Proverbs 31:1-9

Contemporary English Version

What King Lemuel's Mother Taught Him

31 These are the sayings
that King Lemuel of Massa
    was taught by his mother.
²My son Lemuel, you were born
in answer to my prayers,
    so listen carefully.
³Don't waste your life
chasing after women!
    This has ruined many kings.

⁴Kings and leaders
should not get drunk
    or even want to drink.
⁵Drinking makes you forget
your responsibilities,
    and you mistreat the poor.
⁶Beer and wine are only
for the dying or for those
    who have lost all hope.
⁷Let them drink and forget
how poor and miserable
    they feel.
⁸But you must defend
those who are helpless
    and have no hope.
⁹Be fair and give justice
    to the poor and homeless.