⁵ The righteousness of the blameless makes their paths straight,^(A)
    but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.^(B)

⁶ The righteousness of the upright delivers them,
    but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires.^(C)

⁷ Hopes placed in mortals die with them;^(D)
    all the promise of^[a] their power comes to nothing.^(E)

⁸ The righteous person is rescued from trouble,
    and it falls on the wicked instead.^(F)

⁹ With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors,
    but through knowledge the righteous escape.^(G)

¹⁰ When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices;^(H)
    when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.^(I)

¹¹ Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted,^(J)
    but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.^(K)

¹² Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense,^(L)
    but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.^(M)

¹³ A gossip betrays a confidence,^(N)
    but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.^(O)

¹⁴ For lack of guidance a nation falls,^(P)
    but victory is won through many advisers.^(Q)

¹⁵ Whoever puts up security^(R) for a stranger will surely suffer,
    but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.^(S)

¹⁶ A kindhearted woman gains honor,^(T)
    but ruthless men gain only wealth.

¹⁷ Those who are kind benefit themselves,
    but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.