15 It is a joy for the just to do justice,
But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.

16 A man who wanders from the way of understanding
Will rest in the assembly of the (A)dead.

17 He who loves pleasure will be a poor man;
He who loves wine and oil will not be rich.

18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous,
And the unfaithful for the upright.

19 Better to dwell [a]in the wilderness,
Than with a contentious and angry woman.

20 (B)There is desirable treasure,
And oil in the dwelling of the wise,
But a foolish man squanders it.

21 (C)He who follows righteousness and mercy
Finds life, righteousness, and honor.

22 A (D)wise man [b]scales the city of the mighty,
And brings down the trusted stronghold.

23 (E)Whoever guards his mouth and tongue
Keeps his soul from troubles.

24 A proud and haughty man—“Scoffer” is his name;
He acts with arrogant pride.

25 The (F)desire of the lazy man kills him,
For his hands refuse to labor.
26 He covets greedily all day long,
But the righteous (G)gives and does not spare.

27 (H)The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination;
How much more when he brings it with wicked intent!

28 A false witness shall perish,
But the man who hears him will speak endlessly.

29 A wicked man hardens his face,
But as for the upright, he [c]establishes his way.

30 (I)There is no wisdom or understanding
Or counsel against the Lord.

31 The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
But (J)deliverance is of the Lord.

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Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 21:19 Lit. in the land of the desert
  2. Proverbs 21:22 Climbs over the walls of
  3. Proverbs 21:29 Qr., LXX understands

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