¹⁵ Justice is a joy to the godly,
    but it terrifies evildoers.

⁸ Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster,
    and their reign of terror will come to an end.^[a]

²² Don’t rob the poor just because you can,
    or exploit the needy in court.

¹¹ Rescue those who are unjustly sentenced to die;
    save them as they stagger to their death.

⁵ Remove the wicked from the king’s court,
    and his reign will be made secure by justice.

⁵ Evil people don’t understand justice,
    but those who follow the Lord understand completely.

⁴ A just king gives stability to his nation,
    but one who demands bribes destroys it.

²⁶ Many seek the ruler’s favor,
    but justice comes from the Lord.

²⁷ The righteous despise the unjust;
    the wicked despise the godly.

⁸ Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves;
    ensure justice for those being crushed.
⁹ Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless,
    and see that they get justice.