Chapter Twenty-One

The heart of the king is like a stream of water that, through Jehovah’s power, may be directed wherever he pleases.

In his own eyes a man believes his ways to be right, but it is Jehovah who judges his motivations.

To do what is right and just is valued by Jehovah more than any sacrifice made to him.

A haughty look, an arrogant manner — sinful produce from the field of the wicked.

The plans of the diligent lead to profit just as those of the reckless lead only to want.

Fortune acquired by a lying tongue is but a transitory mist.  Those who grab for it seek death.

The violence of the wicked will sweep them away, for they refuse to do what is right.

The guilty walk a crooked path, while that of the innocent is a straight road.

Better to live on a quarter of the roof than share a house with a contentious wife.

The wicked soul is disposed to evil, with no consideration for his neighbor.

When mockers are punished those who are simple become wise.  Instruct the wise man and he will gain knowledge.

The Righteous One knows what goes on in the houses of wicked and he will bring ruin upon them for their evil.

Those who shut their ears to the cries of the poor will cry out themselves and not be heard.

A secret gift mollifies anger, an under-the-table pay-off pacifies rage.

When judgment is done, it is a joy to the righteous, but a terror to evildoers.

The man who strays from the prudent path, will come to rest in the company of the dead.

He who loves pleasure will become poor; he who loves wine and olive oil will never be rich.

The wicked are punished in place of the righteous, the traitor in place of the upright.

Better to dwell in the desert than to live with a contentious and irritable woman.

In the wise man’s house wealth and oil are stored up, but the foolish man will squander them.

He who strives to be righteous and loyal will find life, justice, and honor.

A man who is wise can scale the walls of a mighty city and topple its secure fortress.

Whoever holds his tongue and shuts his mouth keeps himself out of  trouble.

He who is called proud, haughty, and mocking acts with insolence and arrogance.

The lazy man’s indulgences will kill him, for his hands refuse to work.

Some are always greedy for more, but the righteous are giving and do not hold back.

A sacrifice offered by an wicked person is an abomination — how much more so when it is made with evil intent.

A fasle witness will be interrupted, but a reliable witness will always be allowed to speak.

The wicked man only puts up a brazen facade; the upright man is confident in his actions.

No wisdom, no understanding or counsel can prevail over Jehovah.

The warhorse may be prepared for the day of battle, but victory depends upon Jehovah.