False Friends

37 Every friend says, “I too am a friend”;

but some friends are friends only in name.

2 Is it not a sorrow like that for death itself

when a dear friend turns into an enemy?

3 O inclination to evil, why were you formed

to cover the land with deceit?

4 Some companions rejoice in the happiness of a friend,

but in time of trouble they are against him.

5 Some companions help a friend for their stomachs’ sake,

yet in battle they will carry his shield.

6 Do not forget a friend during the battle,a

and do not be unmindful of him when you distribute your spoils.b