² It is the glory of God to conceal a thing,
    but the honor of kings is to search out a matter.
³ As the heaven for height, and the earth for depth,
    so the heart of kings is unsearchable.

⁴ Take away the dross from the silver,
    and there will come forth a vessel for the refiner.
⁵ Take away the wicked from before the king,
    and his throne will be established in righteousness.

⁶ Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king,
    and do not stand in the place of great men;
⁷ for it is better that it be said to you, “Come up here,”
    than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince,
    whom your eyes have seen.

⁴ The king establishes the land by judgment,
    but he who receives bribes overthrows it.

¹⁴ The king who faithfully judges the poor,
    his throne will be established forever.

⁴ It is not for kings, O Lemuel,
    it is not for kings to drink wine,
    nor for princes strong drink;
⁵ lest they drink and forget the law,
    and pervert the justice of any of the afflicted.
⁶ Give strong drink to him who is ready to perish,
    and wine to those who are of heavy hearts.
⁷ Let him drink, and forget his poverty,
    and remember his misery no more.