Thirty Sayings of the Wise

Saying 1

17 Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise—

apply your mind to my knowledge—

18 for it is pleasing when you keep them within you

and they are constantly on your lips.

19 So that your trust may be in the LORD,

I instruct you today—yes, you.

20 Have I not written for you thirty sayings[fn]

about counsel and knowledge,

21 to show you true and reliable words,

that you may soundly answer those who sent you?

Saying 2

22 Do not rob a poor man because he is poor,

and do not crush the afflicted at the gate,

23 for the LORD will take up their case

and will plunder those who rob them.

Saying 3

24 Do not make friends with an angry man,

and do not associate with a hot-tempered man,

25 or you may learn his ways

and entangle yourself in a snare.

Saying 4

26 Do not be one who gives pledges,

who puts up security for debts.

27 If you have nothing with which to pay,

why should your bed be taken from under you?

Saying 5

28 Do not move an ancient boundary stone

which your fathers have placed.

Saying 6

29 Do you see a man skilled in his work?

He will be stationed in the presence of kings;

he will not stand before obscure men.