²⁷ The one who profits dishonestly^(A) troubles his household,
but the one who hates bribes will live.^(B)

⁸ A bribe^(A) seems like a magic stone to its owner;
wherever he turns, he succeeds.^(B)

²³ A wicked person secretly takes a bribe^(A)
to subvert the course of justice.^(B)

¹⁶ A person’s gift opens doors^[a] for him
and brings him before the great.^(A)

¹⁴ A secret gift soothes anger,
and a covert bribe, fierce rage.^(A)

²¹ It is not good to show partiality^(A)—
yet even a courageous person may sin for a piece of bread.^(B)

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