6 Hear therefore, you kings, and understand.

Learn, you judges of the ends of the earth.

2 Give ear, you rulers who have dominion over many people,

and make your boast[fn] in multitudes of nations,

3 because your dominion was given to you from the master,

and your sovereignty from the Most High.

He’ll search out your works,

and will enquire about your plans,

4 because being officers of his kingdom, you didn’t judge rightly,

nor did you keep the law,

nor did you walk according to God’s counsel.

5 He’ll come on you awfully and swiftly,

because a stern judgement comes on those who are in high places.

6 Because the man of low estate may be pardoned in mercy,

but mighty men will be mightily tested.

7 Because the Sovereign master of all won’t be impressed with anyone,

neither will he show deference to greatness;

because it’s he who made both small and great,

and cares about them all;

8 but the scrutiny that comes on the powerful is strict.

9 Therefore, my words are to you, Oh princes,

that you may learn wisdom and not fall away.

10 Because those who’ve kept the things that are holy in holiness will be made holy.

Those who’ve been taught them will find what to say in defence.

11 Therefore set your desire on my words.

Long for them, and you princes will be instructed.