Proverbs 31

Proverbs 31 - King James Version

 1The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

 2What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?

 3Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.

 4It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:

 5Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.

 6Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.

 7Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.

 8Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.

 9Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

 10Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

 11The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

 12She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

 13She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

 14She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

 15She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

 16She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

 17She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

 18She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.

 19She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.

 20She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

 21She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

 22She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

 23Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

 24She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.

 25Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

 26She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

 27She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

 28Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

 29Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

 30Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

 31Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Proverbs 30

Proverbs 30 - King James Version

 1The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, even the prophecy: the man spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal,

 2Surely I am more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man.

 3I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy.

 4Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?

 5Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

 6Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

 7Two things have I required of thee; deny me them not before I die:

 8Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:

 9Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.

 10Accuse not a servant unto his master, lest he curse thee, and thou be found guilty.

 11There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.

 12There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.

 13There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up.

 14There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.

 15The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough:

 16The grave; and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water; and the fire that saith not, It is enough.

 17The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.

 18There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not:

 19The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid.

 20Such is the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness.

 21For three things the earth is disquieted, and for four which it cannot bear:

 22For a servant when he reigneth; and a fool when he is filled with meat;

 23For an odious woman when she is married; and an handmaid that is heir to her mistress.

 24There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise:

 25The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;

 26The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;

 27The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands;

 28The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.

 29There be three things which go well, yea, four are comely in going:

 30A lion which is strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;

 31A greyhound; an he goat also; and a king, against whom there is no rising up.

 32If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth.

 33Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.

Proverbs 29

Proverbs 29 - King James Version

 1He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

 2When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

 3Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.

 4The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.

 5A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.

 6In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.

 7The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.

 8Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise men turn away wrath.

 9If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.

 10The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul.

 11A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.

 12If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked.

 13The poor and the deceitful man meet together: the LORD lighteneth both their eyes.

 14The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, his throne shall be established for ever.

 15The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.

 16When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.

 17Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.

 18Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

 19A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.

 20Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.

 21He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child shall have him become his son at the length.

 22An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.

 23A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

 24Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.

 25The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

 26Many seek the ruler's favour; but every man's judgment cometh from the LORD.

 27An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.

Proverbs 28

Proverbs 28 - King James Version

 1The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

 2For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged.

 3A poor man that oppresseth the poor is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.

 4They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them.

 5Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things.

 6Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.

 7Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.

 8He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.

 9He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.

 10Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit: but the upright shall have good things in possession.

 11The rich man is wise in his own conceit; but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out.

 12When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.

 13He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

 14Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

 15As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.

 16The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.

 17A man that doeth violence to the blood of any person shall flee to the pit; let no man stay him.

 18Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved: but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.

 19He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.

 20A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

 21To have respect of persons is not good: for for a piece of bread that man will transgress.

 22He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

 23He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

 24Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer.

 25He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat.

 26He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.

 27He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.

 28When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase.

Proverbs 27

Proverbs 27 - King James Version

 1Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.

 2Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.

 3A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.

 4Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?

 5Open rebuke is better than secret love.

 6Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

 7The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.

 8As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.

 9Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.

 10Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off.

 11My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.

 12A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished.

 13Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

 14He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him.

 15A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.

 16Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

 17Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

 18Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.

 19As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.

 20Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

 21As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.

 22Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him.

 23Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.

 24For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?

 25The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered.

 26The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field.

 27And thou shalt have goats' milk enough for thy food, for the food of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens.

Proverbs 26

Proverbs 26 - King James Version

 1As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.

 2As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.

 3A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back.

 4Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

 5Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.

 6He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.

 7The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.

 8As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.

 9As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouths of fools.

 10The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.

 11As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.

 12Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.

 13The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets.

 14As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.

 15The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.

 16The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.

 17He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.

 18As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,

 19So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?

 20Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.

 21As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.

 22The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

 23Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.

 24He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him;

 25When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.

 26Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.

 27Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.

 28A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.

Proverbs 25

Proverbs 25 - King James Version

 1These are also proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out.

 2It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.

 3The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unsearchable.

 4Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.

 5Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.

 6Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:

 7For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.

 8Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.

 9Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:

 10Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.

 11A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.

 12As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

 13As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.

 14Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift is like clouds and wind without rain.

 15By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.

 16Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.

 17Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour's house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee.

 18A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.

 19Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.

 20As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.

 21If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

 22For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee.

 23The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.

 24It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

 25As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.

 26A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.

 27It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory.

 28He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

Proverbs 24

Proverbs 24 - King James Version

 1Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.

 2For their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.

 3Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established:

 4And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

 5A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.

 6For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.

 7Wisdom is too high for a fool: he openeth not his mouth in the gate.

 8He that deviseth to do evil shall be called a mischievous person.

 9The thought of foolishness is sin: and the scorner is an abomination to men.

 10If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.

 11If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain;

 12If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?

 13My son, eat thou honey, because it is good; and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste:

 14So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.

 15Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; spoil not his resting place:

 16For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

 17Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

 18Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.

 19Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked:

 20For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out.

 21My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change:

 22For their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth the ruin of them both?

 23These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment.

 24He that saith unto the wicked, Thou are righteous; him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him:

 25But to them that rebuke him shall be delight, and a good blessing shall come upon them.

 26Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.

 27Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.

 28Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause; and deceive not with thy lips.

 29Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.

 30I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;

 31And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.

 32Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction.

 33Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:

 34So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.

Proverbs 23

Proverbs 23 - King James Version

 1When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:

 2And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.

 3Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.

 4Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.

 5Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

 6Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:

 7For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.

 8The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.

 9Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

 10Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:

 11For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.

 12Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.

 13Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.

 14Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.

 15My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.

 16Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.

 17Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.

 18For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

 19Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.

 20Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:

 21For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.

 22Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.

 23Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.

 24The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.

 25Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.

 26My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.

 27For a whore is a deep ditch; and a strange woman is a narrow pit.

 28She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.

 29Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?

 30They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.

 31Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.

 32At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.

 33Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.

 34Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.

 35They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.

Proverbs 22

Proverbs 22 - King James Version

 1A GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

 2The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.

 3A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.

 4By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.

 5Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.

 6Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

 7The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

 8He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.

 9He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

 10Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.

 11He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.

 12The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor.

 13The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.

 14The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein.

 15Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

 16He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.

 17Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.

 18For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.

 19That thy trust may be in the LORD, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee.

 20Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,

 21That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?

 22Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate:

 23For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

 24Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:

 25Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.

 26Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.

 27If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee?

 28Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.

 29Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.

Proverbs 21

Proverbs 21 - King James Version

 1The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.

 2Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.

 3To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

 4An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.

 5The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.

 6The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.

 7The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; because they refuse to do judgment.

 8The way of man is froward and strange: but as for the pure, his work is right.

 9It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.

 10The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes.

 11When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

 12The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.

 13Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.

 14A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.

 15It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.

 16The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.

 17He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.

 18The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.

 19It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.

 20There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.

 21He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.

 22A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.

 23Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

 24Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.

 25The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.

 26He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.

 27The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?

 28A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.

 29A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way.

 30There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.

 31The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.

Proverbs 20

Proverbs 20 - King James Version

 1Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

 2The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.

 3It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.

 4The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.

 5Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

 6Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?

 7The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.

 8A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes.

 9Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?

 10Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the LORD.

 11Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

 12The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them.

 13Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.

 14It is naught, it is naught, saith the buyer: but when he is gone his way, then he boasteth.

 15There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

 16Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

 17Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.

 18Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

 19He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.

 20Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.

 21An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.

 22Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

 23Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.

 24Man's goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way?

 25It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry.

 26A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel over them.

 27The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.

 28Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy.

 29The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the grey head.

 30The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.

Proverbs 19

Proverbs 19 - King James Version

 1Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

 2Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.

 3The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the LORD.

 4Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.

 5A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.

 6Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.

 7All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.

 8He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.

 9A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.

 10Delight is not seemly for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes.

 11The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

 12The king's wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass.

 13A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.

 14House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the LORD.

 15Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.

 16He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.

 17He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

 18Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

 19A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.

 20Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.

 21There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.

 22The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.

 23The fear of the LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

 24A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.

 25Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

 26He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach.

 27Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.

 28An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.

 29Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.

Proverbs 18

Proverbs 18 - King James Version

 1Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.

 2A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.

 3When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.

 4The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.

 5It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.

 6A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.

 7A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.

 8The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

 9He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.

 10The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

 11The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.

 12Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

 13He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.

 14The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

 15The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

 16A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.

 17He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.

 18The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.

 19A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.

 20A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.

 21Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

 22Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD.

 23The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.

 24A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Proverbs 17

Proverbs 17 - King James Version

 1Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.

 2A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.

 3The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts.

 4A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.

 5Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.

 6Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.

 7Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.

 8A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.

 9He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.

 10A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

 11An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

 12Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly.

 13Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

 14The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

 15He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.

 16Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?

 17A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

 18A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.

 19He loveth transgression that loveth strife: and he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction.

 20He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief.

 21He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.

 22A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

 23A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.

 24Wisdom is before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth.

 25A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him.

 26Also to punish the just is not good, nor to strike princes for equity.

 27He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.

 28Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

Proverbs 16

Proverbs 16 - King James Version

 1The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD.

 2All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.

 3Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.

 4The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.

 5Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.

 6By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.

 7When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

 8Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.

 9A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.

 10A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.

 11A just weight and balance are the LORD's: all the weights of the bag are his work.

 12It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.

 13Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.

 14The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.

 15In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.

 16How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

 17The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.

 18Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

 19Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

 20He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.

 21The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.

 22Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.

 23The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

 24Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

 25There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

 26He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.

 27An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.

 28A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.

 29A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.

 30He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.

 31The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.

 32He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

 33The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.

Proverbs 15

Proverbs 15 - King James Version

 1A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

 2The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.

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

 4A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

 5A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

 6In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.

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

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

 9The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

 10Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.

 11Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?

 12A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.

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

 14The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

 15All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

 16Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.

 17Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

 18A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

 19The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.

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

 21Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

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

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

 24The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.

 25The LORD will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow.

 26The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.

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

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

 29The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

 30The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.

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

 32He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

 33The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

Proverbs 14

Proverbs 14 - King James Version

 1Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.

 2He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.

 3In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

 4Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.

 5A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.

 6A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.

 7Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.

 8The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.

 9Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

 10The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.

 11The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.

 12There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

 13Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.

 14The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

 15The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.

 16A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.

 17He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

 18The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

 19The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

 20The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

 21He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

 22Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

 23In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

 24The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.

 25A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.

 26In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

 27The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

 28In the multitude of people is the king's honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.

 29He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

 30A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

 31He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.

 32The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.

 33Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.

 34Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

 35The king's favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.

Proverbs 13

Proverbs 13 - King James Version

 1A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.

 2A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.

 3He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.

 4The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

 5A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame.

 6Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.

 7There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.

 8The ransom of a man's life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.

 9The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.

 10Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

 11Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.

 12Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

 13Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.

 14The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

 15Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.

 16Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.

 17A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.

 18Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.

 19The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.

 20He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

 21Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed.

 22A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

 23Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.

 24He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

 25The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want.

Proverbs 12

Proverbs 12 - King James Version

 1Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

 2A good man obtaineth favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.

 3A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.

 4A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.

 5The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.

 6The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

 7The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.

 8A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

 9He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.

 10A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

 11He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

 12The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.

 13The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.

 14A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

 15The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

 16A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.

 17He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.

 18There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.

 19The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

 20Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

 21There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.

 22Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.

 23A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

 24The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.

 25Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.

 26The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.

 27The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.

 28In the way of righteousness is life: and in the pathway thereof there is no death.