⁴ to give prudence to the simple,
    knowledge and discretion to the young man:

³² For the backsliding of the simple will kill them.
    The careless ease of fools will destroy them.

⁷ I saw among the simple ones.
    I discerned among the youths a young man void of understanding,

⁵ You simple, understand prudence!
    You fools, be of an understanding heart!

⁴ “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!”
    As for him who is void of understanding, she says to him,

¹⁶ “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here.”
    as for him who is void of understanding, she says to him,

¹⁵ A simple man believes everything,
    but the prudent man carefully considers his ways.

²⁵ Flog a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence;
    rebuke one who has understanding, and he will gain knowledge.

¹¹ When the mocker is punished, the simple gains wisdom.
    When the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

³ A prudent man sees danger and hides himself;
    but the simple pass on, and suffer for it.