7 "The fear of the LORD is where knowledge begins, but fools despise instruction.
8 "My son, hear your father's instruction. And stand by what your mother taught you.
9 "This will serve you well and will be your adornment .

10 "My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to their suggestions.
11 "If they say, "Come with us to ambush the innocent without cause."
12 "We will take their lives,"
13 "and find all kinds of spoil."
14 "Throw in your lot with us, and we will all share one purse."
15 "My son, do not go with them."
16 "As they plan to shed blood they are headed for evil."
17 "One cannot set a net to trap the bird while he is watching."
18 "They are setting an ambushing for their own lives."
19 "This is what happens to those who gain by violence. They end up destroying themselves."

20 "Wisdom shouts in the street, and lifts her voice in the square."
21 "She utters her sayings at the entrance of the gates of the city."
22 "How long will you simple ones love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?"
23 "Turn at my reproof, and I will make my words known to you."
24 "I called with outstretched hand, but no one listened."
25 "You neglected my counsel and did not want my reproof."
26 "So now I will laugh at your calamity, and mock when what you dread comes upon you."
27 "Distress and anguish will come like a whirlwind in a storm."
28 "When this happens they will call to me but I will not answer. They will look for me but they will not find me."
29 "They hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the LORD."
30 "They would not accept my counsel, and spurned all my reproof."
31 "So they shall eat of the fruit of their own ways and be satiated with their own devices."
32 "The waywardness of the simple will kill them, for fools are destroyed by their own complacency."
33 "But the one who listens to me shall live in security and dread no evil."


Proverbs 2 - RWB Paraphrase (22 V)
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Wisdom Comes From God
1 "My son, if you will receive my words and treasure my commandments,"
2 "and you are attentive to wisdom, and search for understanding,"
3 "crying for discernment and begging for understanding,"
4 "if you seek her as silver, and search for her as hidden treasure,"
5 "then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God."

6 "The LORD gives wisdom, knowledge and understanding."
7 "He stores up sound wisdom for the upright. He is a shield to those who walk in integrity,"
8 "for He guards the paths of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones."
9 "Then you will understand what is right, just and fair, and which path to follow."
10 "For wisdom will enter your heart and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul."
11 "Discretion shall preserve you, and understanding shall keep you,"
12 "delivering you from evil,"
13 "and from those who walk in darkness,"
14 "who delight in evil and all its perversity."
15 "The paths of these people are crooked, for they are devious in all their ways."
16 "You will be saved from the adulteress, and the wayward wife with her seductive words."
17 "She has left the companion of her youth and forgotten her covenant with God."
18 "Her ways lead to death."
19 "None who go to her will be able to return, or attain the paths of life that could have been theirs."

20 "So walk in the way of a good man, and keep to the paths of the righteous."
21 "The upright and blameless will continue to live in the land."
22 "But the wicked will be cut off and uprooted from it."


Proverbs 3 - RWB Paraphrase (35 V)
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Wisdom Is Very Valuable
1 "My son, do not forget what I teach you. Let your heart keep my commandments."
2 "If you do this, you will have a long and peaceful life."
3 "Let not mercy and truth forsake you. Bind them around your neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart,"
4 "so that you will find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man."
5 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding."
6 "In all your ways acknowledge God, and He will make your paths straight."
7 "Do not be wise in your own eyes, but fear the LORD and shun evil."
8 "This will bring healing to your body and strength to your bones."

9 "Use your wealth to honor the LORD and give Him the first fruits of all your produce."
10 "Then your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats will overflow with new wine."

11 "My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline or resent His reproof,"
12 "the LORD disciplines those He loves, the same way a father does with the son he delights in."

13 "How blessed is the man who finds wisdom and gains understanding."
14 "For profit of wisdom is better than silver and fine gold."
15 "She is more precious than rubies. Nothing you desire can compare with her."
16 "She holds long life, riches and honor."
17 "Her ways are pleasant and her paths are peaceful."
18 "She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her. They are happy if they do not let her go."

19 "The LORD founded the earth by His wisdom. His understanding established the heavens."
20 "By His knowledge the deeps were divided and the clouds drip with dew."

21 "My son, do not let wisdom and discretion get out of your sight."
22 "They will be life to your soul and an adornment around your neck."
23 "By them you will walk securely and not stumble."
24 "When you lie down, you will not be afraid, for your sleep will be sweet."

25 "Do not be afraid of sudden fear when the wicked come,"
26 "for the LORD will be your confidence and keep your foot from the snare."

27 "When it is within your power, do not withhold good from those to whom it is due."
28 "If you have it, do not send your neighbor away without giving him what he asks for."
29 "Do not devise harm against the unsuspecting person who lives beside you."

30 "Do not contend with a man without cause."
31 "Do not envy a man of violence, or choose any of his ways."
32 "For the LORD detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence."
33 "The LORD's curse is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the dwelling of the righteous."
34 "He mocks those who mock others, and gives grace to the humble."
35 "The wise shall inherit glory, but shame shall be the legacy of fools."


Proverbs 4 - RWB Paraphrase (27 V)
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Wisdom Can Be Learned
1 "Hear, O sons, the instruction of a father. Give attention to him and gain understanding."
2 "What I am saying is sound advice. Do not ignore it."

3 "When I was my father's son and the only son of my mother,"
4 "my father taught me, saying, 'Let your heart hold fast to what I say. Keep my commandments and live.'"
5 "Acquire wisdom and get understanding. Do not forget what I am saying."
6 "Do not forsake wisdom and she will guard you. Love her and she will watch over you."
7 "Wisdom is the principle thing. Therefore get wisdom. Though it costs all that you have, get understanding."
8 "Prize her, and she will exalt you and honor you if you embrace her."
9 "She will set a garland of grace on your head and present you with a crown of splendor."
10 "If you want long life, hear my words."
11 "I have directed you in the way of wisdom, and led you in upright paths."
12 "When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble."
13 "Take hold of this instruction and don't let go of it. Guard it, for it results in life."

14 "Do not go where the wicked go."
15 "Do not even pass by the place."
16 "For these people cannot sleep until they do evil while causing someone else to stumble."
17 "They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence."

18 "The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn. It shines brighter and brighter until the perfect day."
19 "The way of the wicked is darkness. They do not even know what they stumble over."

20 "My son, give attention to my words. Listen to what I am saying."
21 "Always keep these ideas before you."
22 "They are life to those who find them and bring health to the body."

23 "Diligently watch over your heart, for from it flows the springs of life."
24 "Put away perversity from your mouth, and keep corrupt speech far from your lips."
25 "Keep looking straight ahead."
26 "Watch your feet to stay on the path and your ways will be established."
27 "Do not turn to the right or the left, and always turn away from evil."


Proverbs 5 - RWB Paraphrase (23 V)
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Warning Against Sexual Sin
1 "My son, give attention to my wisdom, and incline your ear to my understanding,"
2 "that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge."
3 "For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil."
4 "But in the end she is bitter as gall, and as sharp as a two edged sword."
5 "Her steps lead to death."
6 "She does not think about the path of her life. She is unaware of how unstable her way is."

7 "So listen to me and do not depart from my counsel."
8 "Do not go near her door,"
9 "lest you give your vigor to others and your years to one who is cruel,"
10 "and strangers feast on your wealth while your toil enriches someone else."
11 "In the end you will groan and your flesh will be consumed."
12 "You will say, 'If only I had listened to instruction and not spurned reproof.'"
13 "I would not obey my teachers or listen to my instructors."
14 "I have come to the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the congregation."

15 "Drink water from your own cistern, and fresh water from your own well."
16 "Should your springs overflow in the streets, or in the public squares?"
17 "Let them be yours alone and not for strangers."
18 "May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth,"
19 "as a lovely hind and a graceful doe, let her breasts satisfy you at all times. Be exhilarated always with her love."
20 "For why should you, my son, be enraptured by an immoral woman, and be embraced in the arms of a seductress?"
21 "For the ways of a man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He watches all his paths."
22 "The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him, and he is held fast by the cords of his sin."
23 "He will die for lack of instruction, and be led astray by his own folly to die."


Proverbs 6 - RWB Paraphrase (35 V)
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Warning Against Foolish Actions
1 "My son, if you become surety for your friend, if you shake hands in pledge for a stranger,"
2 "if you have been ensnared with the words of your mouth,"
3 "then do this to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands. Humble yourself, and make a plea with your neighbor!"
4 "Do not sleep on it."
5 "Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler."

6 "Watch the ant, O sluggard. Observe her ways and be wise."
7 "She has no one telling her what she must do."
8 "Yet she prepares her food in the summer, gathering her provision during the harvest."
9 "How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?"
10 "A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest,"
11 "and your poverty will come in like a vagabond and your need like an armed man."

12 "A worthless and wicked man walks with a perversed mouth,"
13 "winking with his eye, signaling with his feet, and pointing with his finger."
14 "With perversity in his heart he continually devises evil and spreads strife."
15 "Because of this his calamity will come suddenly. He will be instantly broken and will not heal."

16 "There are six things which the LORD hates, yes, seven which are an abomination to Him:"
17 "haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,"
18 "a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that quickly run to evil,"
19 "a false witness uttering lies, and one who spreads strife among brothers."

20 "My son, keep your father's commands and do not forsake your mother's teaching."
21 "Bind them upon your heart and tie them around your neck."

COMMENT: In other words, be constrained by your parent's council.

22 "They will be your guide when you sleep, and when you are awake."
23 "For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching is light. Reproofs for discipline are the way of life."

COMMENT: In this life we must have many limitations.

24 "They keep you from the evil woman and her smooth tongue."
25 "Do not desire her beauty or be captivated by her eyes,"
26 "for the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread, and the adulteress preys upon your very life."

27 "Can a man take fire in his bosom and not burn his clothing?"
28 "Or can a man walk on hot coals and his feet not be scorched?"
29 "So is the one who goes in to his neighbor's wife. Whoever touches her will not go unpunished."

30 "Men do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger,"
31 "but when he is discovered, he must repay sevenfold, even giving all the substance of his house."

32 "The one who commits adultery with a woman lacks sense. He will destroy himself."
33 "He will have wounds and disgrace, and his shame will not be wiped away."
34 "For jealousy arouses a husband's fury, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge."
35 "He will not accept any ransom, nor will he be satisfied though you give him many gifts."


Proverbs 7 - RWB Paraphrase (27 V)
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Wisdom Guards Against Immorality
1 "My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments."
2 "Keep them and live. My teaching must be the apple of your eye."
3 "Bind them on your fingers, and write them on the tablet of your heart."

COMMENT: What you do and what you think must be affected. It is like what Revelation says about the hand the mind.

Revelation 13:16 And he causes all, both great and small, rich and poor, free and slave, to be given a mark in their right hand, or in their forehead,

4 "Think of wisdom as your sister, and understanding as an intimate friend."
5 "They will keep you from the adulteress who uses flattering speech."

6 "I looked through the lattice of my window."
7 "I saw among the naive youths a young man without sense."
8 "He passed along the street near her corner and then passed her house."
9 "It was at twilight. The day was fading, and night was coming on."
10 "A woman dressed as a prostitute came out to meet him. Her heart was cunning."
11 "She was boisterous and defiant. Her feet did not stayed at home."
12 "She was often in the streets or the squares. She lurked by every corner."
13 "She seized him and kissed him, and with a brazen attitude said,"
14 "I offered peace offerings today, and I have paid my vows."
15 "So I have come out to meet you, hoping for your companionship, and now I have found you."
16 "I have covered my bed with colored linens from Egypt,"
17 "and I have sprinkled it with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon."
18 "Come, let us drink our fill of love until morning. Let us delight ourselves with caresses."
19 "For my husband is not at home. He is on a long journey,"
20 "and has taken a bag of money with him. He will not come back before the full moon."
21 "With her many persuasions she enticed him, and seduced him with flattering lips."
22 "Suddenly he followed her, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a fool in fetters to be disciplined."
23 "Like a bird headed for the snare, he did not understand the cost until an arrow pierced his liver and cost him his life."

24 "Therefore, my sons, pay attention to my words."
25 "Do not be attracted to this sort of woman or walk where she lives."
26 "She has caused the ruin of many victims, and more than a few strong men have been slain by her."
27 "Her house is the way to the grave, leading down to the chambers of death."


Proverbs 8 - RWB Paraphrase (36 V)
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Wisdom Gives Good Advice
1 "Does not wisdom call, and understanding lift up her voice?"
2 "She takes her stand on the heights and at the cross roads."
3 "She is beside the gates and at the entrance to the city. She cries out:"
4 "I am calling to the sons of men."
5 "O simple ones, understand wisdom. O fools, have an understanding heart."
6 "Listen while I speak of noble and right things."
7 "I will tell the truth, for wickedness is an abomination to my lips."
8 "I only speak righteousness. There is nothing perverted in what I say."
9 "These things are straightforward to those who understand."
10 "Take my instruction instead of silver and knowledge rather than the choicest gold."
11 "For wisdom is better than rubies. Nothing can compare to it."

12 "I, wisdom, dwell with prudence. I find knowledge and discretion."
13 "The fear of the LORD brings a hatred for evil. I hate pride, arrogance, evil ways and perverted mouths."
14 "Counsel along with sound wisdom, understanding and power is mine."
15 "By me kings reign and rulers decree justice."
16 "By me princes govern, and all nobles who rule on earth judge rightly."
17 "I love those who love me, and those who diligently seek me will find me."
18 "Riches and honor are with me, along with enduring wealth and righteousness."
19 "My fruit is better than pure gold, and my yield is better than the choicest silver."
20 "I walk in the way of righteousness and justice,"
21 "to fill with wealth the treasuries of those who love me."

22 "The LORD possessed me at the beginning of His way, before His works of old."

COMMENT: This is speaking Og Christ.

23 "I was appointed from eternity, before the world was."
24 "When there were no oceans, I was brought forth, before there were springs abounding with water."
25 "Before the mountains or the hills I was brought forth,"
26 "before He made the earth or its fields or any of the dust of the world."
27 "When He established the heavens, I was there when He inscribed a circle on the face of the deep,"
28 "when he established the clouds above and securely fixed the fountains of the deep,"
29 "when He gave the sea its boundary so the waters would not overstep His command, and when He marked out the foundations of the earth."
30 "I was beside Him then, as a master workman. I was daily His delight, rejoicing always before Him,"
31 "rejoicing in His earth, and having my delight in the sons of men."

32 "Now therefore, O sons, listen to me, for blessed are they who keep my ways."
33 "Heed instruction and do not neglect wisdom."
34 "Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, and waiting at my doorposts."
35 "For he who finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD."
36 "But he who sins against me injures himself. All those who hate me love death."


Proverbs 9 - RWB Paraphrase (18 V)
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Wisdom Is Its Own Reward
1 "Wisdom has built her house with seven pillars."
2 "She has prepared her food, mixed her wine and set her table."
3 "She has sent her maidens with invitations to be heard throughout the city."
4 "To him who is naive, or lacks understanding, " she says, 5 "come and eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed."
6 "Leave your simple ways that you may live, and walk with understanding."
7 "Whoever corrects a scoffer invites insult, and whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse."
8 "Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you. Reprove a wise man and he will appreciate you."
9 "Instruct a wise man and he will be even wiser. Teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning."
10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One gives understanding."
11 "For by Me your days will be multiplied, adding years to your life."
12 "If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you. But if you are a mocker, you will suffer alone."
13 "A foolish woman is noisy, wanton and without shame."
14 "She sits at the door of her house, on a seat at the high place of the city,"
15 "calling out to those who pass by, going on about their business."
16 "She is inviting the naive turn in to her. She is calling to the one lacking understanding. She says,"
17 "'Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.'"
18 "And little do they know that her guests descend to the depths of hell."


Proverbs 10 - RWB Paraphrase (32 V)
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Proverbs Of Solomon
1 "A wise son makes his father glad, but a foolish son is a grief to his mother."
2 "Treasures gained by wickedness are not profitable, but righteousness delivers from death."
3 "The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry, but He thwarts the craving of the wicked."
4 "Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth."
5 "A wise son gathers in the summer. Sleeping during harvest is a shameful act."
6 "Blessings are on the head of the righteous, while violence is concealed in the mouth of the wicked."
7 "The memory of the righteous will be a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot."
8 "The wise in heart will accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin."
9 "He who walks in integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out."
10 "He who winks maliciously causes grief, and a babbling fool comes to ruin."
11 "The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence."
12 "Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all wrongs."
13 "Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is required for the back of the one who lacks understanding."
14 "Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin."
15 "The rich man's wealth is his fortress, but the poor are destroyed by their poverty."
16 "The wages of the righteous is life, but the fruit of the wicked is sin."
17 "The one who listens to instruction is on the path of life, but those who ignore reproof go astray."
18 "He who conceals hatred has lying lips, and he who spreads slander is a fool."
19 "When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who holds his tongue is wise."

COMMENT: In other word, the fewer words, the better.

20 "The tongue of the righteous is as choice silver, while the heart of the wicked is worth little."
21 "The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die from lack of understanding."
22 "The blessing of the LORD makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it."
23 "Being wicked is sport to a fool, but a man of understanding thoroughly loves wisdom."
24 "What the wicked fears becomes his fate, but the desire of the righteous will be granted."
25 "When the whirlwind passes, the wicked is no more, but the foundation of the righteous endures forever."
26 "As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the lazy man to those who send him."
27 "The fear of the LORD prolongs life, while the years of the wicked are shortened."
28 "The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing."
29 "The way of the LORD is a refuge for the righteous, but it becomes the ruin of those who do evil."
30 "The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land."
31 "The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut out."
32 "The lips of the righteous bring forth what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked brings forth what is perverted."


Proverbs 11 - RWB Paraphrase (31 V)
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1 "The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are His delight."
2 "Dishonor follows after pride, but the humble have wisdom."
3 "The upright are guided by integrity, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their treachery."
4 "When the day of wrath comes, riches are of no value. But righteousness will deliver from death."
5 "The righteousness of the blameless will smooth his way, but the wicked will fall by his own perverseness."
6 "The righteousness of the upright will deliver them, but the treacherous will be caught by their own greed."
7 "When a wicked man dies, his expectations perish, as surely as the hopes of strong men."
8 "The righteous man is rescued from trouble, and it comes on the wicked instead."
9 "With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous will be delivered."
10 "When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices, and when the wicked perish, there is great joy."
11 "Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed."

COMMENT: God's blessing on our nation depends on the righteous.

12 "A man who lacks judgment runs down his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue."
13 "He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy conceals a matter."
14 "Where there is no guidance the people fall, but with many counselors there is victory."
15 "He who is guarantor for a stranger will surely suffer for it, but he who hates being a guarantor is secure."
16 "A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth."
17 "The merciful man does himself good, but the cruel man harms himself."
18 "The wicked man earns wages by deceit, but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward."
19 "He who is steadfast in righteousness will attain life, but he who pursues evil will bring about his own death."
20 "Those perverse in hearts are an abomination to the LORD, but the blameless are His delight."
21 "You may be sure, the evil man will not go unpunished, but the descendants of the righteous will be delivered."
22 "As a ring of gold in a swine's snout, so is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion."
23 "The desire of the righteous is only good, but the expectation of the wicked is wrath."
24 "There is one who scatters, and yet increases all the more, while those who withholds what is justly due, come to want."
25 "A generous man will prosper, for he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."
26 "He who withholds grain will be cursed by the people, but blessing will be on the head of him who sells it."

COMMENT: This is talking about those who hold back their harvest, waiting for better prices, while people are in real need. Better to grow enough for your own needs if possible.

27 "He who earnestly seeks good finds favor, but trouble will come to him who seeks evil."
28 "Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf."
29 "He who brings trouble on his family will inherit the wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise."
30 "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who is wise wins souls."
31 "If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!"


Proverbs 12 - RWB Paraphrase (28 V)
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1 "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid."
2 "The LORD gives His favor to a good man, but He will condemn those who devise evil."
3 "A man cannot be established by wickedness, but the root of the righteous will not be moved."
4 "An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who shames him is like rottenness in his bones."
5 "The thoughts of the righteous are just, but the counsels of the wicked are deceitful."
6 "The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the mouth of the upright brings deliverance."
7 "Wicked men are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous shall stand."
8 "A man is praised according to his wisdom, but men with warped minds are despised."
9 "Better to be lightly esteemed and yet have a servant, than honor oneself and have no food."
10 "A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal. But even the compassion of the wicked is cruel."
11 "He who works his land will have plenty to eat, but the one who pursues fantasies lacks understanding."
12 "The wicked man desires the booty of other evil men, but the root of the righteous yields fruit."
13 "An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, while the righteous will escape trouble."
14 "From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him."
15 "The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice."
16 "A fool is quickly annoyed, but a prudent man overlooks an insult."
17 "A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies."
18 "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."
19 "Truthful lips last forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a short time."
20 "Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but counselors of peace have joy."
21 "No harm befalls the righteous, but the lives of the wicked are filled with trouble."
22 "Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight."
23 "A prudent man does not speak of his knowledge. But fools proclaim their folly."
24 "Those who are diligent will rule, and the lazy will be put to forced labor."
25 "A man's heart is weighed down by anxiety, but a good word makes him glad."
26 "The righteous is a guide to his neighbor, while the wicked leads people astray."
27 "A lazy man does not roast his prey, but the possession of a diligent man is precious."
28 "Righteousness brings life, for in its pathway there is no death."


Proverbs 13 - RWB Paraphrase (25 V)
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1 "A wise son accepts his father's discipline, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke."
2 "From the fruit of his lips a man enjoys good things, but the unfaithful have a craving for violence."
3 "He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks without thinking comes to ruin."
4 "The soul of the sluggard wants nothing and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully realized."
5 "While a righteous man hates what is false, the wicked bring shame and disgrace."
6 "Righteousness guards the way of the blameless, but wickedness overthrows the sinner."
7 "There is one who pretends to be rich, but has nothing. Another pretends to be poor, and has great wealth."
8 "A man's riches may ransom his life, but a poor man has no means of redemption."
9 "The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked goes out."
10 "Insolence brings strife, but wisdom belongs to those who receive counsel."
11 "Wealth obtained by fraud is soon spent, while the one who gains by his labor sees it increase."
12 "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."
13 "He who despises the word will be destroyed, but he who fears the commandment will be rewarded."
14 "The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life that turns one away from the snares of death."
15 "Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard."
16 "The prudent acts with knowledge, but a fool exposes his folly."
17 "A wicked messenger falls into adversity, but a faithful envoy brings healing."
18 "He who neglects discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever takes correction is honored."
19 "A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning away from evil."
20 "He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm."
21 "Adversity pursues sinners, but the righteous will be rewarded with prosperity."
22 "A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, while the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous."
23 "Abundant food is in the fallow ground of the poor, but it is swept away by injustice."
24 "He who withholds punishment from his son hates him, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently."
25 "The righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite, but the belly of the wicked always wants more."


Proverbs 14 - RWB Paraphrase (35 V)
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1 "The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish one tears hers down with her own choices."
2 "To walk in uprightness is the fear of the LORD, but the one who is devious in his ways despises Him."
3 "A fool's own words brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise person are a protection."
4 "The manger is clean if the ox is not there, but the strength of the ox brings a good harvest."
5 "A trustworthy witness will not lie, but a false witness will."
6 "A scoffer seeks wisdom and cannot find it. But knowledge comes easy to one with understanding."
7 "Leave the presence of a fool, or you will come to not recognize knowledge."
8 "The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to his ways, but the fool is deceived by his own folly."
9 "Fools mock at sin, but among the upright there is good will."
10 "The heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy."

COMMENT: Telling some that you know how he feels does not usually bring him comfort.

11 "The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish."
12 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death."
13 "Even in laughter the heart may be in pain, and the end of joy may be grief."
14 "A perverse man will become dissatisfied with his ways, while a good man will be satisfied with the fruit of his deeds."
15 "The naive believes everything, but the sensible man thinks about his steps."
16 "A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is arrogant and careless."
17 "A quick tempered man acts foolishly, and a man of wicked intentions is hated."
18 "The naive inherit foolishness, but the sensible are crowned with knowledge."
19 "The evil will bow down before the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous."
20 "The poor is hated even by his neighbor, but many love the rich."
21 "He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who is kind to the needy."
22 "Will they not go astray who devise evil? But kindness and truth will be to those who devise good."
23 "In all labor there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty."
24 "The crown of the wise is their riches, and the folly of fools is foolishness."
25 "A truthful witness saves lives, while the treacherous utter lies."
26 "In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and His children will find refuge."
27 "The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man away from the snares of death."
28 "A large population is a king's glory, but without subjects a prince is ruined."
29 "He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who is quick tempered shows his folly."
30 "A tranquil heart is life to the body, but passion is rottenness to the bones."
31 "He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for his Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God."
32 "The wicked is thrust down by his wrongdoing, but the righteous has a refuge when he dies."
33 "Wisdom rests in the heart of the discerning, and even among fools she lets herself be known."
34 "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people."
35 "The king has favor for a servant who acts wisely, but his anger is toward the one who acts shamefully."


Proverbs 15 - RWB Paraphrase (33 V)
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More Comparisons Of The Righteous And The Wicked
1 "A soft answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger."
2 "The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool pours out folly."
3 "The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good."
4 "The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit."
5 "A fool rejects his father's discipline, but he who heeds reproof is sensible."
6 "The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the increase of the wicked brings them trouble."
7 "The lips of the wise disperse knowledge, but the heart of the fool does not."
8 "The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, but the prayer of the upright is His delight."
9 "The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, but He loves those who pursues righteousness."
10 "Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way, and he who hates correction will die."
11 "Death and destruction lie open before the LORD. How much more the hearts of men!"
12 "A mocker resents correction and will not consult the wise."
13 "A joyful heart displays a cheerful face, but when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken."
14 "The mind of the intelligent seeks knowledge, but the mouth of fools feeds on folly."
15 "All the days of the afflicted are evil, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast."
16 "Better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and the turmoil that goes with it."
17 "Better is a dish of vegetables where love is than a fattened ox served with hatred."
18 "A hot tempered man stirs up strife, but the slow to anger calms a dispute."
19 "The way of the lazy is blocked by thorns, but the path of the upright is as a highway."
20 "A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother."
21 "Folly delights a man who lacks judgment, but a man of understanding keeps a straight course."
22 "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed."
23 "A man finds joy in giving an apt reply, and a timely word is good!"
24 "The path of life leads upward for the wise to keep him from going down to the grave."
25 "The LORD tears down the proud man's house but keeps the widow's boundaries intact."
26 "The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD, but the words of the pure are pleasant."
27 "A man who profits illicitly troubles his own house, but he who hates bribes will live."
28 "The heart of the righteous thinks before he answers, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things."
29 "The LORD is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous."
30 "Bright eyes gladden the heart, and good news gives health to the bones."
31 "He who listens to life giving reproof Will dwell among the wise."
32 "He who neglects discipline despises himself, but if he listens to reproof he acquires understanding."
33 "The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor."


Proverbs 16 - RWB Paraphrase (33 V)
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1 "The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD."
2 "All a man's ways seem right in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed by the LORD."
3 "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."
4 "The LORD has made everything for its own purpose, even the wicked for a day of evil."
5 "The proud are an abomination to the LORD, and will not go unpunished."
6 "In mercy and truth atonement is provided for iniquity, and by the fear of the LORD one departs from evil."
7 "When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him."
8 "Better a little with righteousness than much gain through injustice."
9 "A man plans his ways, but it is the LORD who directs his steps."
10 "A divine decision is declared by the king, and His mouth should not betray justice."
11 "A just balance and scales are what the LORD wants, and He is concerned with all the weights in the bag."
12 "It is an abomination for kings to commit wicked acts, for a throne is established on righteousness."
13 "Kings take pleasure in a man who speaks the truth."
14 "A king's wrath is as a messenger of death, but a wise man will appease it."
15 "When a king's face brightens, it means life. His favor is like a spring rain."
16 "How much better to get wisdom than gold, and to choose understanding instead of silver!"
17 "The high road of the upright is to depart from evil, for he who keeps his way preserves his soul."
18 "Pride goes before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall."
19 "Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to divide the spoil with the proud."
20 "Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD."
21 "The wise in heart will be called prudent, and sweetness of speech increases learning."
22 "Understanding is a wellspring of life to him who has it, but the correction of fools is folly."
23 "A wise man's heart guides his mouth so that his lips are persuasive."
24 "Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones."
25 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death."
26 "The laborer's appetite works for him, because his hunger urges him on."
27 "An ungodly man digs up evil, and what he says is like a burning fire."
28 "A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a slanderer separates intimate friends."
29 "A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him down a path that is not good."
30 "He who winks with his eye is devising perverse things, and he who purses his lips is bent on evil."
31 "Gray hair is a crown of splendor. It is attained by righteous living."
32 "He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city."
33 "The lot is cast into the lap, but the decision comes from the LORD."


Proverbs 17 - RWB Paraphrase (28 V)
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1 "Better is a dry morsel with quietness than a house full of feasting with strife."
2 "A wise servant will rule over a disgraceful son, and will share the inheritance as one of the brothers."
3 "The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart."
4 "An evildoer listens to wicked lips, and a liar gives heed to a mischievous tongue."
5 "He who mocks the poor taunts his Maker, and he who rejoices at calamity will be punished."
6 "Grandchildren are the crown of old men, and the glory of sons is their fathers."
7 "Fine speech is not becoming to a fool, and much less are lying lips to a prince."
8 "A bribe is a charm to the one who gives it, wherever he turns, he succeeds."
9 "He who conceals a transgression against himself promotes love, but he who repeats the matter separates friends."
10 "A rebuke goes deeper into one with understanding than a hundred blows to a fool."
11 "An evil man seeks only rebellion, therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him."
12 "Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly."
13 "He who returns evil for good will always experience evil in his house."
14 "The beginning of strife is like a small break in a dam, so abandon the quarrel before it becomes something bigger."
15 "Both he who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are an abomination to the LORD."
16 "Even if a fool could buy wisdom, he wouldn't know what to do with it."

COMMENT: Amen.

17 "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
18 "A man who becomes security for his neighbor lacks good sense."
19 "He who loves transgression loves strife, and he who adorns the entrance to his house attracts trouble."

COMMENT: When we make the entrance to our house especially attractive are we advertising something within worth stealing?

20 "A man with a perverse heart does not prosper, for if he is deceitful and can expect calamity."
21 "To have a fool for a son brings grief, for there is no joy for the father of a fool."
22 "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones."
23 "A wicked man accepts a bribe in secret to pervert justice."
24 "A man of understanding sets his face toward wisdom, but the eyes of a fool look away."
25 "A foolish son is a grief to his father and bitterness to her who bore him."
26 "To impose a fine on a righteous man is not good, and to flog noble men is wrong."
27 "A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even tempered."

COMMENT: Once again, the less said the better.

28 "Even a fool is thought to be wise when he keeps silent, for when he keeps his mouth shut, he is considered prudent."


Proverbs 18 - RWB Paraphrase (24 V)
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1 "An unfriendly man pursues selfish ends, and is at odds with sound wisdom."
2 "A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in expressing his ideas."

COMMENT: He wants to talk rather than listen.

3 "When a wicked man comes, contempt comes with him, and with dishonor comes scorn."
4 "A man's words are like deep waters, and the fountain of wisdom as a flowing brook."

COMMENT: Deep water and flowing streams suggest enduring well being.

5 "To show partiality to the wicked is not good. Neither should the righteous be thrust aside in judgment."
6 "A fool's lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating."
7 "A fool's mouth is his ruin, and his lips are the snare of his soul."
8 "Gossip is like choice morsels that go down to the inner most parts of a man."
9 "He who is slack in his work is the brother of him who destroys."
10 "The name of the LORD is a strong tower, and the righteous run to it and are safe."
11 "A rich man's wealth is his strong city and like a high wall, but only in his own imagination."
12 "A man's haughtiness goes before his destruction, and humility goes before honor."
13 "It is folly and shame to give an answer before hearing the whole matter."
14 "A man's spirit can endure sickness, but who can endure a broken spirit?"

COMMENT: When we are unwell for a long time we must not give up.

15 "The prudent and wise seek knowledge and find it."
16 "A gift opens the way for the giver and brings him before the great."
17 "The first to present his case seems right, until he is questioned by another."

COMMENT: How often we are apt to believe the first thing we hear.

18 "The casting of lots puts an end to strife and decides between the mighty ones."
19 "A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city, and the resulting contentions are like the bars of a citadel."
20 "The fruit of a man's lips satisfies his stomach."
21 "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who know this will eat its fruit."

COMMENT: Words can make or break.

22 "He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD."

COMMENT: A wife is God's gift to man. Adam thought so.

23 "A poor man pleads for mercy, but a rich man answers harshly."
24 "Too many friends can be the ruin of a man, but there is also that friend who sticks closer than a brother."


Proverbs 19 - RWB Paraphrase (29 V)
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1 "Better is the poor man who walks in his integrity than the fool whose lips are perverse."
2 "It is not good to be without knowledge and hurrying causes errors."
3 "A man's foolishness ruins his way, yet he blames God."
4 "Wealth makes friends but a poor man is separated from his one friend."
5 "A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who speaks lies will not escape."
6 "Many will seek the favor of a generous man, and every man is a friend to him who gives gifts."
7 "A poor man is hated by his brothers, and his friends abandon him! No matter what he says, they are gone."
8 "He who gets wisdom loves his own soul, for with understanding he will find good."
9 "A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who tells lies will perish."
10 "Luxury is not fitting for a fool, and it is even less fitting for a slave to rule over princes."
11 "Good sense makes a man slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense."
12 "The king's wrath is like the roaring of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass."
13 "A foolish son is his father's ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping."
14 "House and wealth are an inheritance from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD."

COMMENT: So we may get something of value as an inheritance, but a good wife comes only from God!

15 "Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless man goes hungry."
16 "He who keeps the commandment keeps his soul, but he who is careless in his conduct will die."

COMMENT: So ignoring the commandments results in eternal loss.

17 "One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, and He will repay him for his good deed."

COMMENT:

Matthew 6:3 "When you give to the poor do not let you left hand know what your right hand is doing."

Luke 18:22 When Jesus heard this, He said, "You lack one thing. Sell all that you have and give it to the poor. Then you shall have treasure in heaven."

18 "Discipline your son while there is hope, and do not spare his discipline lest you cause his death."
19 "A man will bear the penalty for his great anger, and if you rescue him you will only have to do it again."

COMMENT:

Psalms 37:8 Stop being angry for it only leads to evildoing.

20 "Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days."
21 "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails."
22 "What is desirable in a man is kindness, and it is better to be a poor than to lie."
23 "The fear of the LORD leads to life, so that a man may rest with content."
24 "A lazy man buries his hand in the bowl, and then will not bring it to his mouth."
25 "Strike a scoffer and the naive may become shrewd, but reprove one who has understanding and he will gain knowledge."
26 "He who assaults his father and drives his mother away is a shameful and disgraceful son."

COMMENT:

Exodus 20:12 "Honor your father and mother so that your days may be long in the land which the LORD your God gives to you."

Ephesians 6:2 It is the first commandment with promise and says, honor your father and mother,

27 "Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge."
28 "A disreputable witness scorns justice, and the mouth of the wicked devours iniquity."
29 "Judgments are prepared for scoffers, and blows for the back of fools."


Proverbs 20 - RWB Paraphrase (30 V)
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1 "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whosoever is deceived by these is not wise."
2 "The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion, and he who provokes his anger forfeits his life."
3 "Keeping away from strife is an honor for a man, but any fool will quarrel."

COMMENT: Some people love to argue.

4 "The lazy man does not plow because he says it is too cold. So he begs during the harvest and has nothing."
5 "The purpose in a man's mind is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out."
6 "Many a man proclaims his loyalty, but it is difficult to find a trustworthy man?"
7 "The righteous man leads a blameless life, and his children are blessed after him."
8 "A king who sits on the throne of justice scatters evil intent with just his eyes."
9 "Who can say, 'I have kept my heart pure, I am clean and without sin?'"

COMMENT:

Romans 3:23 All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.

10 "Differing weights and measures are detested by the LORD."

11 "By his deeds a lad distinguishes himself, if his conduct is pure and right."

12 "The hearing ear and the seeing eye, are both made by the LORD."

13 "Do not love sleep or you will grow poor. Stay awake and you will have food to spare."

14 "It is bad, it is bad," says the buyer, but when he goes away, he boasts of his purchase.

15 "The lips of knowledge are more precious than gold and an abundance of jewels."

16 "Take the garment of one who puts up security for a foreigner, and hold it in pledge if he does this for a wayward woman."

17 "Food gained by fraud tastes sweet to a man, but he ends up with a mouth full of gravel."
18 "Make plans by seeking advice, and if you wage war, obtain wise guidance."
19 "He who goes about gossiping reveals secrets, so do not associate with him."
20 "He who curses his father or his mother, will discover that his lamp goes out when he needs its light."
21 "An inheritance quickly gained will not be blessed in the end."
22 "Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the LORD, and He will deliver you."

COMMENT:

Deuteronomy 32:35 "Vengeance is Mine, and retribution. In due time their foot will slip. For the day of their calamity is near, and the impending things are hurrying toward them."

Romans 12:19 Never take your own revenge. Leave it for God to take care of, for it is written, vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the LORD.

23 "The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please Him."
24 "A man's steps are ordained by the LORD. How then can he understand his own way?"

COMMENT: Does this mean that while we are being lead we cannot understand? Certainly after some time we often think we can see why.

25 "It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows."
26 "A wise king winnows out the wicked, and drives the threshing wheel over them."
27 "The spirit of a man is the lamp of the LORD, searching the inner depths of his heart."
28 "Loyalty and truth preserve the king, and he upholds his throne by righteousness."
29 "The glory of young men is their strength, and the honor of old men is their gray hair."

COMMENT: And so honor and wisdom can sometimes prevail over strength.

30 "Stripes that wound scour away evil, and disciplinary strokes reach the innermost parts."


Proverbs 21 - RWB Paraphrase (31 V)
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1 "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, who directs it like a watercourse wherever He pleases."
2 "A man's way may seem right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart."

COMMENT: So it seems that one does not always know his own heart. We ask the Lord to save us, not because we are worthy, but because we trust His sacrifice in our behalf.

3 "The LORD desires righteousness and justice more than sacrifice."
4 "Haughty eyes and a proud heart, and the lamp of the wicked, are sin!"

5 "The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty."
6 "Lying to acquire treasure is a fleeting mist and a sure prerequisite to death."
7 "The violence of the wicked will drag them down, because they refuse to act with justice."
8 "The way of a guilty man is crooked, while the pure have upright conduct."
9 "Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a contentious wife."
10 "The wicked man craves evil, and his neighbor will get no mercy from him."
11 "When the scoffer is punished, the naive becomes wise, but when the wise is instructed, he learns from it."
12 "The Righteous One takes note of the houses of the wicked and brings them to ruin."

COMMENT: This is God's doing. We only observe.

13 "He who shuts his ear to the cry of the poor will also cry and not be answered."
14 "A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak pacifies great wrath."
15 "When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous and terror to those who do evil."
16 "A man who wanders away from understanding will rest with the dead."
17 "He who loves pleasure will become a poor man, and he who loves wine and oil will not become rich."
18 "The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the unfaithful for the upright."
19 "It is better to live in a desert land than with a contentious and fretful woman."
20 "In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man quickly uses up all that he has."
21 "He who pursues righteousness and loyalty finds life with righteousness and honor."
22 "A wise man scales the city of the mighty and brings down the stronghold in which they trust."
23 "He who guards his tongue keeps himself from calamity."
24 "Proud, Haughty, and Scoffer, are the names given to him who acts with insolent pride."
25 "The sluggard's craving will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work."
26 "All day long a lazy man craves more, but the righteous give without sparing."
27 "The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination. How much more when he brings it with evil intent!"
28 "A false witness will perish, as will those who listens to him."
29 "A wicked man puts on a bold front, but the upright makes his way sure."
30 "There is no wisdom, understanding or counsel, that can succeed against the LORD."
31 "Though you make the horse ready for battle, victory depends on the LORD."

COMMENT: You may think you have plenty of resources, but without the Lord's blessing you will not succeed.

Proverbs 22 - RWB Paraphrase (29 V)
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1 "A good name is more desirable than great riches, and to be esteemed is better than silver or gold."

COMMENT: A good name may be equated with a good reputation, such as a person who always pays his bills.

2 "The rich and the poor have a common bond, the LORD has made them both."
3 "A prudent man sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on, and suffer for it."
4 "Humility and the fear of the LORD brings wealth, honor and life."
5 "Thorns and snares are in the path of the perverse, but he who guards himself will keep far from them."
6 "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
7 "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower becomes a slave to the lender."

COMMENT: Do not borrow. Find another way.

8 "He who sows iniquity will reap sorrow, and the rod of his anger will fail."
9 "He who is generous will be blessed for giving some of his food to the poor."
10 "Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave along with strife and reproach."
11 "He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend."
12 "The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, and He overthroweth the words of the transgressor."
13 "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion outside. I will be killed if I go out!'"
14 "The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit. He who is cursed of the LORD will fall into it."
15 "Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child. The rod of discipline will remove it far from him."
16 "He who oppresses the poor to make more for himself, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty."
17 "Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise. Apply your heart to what I teach,"
18 "for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, that you may easily repeat them when you need them."
19 "I have taught you today that your trust may be in the LORD."
20 "Have I not written for you this excellent counsels and knowledge?"
21 "Know the certainty of these words of truth so that you may correctly answer him who sent you."
22 "Do not rob the poor because he is poor, or crush the afflicted at the gate,"
23 "for the LORD will plead their case and take the life of those who have robbed them."
24 "Do not make friends with a hot tempered man, or associate with one easily angered,"
25 "lest you learn his ways and become ensnared."
26 "Stay away from those who give pledges to guarantee another's debt."
27 "If you have nothing with which to pay and things go wrong for him, you will loose your bed."

28 "Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your forefathers."

29 "Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings, and not be obscure."

COMMENT: I would think of this verse when I did stone work for the very rich and the not so rich.

Proverbs 23 - RWB Paraphrase (35 V)
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1 "When you sit down to dine with a ruler, consider carefully what is before you,"
2 "and put a knife to your throat, if you be a man given to appetite."
3 "Do not crave his delicacies, for his food is deceptive."
4 "Do not toil to acquire wealth. Be wise enough to show restraint."
5 "While you look upon riches, they disappear, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle."
6 "Do not eat the bread of a selfish man, or wish for his delicacies,"
7 "for as he thinks within himself, so he is. He says to you, 'Eat and drink!' But he does not have your best interest at heart."
8 "The morsel you have eaten, you will vomit up, and have wasted your compliments."

9 "Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words."
10 "Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless,"
11 "for their Redeemer is strong, and He will plead their case against you."
12 "Apply your heart to discipline and your ears to words of knowledge."
13 "Do not withhold discipline from a child. If you punish him with the rod, he will not die."
14 "By striking him with the rod you are rescuing him from death."

15 "My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad."
16 "My inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right."

17 "Do not envy sinners, but live in the fear of the LORD at all times."
18 "Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off."
19 "Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path."
20 "Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat,"
21 "for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and their drowsiness will clothe them in rags."
22 "Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old."
23 "Buy truth, and do not sell it. Get wisdom, instruction and understanding."
24 "The father of a righteous man has great joy, for he delights in his wise son."
25 "May your father and mother be glad. May she who gave birth to you rejoice!"
26 "My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes watch what I do,"
27 "for a harlot is a deep pit and an adulterous woman is a narrow well."
28 "She is like a bandit who lies in wait, and multiplies the unfaithful among men."

29 "Who has woe? Who has sorrow or strife? Who has complaints or needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes?"
30 "Those who linger long over wine, and enjoy the taste of mixed wines."
31 "Do not look on the wine when it is red, and sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly,"
32 "for in the end it bites like a serpent and stings like a viper."
33 "It will make your eyes see strange things and your mind will cause you to utter foolishness,"
34 "and be like one who is sea sick from being at the top of the mast in high seas."
35 "They hit me, " you will say, "But I'm not hurt! They beat me, but I don't feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?"


Proverbs 24 - RWB Paraphrase (34 V)
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1 "Do not envy wicked men, and do not desire their company,"
2 "for their minds devise violence, and their lips talk of mischief."
3 "By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established,"
4 "and by knowledge the rooms are filled with precious and pleasant riches."

5 "A wise man is strong, and a man of knowledge increases in power,"
6 "for by wise guidance you will wage war successfully, and with an abundance of counselors there is victory."
7 "Wisdom is too exalted for a fool, and in the assembly at the gate he has nothing to say."
8 "He who plots evil will be known as a schemer."
9 "The devising of folly is sin, and men see the scoffer as an abomination."
10 "If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is limited."
11 "Rescue those who are being taken away to death, and hold back those who are stumbling toward their slaughter."
12 "If you say, "We did not know about this, " will He not consider it who weighs hearts? For He will render to man according to his work and the intent of his heart."

COMMENT: You will not be condemned for what you did not know. But neither will you be rewarded for ignoring truth. Ask Pilate.

13 "My son, eat honey, for it is good and sweet to the taste."
14 "Know that if you find wisdom you will have a future and a hope."
15 "O wicked man, do not lie in wait to destroy the resting place of the righteous,"
16 "for a righteous man may fall seven times and get up again, but the wicked are brought down by calamity."
17 "Do not rejoice to see your enemy fall or be happy when he stumbles,"
18 "else the LORD will see this and being displeased will turn His anger from him."
19 "Do not fret because of evildoers or be envious of the wicked,"
20 "for the evil man has no future. His lamp will be put out."
21 "Fear the LORD and the king, my son, and do not join with the rebellious,"
22 "for their calamity will rise suddenly, and who knows the ruin that will come from both of them?"

23 "These are sayings of the wise. To show partiality in judgment is not good."
24 "He who says to the wicked, "You are innocent, " will be cursed by peoples, and abhorred by nations."
25 "But those who convict the guilty will be blessed."
26 "An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips."
27 "Do your field work first. Then build your house."

COMMENT: You need to make a living before spending money. Even if you have money, plant your field so that you will have a crop.

28 "Do not testify against your neighbor without cause, or deceive with your lips."
29 "Do not say, 'I'll do to him as he has done to me, to pay him back.'"
30 "I passed by the field of the sluggard and by the vineyard of the man lacking sense,"
31 "and it was overgrown with thistles and nettles, and its stone wall was broken down."
32 "I thought about it and this is what I learned:"
33 "a little sleep, a little slumber, and a little folding of the hands to rest,"
34 "then poverty comes like a robber and want like armed men."


Proverbs 25 - RWB Paraphrase (28 V)
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1 Here are more proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah, transcribed.

2 "It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, and to search it out is the glory of kings."
3 "As the heavens are high and the earth is deep, so the heart of kings is unsearchable."
4 "Remove the dross from the silver, and you have material for the silversmith."
5 "Remove the wicked from the king's presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness."

6 "Do not exalt yourself in the king's presence, and do not claim a place among great men."
7 "For it is better that it be said to you, "Come up here, " than for you to be placed lower in the presence of the prince, whom you thought to be greater than."

COMMENT:

Luke 14:10 "When invited, go to the last place so that the one who invited you may invite you to a place at the table with more honor."

8 "Do not be hasty to go to court, for what will you do in the end if your neighbor puts you to shame?"
9 "Argue your case privately with your neighbor,"
10 "or if another hears of the matter he will reproach you, and people will always remember it."
11 "A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver."
12 "Like an earring or some other ornament of gold is a wise man's reproval to a listening ear."
13 "Like the cold of snow at the time of harvest is a faithful messenger to those who send him, for he refreshes the soul of his masters."
14 "Whoever falsely boasts of giving is like clouds and wind without rain."
15 "By long forbearance a ruler is persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break bones."
16 "If you find honey, do not eat too much, lest you vomit."
17 "Do not go over to your neighbor's place too often, lest he comes to weary of you and hate you."
18 "Like a club, a sword or sharp arrow is the man who speaks falsely against his neighbor."
19 "To have confidence in an unfaithful man is like having a lame foot or a bad tooth."
20 "Like one who takes away a garment in cold weather, and like vinegar on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart."
21 "If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water,"
22 "for by this you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you."
23 "As a north wind brings rain, so a sly tongue brings angry looks."
24 "Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife."
25 "Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land."
26 "Like a muddied spring or a polluted well is a righteous man who gives way to the wicked."
27 "It is not good to eat too much honey, and neither is it honorable to seek one's own glory."
28 "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man without self control."


Proverbs 26 - RWB Paraphrase (28 V)
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1 "Like snow in summer or rain in harvest, honor is not fitting for a fool."
2 "Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest."
3 "A whip is for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the back of a fool."
4 "Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be stooping to his level."

COMMENT: Do no respond to his foolishness by correcting him.

5 "Answer a fool as his folly deserves, so that he be not wise in his own eyes."
6 "He who sends a message by the hand of a fool cuts off his own feet and drinks violence."
7 "A proverb in the mouth of a fool is like a lame man's legs that hang limp."
8 "Like one who binds a stone in a sling, so is he who gives honor to a fool."
9 "A proverb in the mouth of a fool is like a thorn in the hand of a drunkard."
10 "Like an archer who wounds everybody is he who hires a passing fool or a drunkard."
11 "As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly."
12 "Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than there is for him."
13 "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion in the road, a fierce lion roaming the streets!'"
14 "As the door turns on its hinges, so does the sluggard on his bed."
15 "The sluggard buries his hand in the dish, but is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth."
16 "The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than any seven men who answer discreetly."

17 "Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer by who meddles in a quarrel not his own."
18 "Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows,"
19 "is the man who deceives his neighbor and then says, 'I was only joking!'"
20 "Without wood a fire goes out, and without gossip a quarrel dies down."
21 "As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife."
22 "The words of a gossip are like choice morsels, and they go down to a man's innermost parts."
23 "Like the glaze covering an earthen vessel are smooth lips with an evil heart."
24 "A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his heart he harbors deceit."
25 "Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for seven abominations are in his heart."
26 "His malice may be concealed by deception, his wickedness will be exposed before the whole congregation."

27 "He who digs a pit will fall into it, and a stone will come back upon him who starts it rolling."
28 "A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin."


Proverbs 27 - RWB Paraphrase (27 V)
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1 "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring."
2 "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth. Let someone else say it, but not your own lips."
3 "Stone is heavy and sand a burden, but provocation by a fool is heavier than both."
4 "Wrath is fierce and anger is a flood, but who can stand before jealousy?"
5 "Better an open rebuke than love concealed."
6 "Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful."
7 "A sated man loathes honey, but to a famished man any bitter thing is sweet."
8 "Like a bird that wanders from her nest is a man who wanders from his home."
9 "Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and so a man's counsel is sweet to his friend."
10 "Do not forsake your own friend or your father's friend, and do not go to your brother's house in the day of your calamity. Better is a neighbor who is near than a brother far away."
11 "Be wise, my son, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him who reproaches me."
12 "The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it."
13 "Take the garment of him who is surety for a stranger, and hold it in pledge when he is surety for a seductress."
14 "If a man loudly blesses his neighbor early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse."
15 "A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy day,"
16 "for restraining her is like restraining the wind or grasping oil with the hand."

17 "Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
18 "He who tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who looks after his master will be honored."
19 "As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man."
20 "Death and destruction are never full, and so the eyes of man are never satisfied."
21 "The crucible is for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives."
22 "Though you grind a fool with a mortar and pestle, you will not separate him from his folly."
23 "Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, and give careful attention to your herds,"
24 "for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not guaranteed for all generations."

25 "When the hay is removed and new growth appears and the grass from the hills is gathered in,"
26 "the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field."
27 "You will have plenty of goats' milk to feed you and your family and to nourish your servant girls."


Proverbs 28 - RWB Paraphrase (28 V)
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1 "The wicked flee when no one is pursuing, but the righteous are bold as a lion."
2 "When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order."
3 "A poor man who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain which leaves no food."
4 "Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law resist them."
5 "Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it fully."
6 "Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a rich man whose ways are crooked."
7 "He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father."
8 "One who increases his possessions by usury and extortion gathers it for him who will pity the poor."
9 "His prayer is an abomination when he ignores the law."
10 "He who leads the upright along an evil path will fall into his own trap, but the blameless will receive a good inheritance."
11 "A rich man may be wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has discernment sees through him."
12 "When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, men hide themselves."
13 "He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy."
14 "Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD, but he who hardens his heart falls into calamity."
15 "Like a roaring lion and a charging bear is a wicked ruler over poor people."
16 "A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days."
17 "If a man is burdened with the blood of another, let him be a fugitive until death. Let no one help him."
18 "He who walks blamelessly will be delivered, but he who is crooked will suddenly fall."
19 "He who tills his land will have plenty of food, but he who follows empty pursuits will have poverty in plenty."
20 "A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich will not go unpunished."
21 "To show partiality is not good, because for a piece of bread a man will transgress."
22 "A miserly man hastens after wealth, and does not know that want will come upon him."
23 "He who rebukes a man will in the end gain more favor than he who has a flattering tongue."
24 "He who robs his father or his mother and says, "I have done nothing wrong, " is the companion of a man who destroys."
25 "An arrogant man stirs up strife, but the one who trusts in the LORD will prosper."
26 "To trust in oneself is foolish, but he who walks in wisdom will be safe."
27 "He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes to their needs will have many curses."
28 "When the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding, but when the wicked perish, the righteous thrive."


Proverbs 29 - RWB Paraphrase (27 V)
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1 "He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck will suddenly be broken beyond healing."
2 "When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when a wicked man rules, people groan."
3 "A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth."
4 "The king gives stability to the land by justice, but a man who takes bribes overthrows it."
5 "Whoever flatters his neighbor is spreading a net for his feet."
6 "An evil man is snared by his own sin, but the righteous can sing and be glad."
7 "The righteous care about the rights of the poor, but the wicked do not understand such concern."
8 "Scoffers set a city aflame, but wise men turn away wrath."
9 "If a wise man contends with a foolish man, whether the fool rages or laughs, there is no peace between them."
10 "Men of bloodshed hate the blameless, but the upright are concerned for his life."
11 "A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back."
12 "If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials become wicked."
13 "The poor man and the oppressor have this in common, the LORD gives light to both."
14 "If a king judges the poor with truth, His throne will be established forever."
15 "The rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself disgraces his mother."
16 "When the wicked thrive, so does sin, but the righteous will see their downfall."
17 "Correct your son, and he will give you comfort and be a delight to your heart."
18 "Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law."
19 "By mere words a servant is not disciplined, for though he understands, he will not give heed."

COMMENT: It takes more than words to raise a child.

20 "Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him."

COMMENT: People who are always ready to talk tend to not listen.

21 "He who pampers his servant from childhood Will have him as a son in the end."
22 "An angry man stirs up dissension, and a hot tempered one commits many sins."
23 "A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor."

COMMENT:

Matthew 5:3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

24 "The accomplice of a thief is his own enemy, for when he is under oath he does not dare to testify."
25 "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe."
26 "Many seek an audience with a ruler, but it is from the LORD that man gets justice."
27 "The righteous detest the dishonest, the wicked detest the upright."


Proverbs 30 - RWB Paraphrase (33 V)
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Wise Saying Of Agur
1 The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh, an oracle he declared to Ithiel and Ucal.
2 "Surely I am too stupid to be a man. I have not the understanding of a man."
3 "I have not learned wisdom, or a knowledge of the Holy One."
4 "Who has ascended into heaven and come back? Who has gathered the wind in His fists, or wrapped the waters in His garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name or His son's name? Surely you know!"

COMMENT: Here is an Old Testament reference to God and His Son.

5 "Every word of God is tested, He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him."
6 "Do not add to His words, or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar."

7 "Two things I asked of You, Do not refuse me before I die:"
8 "keep deception and lies far from me, and give me neither poverty nor riches. Feed me only the food I need,"
9 "that I will not be full and deny You, saying, "Who is the LORD?" And that I be not in want and steal, profaning the name of my God."

10 "Do not slander a servant to his master, or he will curse you, and you will pay for it."
11 "There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers."
12 "There are those who are pure in their own eyes, yet are not washed from their filthiness."
13 "There are those whose eyes are haughty, whose glances are so disdainful."
14 "There is a kind of man whose teeth are like swords. They devour the afflicted and needy among men."

15 "The leech has two daughters, 'Give,' 'Give. ' There are three things that will not be satisfied, Four that will not say, 'Enough.'"
16 "The grave, the barren womb, land which never gets enough water, and fire, which never says, 'Enough!'"

17 "The eye that mocks a father and scorns to obey a mother will be picked out by the ravens of the valley and eaten by the vultures."

18 "There are three things which are too wonderful for me, four which I do not understand:"
19 "the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a serpent on a rock, the way of a ship in the middle of the sea, and the way of a man with a maid."

20 "An adulterous woman eats, wipes her mouth, and says, 'I have done no wrong.'"

21 "Under three things the earth quakes, and under four, it cannot bear up:"
22 "under a slave when he becomes king, and a fool when he is satisfied with food,"
23 "under an unloved woman when she gets a husband, and a maidservant when she supplants her mistress."

24 "Four things are small on the earth, but are very wise:"
25 "the ants are not a strong people, but they prepare their food in the summer,"
26 "rock badgers are not strong, yet they make their homes in the rocks,"
27 "the locusts who have no king, yet they go out in ranks,"
28 "and the lizzard that you can hold in your hand, and yet may be found in the palace of a king."

29 "There are three things which are stately in their march, even four which are stately when they walk:"
30 "the lion which is mighty among beasts and does not retreat before any,"
31 "the strutting rooster, the male goat, and a king when his army is with him."

32 "If you have been foolish in exalting yourself, or if you have plotted evil, put your hand over your mouth,"
33 "for the churning of milk produces butter, and striking the nose causes it to bleed. So stirring up anger produces strife."


Proverbs 31 - RWB Paraphrase (31 V)
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Wise Saying Of Lemuel
1 The sayings of King Lemuel, an oracle his mother taught him.
2 "O my son, son of my womb, O son of my vows,"
3 "do not spend your strength on women, and your vigor on those who destroy kings."
4 "O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to desire strong drink,"
5 "for they will drink and forget what has been decreed, and pervert the rights of the afflicted."
6 "The one who is perishing can have strong drink, and wine is for those who find life to be bitter."
7 "Let him drink and forget his poverty and remember his trouble no more."

8 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, and for the rights of all who are destitute."
9 "Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the afflicted and needy."

A Truly Good Wife
10 "It is hard to find an excellent wife, for she is worth far more than jewels."
11 "He husband trusts her, and see her as his greatest gain."
12 "She does him good and not evil all the days of her life."
13 "She looks for wool and flax and enjoys working with her hands."
14 "She is like a merchant ship, bringing her food from afar."
15 "She gets up while it is still dark and feeds her household and her servant girls."
16 "She considers a field and buys it, and then from her earnings she plants a vineyard."
17 "She sets about her work with vigor, for her arms are strong."
18 "She sees that her trading is profitable, as her lamp burns into the night."
19 "She stretches out her hand to the distaff, and holds the spindle."
20 "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy."
21 "She does not fear the snow, for her household is clothed in scarlet."
22 "She makes tapestries for herself, and her clothing is fine linen and purple."
23 "Her husband is known in the gates, where he sits among the elders of the land."
24 "She makes linen garments to sell, and supplies the merchants with sashes."
25 "Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can rejoice in times to come."
26 "She speaks with wisdom, and her instruction is faithful."
27 "She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness."
28 "Her children rise up and bless her, as does her husband who praises her, saying:"
29 "many daughters have done well, but you excel them all."
30 "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised."
31 "Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates."

Chapters: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31