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\sectd\sect{\header \pard\qr\plain\f0\fs16 Proverbs (Page \chpgn) \par}{\pard \pagebb
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{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs72 PROVERBS 
 
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{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 On the Worth of Wisdom

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 1}The proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel. 
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{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Aim of the Book 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}That people may learn wisdom and discipline, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and understand words of discernment; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}that they may win training in prudence,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in right and in justice and rectitude; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}that shrewdness be imparted to the simple,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and knowledge and insight to youth \uc1\u8212* 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}the wise too, who listens, will grow wiser, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the prudent more skilled in direction \uc1\u8212* 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}that proverbs and parables may be plain,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
even the words of the wise and their riddles 
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{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Motto of the Book 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Reverence for the Lord is the basis of knowledge, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but wisdom and discipline are scorned by fools. 
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{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Exhortation and Warning 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Listen, my child, to your father's instruction, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and do not forsake what you mother has taught you; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}they will be a garland to your head,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a chain for your neck. 
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{\pard 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}My son, if sinners entice you, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
do not consent. {\super\cf2\fs24 11}If they say, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
\uc1\u8220*Come with us, let us lurk for the blameless,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and ambush the innocent for fun \uc1\u8212* 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}let us swallow them up like the grave, alive 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and entire, just as those that go down to the pit. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Precious wealth of all sorts will be ours, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
we will fill our houses with spoil.
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}Cast your lot with us; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
we will all share what we steal,\uc1\u8221* 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}Do not go their way, my child. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Keep your foot away from their path.
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}For their feet hasten to evil, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and they rush to shed blood.
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}The net is spread in the sight of the birds, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
who hungrily take the bait. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Their own is the blood they lurk for. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Their own are the lives they ambush. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}So end all who would grasp at gain \uc1\u8212* 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
it destroys the life of its owner. 
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{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Appeal of Wisdom 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}Wisdom cries aloud in the streets, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in the squares echoes her voice, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}she calls from the top of the walls, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
at the doors of the city gates she says: 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}\uc1\u8220*How long will you fools love folly, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and scoffers delight in scoffing, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and fools in their hatred of knowledge? 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}Respond to my rebuke. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
See! I speak my mind to you; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
I will tell you my thoughts. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Because you refused my call, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
gave no heed to my hand when it beckoned you, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}rejected all my counsel,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and refused my admonition, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}when distress falls on you, I will laugh; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
I will mock, when your terror comes, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}when your terror comes as a storm, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
as a whirlwind your distress.
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Then I will not answer their call; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
they may seek, but they will not find me. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}Because they hated knowledge, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and rejected the fear of the Lord, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}would have nothing of my counsel. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but despised all my admonition, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}they must eat the fruit of their ways, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and be filled with their own devices. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}By their own choice will the simple be slain. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Prosperous ease will bring fools to destruction. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}But he who listens to me will live securely, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in a peace unruffled by fear of calamity.\uc1\u8221*          
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Blessed Fruits of Wisdom 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 2}My child, if you welcome my words,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}and hold close my commandments, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}giving heedful ear to wisdom,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and bending your mind to reason; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}if you seek to invoke understanding. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and lift up your voice to reason, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}seeking for her as if for silver,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and searching for her as if for treasure: 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}then the fear of the Lord will be plain to you, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the knowledge of God you will find. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}For the Lord is the giver of wisdom. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
The source of knowledge and insight. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}He stores up ability for the upright; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he shields the blameless life. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}He guards the paths of the just, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and he watches the way of the faithful. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Then justice and right will be plain to you; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
you will keep to all paths that are good. 
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{\pard 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}When wisdom will enter your mind, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and in knowledge you find your pleasure, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}discretion will watch over you, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and understanding will guard you, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}and save you from wicked ways, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
from people of perverse speech, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}who leave the paths of right,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to walk in ways of darkness \uc1\u8212* 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}happy in doing wrong, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
exulting in wicked perverseness, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}all crooked in their paths. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and devious in their ways.
\par}

{\pard 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}From the adultress too, it will save you, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the sinning woman of slippery speech, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}who forsakes the partner of her youth, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and forgets her bond with her God; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}for her house sinks down to death, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and her paths lead to the place of the dead. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}None that visit her ever come back, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or arrive at the paths of life. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}Therefore walk in the way of good people. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Keep in the paths of the righteous, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}for the upright will live in the land, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the blameless alone will enjoy it; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}while bad people are cut off from it. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the faithless uprooted.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Wisdom of Trusting and Honouring the Lord 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 3}My son, do not forget my teaching, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}keep my commandments in mind; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}for a long and happy life 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and fulness of peace will they bring you. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}Let not kindness and faithfulness leave you. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Bind them about your neck; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}so favour and good repute will you find 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
alike with God and people. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Trust the Lord with all your heart. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Lean not on your own understanding: 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}in all your ways acknowledge him, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and he will smooth your paths. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Do not pride yourself on your wisdom; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
fear the Lord and turn from evil. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Then there will be health to your body, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and refreshment to your bones. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}If you honour the Lord with your wealth, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
with the first-fruits of all that comes in to you, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}your barns will be filled with corn,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and with wine will your vats overflow.         
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Worth of Wisdom 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Reject not, my son, the Lord's chastening. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Do not spurn His reproof.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}For whom the Lord loves, he chastens, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he reproves the child he delights in. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Happy those who find wisdom, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
they who obtain understanding.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}For she brings a gain fairer than silver, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a revenue better than gold. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}More precious is she than corals, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and with her can no treasures compare. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}In her right hand is long life, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in her left are riches and honour. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}Her ways are pleasant ways, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and all her paths are peace. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}She is a tree of life to those who grasp her.
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Happy they who hold her fast. 
\par}

{\pard 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}The Lord by wisdom founded the earth, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
by understanding established the heavens. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}By knowledge he broke up the deeps. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the clouds he made drip with dew. *************
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Security that comes from Wisdom 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Observe, my child, discretion and wisdom, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
let them never out of your sight; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}so will they be life to you. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
An ornament round your neck. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}You will then go your way securely. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Without ever striking your foot. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}You will sit down unafraid,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and your sleep will be sweet where you lie. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}You will fear no sudden terror, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor the tempest that falls on the wicked.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}For the Lord is the ground of your hope. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
He will keep your foot from the snare. 
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{\pard 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}Withhold from your neighbour no good 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Which you have in your power to do them. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Do not tell them \uc1\u8212* when you can afford it \uc1\u8212* to go 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and come back, with the promise of something tomorrow. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}Devise no mischief against your neighbour, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
while they are trustfully living beside you. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}Do not idly quarrel with anyone 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
who has not done you any harm. 
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{\pard 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}Do not envy the violent, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or choose any one of their ways.
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}For the Lord abhors the crooked, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the upright are his friends. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}The Lord's curse rests on the house of the wicked. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
But the home of the righteous he blesses. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 34}As for him, he scoffs at scoffers, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he gives grace to the lowly. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 35}Wise men come to honour, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but shame is the portion of fools.  
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{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Excellence and Beneficent Power of Wisdom 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 4}Listen, children, to a father's instruction. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}Pay attention to gain understanding. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}For the counsel I give you is good.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Do not forsake my teaching. 
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{\pard 

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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}When I was my father's child,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
loved by my mother, and tender, 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}he used to say, as he taught me, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
\uc1\u8220*Hold fast my words in your mind. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Keep my commandments and live.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Get wisdom, get understanding. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}If you do not leave her, she will keep you; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
If you hold her dear, she will guard you. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Prize her and she will exalt you 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and honour you if you embrace her. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}She will set a fair wreath on your head
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a glorious crown she will give you.\uc1\u8221*
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}Listen, my son, and accept my words, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the years of your life will be many. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}I teach you the way of wisdom, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
I guide you in honour's paths. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}You will walk with steps unconstrained. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
You will run without ever stumbling. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Keep unceasing hold of instruction; 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Guard her, for she is your life. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}Do not enter the path of the wicked.
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Do now walk in the way of the evil. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}Do not cross it, avoid it.
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Turn aside, and pass on. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}For they do not sleep unless they have done some harm. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
They are sleepless until they have wrought some ruin. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}For the bread that they eat is won by crime, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the wine that they drink is procured by cruelty. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}The way of the wicked is through deep darkness,
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Which hides from them that they stumble into; 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}but the way of the just is like light of the morning, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
which shines more and more till the day is full. 
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{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}My son, listen to my words.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Bend your ear to the things that I say. 
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Do not let them out of your sight. 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Keep them within your heart.
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{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}They are life to those who find them,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and health to all their being. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}Guard your heart with all vigilance, 
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{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for this is the way to life.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Put away all crooked speech, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and banish all devious talk. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}Let your eyes look straight in front, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and your eyelids right before you. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Make a level path for your feet, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and let all your ways be firm. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}Do not turn to the right or the left.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Keep your foot away from evil.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Wrong and Folly of Impurity 

\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Deadly Power of an Evil Woman 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 5}My son, listen to wisdom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}bend your ear to understanding; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}so that discretion may watch over you,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and that knowledge may preserve you. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}For the lips of the harlot drop honey, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her mouth is smoother than oil; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}but at last she is bitter as wormwood,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and sharp as a two-edged sword. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Her feet go down to Death; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her steps lead straight into Sheol. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}No smooth way of life does she walk; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her paths wander \uc1\u8212* she doesn't know where. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}And now, my son, listen to me; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Do not turn from the words that I speak. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Move far away from her. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Do not go near the door of her house; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}or you might give your wealth to others, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
your years to the implacable,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}and so strangers enjoy your substance,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a family of foreigners your toil; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}and thus at the last you groan, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when body and flesh are consumed: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}\uc1\u8220*Why did I hate instruction, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and spurn reproof in my heart? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Why did I not listen to my teachers, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor bent to instructors mine ear? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}All but utterly was I undone 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in the congregation assembled.\uc1\u8221*
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Exhortation to Fidelity 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}Drink water from your own cistern,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
running water from your own well. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}Do not let your springs be scattered abroad, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
on the streets your streams of water. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}Let them be for yourself alone, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and not for strangers beside you. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Let your fountain be your own, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
take joy from the wife of your youth \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}lovely hind and graceful doe \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
let her breasts make you happy at all times. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
be ravished with her love forever. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}For why be ravished by a stranger, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a foreigners's bosom embrace? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}For the ways of a man are before the Lord's eyes, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and all his paths he weighs. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}His iniquities will snare him,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
enmeshed in the toils of his sin. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}He will die for lack of instruction 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and perish for his vast folly.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Warning against the Adulteress 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 6}Observe, my child, the commands of your father,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 20}do not abandon your mother's instruction. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Bind them onto your heart forever; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
hang them round about your neck. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}When you walk, Wisdom will guide you; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when you lie down, she will watch you; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when you wake up, she will talk with you. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}For precept illumines, instruction enlightens, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and reproof that disciplines leads to life,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Preserving you safe from the wife of another, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
from the slippery tongue of the stranger. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}Do not long in your heart for her beauty. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Do not be caught by her eyes. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}For, while harlotry costs but a morsel of bread, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
'Tis the precious life the adulteress hunts. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}Can a man take fire in his bosom 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
without his clothes being burned? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Or on glowing coals can he walk 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
without his feet being scorched? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}So with him that approaches his neighbour's wife: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
no one that touches her ever may go unpunished. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}Do people not despise a thief, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
When he steals even to satisfy hunger? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}When caught, he must pay seven-fold. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
And give all that his house contains. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}But the adulterer is witless: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he destroyes himself by his doings. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}For stripes and disgrace will be his, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
And a shame that will never be blotted. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 34}For jealousy maddens a man; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in the day of revenge he is pitiless. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 35}He will accept no ransom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor will gifts in profusion content him.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Another Warning 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 7}My son, observe my words, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}And lay up with you my commandments. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}Keep my commandments and live, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and my teaching as the pupil of your eye. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}Bind them upon your fingers; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
write them on the tablet of your heart. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Say to Wisdom, \uc1\u8220*You are my sister\uc1\u8221*; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
call Understanding your friend \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}shun the dissolute woman, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the stranger of slippery speech. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}At the window of her house 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
she peers out through the lattice; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}and, looking at the simpletons, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
she detects a silly youth, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}as he passes near the street corner. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Stepping the way to her house, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}just in the evening twilight, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
As the night is growing dark. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}See! The woman comes out to meet him, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in a harlot's dress, all a-flutter. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Boisterous and brazen is she: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her feet are restless at home. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Now in street, now in square is she. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Lurking near every corner. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}So she catches and kisses him,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and with impudent face she accosts him: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}\uc1\u8220*I have ready a thanksgiving feast, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for today I have paid my vows; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}and so I came out to meet you, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to seek you, and now I have found you, so 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}I have spread my couch with coverlets, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
striped with Egyptian yarn. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
with cinnamon and with aloes. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Come; let us drink love till the morning, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and yield us to merry caresses. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}For my husband is not at home; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he is far away on a journey. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}He has taken a money-bag with him, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he will not come home till full moon.\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}With her fair speech she beguiled him, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
with her blandishing words she enticed him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}So he followed her bewitched, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
like an ox that is brought to the slaughter, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
like a dog that is led on a chain,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}like a bird rushing into a net, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
unaware that its life is at stake, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
till an arrow pierces its liver. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}And now, my son, listen to me. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Give heed to the words that I utter. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}Let your heart not swerve to her ways, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and wander not in her paths; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}for the dead she has cast down are many, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and many are those she has slain. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}Her house is the road to Sheol, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
straight down to the chambers of Death.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Invitation and the Rewards of Wisdom 

\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Wisdom's Appeal to Men 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 8}Listen! Wisdom is calling, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}and Reason is lifting her voice: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}on a raised place, high by the way. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
on the streets she has taken her stand. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}By the gates that lead into the city. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
She cries aloud at the portals: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}\uc1\u8220*to you, O men, I call. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
And my voice is to all mankind. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}You simple ones, learn to be prudent; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
You foolish ones, get to know wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}O listen, for grave is my message. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
And right all the speech of my lips. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}It is truth that my mouth discourses, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
And falsehood my lips abhor. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}All the words that I utter are honest. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Free from all that is crooked and tortuous, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}All clear to the man of sense,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and right to those that have knowledge. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}Choose instruction, then, rather than silver, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and more than choice gold welcome knowledge. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}For better is Wisdom than corals; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
no treasures with her can compare. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}I, Wisdom, possess intelligence; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
knowledge and insight are mine. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}Mine are counsel and skill; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
understanding and might are mine. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}By me do monarchs reign 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and rulers administer justice, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}By me do princes govern 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and noblemen rule the earth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}Those that love me I love,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and those that seek me find me. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}With me are riches and honour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
prosperity and grandeur.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}My fruit is better than finest gold, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
my revenue fairer than choicest silver. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}I walk in the way that is fair, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and keep to the paths of justice, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}endowing with wealth those that love me, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and filling their treasuries full. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Wisdom's Ancient Origin 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}At the very beginning God fashioned me 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
as the first of His works of old. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}In the ancient time was I formed,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
at the first, when the world began. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}I was born when as yet no depths were, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
no fountains laden with water; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}Ere yet the mountains were sunk, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and before the hills was I born; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Ere the earth and the fields were created, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or the first of the clods of the world. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}When He set up the heavens, I was there; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when He vaulted the face of the deep; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}When He made firm the skies above, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and fixed the deep fast at its sources; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}When He set to the sea its bounds, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
as He marked off the base of the world. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}Then beside Him was I as His nursling,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and I was His daily delight, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
playing before Him at all times, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}playing about in His world. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
delighting in humankind. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Wisdom's Concluding Appeal 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}And now, children, listen to me: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
happy those that keep to my ways. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}Hear instruction, and thus get wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Do not reject my admonition. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 34}Happy he who listens to me, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
daily watching at my gates, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and waiting at my door-posts. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 35}For who finds me finds life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he wins the Lord's own favour; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 36}but who misses me wrongs himself, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for all that hate me love death.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Two Hostesses \uc1\u8212* Wisdom and Folly 

\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Invitation of Wisdom 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 9}Wisdom has built her a house, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}has set up her seven pillars, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}slain her beasts, and mingled her wine, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and also spread her table. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}She has sent forth her maidens to cry 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
on the thoroughfares of the city: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}\uc1\u8220*All simple ones, turn in hither, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
I would speak to him who lacks wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Come and eat of my bread. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and drink of the wine I have mingled, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}Abandon your folly, and live,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and walk in the way of reason. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}For by me your days will be many, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the years of your life increased.\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Invitation of Folly 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Dame Folly is loud and seductive, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
she is a stranger to shame. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}At the door of her house she sits,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
on the thoroughfares of the city, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}calling to passers-by,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
who are going straight on their way: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}\uc1\u8220*All simple ones, turn in hither, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
I would speak to him who lacks wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}Stolen waters are sweet, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}But he does not know that dead men are there, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
that her guests lie sunken in Sheol. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 A Group of Aphorisms 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Who corrects a scoffer but gets himself insult, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a stain rests on him that reproves the wicked. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Reprove not a scoffer, or else he may hate you; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a wise man reprove, and for that he will love you. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Give to a wise man, and he will grow wiser; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
instruct the righteous, and more he will learn. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}The fear of the Lord is the first step to wisdom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and to know the Holy One is understanding. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}If you are wise, you are wise for yourself; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
And if you scoff, you must bear it alone.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Warnings 

\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Against Suretyship 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 6}My son if you have gone bail for your neighbour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}and given your pledge for another; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}if by your own lips you are snared, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and are trapped by the words of your mouth: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}then this do, my son, and free yourself,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
since you have come into his power.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
Go, stir youself, besiege your neighbour; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}give no sleep to your eyes. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor slumber to your eyelids, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}shake yourself free, like a roe, from the snare, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or a bird from the hand of the fowler. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Against Indolence 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}Go to the ant, you sluggard; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
consider her ways, and be wise,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}without officer, ruler, or chief, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}she provides her bread in the summer. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and gathers her food in the harvest. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}How long will you lie, O sluggard? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
When will you rise from your sleep? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}\uc1\u8220*Just a little more sleep, a little more slumber, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a little more lying with folded hands.\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}So will poverty come on you like a robber, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and want like an armed man. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Against Underhand Mischief-making 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Sunk in wickedness is the man 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
whose speech is ingrained with falsehood \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}who winks his eyes, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or shuffles his feet, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or makes signs with his fingers, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}gives his mind to the planning of mischief, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and always is scattering discord. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}For these things will sudden disaster assail him; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he will swiftly be crushed beyond all hope of healing. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Seven Detestable Things 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}Six things there are which the Lord detests, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
yes, seven does He abhor: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}haughty eyes, a lying tongue, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and hands that shed innocent blood, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}a mind that plans wicked devices,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and feet that are swift to do wrong, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}a false witness that utters lies, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
One that scatters strife among brethren.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 First Collection of Proverbs 

\par}

{\pard\sl280\slmult1\fs24\fi720 
 {\cf1 10}The Proverbs of Solomon: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}A wise son makes his father glad, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a foolish son is a grief to his mother. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}Treasures wrongly acquired profit nothing, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but righteousness saves from death. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}The Lord will not suffer the righteous to hunger, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but He will frustrate the desire of the wicked. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}A slack hand creates poverty, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a diligent hand makes rich. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}He that gathers in summer acts wisely; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he that sleeps in harvest acts shamefully. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}The blessing of God is on the head of the righteous, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but sorrow will cover the face of the wicked. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}The memory of the righteous is blessed,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the name of the wicked will rot. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}A wise man gives heed to commands, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a foolish talker will fall. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}He whose life is blameless walks safely, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he who lives crookedly smarts for it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}He who winks the eye makes trouble,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but frank reproof makes peace. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}A fountain of life is the mouth of the righteous, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the mouth of the wicked is wrapped in violence. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Hatred stirs up strife, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but love hides all transgressions. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}On the lips of a prudent man wisdom is found,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a man without sense needs a rod for his back. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}Wise men keep what they know to themselves, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the mouth of the fool is impending destruction. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}The rich man's wealth is his fortified city;
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the poor, by their poverty, come to destruction. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}The wage of the righteous conduces to life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but their revenue brings the wicked to ruin. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}The way to life is to heed instruction, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but to turn from reproof is to go astray. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Righteous lips cover up hatred,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the slanderer is a fool. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}Where words are many, offences are certain; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
But he who controls his tongue does wisely. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}The tongue of the just is like choicest silver, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the mind of the wicked is little worth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}The speech of the righteous is sustenance to many, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but lack of sense is the death of fools. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}It is only the blessing of God that brings wealth, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and He adds no sorrow therewith. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}To a fool the doing of wrong is as sport, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a man of sense abhors it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}What the wicked feared will befall him, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the desire of the righteous will be granted. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}When the whirlwind passes, the wicked will vanish, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the righteous is firmly established forever. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
even so is the sluggard to them that send him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}The fear of the Lord prolongs life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the years of the wicked are shortened. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}The hope of the righteous will end in gladness,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wicked will fail of their expectation. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}To the man that is blameless the Lord is a strong-hold, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but terror and ruin to those that do evil. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}The righteous will be unmoved forever, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wicked will have no home in the land. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the man of false tongue will be rooted out. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}The lips of the righteous utter good-will; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the mouth of the wicked, malice. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 11}The Lord detests a false balance, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}but a just weight is his delight. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}Pride is sure to be followed by shame,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but modesty is wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}Their integrity guides the upright, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the false are destroyed by their crookedness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}In the day of wrath riches are useless,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but righteousness saves from death. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}The path of the blameless is smoothed by his righteousness, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wicked will fall by his wickedness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}The upright are saved by their righteousness, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the false are caught in their evil desires. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the hope of the godless perishes. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}The righteous is rescued from trouble, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the wicked takes his place. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}By slander the godless would ruin his neighbour,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the righteous are rescued by knowledge. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}When the righteous flourish, the city rejoices; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when the wicked perish, there is jubilation. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}By the blessing of the upright, the city is exalted; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
by the mouth of the wicked it is overthrown. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}A man has no sense that despises his neighbour; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a man of prudence holds his tongue. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Who carries tales divulges secrets, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a trustworthy man conceals a matter. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}Where guidance is lacking, a people must fall; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but that people is safe that is rich in counsellors. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}He who goes bail for another will suffer,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he who abhors being surety is sure. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}A gracious woman obtains honour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a throne of dishonour is she who hates justice. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Indolent men never come to wealth,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but riches are won by the men that are diligent. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}The kind man does good to himself; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the cruel man injures himself. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}The gain of the wicked is but an illusion, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he who sows righteousness wins the true wages. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}Devotion to righteousness leads to life; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the pursuit of wickedness ends in death. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}The Lord abhors the mind that is crooked, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but those who walk blamelessly are his delight. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Most surely the wicked will not go unpunished, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the righteous folk will escape. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}Like a golden ring in the snout of a swine 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a beautiful woman without discretion. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}The desire of the righteous will issue in good, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the hope of the wicked in wrath. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}One man is generous, yet grows ever richer; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
another is mean, yet he only grows poorer. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}The liberal soul will be enriched; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and he who waters, himself will be watered. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}He who holds up corn will be cursed by the people,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but blessings will be on his head that sells it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}He who aims at the thing that is good will win favour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but ruin will come upon him who seeks evil. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}He who trusts in his riches will wither,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but like green leaves the righteous will flourish. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}He that harms his household will reap the wind,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the fool will be slave to the man of wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}Life is the fruit of righteousness, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but rapine destroys men's lives. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}If the righteous are punished on earth, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
how much more the sinful and wicked!  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 12}He who loves knowledge loves discipline,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}but he that hates reproof is a boor. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}A good man wins the Lord's good-will, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a man of evil designs He condemns. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}By wickedness no man can stand forever, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the root of the righteous remains unmoved. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}A worthy wife is a crown to her husband,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but one that brings shame is as rot in his bones. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}The aims of the righteous are just; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the designs of the wicked are treacherous. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}The words of the wicked lurk for blood, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the speech of the upright delivers. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}The wicked will be overthrown and vanish, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the house of the righteous will stand. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}A man is commended according to his insight. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a wrong-headed man is despised. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Better a man of no rank, with a servant, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than one who apes greatness and yet has no bread. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}A righteous man cares for the life of his beast, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the heart of the wicked is cruel. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}He who tills his land will have plenty of bread. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he who pursues empty aims will have none. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}The wicked is snared by his wickedness, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the root of the righteous endures. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}By the sin of his lips is the wicked ensnared, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the righteous escapes from trouble. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}The words of a man bring forth good fruit in plenty, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the deeds of his hands will come back upon him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}A fool is certain his way is right, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a wise man listens to counsel. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}A fool displays his anger at once, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a prudent man hides an affront. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}One who speaks out the truth affirms justice. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a false witness utters lies. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}The chatter of some is like sword-thrusts. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the tongue of the wise is healing. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}The man who speaks truth stands forever, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the false tongue is but for a moment. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}Hearts of deceit have the men who plan evil, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but happy are those who plan other men's good. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}No evil thing can befall the righteous, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wicked are full of misfortune. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}The Lord abhors lying lips,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
But delighteth in those that deal faithfully. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}A man of prudence conceals what he knows, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a fool shouts his folly aloud. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}The diligent comes to power, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the slothful becomes a serf. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}Care bows down a man's heart, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a good word makes it glad. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}The righteous departs from evil; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the way of the wicked is error. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}The indolent man will not hunt his game, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the diligent man wins precious wealth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}In the path of righteousness there is life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the way of wickedness leads to death.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 13}A wise son loves instruction,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}but a scorner listens not to rebuke. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}A good man enjoys the fruits of his speech, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the false are greedy for rapine. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}He that guards his mouth preserves his life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a wide open mouth brings a man to ruin. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}The sluggard desires and has not. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the diligent is enriched. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}A righteous man hates deception, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wicked act basely and shamefully. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}Righteousness guards the man of integrity, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but sin overturns the wicked. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Some pretend to be rich, and have nothing at all; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
some pretend to be poor, and are rolling in wealth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}A man's riches may ransom his life. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a poor man listens not to rebuke. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}The light of the righteous shines on, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the lamp of the wicked goes out. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}Pride causes nothing but strife. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but with those that take counsel is wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Wealth gathered in haste will diminish, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but amassed by degrees it will grow. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Hope deferred makes sick the heart, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a wish fullilled is life.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}He who scorns the word will perish, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but who fears the commandment is safe.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
whereby to avoid the snares of death. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}Fine intelligence wins favour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the way of the false is their ruin. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}The prudent act always with insight, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the fool flaunts his folly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}An incompetent messenger ruins an enterprise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a trustworthy envoy is healing. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}To reject instruction spells shame and poverty, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but to heed admonition leads to honour. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}Sweet is desire fulfilled, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but fools hate to turn from evil. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}He that walks with the wise will be wise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the comrade of fools will smart for it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Sinners are chased by misfortune, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but good overtakes the righteous. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}The good man leaves wealth to his children's children, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wealth of the sinner is stored for the righteous. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}The ground of the poor yields food in abundance, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but some by injustice are swept away.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}He that spares his rod hates his son, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he that loves him chastises him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}The righteous, when hungry, may eat their fill. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wicked are empty within.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 14}A wise woman builds her house,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}but a fool tears it down with her hands. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}The man who fears God lives honestly,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the man that is crooked despises Him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}The speech of a fool is a rod for his back, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the words of the wise preserve them 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Where no oxen are, there can be no corn; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but plenty of oxen means plenty of produce. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}A trustworthy witness does not lie. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a false witness utters lies. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}A scorner seeks wisdom in vain, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but to prudent men knowledge is easy. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Get you out of a foolish man's presence, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for his lips do not utter knowledge. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}The shrewd show their wisdom by watching their way,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the folly of foolish men leads them astray. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Guilt has its home among fools, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but God's favour abides with the upright. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}The heart knows its own bitterness,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and no stranger can share in its joy. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}The house of the wicked will be destroyed,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the tent of the upright will flourish. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Many a way seems straight to a man 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
which leads at the last to death.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Even in laughter the heart may be sad, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the end of joy may be sorrow. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}He who swerves from the right will pay dearly for his conduct, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the good man will reap the fruit of his deeds. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}The simple believe every word,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the shrewd look well to their steps. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}A wise man anxiously shrinks from evil, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a fool plunges into it jauntily. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}A man of quick temper acts foolishly, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a prudent man is patient. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}The simple come into possession of folly, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
But the wise win the crown of knowledge. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}The evil must bow before the good,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the wicked crouch down at the gates of the righteous. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}The poor man is hated even by his neighbour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the rich has many friends. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}He that despises his neighbour sins, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but happy is he that does pity the poor. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}Surely those that plan evil will stray to destruction, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but those that plan good meet with kindness and faithfulness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}In all labour there is profit, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but mere talk tends only to penury. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}The crown of the wise is their wisdom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the garland of fools is their folly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}A truthful witness saves life. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but one who speaks falsely destroys it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}He that fears the Lord has strong ground of confidence. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
To the children of such he is refuge. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
whereby to avoid the snares of death.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Glory falls to the monarch whose people are many, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a prince comes to ruin whose people are few. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}The man of patience shows much good sense, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the quick-tempered man shows great folly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}A tranquil mind is the life of the body,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but passion rots the bones. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}He that crushes the needy reviles his maker, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he that is kind to the poor does him honour. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}The wicked is overthrown by his wickedness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the righteous has a refuge in his integrity, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}wisdom dwells in the heart of the prudent, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but folly in the heart of fools. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 34}Righteousness exalts a nation, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but sin is a people's disgrace. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 35}A competent servant enjoys the king's favour,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but scandalous service incurs his wrath.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 15}A soft answer turns away wrath, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}but provocative speech stirs up anger. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}The tongue of the wise drops knowledge, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the mouth of fools pours out folly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
watching the bad and the good. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}A soothing tongue is life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but violent words break the spirit. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}A fool despises his father's instruction. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he that regards reproof shows wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}In the house of the righteous is abundance of wealth, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the revenue of the wicked is cut off. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}The lips of the wise disperse knowledge, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the mind of fools is unstable. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}The Lord abhors the sacrifice of the wicked, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the prayer of the upright he welcomes. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}The Lord abhors the way of the wicked,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he loves the man that is bent upon righteousness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}He that leaves the way will have discipline sore, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he that hates reproof will die. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Before the Lord Sheol and Abaddon lie open; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
how much more the hearts of men! 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}A scoffer loves not reproof, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he refuses to go with the wise. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Joyous heart makes happy face, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a sorrowful heart makes a stricken spirit 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}The mind of the wise seeks knowledge, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the mouth of fools feeds on folly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}To the sad every day is a bad day,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but an endless feast to the cheerful. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}Better is little, with the fear of the Lord, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than abundance of treasure and trouble therewith. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}Better a dish of herbs, with love,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than a fatted ox, with hatred. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}An angry man stirs up strife, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a patient man stills contention. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}The way of the sluggard is hedged with thorns,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the path of the diligent runs like a highway. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}A wise son makes his father glad, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a fool of a man despises his mother. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Folly is joy to a man without sense, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a man of good sense is straightforward. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}Plans are frustrated where there is no counsel; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but, when many advise, they succeed. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}Joy comes to the man who makes happy retort; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a word in season, how good it is! 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}The wise man's path goes upward to life; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
He avoids the way to Sheol beneath. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}The Lord uproots the house of the proud, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
But the bounds of the widow he firmly maintains. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Evil devices the Lord abhors, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but gracious words are his delight. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}He that is grasping destroys his own house,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he who hates presents will live. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Faithfulness broods in the heart of the righteous,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but evil pours from the mouth of the wicked. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}The Lord is far from the wicked, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the prayer of the righteous he hears. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}Shining eyes gladden the heart, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and good news fattens the bones. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}He that listens to wholesome reproof
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
will dwell among the wise. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}He despises himself who rejecteth instruction. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he gains understanding who heeds reproof. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and honour comes after humility.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 16}Man may order his thoughts, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}but the word on his tongue is from God. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}A man's life may seem thoroughly pure to himself,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the Lord weighs the spirit. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}Commit your work to the Lord, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and so will your plans succeed. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}God created each thing for an end of its own, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
even the wicked for the day of disaster. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}All the proud-minded the Lord abhors; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
assuredly none will escape unpunished. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}By kindness and faithfulness sin is atoned for,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and through fear of the Lord men escape disaster. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}When the Lord is pleased with the ways of a man, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he makes even his foes to become his friends. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Better a little, with righteousness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than great revenues with injustice. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Man plans out his way, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the Lord directs his steps. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}The lips of the king are an oracle,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the sentence he utters infallible. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Balance and scales are the Lord's, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
all the weights of the bag are his work. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Kings shrink with abhorrence from wrong-doing, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for a throne is established by righteousness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Honest lips are a king's delight; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he loves the man that speaks truly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}The wrath of a king bodes death,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a wise man knows how to appease it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}When the king's face shines, there is life: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
like a cloud of spring-rain is his favour.
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}Wisdom is better to win than gold, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and understanding is choicer than silver. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}The path of the upright avoids misfortune; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he guards his life who gives heed to his way. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Pride goes before destruction. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a haughty spirit before a fall.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}Better be lowly of mind with the poor 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than divide the spoil with the great. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}He that gives heed to the word will be prosperous; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
happy the man who trusts the Lord. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Wise men are called men of insight, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and winsome speech adds to persuasiveness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}To a wise man is wisdom a fountain of life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but fools are chastised by their folly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}A wise mind utters thoughtful speech. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and touches the lips to persuasiveness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Winsome words are a honeycomb, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
sweet to the soul and healing to the body. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}Many a way seems straight to a man 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Which leads at the last to death.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}The labourer's appetite labours for him,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for his hungry mouth urges him on. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}A depraved man digs a pit of mischief, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
while his lips are touched as with scorching fire. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}A false man scatters discord, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a whisperer separates friends. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}A man of violence entices his neighbour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and leads him into a hurtful way. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}He who closes his eyes is devising some lie; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
He who tightens his lips has concocted some mischief. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}The grey head is a crown of glory,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
which is won by a righteous life. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}Patience is better than warrior's strength, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and to rule o'er oneself than to capture a city. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}The lot is cast into the lap, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the issue lies wholly with God.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 17}Better a bit of dry bread, with peace,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}than a house full of feasting and strife. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}A wise slave becomes lord of a profligate son; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he will share the estate with the brothers. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}Like the smelter for silver, the furnace for gold, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is the Lord who tests the heart. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}A bad man gives heed to wicked words; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a false man listens to mischievous speech. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}He that mocks the poor reviles his maker; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he that joys at misfortune will not go unpunished. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}The crown of old men is children's children, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the glory of children is their father. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}On the lips of a fool honest words are unseemly; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
much more lying words on the lips of a noble man. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}A bribe is like a magic stone; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he that offers it prospers wherever he turns. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}He that covers up wrong seeks love,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the gossip estranges his friend. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}A rebuke cuts a wise man more deeply
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than a hundred stripes cut a fool. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}The bad man is bent on playing the rebel; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so a pitiless angel is sent against him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Meet a bear robbed of her whelps 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
rather than a fool in his folly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Misfortune will haunt the house 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
of the man who for good returns evil. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}Strife may be started by idle words;
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so give over contention before there is quarrelling. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}To acquit the guilty and condemn the innocent 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
are both alike to the Lord detestable. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}Why does the fool bring a fee 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to buy wisdom, when he has no mind? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}A true friend loves at all times; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a brother is born for adversity. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}He that gives his hand is a fool \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the man who goes bail for another.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}He loves wounds who loves strife, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the man who builds loftily seeks destruction. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}The false heart finds no good. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the wily tongue comes to disaster. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}A man begets a fool to his sorrow; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
no joy can there be for the father of a fool. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}A happy heart is a healthful medicine, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a broken spirit dries up the bones. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}The wicked accept a bribe 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to deflect the course of justice. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}The man of good sense has his gaze fixed on wisdom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a fool has his eyes at the end of the earth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}A foolish son is a grief to his father, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and bitterness to her that bore him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Since it is not right even to fine the innocent, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to scourge men of honour is utterly wrong.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}He that spares his words is truly wise,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a cool-tempered man is a man of discretion. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Even a fool may, if silent, be taken for wise \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for a man of good sense, if he keeps his lips closed.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 18}The estranged friend seeks an occasion of quarrel; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}he tries by all means to stir up strife. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}A fool has no pleasure in prudence,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but only in self-display. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}Wrongdoing brings down contempt, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and disgrace follows dishonour. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}The words that are found on wise lips are deep waters, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a bubbling brook, a fountain of life. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}It is wrong to favour the guilty, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to give verdict against the innocent. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}A fool by his talk is involved in disputes, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and his words cry aloud for a beating. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}The mouth of a fool is his ruin; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
his lips are a trap to him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Slanderous words are like dainty morsels; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
down they ghde to the innermost being. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}He that is slack in his business 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is brother to him that destroys. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}The Lord is a mighty tower; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the righteous run in and are safe. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}A rich man's wealth is his fortified city, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and like a high wall are his riches. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Pride of heart goes before destruction,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and before honour goes humility.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}For a man to answer before he has heard 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is folly and shame to him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}A man's spirit sustains his weakness, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but who can bear a crushed spirit? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}A sensible mind acquires knowledge, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a wise ear seeks out wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}Presents prepare a man's way, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and bring him before the great. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}The first man to plead seems right, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but then comes the other and tests him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}The lot puts an end to disputes, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and decides between the mighty. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}The rich man's wealth is his fortified city; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
his riches resemble the bars of a fortress. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}A man's words will bear for him plenty of fruit. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and his speech will have an abundant harvest. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Death and life are in the power of the tongue, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and those who love it must eat its fruit. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}He that finds a wife has found a blessing,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and won a sign of the Lord's good will. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}A poor man speaks like a supplicant, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the rich man answers gruffly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}There are friends that seek nothing but company, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a friend who clings closer than brother.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 19}Better a poor man whose life is blameless 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}than one who is crooked, although he be rich. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}To act without knowledge is foolish; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the hasty foot misses the goal. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}A man ruins his life by his folly, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
And then he fumes against God. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Wealth adds many friends, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the friend of the poor man withdraws. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}A false witness will not go unpunished; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he that utters lies will not escape. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}To the liberal many pay court; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
all are friends of the man who gives. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}A poor man's brothers all hate him; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
much more do his friends stand aloof. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}He loves his life who acquires wisdom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and he finds good who observes understanding. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}A false witness will not go unpunished; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he that utters lies will perish. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}A luxurious life for a fool is unseemly; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
much more for a servant to rule over princes. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}By forbearance a man shows his wisdom; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to ignore an offence is his glory. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}The wrath of a king is like the growl of a lion, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
his favour like dew on the grass. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}A silly son is his father's ruin, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a quarrelsome wife is an endless drip. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}House and wealth come to men from their fathers, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a prudent wife is the gift of the Lord. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}Indolence ends in a deep heavy sleep,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the man that is slack will be hungry. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}He that keeps the commandment preserves his life; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he that spurns the word will die. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}To be kind to the poor is to lend to the Lord, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
who will pay the good deed back. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Chastise your son, while yet there is hope,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and set not your heart on having him ruined. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}He who pays a fine is very angry. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but, if he should scoff, he must pay still more. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}Listen to counsel, receive instruction, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so that you may be wise in the days to come. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}A man has many a plan in his mind; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the Lord has his purpose \uc1\u8212* and that will stand. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}A man's kindness brings him return; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
better be poor than a cheat. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}The fear of the Lord is the pathway to life, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to that quiet content which no evil can visit. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}The lazy man buries his hand in the dish, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and refuses to carry it back to his mouth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}When a scoffer is beaten, a simpleton learns,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but reproof is enough to teach sensible men. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}That son is a thorough disgrace and scoundrel 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
who maltreats his father and drives out his mother. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}Cease, my son, to despise instruction,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to wander away from the words of knowledge. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}An unprincipled witness scoffs at justice, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the mouth of the wicked pours out wrong. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}The scourgeo is prepared for the scoffer. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and stripes for the back of the fool.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 20}Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}and they who reel under it do not act wisely. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}The wrath of a king is like the growl of a lion, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and he who provokes him endangers his life. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}It honours a man to keep from strife, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but every fool shows his teeth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}In autumn the lazy man will not plough; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so in harvest he asks for a crop in vain. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}A plan may lie deep in the heart like well-water, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a skilful man knows how to draw it up. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}Many a man professes kindness, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but who can find a man of fidelity? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Happy the sons that come after the man 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
whose life has been righteous and blameless. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Throned on the seat of judgment, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the king sifts all wrong with his eyes. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Who can say, \uc1\u8220*I have cleansed my heart, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
pure and sinless am I\uc1\u8221*? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}Divers weights and divers measures 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
are both alike to the Lord detestable. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Even a child is known by his deeds, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
as his conduct is good or bad. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}The hearing ear and the seeing eye 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
are both alike the Lord's creation. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Love not sleep, lest you come to poverty; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
open your eyes, that your bread may be plentiful. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}\uc1\u8220*Bad, bad,\uc1\u8221* says the buyer; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but when he is gone, he brags. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}Lips of wisdom are store of gold, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
wealth of coral and precious vessels. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}Take the garment of him who goes bail for another, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and hold it in pledge for that other. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}Bread won by deception tastes sweet to a man, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but at last his mouth will be hiled with gravel. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Take advice in arranging your plans,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and do not make war without guidance. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}Who carries tales divulges secrets; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
have nothing to do with a gossip. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}He who curses his father or mother \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
his lamp will go out in thick darkness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Wealth hastily gotten at first 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
will remain unblessed in the end. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}Do not say, \uc1\u8220*I will pay back evil\uc1\u8221*; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but wait for the help of the Lord. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}Divers weights the Lord abhors; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
false balances are not good. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Since the Lord controls a man's steps, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
how can man understand his way? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}A man is ensnared if he dedicates rashly, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and only makes inquiry after his vow. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}A wise king winnows the wicked, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and passes the wheel over them, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}The spirit of man is the lamp of the Lord, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
searching every room of his being. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Kindness and faithfulness guard the king, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and his throne is established by justice. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}The glory of youth is its strength, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but grey hair is the beauty of age. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}A bad man is doomed to the lash, whose stripes 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
will cut to his inmost soul.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 21}The Lord guides the king's heart like watercourses,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}turning it whither He will. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}A man's life may seem thoroughly straight to himself, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the Lord weighs the heart. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}The doing of justice and right 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to the Lord is more welcome than sacrifice. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}A haughty look, a heart of pride, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the soil of the wicked is sin. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}The plans of the diligent issue in gain,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but too much haste leads only to want. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}He that wins him wealth by a fraudulent tongue 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is pursuing a breath and a deadly snare. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}The violence of the wicked will sweep them away,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
because they refuse to act justly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}The way of the vicious is crooked, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a pure man does what is straight. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}It is better to live on the roof in a corner, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than in a spacious house with a quarrelsome woman. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}The wicked man's passion is all to do harm; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he looks on his neighbour with pitiless eye. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}When a scoffer is punished, a fool becomes wise; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wise are receptive, and learn by instruction. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}The Lord considers the righteous, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the house of the wicked he overthrows. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}He that stops his ears at the cry of the poor 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
will find his own call unanswered. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}A gift in secret extinguishes anger, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a bribe in the bosom soothes strong indignation. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}When justice is done, the righteous rejoice; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but evil-doers are ruined. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}The man who strays from wisdom's way 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
will rest where the dead are gathered. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}The lover of pleasure will come to want, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and lovers of wine and oil cannot grow rich. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}For the righteous the wicked is ransom; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the false take the place of the upright. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}It is better to live in a desert land 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than with a provoking and quarrelsome woman. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}In the wise man's homestead is precious treasure, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a silly man swallows it up. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}The pursuit of justice and kindness 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is crowned with life and honour. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}The wise man scales the strong men's city, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and brings down the stronghold in which they trusted. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}He who guards his mouth and his tongue 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
preserves himself from trouble. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Scoffers men call the proud and haughty 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
who act with insolent pride. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}The desire of the sluggard will slay him, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for his hands refuse to work. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Desires and petitions are endless, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the righteous gives unsparingly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
much more when offered with vile intent. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}A lying witness will perish, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a trustworthy witness will stand forever.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}The wicked put on a bold face, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the upright take heed to their conduct. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}No wisdom nor understanding 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor counsel can match the Lord. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}For the day of battle the horse may be harnessed, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but only the Lord can dispense the victory.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 22}A fair name is more to be chosen than wealth; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}men's regard is far better than silver and gold. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}The rich and the poor meet together; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the Lord is the maker of both. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}The prudent scent mischief and hide; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the simple go on and are punished. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}The reward of the humble who fear the Lord 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is riches and honour and life. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}On the way of the crooked lie traps and snares; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he who watches his life will keep far away. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}Train up a child for his destined way, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and, even when old, he will not depart from it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}The rich lords it over the poor, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the borrower is slave to the lender. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}He that sows wrong will reap trouble,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the gain he has toiled for will vanish. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}The man with the kindly eye will be blessed, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for he gives of his bread to the poor. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}Expel the scoffer and discord will vanish,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and strife and insult cease. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}The pure in heart are beloved of the Lord, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the winsome of speech have the king for a friend.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}The Lord is watching, alert and aware, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nd the aims of the false he subverts. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}The lazy man says, \uc1\u8220*There's a lion outside. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
on the street I am like to be murdered.\uc1\u8221*
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}The lewd woman's mouth is a deep, deep pit; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he who angers the Lord will fall into it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}Folly is bound to the mind of a child, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the rod of correction removes it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}He who crushes the poor in the end but enriches him,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a gift to the rich only tends to his poverty. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Second Collection of Proverbs 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 22}Incline your ear and hear my words, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 17}and set your heart to know their beauty. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Keep them in your mind, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
have them ever fixed on your lips. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}That your trust may be in the Lord 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
I teach you them this day, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}As I wrote for you heretofore 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
concerning counsels of wisdom \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}to acquaint you with words of truth, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and with answers for those who would question you. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}Rob not the poor because he is poor,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and crush not the weak in the gate; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}For the Lord will defend their cause,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and will rob of their lives those who rob them. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Make no friend of a man prone to anger, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor go with a man of passion, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}in case you learn his ways. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and get yourself ensnared.
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Be not one of those that give pledges, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
of those that are surety for debt; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}for if you have nothing to pay, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
your bed will be taken from under you. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Remove not the ancient landmark 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
established by your fathers. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}Do you see a man expert in his business? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
He will stand in the presence of kings. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but before obscure men he will not stand.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 23}If you sit at a ruler's table, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}consider well who is before you; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}and set a knife to your throat, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
if you be a hearty eater.
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Toil not to make yourself rich, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
desist from this your purpose; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}for no sooner seen than gone. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
For riches make themselves wings
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
like an eagle that flies towards heaven. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}Do not dine with a niggardly man,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and do not fancy his dainties; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}for a reckoning soul has he. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
He tells you to eat and drink, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but his heart is not with yours. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}You must spit out the piece you have eaten, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for it is bread of deceit. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Speak not in the ears of a fool. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
For your wisest words he despises \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
your fair discourse is in vain. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}Remove not the widow's landmark,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor enter the fields of the fatherless; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}for they have a mighty champion, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
who will plead their cause against you. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Apply your mind to instruction, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
your ear to the words of knowledge. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Leave not a child unchastised,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for your beating will save him from death. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}It is for you to beat him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and so will you save him from Sheol. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}My son, if your heart be wise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
then my heart too will be glad. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}I will rejoice from my soul, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when your lips utter words of rectitude. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}Be not envious of sinners, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but ever fear the Lord; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}for there is a future for you. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and your hope will not be cut off. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}Listen, my son, and be wise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and walk in the way of prudence.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}Mix not with men that drink wine, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or that gorge themselves with flesh; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}for gorging and drink make men paupers, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and drowsiness covers with rags. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}Listen to the father that begat you, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and despise not your aged mother; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}But let your father be glad, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and make your mother happy. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}For a righteous son makes a glad, glad father, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a prudent son is the joy of his mother. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Give heed to me, my son. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Let your eyes take note of my ways. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}For a deep, deep pit is the harlot, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the lewd woman a narrow well. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}She lies in wait like a robber, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and many are they she plunders. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Peril of Wine 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}Who is it that cries, \uc1\u8220*Ah! Woe is me!\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Who is it that has quarrels and plaints? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Who is it that has senseless bruises? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
And who has the dull red eyes? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}Those that linger over wine, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
those that drink spiced wine with a relish. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}Look not on the ruddy wine, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when in the cup it sparkles, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
smoothly it glides down; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}but at last it bites like a serpent, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and stings like an adder. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}Strange things your eyes behold, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
your mind and your speech go a-wandering; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 34}Like one riding the sea are you 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in the throes of a violent storm. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 35}I was struck, but I feel no pain, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
of the blows I am all unconscious. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
O when will I wake from my wine? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
I would seek it once again.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 24}Be not envious of evil men, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}and do not desire to be with them; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}for they cherish designs of plunder, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and mischief is on their lips. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}By wisdom a house is built up, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
by intelligence it is established; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}by knowledge its shambers are filled 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
with all precious and pleasant substance. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Wise men are better than strong men, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and knowledge is better than might; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}for wars are waged by wise guidance. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and victory lies in counsellors. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Wisdom is too high for a fool; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so he opens not his mouth in the gate. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}The man who deviseth mischief 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is known among men as a schemer. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}The scheming of fools is sin, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the scoffer is hated of men.
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}If you have been slack, in the day of distress 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
your resource will be scanty. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Rescue those that are taken to death; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
save those that are tottering to slaughter. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}If you say, \uc1\u8220*It is not in my power,\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he who weighs the heart, he discerns; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
He who watches your soul, he knows, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and on each he will bring back his deeds. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}As the honey you eat, my son, is wholesome. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and sweet to your taste is the honeycomb, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}even so, be assured, to your soul is wisdom. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}Lie not in wait for the home of the just, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and do not assail his dwelling-place; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}for the just, though he fall seven times, will rise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wicked will stumble to ruin. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}At the fall of your foe rejoice not, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and do not exult at his overthrow; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}lest the Lord be displeased when he sees it, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and turn His anger away from him. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}Be not fretful because of evil-doers. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor envious of the wicked; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}for the bad man will have no future. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
The lamp of the wicked is quenched. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Fear the Lord, my son, and the king, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
be not haughty to one or the other; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}for swift is the ruin they raise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the disaster they send unforeseen. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Appendix to the Second Collection of Proverbs 

\par}

{\pard\sl280\slmult1\fs24\fi720 
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}These also belong to the wise men: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
It is wrong to be partial in giving of judgment.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}All men will curse and all people will execrate 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
him who pronounces the guilty man innocent. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}But those whose decisions are just will fare pleasantly; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
blessings of fortune will rest upon them. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}As one who kisses the lips 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is he who returns a straight answer. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}Set your business in order without, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
make all ready in your fields: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
after that you may build up your house. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Bear not false witness against your neighbour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor let your lips be deceitful. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}Do not threaten to treat him as he treated you, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and to visit his deed with retribution. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 On the Sluggard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}By the field of the sluggard I passed. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
by the vineyard of one that was foolish. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}It was all overgrown with thistles; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
its surface was covered with nettles; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
its wall of stone was in ruins. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}As I looked, I thought upon it, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and I drew from the sight a lesson. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}\uc1\u8220*Just a little more sleep, a little more slumber, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a little more lying with folded hands.\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 34}So will poverty come upon you like a robber, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and want like an armed man.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Third Collection of Proverbs

\par}

{\pard\sl280\slmult1\fs24\fi720 
 {\cf1 25}These also are proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah, copied out. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}The glory of God is his mystery, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the glory of kings is investigation. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}Like the height of the heavens and the depth of the earth, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so the purpose of kings is unsearchable. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Remove the dross from silver,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and forth it comes pure altogether. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Remove wicked men from the king. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and his throne is established by righteousness. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}In the presence of a king claim not honour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor stand in the place of the great. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Better be told, \uc1\u8220*Come up hither,\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than be humbled before the prince. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Do not hastily bring up a law-suit
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
of something your eyes have seen. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
For what will you do in the end, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when your neighbour has put you to shame? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Discuss the affair with your neighbour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
reveal not his secret to others; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}lest those that have heard it reproach you
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and your infamy pass not away.
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Like apples of gold in carvings of silver 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a word that is fittingly spoken. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}Like an earring of gold and a necklace of fine gold 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a wise man's reproof to a listening ear. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Like a drink cooled by snow in the time of harvest 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a faithful envoy to those that send him: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he refreshes the soul of his master. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}As clouds and wind that yet bring no rain, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so is one that boasts of gifts that he gives not. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}An angry man can be won by forbearance, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and bones can be broken by gentle words.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}If you find honey, eat just what you need. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
lest, after a surfeit, you vomit it up. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}In the house of your friend let your foot be but seldom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
lest, sated with you, he detest you. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}One who bears false witness against his neighbour 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a hammer, a sword, and a sharp-pointed arrow. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}In a crumbling tooth and a foot unsteady 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is the faithless man's trust in the day of distress. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}As vinegar to a wound
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a song to a sorrowful heart. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Give your enemy food, if he hunger; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and water, if he be thirsty: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}for so will you heap coals of fire on his head, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the Lord will give you recompense. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}As the north wind brings forth rain, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so slander an angry countenance. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}It is better to live on the roof in a corner 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than in a spacious house with a quarrelsome woman. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}Like cool water to one that is weary 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is good news from a distant land. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Like a fountain befouled or a ruined spring 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a just man who falls before the wicked. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}It is not good to eat much honey; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
be sparing then of your compliments.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Like a city whose walls are broken down 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a man without self-control.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 26}In a fool is honour as unbecoming 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}as snow in summer or rain in harvest. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}Like the aimless flight of a sparrow or swallow, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the curse that is baseless does not come home. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a rod for the back of fools. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Do not answer a fool as beseems his folly,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in case you, too, become like him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Answer a fool as beseems his folly, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
lest he fancy himself to be wise. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}To send a fool with a message 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is to cut off one's feet and to drink disaster. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Like the limp legs of the lame 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a proverb in the mouth of a fool. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Like a bundle of jewels on a heap of stones 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is honour conferred on a fool. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Like a thorn-stick brandished by a drunken man 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a proverb in the mouth of a fool. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}All fools must suffer sore anguish of body. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and their insolence will be shattered.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Like a dog that returns to his vomit, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a fool repeats his folly. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}If you see a man who thinks himself wise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
there is far more hope for a fool than for him. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 On the Sluggard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}The lazy man saith, \uc1\u8220*There's a lion on the road, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
there's a lion on the street.\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}As the door turns on its hinges, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so the lazy man in his bed. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}The lazy man buries his hand in the dish \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
too weary to carry it back to his mouth.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}The lazy man thinks himself wiser 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than seven who can answer discreetly. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}To mix in a quarrel not your own 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is to catch a dog by the ears. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Like a madman who hurls about 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
deadly fire-brands and arrows, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}is the man who deceives his neighbour 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and says that he did it in jest. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}In the absence of wood the fire goes out. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
In the absence of slander contention ceases. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}As charcoal to embers or wood to fire 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}Slanderous words are like dainty morsels, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
down they glide to the innermost being. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 On Hypocrisy 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}Like a sherd overlaid with silver slag 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a wicked heart with glowing lips. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}With his lips one who hates you dissembles. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he cherishes guile in his heart. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}When he speaks you fair, trust him not: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
in his heart lurk hateful things seven. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 36}One who veils his hatred with guile 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
has his malice uncovered in public. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}He who digs a pit will fall into it; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he who rolls a stone gets it back upon him, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}A false tongue brings destruction; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a flattering mouth works ruin.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 27}Boast not yourself of tomorrow, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}for you do not know what a day may bring forth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}Let another mouth praise you, not yours \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the lips of some other, not yours. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}A stone is heavy and sand is weighty, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but heavier than both the vexation caused by fools. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Indignation is fierce, anger pours like a flood; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but who can stand before jealousy? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Better an open reproof 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than affection that is concealed. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}The wounds of a friend are sincere,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but profuse are the kisses of a foe. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}Honey is scorned by a man that is full, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but anything bitter is sweet to the hungry. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Like a bird that strays from its nest 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a man that wanders from home. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Oil and perfume rejoice the heart, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but sorrow of spirit does rend it asunder. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}Your friend and your father's friend forsake not; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and in your day of distress 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
do not enter the house of your brother, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
near neighbour is better than distant brother. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}Be wise, my son, and gladden my heart. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
that so I may answer the man who would taunt me. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}The prudent scent mischief and hide; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the simple go on and are punished. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Take the garment of him who goes bail for another, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and hold it in pledge for that other. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}If early in the morning 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
one loudly blesses another, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
it is reckoned to him as a curse. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}An endless drip on a rainy day 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a quarrelsome wife are alike; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}he hides the wind that would hide her, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and his hand grasps at oil.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}As iron sharpens iron, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so a man sharpens his friend. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}He that tends a fig-tree will eat its fruit; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so one who attends to his lord will get honour. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}As face answers to face
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so the mind of one man to another. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}Abaddon and Sheol are ever unsated. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and ever unsated the eyes of men. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}As the smelter for silver, the furnace for gold,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so repute is the test of a man. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}Though you bray a fool with a pestle 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
along with bruised grain in a mortar. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
you will not get him rid of his folly. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Advice to Farmers 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}Look well to the state of your flock, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and give your mind to your herds; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}For wealth lasts not forever, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor riches through all generations. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}When the hay is removed and the new growth appears,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the grass of the uplands is all gathered in, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Then the lambs will supply you with clothing,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the goats with the price of a field; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}goats' milk enough there will be for your food, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a livelihood for your slave-girls.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 28}The wicked flee, when no man pursues, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}but the righteous are bold as a lion. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}By the sin of the violent quarrels arise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a man of sense will extinguish them. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}A wicked man that oppresses the poor 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a deluging rain that leaves no food. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Those who turn from instruction admire the wicked, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but those who observe it are zealous against them. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}The wicked have no understanding of justice, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but who cares for the Lord understands it completely. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}Better a poor man whose life is blameless 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than one who is crooked, although he be rich. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}A son that is prudent observes instruction, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the comrade of profligates shames his father. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}He that adds to his substance by interest or increase 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but gathers for him that is kind to the poor. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}If one turns a deaf ear to instruction, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
his very prayers are detestable. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}He that turns the upright to wicked ways 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
will himself fall into the pit that he dug; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the blameless will come to prosperity. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}A rich man may think himself wise, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a poor man with brains can see through him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}What a pageant there is, when the just are triumphant! 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
When the wicked emerge into power, men hide. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}No man will prosper that covers his sins, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but those that confess and forsake them find mercy. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}Happy the man who fears always, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the obstinate plunge to disaster. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}A roaring lion, a prowling bear,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is a bad man who rules an impoverished people, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}That prince has no prudence that plays the oppressor. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but long will he live that detests unjust gain. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}He who sheds the blood of a man \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
let him flee to a city, let none apprehend him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}The blameless life will be kept in safety,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the crooked life will suddenly fall. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}He that tills his land will have plenty of bread. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but idle pursuits end in plenty of poverty. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}A trustworthy man will be richly blessed, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but who hastes to get riches will not go unpunished. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}It is wrong for a man to be partial,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to sin for a piece of bread. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}A greedy man hastes to be rich, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
not knowing that want will befall him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}A man who reproves gets more thanks in the end 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
than a smooth-tongued flatterer. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}One who robs his parents and says, \uc1\u8220*It is no sin,\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is companion to him who destroys. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}A greedy man stirs up strife; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he who trusts in the Lord will flourish. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}He who trusts in himself is a fool; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he who walks in wisdom is safe. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}He who gives to the poor will not come to want, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but who veileth his eyes will have many a curse. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}When the wicked emerge into power, men hide; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when they perish, the righteous increase.  
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\cf1 29}One who stiffens his neck against all reproof 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}will be suddenly crushed beyond healing. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}When the just are in power, the people are glad; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
when the wicked hold sway, the people groan. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the comrade of harlots consumes his substance. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}By justice a king sets his country erect, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but one whose exactions are heavy destroys it. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}A man who cajols his neighbour 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
is spreading a net for his steps. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}By his sin is a wicked man snared, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the righteous does shout for joy. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}To the righteous the cause of the poor is dear, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the wicked care nothing at all. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Scoffers inflame a city (with discord), 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but wise men turn passions aside. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}When a wise man disputes with a fool, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he storms and laughs, and peace there is none. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}Men of blood hate the blameless; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the wicked seek for his life. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}The fool lets his temper go,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a wise man restrains his anger. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}If a ruler pays heed to false tales, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
his officials all grow to be scoundrels. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}Oppressor and poor meet together, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the light in the eyes of them both is the Lord's. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}If a king be faithful and just to the poor,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
his throne will stand forever. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}The rod of correction brings wisdom,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a child let loose brings disgrace on his mother. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}When the wicked hold sway, wrong increases,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the righteous will gloat on their downfall. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}Correct your son and your mind will be eased, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and he will delight your soul. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}People break loose in the absence of vision, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but he who observes instruction is happy. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}Not by words can a servant be trained; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for he knows, but he will not obey. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}See you a man of hasty speech, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
there is far more hope for a fool than for him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}The spoiled child will end as a servant, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and come to grief at the last.
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}A passionate man stirs up strife, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and much evil is wrought by hot temper. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}Pride will lay a man low, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but the lowly attain to honour. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}His own foe is he who goes shares with a thief; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he hears the curse, but he utters nothing. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}The fear of man brings a snare, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but who trusts the Lord is safe. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Many seek royal favour, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but it is God who decides every man's fate. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}The righteous abhor the unjust,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the wicked abhor the upright.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Collection of Brief Discourses and Aphorisms 

\par}

{\pard\sl280\slmult1\fs24\fi720 
 {\cf1 30}The words of Agur, son of Jakeh, the Massaite. Oracle of the man. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Weary World-Problem 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
{\super\cf2\fs24 1}I have wearied myself, O God; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
O God, I am weary and spent: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}For dull as a brute am I, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
not a man with the mind of a man. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}I have not learned wisdom, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and nothing I know of the Holy One. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Who has climbed the heavens and come down? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Who has gathered the wind in his fist? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
Who has tied in a garment the waters, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or set up the bounds of the earth? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
What is his name, or his son's name? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
for surely you know. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}The words of God have all been tested, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
he shields those who take refuge in him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}To his words add you nothing at all, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
lest He should convict you of being a liar. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 A Prayer for Preservation alike from Wealth and Poverty 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}For two things I entreat you; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
deny me not, before I die. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Put falseness and lying away from me; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
give me neither riches nor poverty, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
grant me the food I need; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}lest, if surfeited, I deny you, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and say, \uc1\u8220*Who then is the Lord?\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
Or poverty drive me to steal, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and profane the name of my God. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Against Defamation 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}To a master defame not his servant, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
lest he curse you and you have to smart for it. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Four Evil Types 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}There are those who curse their fathers, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and leave their mothers unblessed. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}There are others that think themselves pure, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
yet are all unwashed of their filthiness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}There are others with haughty eyes 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and supercilious eyebrows. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}There are others whose teeth are swords \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the teeth in their jaws are knives,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
to devour the poor from the earth. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the needy from off the ground. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Four Insatiable Things 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}There are three things that never are satisfied \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
four that say never, \uc1\u8220*Enough!\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}Sheol; the womb that is barren; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the earth unsated with water; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and fire that says never, \uc1\u8220*Enough!\uc1\u8221* 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Against Contempt of Parents 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}The eye that mocks a father, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and scornes an aged mother,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
will be picked by the crows of the valley 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and clean devoured by vultures. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Four Mysterious Things 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}Three things are too wonderful for me \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
four are beyond my knowledge: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}the way of a vulture in air, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
the way of a snake on a rock, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
the way of a ship on the sea,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the way of a man with a woman. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Four Intolerable Things 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}Under three things the earth does tremble \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
four she cannot bear: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}A slave when he comes to the throne, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a fool who has more than enough, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}a plain woman when she gets married, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
a maid that is heir to her mistress. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Four Things Little but Wise 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Of the small things of earth there are four. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and wiser they are than the wisest. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}The ants are a feeble folk, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
yet they lay up their food in the summer. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}A feeble folk, too, are the conies, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
yet they make their house in the rocks. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}The locusts again, though kingless, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
yet march, every one, in good order. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}And a lizard you could crush in your hand 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
finds her way into royal palaces. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Four Stately Things 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}Three creatures there are whose step is stately, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
four whose step is majestic \uc1\u8212* 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}The lion, most valiant of beasts, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
who in presence of foe never flinches; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}The proud strutting cock and the he-goat, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and a king who is head of his army.
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 32}Bluster you not in arrogance, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but lay your hand on your mouth. 
\par}

{\pard 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 33}As the churning of milk yields curd, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and the wringing of the nose yields blood, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
so the churning of wrath yields strife.  
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 Against Immorality and Intemperance 

\par}

{\pard\sl280\slmult1\fs24\fi720 
 {\cf1 31}The words of Lemuel, king of Massa, which his mother taught him. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 2}O son whom I bore, give heed to my words; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and observe my sayings, you son of my vows. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 3}Give not your strength to women, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
nor your love to those that slay kings. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 4}Nor for kings is it right to drink wine, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
or for princes to long for strong drink; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 5}Lest in drink they forget the law, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and do wrong to the cause of the sorrowful. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 6}But give drink to him who is perishing, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and wine to the bitter in soul; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 7}so that in drink he forget his poverty,
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and think of his sorrow no more. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 8}Open your mouth for the widow, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
do right by all fatherless children. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 9}Open your mouth in just judgment. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
defend the poor and the needy. 
\par}

{\pard\sb360\sa360\fs36 The Ideal Housewife 

\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 10}A woman of worth who can find? 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
Her price is far above corals. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 11}To her her husband trusts, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and finds no lack of gain. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 12}She does him good and not harm 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
all the days of his life. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 13}She looks out wool and flax. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and works it up as she will. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 14}Like the merchant-ships is she; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
she brings her food from afar. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 15}She rises while yet it is night, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and gives her household food, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and her maidens their portion appointed. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 16}She examines a field and buys it; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
with her earnings she plants a vineyard, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 17}She girds her loins with strength, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and with vigour she plies her arms. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 18}She perceives that her profit is good; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her lamp never goes out in the night. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 19}She lays her hand on the distaff; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her hand takes hold of the spindle. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 20}She stretches her hand to the poor, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
and her hand she extends to the needy. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 21}She fears not the snow for her household; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her household are all clad in scarlet. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 22}And coverlets she has made her; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her raiment is linen and purple. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 23}In the gates is her husband well known, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
where he sits with the elders in council. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 24}Linen she makes and sells; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
to the merchant she furnishes girdles. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 25}She is clothed with strength and glory; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
she laughs at the days to come. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 26}Her mouth she opens in wisdom; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
kind counsel is on her tongue. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 27}She looks well to the ways of her household; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
she eats not the bread of idleness. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 28}Her children arise and bless her; 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
her husband sings her praises: 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 29}\uc1\u8220*Many daughters have done nobly, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but you excellest them all!\uc1\u8221*
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 30}Grace is deceptive, and beauty is transient. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
but a woman of character \uc1\u8212* she will be praised. 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2440\li2800
 {\super\cf2\fs24 31}Give her then what her hands have earned, 
\par}

{\pard\fi-2080\li2800
even the praise of her deeds in the gates. 
\par}

}