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.

¹⁵ By long forbearing is a prince persuaded,
    and a soft tongue breaks the bone.