[1] These are the proverbs ˻(wise sayings)˼ of Solomon: A wise son makes his father happy. But a foolish son makes his mother very sad.
[2] If a person gets money by doing bad things, then that money is worthless. But doing good can save you from death.
[3] The Lord cares for good people. He gives them the food they need. But the Lord takes away the things that evil people want.
[4] A lazy person will be poor. But a person that works hard will be rich.
[5] A smart man gathers the crops at the right time. But if a person sleeps during the time of harvest and does not gather the crops, then he will be shamed.
[6] People ask God to bless a good person. Evil people might say those good things, but their words only hide the bad things they are planning.
[7] Good people leave good memories. But evil people will soon be forgotten.
[8] A wise person obeys when someone tells him to do something. But a fool argues and brings trouble to himself.
[9] A good, honest person is safe. But a crooked person who cheats will be caught.
[10] A person who hides the truth causes trouble. A person who speaks openly makes peace.
[11] A good man’s words make life better. But the words from an evil man only shows the bad that is inside him.
[12] Hate causes arguments. But love forgives every wrong thing people do.
[13] Wise people say things that are worth hearing. But foolish people must be punished ˻before they learn their lesson˼.
[14] Wise people ˻are quiet˼ and learn new things. But foolish people talk and bring trouble to themselves.
[15] Wealth protects the rich person. And poverty destroys a poor person.
[16] If a person does good, then he is rewarded. He is given life. Evil brings only punishment.
[17] A person who learns from his punishment can help other people live too. But a person who refuses to learn only leads people the wrong way.
[18] A person who hides his hate might be telling a lie. But only a fool tries to find gossip he can spread.
[19] A person who talks too much gets himself into trouble. A wise person learns to be quiet.
[20] The words from a good person are like pure silver. But the thoughts from an evil person are worthless.
[21] A good person’s words will help many people. But a fool’s stupidity will kill him.
[22] A blessing from the Lord will bring you true wealth. And it won’t bring troubles with it.
[23] The foolish person enjoys doing wrong. But a wise person is happy with wisdom.
[24] An evil person will be defeated by the things he fears. But a good person will get the things that he wants.
[25] Evil people are destroyed by their trouble. But good people will stand strong forever.
[26] Never let a lazy man do something for you. He will irritate you—like vinegar in your mouth or smoke in your eyes.
[27] If you respect the Lord, then you will live long. But evil people will lose years from their life.
[28] The things good people hope for bring happiness. The things bad people hope for bring ruin.
[29] The Lord protects good people. But the Lord destroys people that do wrong.
[30] Good people will always be safe. But evil people will be forced to leave the land.
[31] Good people say wise things. But people will stop listening to a person that says things that bring trouble.
[32] Good people know the right things to say. But evil people say things that bring trouble.