21 In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water
    that he channels toward all who please him.^(A)

²³ He brings princes^(A) to naught
    and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing.^(B)
24 No sooner are they planted,
    no sooner are they sown,
    no sooner do they take root^(C) in the ground,
than he blows^(D) on them and they wither,^(E)
    and a whirlwind sweeps them away like chaff.^(F)

²¹ He changes times and seasons;^(A)
    he deposes^(B) kings and raises up others.^(C)
He gives wisdom^(D) to the wise
    and knowledge to the discerning.^(E)