in the prayers of the upright.

9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked,

but he loves those who pursue godliness.

10 Whoever abandons the right path will be severely disciplined;

whoever hates correction will die.

11 Even Death and Destruction hold no secrets from the Lord.

How much more does he know the human heart!

12 Mockers hate to be corrected,

so they stay away from the wise.

13 A glad heart makes a happy face;

a broken heart crushes the spirit.

14 A wise person is hungry for knowledge,

while the fool feeds on trash.

15 For the despondent, every day brings trouble;

for the happy heart, life is a continual feast.

16 Better to have little, with fear for the Lord,

than to have great treasure and inner turmoil.

17 A bowl of vegetables with someone you love

is better than steak with someone you hate.

18 A hot-tempered person starts fights;

a cool-tempered person stops them.

19 A lazy person’s way is blocked with briers,

but the path of the upright is an open highway.

20 Sensible children bring joy to their father;

foolish children despise their mother.

21 Foolishness brings joy to those with no sense;

a sensible person stays on the right path.

22 Plans go wrong for lack of advice;

many advisers bring success.

23 Everyone enjoys a fitting reply;

it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!

24 The path of life leads upward for the wise;

they leave the grave behind.

25 The Lord tears down the house of the proud,

but he protects the property of widows.

26 The Lord detests evil plans,

but he delights in pure words.

27 Greed brings grief to the whole family,

but those who hate bribes will live.

28 The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking;

the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked,

but he hears the prayers of the righteous.

30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart;

good news makes for good health.

31 If you listen to constructive criticism,

you will be at home among the wise.

32 If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself;

but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding.

33 Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom;

humility precedes honor.

1 A soft answer turns away wrath,

But a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly,

But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place,

Keeping watch on the evil and the good.

4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life,

But perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

5 A fool despises his father’s instruction,

But he who receives correction is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous there is much treasure,

But in the revenue of the wicked is trouble.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge,

But the heart of the fool does not do so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord,

But the prayer of the upright is His delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord,

But He loves him who follows righteousness.

10 Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way,

And he who hates correction will die.

11 Hell and Destruction are before the Lord;

So how much more the hearts of the sons of men.

12 A scoffer does not love one who corrects him,

Nor will he go to the wise.

13 A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance,

But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge,

But the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil,

But he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast.

16 Better is a little with the fear of the Lord,

Than great treasure with trouble.

17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is,

Than a fatted calf with hatred.

18 A wrathful man stirs up strife,

But he who is slow to anger allays contention.

19 The way of the lazy man is like a hedge of thorns,

But the way of the upright is a highway.

20 A wise son makes a father glad,

But a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him who is destitute of discernment,

But a man of understanding walks uprightly.

22 Without counsel, plans go awry,

But in the multitude of counselors they are established.

23 A man has joy by the answer of his mouth,

And a word spoken in due season, how good it is!

24 The way of life winds upward for the wise,

That he may turn away from hell below.

25 The Lord will destroy the house of the proud,

But He will establish the boundary of the widow.

26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord,

But the words of the pure are pleasant.

27 He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house,

But he who hates bribes will live.

28 The heart of the righteous studies how to answer,

But the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked,

But He hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoices the heart,

And a good report makes the bones healthy.

31 The ear that hears the rebukes of life

Will abide among the wise.

32 He who disdains instruction despises his own soul,

But he who heeds rebuke gets understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom,

And before honor is humility.

1 A gentle answer will calm a person’s anger,

but an unkind answer will cause more anger.

2 Wise people use knowledge when they speak,

but fools pour out foolishness.

3 The Lord’s eyes see everything;

he watches both evil and good people.

4 As a tree gives fruit, healing words give life,

but dishonest words crush the spirit.

5 Fools reject their parents’ correction,

but anyone who accepts correction is wise.

6 Much wealth is in the houses of good people,

but evil people get nothing but trouble.

7 Wise people use their words to spread knowledge,

but there is no knowledge in the thoughts of fools.

8 The Lord hates the sacrifice that the wicked offer,

but he likes the prayers of honest people.

9 The Lord hates what evil people do,

but he loves those who do what is right.

10 The person who quits doing what is right will be punished,

and the one who hates to be corrected will die.

11 The Lord knows what is happening in the world of the dead,

so he surely knows the thoughts of the living.

12 Those who make fun of wisdom don’t like to be corrected;

they will not ask the wise for advice.

13 Happiness makes a person smile,

but sadness can break a person’s spirit.

14 People with understanding want more knowledge,

but fools just want more foolishness.

15 Every day is hard for those who suffer,

but a happy heart is like a continual feast.

16 It is better to be poor and respect the Lord

than to be wealthy and have much trouble.

17 It is better to eat vegetables with those who love you

than to eat meat with those who hate you.

18 People with quick tempers cause trouble,

but those who control their tempers stop a quarrel.

19 A lazy person’s life is like a patch of thorns,

but an honest person’s life is like a smooth highway.

20 Wise children make their father happy,

but foolish children disrespect their mother.

21 A person without wisdom enjoys being foolish,

but someone with understanding does what is right.

22 Plans fail without good advice,

but they succeed with the advice of many others.

23 People enjoy giving good advice.

Saying the right word at the right time is so pleasing.

24 Wise people’s lives get better and better.

They avoid whatever would cause their death.

25 The Lord will tear down the proud person’s house,

but he will protect the widow’s property.

26 The Lord hates evil thoughts

but is pleased with kind words.

27 Greedy people bring trouble to their families,

but the person who can’t be paid to do wrong will live.

28 Good people think before they answer,

but the wicked simply pour out evil.

29 The Lord does not listen to the wicked,

but he hears the prayers of those who do right.

30 Good news makes you feel better.

Your happiness will show in your eyes.

31 If you listen to correction to improve your life,

you will live among the wise.

32 Those who refuse correction hate themselves,

but those who accept correction gain understanding.

33 Respect for the Lord will teach you wisdom.

If you want to be honored, you must be humble.

1 A soft answer turneth away wrath;

But a grievous word stirreth up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise uttereth knowledge aright;

But the mouth of fools poureth out folly.

3 The eyes of Jehovah are in every place,

Keeping watch upon the evil and the good.

4 A gentle tongue is a tree of life;

But perverseness therein is a breaking of the spirit.

5 A fool despiseth his father’s correction;

But he that regardeth reproof getteth prudence.

6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure;

But in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge;

But the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah;

But the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah;

But he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

10 There is grievous correction for him that forsaketh the way;

And he that hateth reproof shall die.

11 Sheol and Abaddon are before Jehovah:

How much more then the hearts of the children of men!

12 A scoffer loveth not to be reproved;

He will not go unto the wise.

13 A glad heart maketh a cheerful countenance;

But by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge;

But the mouth of fools feedeth on folly.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil;

But he that is of a cheerful heart hath a continual feast.

16 Better is little, with the fear of Jehovah,

Than great treasure and trouble therewith.

17 Better is a dinner of herbs, where love is,

Than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

18 A wrathful man stirreth up contention;

But he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

19 The way of the sluggard is as a hedge of thorns;

But the path of the upright is made a highway.

20 A wise son maketh a glad father;

But a foolish man despiseth his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him that is void of wisdom;

But a man of understanding maketh straight his going.

22 Where there is no counsel, purposes are disappointed;

But in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

23 A man hath joy in the answer of his mouth;

And a word in due season, how good is it!

24 To the wise the way of life goeth upward,

That he may depart from Sheol beneath.

25 Jehovah will root up the house of the proud;

But he will establish the border of the widow.

26 Evil devices are an abomination to Jehovah;

But pleasant words are pure.

27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house;

But he that hateth bribes shall live.

28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer;

But the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.

29 Jehovah is far from the wicked;

But he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart;

And good tidings make the bones fat.

31 The ear that hearkeneth to the reproof of life

Shall abide among the wise.

32 He that refuseth correction despiseth his own soul;

But he that hearkeneth to reproof getteth understanding.

33 The fear of Jehovah is the instruction of wisdom;

And before honor goeth humility.

1 A soft answer turneth away fury; but a grievous word stirreth up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright; but the mouth of the foolish poureth out folly.

3 The eyes of Jehovah are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

4 Gentleness of tongue is a tree of life; but crookedness therein is a breaking of the spirit.

5 A fool despiseth his father’s instruction; but he that regardeth reproof becometh prudent.

6 In the house of a righteous man is much treasure; but in the revenue of a wicked man is disturbance.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge, but not so the heart of the foolish.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9 The way of a wicked man is an abomination to Jehovah; but him that pursueth righteousness he loveth.

10 Grievous correction is for him that forsaketh the path; he that hateth reproof shall die.

11 Sheol and destruction are before Jehovah; how much more then the hearts of the children of men!

12 A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him; he will not go unto the wise.

13 A joyful heart maketh a cheerful countenance; but by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of an intelligent man seeketh knowledge; but the mouth of the foolish feedeth on folly.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil; but a cheerful heart is a continual feast.

16 Better is little with the fear of Jehovah than great store and disquietude therewith. 17 Better is a meal of herbs where love is, than a fatted ox and hatred therewith.

18 A furious man stirreth up contention; but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

19 The way of the sluggard is as a hedge of thorns; but the path of the upright is made plain.

20 A wise son maketh a glad father; but a foolish man despiseth his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him that is void of sense; but a man of understanding regulateth his walk.

22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed; but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth; and a word in its season, how good is it!

24 The path of life is upwards for the wise, that he may depart from Sheol beneath.

25 Jehovah plucketh up the house of the proud; but he establisheth the boundary of the widow.

26 The thoughts of the evil man are an abomination to Jehovah; but pure words are pleasant.

27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

28 The heart of a righteous man studieth to answer; but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.

29 Jehovah is far from the wicked; but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

30 That which enlighteneth the eyes rejoiceth the heart; good tidings make the bones fat.

31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life shall abide among the wise.

32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul; but he that heareth reproof getteth sense.

33 The fear of Jehovah is the discipline of wisdom, and before honour goeth humility.

1 A gentle answer turns away rage, 

but a harsh word stirs up anger. 

2 The tongues of wise people give good expression to knowledge, 

but the mouths of fools pour out a flood of stupidity. 

3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere. 

They watch evil people and good people. 

4 A soothing tongue is a tree of life, 

but a deceitful tongue breaks the spirit. 

5 A stubborn fool despises his father’s discipline, 

but whoever appreciates a warning shows good sense. 

6 Great treasure is in the house of a righteous person, 

but trouble comes along with the income of a wicked person. 

7 The lips of wise people spread knowledge, 

but a foolish attitude does not. 

8 A sacrifice brought by wicked people is disgusting to the Lord, 

but the prayers of decent people please him. 

9 The way of wicked people is disgusting to the Lord, 

but he loves those who pursue righteousness. 

10 Discipline is a terrible ⸤burden⸥ to anyone who leaves the ⸤right⸥ path. 

Anyone who hates a warning will die. 

11 If Sheol and Abaddon lie open in front of the Lord 

how much more the human heart! 

12 A mocker does not appreciate a warning. 

He will not go to wise people. 

13 A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, 

but with a heartache comes depression. 

14 The mind of a person who has understanding searches for knowledge, 

but the mouths of fools feed on stupidity. 

15 Every day is a terrible day for a miserable person, 

but a cheerful heart has a continual feast. 

16 Better to have a little with the fear of the Lord 

than great treasure and turmoil. 

17 Better to have a dish of vegetables where there is love 

than juicy steaks where there is hate. 

18 A hothead stirs up a fight, 

but one who holds his temper calms disputes. 

19 The path of lazy people is like a thorny hedge, 

but the road of decent people is an ⸤open⸥ highway. 

20 A wise son makes his father happy, 

but a foolish child despises its mother. 

21 Stupidity is fun to the one without much sense, 

but a person who has understanding forges straight ahead. 

22 Without advice plans go wrong, 

but with many advisers they succeed. 

23 A person is delighted to hear an answer from his own mouth, 

and a timely word—oh, how good! 

24 The path of life for a wise person leads upward 

in order to turn him away from hell below. 

25 The Lord tears down the house of an arrogant person, 

but he protects the property of widows. 

26 The thoughts of evil people are disgusting to the Lord, 

but pleasant words are pure to him. 

27 Whoever is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble to his family, 

but whoever hates bribes will live. 

28 The heart of a righteous person carefully considers how to answer, 

but the mouths of wicked people pour out a flood of evil things. 

29 The Lord is far from wicked people, 

but he hears the prayers of righteous people. 

30 A twinkle in the eye delights the heart. 

Good news refreshes the body. 

31 The ear that listens to a life-giving warning 

will be at home among wise people. 

32 Whoever ignores discipline despises himself, 

but the person who listens to warning gains understanding. 

33 The fear of the Lord is discipline ⸤leading to⸥ wisdom, 

and humility comes before honor. 

1 A gentle answer turns away anger,

but a harsh word stirs up wrath.

2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge attractive,

but the mouth of fools blurts out foolishness.

3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,

observing the wicked and the good.

4 The tongue that heals is a tree of life,

but a devious tongue breaks the spirit.

5 A fool despises his father’s discipline,

but a person who accepts correction is sensible.

6 The house of the righteous has great wealth,

but trouble accompanies the income of the wicked.

7 The lips of the wise broadcast knowledge,

but not so the heart of fools.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to the Lord,

but the prayer of the upright is His delight.

9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked,

but He loves the one who pursues righteousness.

10 Discipline is harsh for the one who leaves the path;

the one who hates correction will die.

11 Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the Lord —

how much more, human hearts.

12 A mocker doesn’t love one who corrects him;

he will not consult the wise.

13 A joyful heart makes a face cheerful,

but a sad heart produces a broken spirit.

14 A discerning mind seeks knowledge,

but the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.

15 All the days of the oppressed are miserable,

but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

16 Better a little with the fear of the Lord

than great treasure with turmoil.

17 Better a meal of vegetables where there is love

than a fattened ox with hatred.

18 A hot-tempered man stirs up conflict,

but a man slow to anger calms strife.

19 A slacker’s way is like a thorny hedge,

but the path of the upright is a highway.

20 A wise son brings joy to his father,

but a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Foolishness brings joy to one without sense,

but a man with understanding walks a straight path.

22 Plans fail when there is no counsel,

but with many advisers they succeed.

23 A man takes joy in giving an answer;

and a timely word—how good that is!

24 For the discerning the path of life leads upward,

so that he may avoid going down to Sheol.

25 The Lord destroys the house of the proud,

but He protects the widow’s territory.

26 The Lord detests the plans of an evil man,

but pleasant words are pure.

27 The one who profits dishonestly troubles his household,

but the one who hates bribes will live.

28 The mind of the righteous person thinks before answering,

but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil things.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked,

but He hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 Bright eyes cheer the heart;

good news strengthens the bones.

31 One who listens to life-giving rebukes

will be at home among the wise.

32 Anyone who ignores discipline despises himself,

but whoever listens to correction acquires good sense.

33 The fear of the Lord is what wisdom teaches,

and humility comes before honor.

1 A soft answer turns away wrath,

but a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise dispenses knowledge,

but the mouths of fools pour out folly.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place,

keeping watch on the evil and the good.

4 A gentle tongue is a tree of life,

but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

5 A fool despises a parent’s instruction,

but the one who heeds admonition is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous there is much treasure,

but trouble befalls the income of the wicked.

7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge;

not so the minds of fools.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord,

but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord,

but he loves the one who pursues righteousness.

10 There is severe discipline for one who forsakes the way,

but one who hates a rebuke will die.

11 Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the Lord,

how much more human hearts!

12 Scoffers do not like to be rebuked;

they will not go to the wise.

13 A glad heart makes a cheerful countenance,

but by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken.

14 The mind of one who has understanding seeks knowledge,

but the mouths of fools feed on folly.

15 All the days of the poor are hard,

but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

16 Better is a little with the fear of the Lord

than great treasure and trouble with it.

17 Better is a dinner of vegetables where love is

than a fatted ox and hatred with it.

18 Those who are hot-tempered stir up strife,

but those who are slow to anger calm contention.

19 The way of the lazy is overgrown with thorns,

but the path of the upright is a level highway.

20 A wise child makes a glad father,

but the foolish despise their mothers.

21 Folly is a joy to one who has no sense,

but a person of understanding walks straight ahead.

22 Without counsel, plans go wrong,

but with many advisers they succeed.

23 To make an apt answer is a joy to anyone,

and a word in season, how good it is!

24 For the wise the path of life leads upward,

in order to avoid Sheol below.

25 The Lord tears down the house of the proud,

but maintains the widow’s boundaries.

26 Evil plans are an abomination to the Lord,

but gracious words are pure.

27 Those who are greedy for unjust gain make trouble for their households,

but those who hate bribes will live.

28 The mind of the righteous ponders how to answer,

but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked,

but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoices the heart,

and good news refreshes the body.

31 The ear that heeds wholesome admonition

will lodge among the wise.

32 Those who ignore instruction despise themselves,

but those who heed admonition gain understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom,

and humility goes before honor.

1 A soft answer will turn away wrath,

but a word of trouble will stir anger.

2 The tongue of the wise will dispense knowledge,

but the mouth of fools will pour out folly.

3 In every place, the eyes of Yahweh

keep watch over the evil and the good.

4 Gentleness of tongue is a tree of life,

but perverseness in it causes a break in spirit.

5 A fool will despise the instruction of his father,

but he who guards reproof is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous there is much treasure,

but the income of the wicked brings trouble.

7 The lips of the wise will spread knowledge,

but the heart of fools, not so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination of Yahweh,

but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9 An abomination of Yahweh is the way of the wicked,

but he who pursues righteousness he will love.

10 Severe discipline belongs to him who forsakes the way;

he who hates a rebuke will die.

11 Sheol and Abaddon are before Yahweh,

how much more the hearts of the children of men!

12 A scoffer does not like his rebuke;

to the wise he will not go.

13 A heart of gladness will make good countenance,

but in sorrow of heart a spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him who understands will seek knowledge,

but the faces of fools, they will feed on folly.

15 All the days of the poor are hard,

but goodness of heart is a continuous feast.

16 Better is little with the fear of Yahweh

than great treasure and trouble with it.

17 Better is a dinner of vegetables when love is there

than a fattened ox and hatred with it.

18 A man who is hot-tempered will stir up strife,

but he who is slow to anger, he will calm contention.

19 The way of the lazy is like a hedge of thorns,

but the path of the upright is a highway.

20 A child of wisdom will make a father glad,

but a foolish person, he despises his mother.

21 Folly is a joy to him who lacks sense,

and a person of understanding will walk upright.

22 Plans go wrong when there is no counsel,

but with many advisors it will succeed.

23 Joy belongs to a man with answers in his mouth,

and a word in its time, how good it is!

24 The path of life leads upward for him who has insight,

in order to turn away from Sheol below.

25 The house of the proud, Yahweh will tear it down,

but he will maintain the property line of the widow.

26 Plans of evil are an abomination of Yahweh,

but gracious words are pure.

27 He who makes trouble for his house is he who is greedy for unjust gain,

but he who hates bribes will live.

28 A heart of righteousness will ponder the answer,

but a mouth of wickedness will pour out deceit.

29 Yahweh is far from the wicked,

but the prayers of the righteous he will hear.

30 From the light of the eyes, the heart will rejoice,

and good news will enliven the bones.

31 The ear of him who listens to admonitions of life,

in the midst of the wise it will lodge.

32 He who ignores instruction despises himself,

but he who hears admonition gains heart.

33 Fear of Yahweh is the instruction of the wise,

and before honor comes humility.

1 A gentle answer turns anger away.

But mean words stir up anger.

2 The tongues of wise people use knowledge well.

But the mouths of foolish people pour out foolish words.

3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere.

They watch those who are evil and those who are good.

4 A tongue that brings healing is like a tree of life.

But a tongue that tells lies produces a broken spirit.

5 A foolish person turns his back on how his father has trained him.

But anyone who accepts being corrected shows understanding.

6 The houses of those who do what is right hold great wealth.

But those who do what is wrong earn only trouble.

7 The lips of wise people spread knowledge.

But that’s not true of the hearts of foolish people.

8 The Lord hates the sacrifice of sinful people.

But the prayers of honest people please him.

9 The Lord hates how sinners live.

But he loves those who run after what is right.

10 Hard training is in store for anyone who leaves the right path.

A person who hates to be corrected will die.

11 Death and the Grave lie open in front of the Lord.

So the hearts of mere men certainly lie open to him!

12 Anyone who makes fun of others doesn’t like to be corrected.

He won’t ask wise people for advice.

13 A happy heart makes a face look cheerful.

But a sad heart produces a broken spirit.

14 A heart that understands what is right looks for knowledge.

But the mouths of foolish people feed on what is foolish.

15 All the days of those who are crushed are filled with pain and suffering.

But a cheerful heart enjoys a good time that never ends.

16 It is better to have respect for the Lord and have little

than to be rich and have trouble.

17 A meal of vegetables where there is love

is better than the finest meat where there is hatred.

18 A man who burns with anger stirs up fights.

But a person who is patient calms things down.

19 The way of people who don’t want to work is blocked with thorns.

But the path of honest people is a wide road.

20 A wise son makes his father glad.

But a foolish son hates his mother.

21 A person who has no sense enjoys doing foolish things.

But a man who has understanding walks straight ahead.

22 Plans fail without good advice.

But they succeed when there are many advisers.

23 Joy is found in giving the right answer.

And how good is a word spoken at the right time!

24 The path of life leads up for those who are wise.

It keeps them from going down to the grave.

25 The Lord tears down the proud person’s house.

But he keeps the widow’s property safe.

26 The Lord hates the thoughts of sinful people.

But the thoughts of pure people are pleasing to him.

27 Anyone who always wants more brings trouble to his family.

But a person who refuses to be paid off will live.

28 The hearts of those who do right think about how they will answer.

But the mouths of those who do wrong pour out evil.

29 The Lord is far away from those who do wrong.

But he hears the prayers of those who do right.

30 A cheerful look brings joy to your heart.

And good news gives health to your body.

31 If you listen to a warning, you will live.

You will be at home among those who are wise.

32 Anyone who turns away from his training hates himself.

But anyone who accepts being corrected gains understanding.

33 Having respect for the Lord teaches you how to live wisely.

So don’t be proud if you want to be honored.

1 A gentle answer turns away wrath,

But a harsh word stirs up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable,

But the mouth of fools spouts folly.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place,

Watching the evil and the good.

4 A soothing tongue is a tree of life,

But perversion in it crushes the spirit.

5 A fool rejects his father’s discipline,

But he who regards reproof is sensible.

6 Great wealth is in the house of the righteous,

But trouble is in the income of the wicked.

7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge,

But the hearts of fools are not so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord,

But the prayer of the upright is His delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord,

But He loves one who pursues righteousness.

10 Grievous punishment is for him who forsakes the way;

He who hates reproof will die.

11 Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the Lord,

How much more the hearts of men!

12 A scoffer does not love one who reproves him,

He will not go to the wise.

13 A joyful heart makes a cheerful face,

But when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken.

14 The mind of the intelligent seeks knowledge,

But the mouth of fools feeds on folly.

15 All the days of the afflicted are bad,

But a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

16 Better is a little with the fear of the Lord

Than great treasure and turmoil with it.

17 Better is a dish of vegetables where love is

Than a fattened ox served with hatred.

18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife,

But the slow to anger calms a dispute.

19 The way of the lazy is as a hedge of thorns,

But the path of the upright is a highway.

20 A wise son makes a father glad,

But a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him who lacks sense,

But a man of understanding walks straight.

22 Without consultation, plans are frustrated,

But with many counselors they succeed.

23 A man has joy in an apt answer,

And how delightful is a timely word!

24 The path of life leads upward for the wise

That he may keep away from Sheol below.

25 The Lord will tear down the house of the proud,

But He will establish the boundary of the widow.

26 Evil plans are an abomination to the Lord,

But pleasant words are pure.

27 He who profits illicitly troubles his own house,

But he who hates bribes will live.

28 The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer,

But the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked,

But He hears the prayer of the righteous.

30 Bright eyes gladden the heart;

Good news puts fat on the bones.

31 He whose ear listens to the life-giving reproof

Will dwell among the wise.

32 He who neglects discipline despises himself,

But he who listens to reproof acquires understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is the instruction for wisdom,

And before honor comes humility.