1 Better a dry crust eaten in peace

than a house filled with feasting—and conflict.

2 A wise servant will rule over the master’s disgraceful son

and will share the inheritance of the master’s children.

3 Fire tests the purity of silver and gold,

but the Lord tests the heart.

4 Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip;

liars pay close attention to slander.

5 Those who mock the poor insult their Maker;

those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished.

6 Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged;

parents* are the pride of their children.

7 Eloquent words are not fitting for a fool;

even less are lies fitting for a ruler.

8 A bribe is like a lucky charm;

whoever gives one will prosper!

9 Love prospers when a fault is forgiven,

but dwelling on it separates close friends.

10 A single rebuke does more for a person of understanding

than a hundred lashes on the back of a fool.

11 Evil people are eager for rebellion,

but they will be severely punished.

12 It is safer to meet a bear robbed of her cubs

than to confront a fool caught in foolishness.

13 If you repay good with evil,

evil will never leave your house.

14 Starting a quarrel is like opening a floodgate,

so stop before a dispute breaks out.

15 Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent—

both are detestable to the Lord.

16 It is senseless to pay to educate a fool,

since he has no heart for learning.

17 A friend is always loyal,

and a brother is born to help in time of need.

18 It’s poor judgment to guarantee another person’s debt

or put up security for a friend.

19 Anyone who loves to quarrel loves sin;

anyone who trusts in high walls invites disaster.