² When a land transgresses, ^(A)it has many rulers,
    but with a man of understanding and knowledge,
    its stability will long continue.

¹² When ^(A)the righteous triumph, there is great glory,
    but when ^(B)the wicked rise, people hide themselves.

¹⁵ Like ^(A)a roaring lion or ^(B)a charging bear
    is ^(C)a wicked ruler over a poor people.
¹⁶ A ruler who ^(D)lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor,
    but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.
¹⁷ If one is burdened with ^(E)the blood of another,
    he will be a fugitive until death;^[a]
    let no one help him.

²⁸ When ^(A)the wicked rise, ^(B)people hide themselves,
    but when they perish, the righteous increase.

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

⁴ By justice a king ^(A)builds up the land,
    but he who exacts gifts^[a] tears it down.

¹² If a ruler listens to falsehood,
    all his officials will be wicked.

¹⁴ If a king ^(A)faithfully judges the poor,
    his throne will ^(B)be established forever.

¹⁶ When the wicked increase, transgression increases,
    but ^(A)the righteous will look upon their downfall.