² 
It is the glory of God to conceal a matter,
But the glory of kings is to search out a matter.^(A)
3 
As the heavens for height and the earth for depth,
So the hearts and minds of kings are ^[a]unsearchable.
⁴ 
Take away the dross from the silver,
And there comes out [the pure metal for] a vessel for the silversmith [to shape].^(B)
5 
Take away the wicked from before the king,
And his throne will be established in righteousness.
⁶ 
Do not be boastfully ambitious and claim honor 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 for you to be placed lower in the presence of the prince,
Whom your eyes have seen.^(C)

¹⁵ 
By patience and a calm spirit a ruler may be persuaded,
And a soft and gentle tongue breaks the bone [of resistance].^(A)