Proverbs 29:1-14

Christian Standard Bible

29 One who becomes stiff-necked,
after many reprimands
will be shattered instantly—
beyond recovery.^(A)

² When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice,
but when the wicked rule, people groan.^(B)

³ A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father,^(C)
but one who consorts with prostitutes destroys his wealth.^(D)

⁴ By justice a king brings stability to a land,^(E)
but a person who demands “contributions”^[a]
demolishes it.^(F)

⁵ A person who flatters his neighbor
spreads a net for his feet.^(G)

⁶ An evil person is caught by sin,^(H)
but the righteous one sings and rejoices.^(I)

⁷ The righteous person knows the rights^[b] of the poor,^(J)
but the wicked one does not understand these concerns.

⁸ Mockers inflame a city,^(K)
but the wise turn away anger.

⁹ If a wise person goes to court with a fool,
there will be ranting and raving but no resolution.^[c](L)

¹⁰ Bloodthirsty men hate an honest person,^(M)
but the upright care about him.^[d]

¹¹ A fool gives full vent to his anger,^[e](N)
but a wise person holds it in check.^(O)

¹² If a ruler listens to lies,^(P)
all his officials will be wicked.

¹³ The poor and the oppressor have this in common:^[f]
the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.^(Q)

¹⁴ A king who judges the poor with fairness—
his throne will be established forever.^(R)