² When a land rebels
    it has many rulers;
but with an intelligent^[a] person, honesty endures.^(A)

¹² When the righteous rejoice, there is great glory,
    but when the wicked prevail, people go into hiding.^(A)

¹⁵ Like a roaring lion or a charging bear
    is a wicked ruler over a poor people.^(A)
16 A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor,
    but one who hates unjust gain will enjoy a long life.
¹⁷ If someone is burdened with the blood of another,
    let that killer be a fugitive until death;
    let no one offer assistance.^(B)

²⁸ When the wicked prevail, people go into hiding,
    but when they perish, the righteous increase.

² When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice,
    but when the wicked rule, the people groan.^(A)