All verbs of this book of Vulgata are underlined. Click a link to see the verb conjugation table.

Conjugate Latin Verbs

Proverbia

1

1 : parabolae Salomonis filii David regis Israhel
The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;
2 : ad sciendam sapientiam et disciplinam
To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;
3 : ad intellegenda verba prudentiae et suscipiendam eruditionem doctrinae iustitiam et iudicium et aequitatem
To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;
4 : ut detur parvulis astutia adulescenti scientia et intellectus
To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.
5 : audiens sapiens sapientior erit et intellegens gubernacula possidebit
A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:
6 : animadvertet parabolam et interpretationem verba sapientium et enigmata eorum
To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
7 : timor Domini principium scientiae sapientiam atque doctrinam stulti despiciunt
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
8 : audi fili mi disciplinam patris tui et ne dimittas legem matris tuae
My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
9 : ut addatur gratia capiti tuo et torques collo tuo
For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.
10 : fili mi si te lactaverint peccatores ne adquiescas
My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.
11 : si dixerint veni nobiscum insidiemur sanguini abscondamus tendiculas contra insontem frustra
If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:
12 : degluttiamus eum sicut infernus viventem et integrum quasi descendentem in lacum
Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit:
13 : omnem pretiosam substantiam repperiemus implebimus domos nostras spoliis
We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
14 : sortem mitte nobiscum marsuppium unum sit omnium nostrum
Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:
15 : fili mi ne ambules cum eis prohibe pedem tuum a semitis eorum
My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:
16 : pedes enim illorum ad malum currunt et festinant ut effundant sanguinem
For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood.
17 : frustra autem iacitur rete ante oculos pinnatorum
Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird.
18 : ipsique contra sanguinem suum insidiantur et moliuntur fraudes contra animas suas
And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives.
19 : sic semitae omnis avari animas possidentium rapiunt
So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.
20 : sapientia foris praedicat in plateis dat vocem suam
Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets:
21 : in capite turbarum clamitat in foribus portarum urbis profert verba sua dicens
She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying,
22 : usquequo parvuli diligitis infantiam et stulti ea quae sibi sunt noxia cupiunt et inprudentes odibunt scientiam
How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?
23 : convertimini ad correptionem meam en proferam vobis spiritum meum et ostendam verba mea
Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.
24 : quia vocavi et rennuistis extendi manum meam et non fuit qui aspiceret
Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded;
25 : despexistis omne consilium meum et increpationes meas neglexistis
But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof:
26 : ego quoque in interitu vestro ridebo et subsannabo cum vobis quod timebatis advenerit
I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh;
27 : cum inruerit repentina calamitas et interitus quasi tempestas ingruerit quando venerit super vos tribulatio et angustia
When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you.
28 : tunc invocabunt me et non exaudiam mane consurgent et non invenient me
Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:
29 : eo quod exosam habuerint disciplinam et timorem Domini non susceperint
For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD:
30 : nec adquieverint consilio meo et detraxerint universae correptioni meae
They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.
31 : comedent igitur fructus viae suae suisque consiliis saturabuntur
Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.
32 : aversio parvulorum interficiet eos et prosperitas stultorum perdet illos
For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them.
33 : qui autem me audierit absque terrore requiescet et abundantia perfruetur malorum timore sublato
But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.

2

1 : fili mi si susceperis sermones meos et mandata mea absconderis penes te
My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;
2 : ut audiat sapientiam auris tua inclina cor tuum ad noscendam prudentiam
So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;
3 : si enim sapientiam invocaveris et inclinaveris cor tuum prudentiae
Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;
4 : si quaesieris eam quasi pecuniam et sicut thesauros effoderis illam
If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;
5 : tunc intelleges timorem Domini et scientiam Dei invenies
Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
6 : quia Dominus dat sapientiam et ex ore eius scientia et prudentia
For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
7 : custodiet rectorum salutem et proteget gradientes simpliciter
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.
8 : servans semitas iustitiae et vias sanctorum custodiens
He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints.
9 : tunc intelleges iustitiam et iudicium et aequitatem et omnem semitam bonam
Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.
10 : si intraverit sapientia cor tuum et scientia animae tuae placuerit
When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;
11 : consilium custodiet te prudentia servabit te
Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:
12 : ut eruaris de via mala ab homine qui perversa loquitur
To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;
13 : qui relinquunt iter rectum et ambulant per vias tenebrosas
Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness;
14 : qui laetantur cum malefecerint et exultant in rebus pessimis
Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked;
15 : quorum viae perversae et infames gressus eorum
Whose ways are crooked, and they froward in their paths:
16 : ut eruaris a muliere aliena et ab extranea quae mollit sermones suos
To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words;
17 : et relinquit ducem pubertatis suae
Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God.
18 : et pacti Dei sui oblita est inclinata est enim ad mortem domus eius et ad impios semitae ipsius
For her house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto the dead.
19 : omnes qui ingrediuntur ad eam non revertentur nec adprehendent semitas vitae
None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.
20 : ut ambules in via bona et calles iustorum custodias
That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous.
21 : qui enim recti sunt habitabunt in terra et simplices permanebunt in ea
For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it.
22 : impii vero de terra perdentur et qui inique agunt auferentur ex ea
But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it.

3

1 : fili mi ne obliviscaris legis meae et praecepta mea custodiat cor tuum
My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
2 : longitudinem enim dierum et annos vitae et pacem adponent tibi
For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.
3 : misericordia et veritas non te deserant circumda eas gutturi tuo et describe in tabulis cordis tui
Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:
4 : et invenies gratiam et disciplinam bonam coram Deo et hominibus
So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
5 : habe fiduciam in Domino ex toto corde tuo et ne innitaris prudentiae tuae
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
6 : in omnibus viis tuis cogita illum et ipse diriget gressus tuos
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
7 : ne sis sapiens apud temet ipsum time Dominum et recede a malo
Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
8 : sanitas quippe erit umbilico tuo et inrigatio ossuum tuorum
It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.
9 : honora Dominum de tua substantia et de primitiis omnium frugum tuarum
Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
10 : et implebuntur horrea tua saturitate et vino torcularia redundabunt
So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
11 : disciplinam Domini fili mi ne abicias nec deficias cum ab eo corriperis
My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction:
12 : quem enim diligit Dominus corripit et quasi pater in filio conplacet sibi
For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.
13 : beatus homo qui invenit sapientiam et qui affluit prudentia
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.
14 : melior est adquisitio eius negotiatione argenti et auro primo fructus eius
For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.
15 : pretiosior est cunctis opibus et omnia quae desiderantur huic non valent conparari
She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.
16 : longitudo dierum in dextera eius in sinistra illius divitiae et gloria
Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.
17 : viae eius viae pulchrae et omnes semitae illius pacificae
Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.
18 : lignum vitae est his qui adprehenderint eam et qui tenuerit eam beatus
She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.
19 : Dominus sapientia fundavit terram stabilivit caelos prudentia
The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.
20 : sapientia illius eruperunt abyssi et nubes rore concrescunt
By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew.
21 : fili mi ne effluant haec ab oculis tuis custodi legem atque consilium
My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:
22 : et erit vita animae tuae et gratia faucibus tuis
So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck.
23 : tunc ambulabis fiducialiter in via tua et pes tuus non inpinget
Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.
24 : si dormieris non timebis quiesces et suavis erit somnus tuus
When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.
25 : ne paveas repentino terrore et inruentes tibi potentias impiorum
Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.
26 : Dominus enim erit in latere tuo et custodiet pedem tuum ne capiaris
For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.
27 : noli prohibere benefacere eum qui potest si vales et ipse benefac
Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.
28 : ne dicas amico tuo vade et revertere et cras dabo tibi cum statim possis dare
Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee.
29 : ne moliaris amico tuo malum cum ille in te habeat fiduciam
Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.
30 : ne contendas adversus hominem frustra cum ipse tibi nihil mali fecerit
Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm.
31 : ne aemuleris hominem iniustum nec imiteris vias eius
Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways.
32 : quia abominatio Domini est omnis inlusor et cum simplicibus sermocinatio eius
For the froward is abomination to the LORD: but his secret is with the righteous.
33 : egestas a Domino in domo impii habitacula autem iustorum benedicentur
The curse of the LORD is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the just.
34 : inlusores ipse deludet et mansuetis dabit gratiam
Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.
35 : gloriam sapientes possidebunt stultorum exaltatio ignominia
The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.

4

1 : audite filii disciplinam patris et adtendite ut sciatis prudentiam
Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.
2 : donum bonum tribuam vobis legem meam ne derelinquatis
For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
3 : nam et ego filius fui patris mei tenellus et unigenitus coram matre mea
For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.
4 : et docebat me atque dicebat suscipiat verba mea cor tuum custodi praecepta mea et vives
He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.
5 : posside sapientiam posside prudentiam ne obliviscaris neque declines a verbis oris mei
Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.
6 : ne dimittas eam et custodiet te dilige eam et servabit te
Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee.
7 : principium sapientiae posside sapientiam et in omni possessione tua adquire prudentiam
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
8 : arripe illam et exaltabit te glorificaberis ab ea cum eam fueris amplexatus
Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.
9 : dabit capiti tuo augmenta gratiarum et corona inclita proteget te
She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.
10 : audi fili mi et suscipe verba mea ut multiplicentur tibi anni vitae
Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.
11 : viam sapientiae monstravi tibi duxi te per semitas aequitatis
I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.
12 : quas cum ingressus fueris non artabuntur gressus tui et currens non habebis offendiculum
When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.
13 : tene disciplinam ne dimittas eam custodi illam quia ipsa est vita tua
Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.
14 : ne delecteris semitis impiorum nec tibi placeat malorum via
Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.
15 : fuge ab ea ne transeas per illam declina et desere eam
Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.
16 : non enim dormiunt nisi malefecerint et rapitur somnus ab eis nisi subplantaverint
For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.
17 : comedunt panem impietatis et vinum iniquitatis bibunt
For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
18 : iustorum autem semita quasi lux splendens procedit et crescit usque ad perfectam diem
But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
19 : via impiorum tenebrosa nesciunt ubi corruant
The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.
20 : fili mi ausculta sermones meos et ad eloquia mea inclina aurem tuam
My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.
21 : ne recedant ab oculis tuis custodi ea in medio cordis tui
Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.
22 : vita enim sunt invenientibus ea et universae carni sanitas
For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.
23 : omni custodia serva cor tuum quia ex ipso vita procedit
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
24 : remove a te os pravum et detrahentia labia sint procul a te
Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee.
25 : oculi tui recta videant et palpebrae tuae praecedant gressus tuos
Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.
26 : dirige semitam pedibus tuis et omnes viae tuae stabilientur
Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.
27 : ne declines ad dexteram et ad sinistram averte pedem tuum a malo
Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.

5

1 : fili mi adtende sapientiam meam et prudentiae meae inclina aurem tuam
My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:
2 : ut custodias cogitationes et disciplinam labia tua conservent
That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.
3 : favus enim stillans labia meretricis et nitidius oleo guttur eius
For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:
4 : novissima autem illius amara quasi absinthium et acuta quasi gladius biceps
But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword.
5 : pedes eius descendunt in mortem et ad inferos gressus illius penetrant
Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.
6 : per semitam vitae non ambulat vagi sunt gressus eius et investigabiles
Lest thou shouldest ponder the path of life, her ways are moveable, that thou canst not know them.
7 : nunc ergo fili audi me et ne recedas a verbis oris mei
Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth.
8 : longe fac ab ea viam tuam et ne adpropinques foribus domus eius
Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house:
9 : ne des alienis honorem tuum et annos tuos crudeli
Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel:
10 : ne forte impleantur extranei viribus tuis et labores tui sint in domo aliena
Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger;
11 : et gemas in novissimis quando consumpseris carnes et corpus tuum et dicas
And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed,
12 : cur detestatus sum disciplinam et increpationibus non adquievit cor meum
And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;
13 : nec audivi vocem docentium me et magistris non inclinavi aurem meam
And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!
14 : paene fui in omni malo in medio ecclesiae et synagogae
I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly.
15 : bibe aquam de cisterna tua et fluenta putei tui
Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.
16 : deriventur fontes tui foras et in plateis aquas tuas divide
Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets.
17 : habeto eas solus nec sint alieni participes tui
Let them be only thine own, and not strangers' with thee.
18 : sit vena tua benedicta et laetare cum muliere adulescentiae tuae
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
19 : cerva carissima et gratissimus hinulus ubera eius inebrient te omni tempore in amore illius delectare iugiter
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.
20 : quare seduceris fili mi ab aliena et foveris sinu alterius
And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger?
21 : respicit Dominus vias hominis et omnes gressus illius considerat
For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.
22 : iniquitates suae capiunt impium et funibus peccatorum suorum constringitur
His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.
23 : ipse morietur quia non habuit disciplinam et multitudine stultitiae suae decipietur
He shall die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray.

6

1 : fili mi si spoponderis pro amico tuo defixisti apud extraneum manum tuam
My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, if thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,
2 : inlaqueatus es verbis oris tui et captus propriis sermonibus
Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.
3 : fac ergo quod dico fili mi et temet ipsum libera quia incidisti in manu proximi tui discurre festina suscita amicum tuum
Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend.
4 : ne dederis somnum oculis tuis nec dormitent palpebrae tuae
Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids.
5 : eruere quasi dammula de manu et quasi avis de insidiis aucupis
Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler.
6 : vade ad formicam o piger et considera vias eius et disce sapientiam
Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:
7 : quae cum non habeat ducem nec praeceptorem nec principem
Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,
8 : parat aestate cibum sibi et congregat in messe quod comedat
Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.
9 : usquequo piger dormis quando consurges ex somno tuo
How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?
10 : paululum dormies paululum dormitabis paululum conseres manus ut dormias
Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:
11 : et veniet tibi quasi viator egestas et pauperies quasi vir armatus
So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.
12 : homo apostata vir inutilis graditur ore perverso
A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth.
13 : annuit oculis terit pede digito loquitur
He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he teacheth with his fingers;
14 : pravo corde machinatur malum et in omni tempore iurgia seminat
Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord.
15 : huic extemplo veniet perditio sua et subito conteretur nec habebit ultra medicinam
Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy.
16 : sex sunt quae odit Dominus et septimum detestatur anima eius
These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:
17 : oculos sublimes linguam mendacem manus effundentes innoxium sanguinem
A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,
18 : cor machinans cogitationes pessimas pedes veloces ad currendum in malum
An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,
19 : proferentem mendacia testem fallacem et eum qui seminat inter fratres discordias
A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.
20 : conserva fili mi praecepta patris tui et ne dimittas legem matris tuae
My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
21 : liga ea in corde tuo iugiter et circumda gutturi tuo
Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck.
22 : cum ambulaveris gradiantur tecum cum dormieris custodiant te et evigilans loquere cum eis
When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.
23 : quia mandatum lucerna est et lex lux et via vitae increpatio disciplinae
For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:
24 : ut custodiant te a muliere mala et a blanda lingua extraneae
To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.
25 : non concupiscat pulchritudinem eius cor tuum nec capiaris nutibus illius
Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.
26 : pretium enim scorti vix unius est panis mulier autem viri pretiosam animam capit
For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.
27 : numquid abscondere potest homo ignem in sinu suo ut vestimenta illius non ardeant
Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?
28 : aut ambulare super prunas et non conburentur plantae eius
Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?
29 : sic qui ingreditur ad mulierem proximi sui non erit mundus cum tetigerit eam
So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.
30 : non grandis est culpae cum quis furatus fuerit furatur enim ut esurientem impleat animam
Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry;
31 : deprehensus quoque reddet septuplum et omnem substantiam domus suae tradet
But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.
32 : qui autem adulter est propter cordis inopiam perdet animam suam
But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.
33 : turpitudinem et ignominiam congregat sibi et obprobrium illius non delebitur
A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.
34 : quia zelus et furor viri non parcet in die vindictae
For jealousy is the rage of a man: therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance.
35 : nec adquiescet cuiusquam precibus nec suscipiet pro redemptione dona plurima
He will not regard any ransom; neither will he rest content, though thou givest many gifts.

7

1 : fili mi custodi sermones meos et praecepta mea reconde tibi
My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.
2 : serva mandata mea et vives et legem meam quasi pupillam oculi tui
Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.
3 : liga eam in digitis tuis scribe illam in tabulis cordis tui
Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.
4 : dic sapientiae soror mea es et prudentiam voca amicam tuam
Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:
5 : ut custodiat te a muliere extranea et ab aliena quae verba sua dulcia facit
That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.
6 : de fenestra enim domus meae per cancellos prospexi
For at the window of my house I looked through my casement,
7 : et video parvulos considero vecordem iuvenem
And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding,
8 : qui transit in platea iuxta angulum et propter viam domus illius graditur
Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house,
9 : in obscuro advesperascente die in noctis tenebris et caligine
In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night:
10 : et ecce mulier occurrit illi ornatu meretricio praeparata ad capiendas animas garrula et vaga
And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart.
11 : quietis inpatiens nec valens in domo consistere pedibus suis
She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house:
12 : nunc foris nunc in plateis nunc iuxta angulos insidians
Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.)
13 : adprehensumque deosculatur iuvenem et procaci vultu blanditur dicens
So she caught him, and kissed him, and with an impudent face said unto him,
14 : victimas pro salute debui hodie reddidi vota mea
I have peace offerings with me; this day have I payed my vows.
15 : idcirco egressa sum in occursum tuum desiderans te videre et repperi
Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.
16 : intexui funibus lectum meum stravi tapetibus pictis ex Aegypto
I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.
17 : aspersi cubile meum murra et aloe et cinnamomo
I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.
18 : veni inebriemur uberibus donec inlucescat dies et fruamur cupitis amplexibus
Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning: let us solace ourselves with loves.
19 : non est enim vir in domo sua abiit via longissima
For the goodman is not at home, he is gone a long journey:
20 : sacculum pecuniae secum tulit in die plenae lunae reversurus est domum suam
He hath taken a bag of money with him, and will come home at the day appointed.
21 : inretivit eum multis sermonibus et blanditiis labiorum protraxit illum
With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him.
22 : statim eam sequitur quasi bos ductus ad victimam et quasi agnus lasciviens et ignorans quod ad vincula stultus trahatur
He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;
23 : donec transfigat sagitta iecur eius velut si avis festinet ad laqueum et nescit quia de periculo animae illius agitur
Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life.
24 : nunc ergo fili audi me et adtende verba oris mei
Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth.
25 : ne abstrahatur in viis illius mens tua neque decipiaris semitis eius
Let not thine heart decline to her ways, go not astray in her paths.
26 : multos enim vulneratos deiecit et fortissimi quique interfecti sunt ab ea
For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many strong men have been slain by her.
27 : viae inferi domus eius penetrantes interiora mortis
Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death.

8

1 : numquid non sapientia clamitat et prudentia dat vocem suam
Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?
2 : in summis excelsisque verticibus super viam in mediis semitis stans
She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.
3 : iuxta portas civitatis in ipsis foribus loquitur dicens
She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors.
4 : o viri ad vos clamito et vox mea ad filios hominum
Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man.
5 : intellegite parvuli astutiam et insipientes animadvertite
O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.
6 : audite quoniam de rebus magnis locutura sum et aperientur labia mea ut recta praedicent
Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.
7 : veritatem meditabitur guttur meum et labia mea detestabuntur impium
For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.
8 : iusti sunt omnes sermones mei non est in eis pravum quid neque perversum
All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them.
9 : recti sunt intellegentibus et aequi invenientibus scientiam
They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.
10 : accipite disciplinam meam et non pecuniam doctrinam magis quam aurum eligite
Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.
11 : melior est enim sapientia cunctis pretiosissimis et omne desiderabile ei non potest conparari
For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.
12 : ego sapientia habito in consilio et eruditis intersum cogitationibus
I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.
13 : timor Domini odit malum arrogantiam et superbiam et viam pravam et os bilingue detestor
The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.
14 : meum est consilium et aequitas mea prudentia mea est fortitudo
Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.
15 : per me reges regnant et legum conditores iusta decernunt
By me kings reign, and princes decree justice.
16 : per me principes imperant et potentes decernunt iustitiam
By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.
17 : ego diligentes me diligo et qui mane vigilant ad me invenient me
I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
18 : mecum sunt divitiae et gloria opes superbae et iustitia
Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.
19 : melior est fructus meus auro et pretioso lapide et genimina mea argento electo
My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.
20 : in viis iustitiae ambulo in medio semitarum iudicii
I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:
21 : ut ditem diligentes me et thesauros eorum repleam
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.
22 : Dominus possedit me initium viarum suarum antequam quicquam faceret a principio
The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old.
23 : ab aeterno ordita sum et ex antiquis antequam terra fieret
I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.
24 : necdum erant abyssi et ego iam concepta eram necdum fontes aquarum eruperant
When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water.
25 : necdum montes gravi mole constiterant ante colles ego parturiebar
Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth:
26 : adhuc terram non fecerat et flumina et cardines orbis terrae
While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world.
27 : quando praeparabat caelos aderam quando certa lege et gyro vallabat abyssos
When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth:
28 : quando aethera firmabat sursum et librabat fontes aquarum
When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:
29 : quando circumdabat mari terminum suum et legem ponebat aquis ne transirent fines suos quando adpendebat fundamenta terrae
When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth:
30 : cum eo eram cuncta conponens et delectabar per singulos dies ludens coram eo omni tempore
Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;
31 : ludens in orbe terrarum et deliciae meae esse cum filiis hominum
Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.
32 : nunc ergo filii audite me beati qui custodiunt vias meas
Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.
33 : audite disciplinam et estote sapientes et nolite abicere eam
Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.
34 : beatus homo qui audit me qui vigilat ad fores meas cotidie et observat ad postes ostii mei
Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.
35 : qui me invenerit inveniet vitam et hauriet salutem a Domino
For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.
36 : qui autem in me peccaverit laedet animam suam omnes qui me oderunt diligunt mortem
But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.

9

1 : sapientia aedificavit sibi domum excidit columnas septem
Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars:
2 : immolavit victimas suas miscuit vinum et proposuit mensam suam
She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table.
3 : misit ancillas suas ut vocarent ad arcem et ad moenia civitatis
She hath sent forth her maidens: she crieth upon the highest places of the city,
4 : si quis est parvulus veniat ad me et insipientibus locuta est
Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,
5 : venite comedite panem meum et bibite vinum quod miscui vobis
Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled.
6 : relinquite infantiam et vivite et ambulate per vias prudentiae
Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.
7 : qui erudit derisorem ipse sibi facit iniuriam et qui arguit impium generat maculam sibi
He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.
8 : noli arguere derisorem ne oderit te argue sapientem et diliget te
Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
9 : da sapienti et addetur ei sapientia doce iustum et festinabit accipere
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.
10 : principium sapientiae timor Domini et scientia sanctorum prudentia
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
11 : per me enim multiplicabuntur dies tui et addentur tibi anni vitae
For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.
12 : si sapiens fueris tibimet ipsi eris si inlusor solus portabis malum
If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.
13 : mulier stulta et clamosa plenaque inlecebris et nihil omnino sciens
A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.
14 : sedit in foribus domus suae super sellam in excelso urbis loco
For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,
15 : ut vocaret transeuntes viam et pergentes itinere suo
To call passengers who go right on their ways:
16 : quis est parvulus declinet ad me et vecordi locuta est
Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,
17 : aquae furtivae dulciores sunt et panis absconditus suavior
Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.
18 : et ignoravit quod gigantes ibi sint et in profundis inferni convivae eius
But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.

10

1 : parabolae Salomonis filius sapiens laetificat patrem filius vero stultus maestitia est matris suae
The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.
2 : non proderunt thesauri impietatis iustitia vero liberabit a morte
Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.
3 : non adfliget Dominus fame animam iusti et insidias impiorum subvertet
The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.
4 : egestatem operata est manus remissa manus autem fortium divitias parat
He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
5 : qui congregat in messe filius sapiens est qui autem stertit aestate filius confusionis
He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.
6 : benedictio super caput iusti os autem impiorum operit iniquitatem
Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.
7 : memoria iusti cum laudibus et nomen impiorum putrescet
The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.
8 : sapiens corde praecepta suscipiet stultus caeditur labiis
The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.
9 : qui ambulat simpliciter ambulat confidenter qui autem depravat vias suas manifestus erit
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known.
10 : qui annuit oculo dabit dolorem stultus labiis verberabitur
He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall.
11 : vena vitae os iusti et os impiorum operiet iniquitatem
The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.
12 : odium suscitat rixas et universa delicta operit caritas
Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.
13 : in labiis sapientis invenietur sapientia et virga in dorso eius qui indiget corde
In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding.
14 : sapientes abscondunt scientiam os autem stulti confusioni proximum est
Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.
15 : substantia divitis urbs fortitudinis eius pavor pauperum egestas eorum
The rich man's wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty.
16 : opus iusti ad vitam fructus impii ad peccatum
The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.
17 : via vitae custodienti disciplinam qui autem increpationes relinquit errat
He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.
18 : abscondunt odium labia mendacia qui profert contumeliam insipiens est
He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.
19 : in multiloquio peccatum non deerit qui autem moderatur labia sua prudentissimus est
In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.
20 : argentum electum lingua iusti cor impiorum pro nihilo
The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.
21 : labia iusti erudiunt plurimos qui autem indocti sunt in cordis egestate morientur
The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
22 : benedictio Domini divites facit nec sociabitur ei adflictio
The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.
23 : quasi per risum stultus operatur scelus sapientia autem est viro prudentia
It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.
24 : quod timet impius veniet super eum desiderium suum iustis dabitur
The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: but the desire of the righteous shall be granted.
25 : quasi tempestas transiens non erit impius iustus autem quasi fundamentum sempiternum
As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.
26 : sicut acetum dentibus et fumus oculis sic piger his qui miserunt eum
As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him.
27 : timor Domini adponet dies et anni impiorum breviabuntur
The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.
28 : expectatio iustorum laetitia spes autem impiorum peribit
The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.
29 : fortitudo simplicis via Domini et pavor his qui operantur malum
The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.
30 : iustus in aeternum non commovebitur impii autem non habitabunt in terram
The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.
31 : os iusti parturiet sapientiam lingua pravorum peribit
The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.
32 : labia iusti considerant placita et os impiorum perversa
The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.

11

1 : statera dolosa abominatio apud Dominum et pondus aequum voluntas eius
A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight.
2 : ubi fuerit superbia ibi erit et contumelia ubi autem humilitas ibi et sapientia
When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.
3 : simplicitas iustorum diriget eos et subplantatio perversorum vastabit illos
The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.
4 : non proderunt divitiae in die ultionis iustitia autem liberabit a morte
Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.
5 : iustitia simplicis diriget viam eius et in impietate sua corruet impius
The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.
6 : iustitia rectorum liberabit eos et in insidiis suis capientur iniqui
The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.
7 : mortuo homine impio nulla erit ultra spes et expectatio sollicitorum peribit
When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth.
8 : iustus de angustia liberatus est et tradetur impius pro eo
The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.
9 : simulator ore decipit amicum suum iusti autem liberabuntur scientia
An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.
10 : in bonis iustorum exultabit civitas et in perditione impiorum erit laudatio
When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.
11 : benedictione iustorum exaltabitur civitas et ore impiorum subvertetur
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
12 : qui despicit amicum suum indigens corde est vir autem prudens tacebit
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
13 : qui ambulat fraudulenter revelat arcana qui autem fidelis est animi celat commissum
A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.
14 : ubi non est gubernator populus corruet salus autem ubi multa consilia
Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
15 : adfligetur malo qui fidem facit pro extraneo qui autem cavet laqueos securus erit
He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.
16 : mulier gratiosa inveniet gloriam et robusti habebunt divitias
A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.
17 : benefacit animae suae vir misericors qui autem crudelis est et propinquos abicit
The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.
18 : impius facit opus instabile seminanti autem iustitiam merces fidelis
The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.
19 : clementia praeparat vitam et sectatio malorum mortem
As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.
20 : abominabile Domino pravum cor et voluntas eius in his qui simpliciter ambulant
They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.
21 : manus in manu non erit innocens malus semen autem iustorum salvabitur
Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.
22 : circulus aureus in naribus suis mulier pulchra et fatua
As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.
23 : desiderium iustorum omne bonum est praestolatio impiorum furor
The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.
24 : alii dividunt propria et ditiores fiunt alii rapiunt non sua et semper in egestate sunt
There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.
25 : anima quae benedicit inpinguabitur et qui inebriat ipse quoque inebriabitur
The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
26 : qui abscondit frumenta maledicetur in populis benedictio autem super caput vendentium
He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.
27 : bene consurgit diluculo qui quaerit bona qui autem investigator malorum est opprimetur ab eis
He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.
28 : qui confidet in divitiis suis corruet iusti autem quasi virens folium germinabunt
He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.
29 : qui conturbat domum suam possidebit ventos et qui stultus est serviet sapienti
He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.
30 : fructus iusti lignum vitae et qui suscipit animas sapiens est
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.
31 : si iustus in terra recipit quanto magis impius et peccator
Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.

12

1 : qui diligit disciplinam diligit scientiam qui autem odit increpationes insipiens est
Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.
2 : qui bonus est hauriet a Domino gratiam qui autem confidit cogitationibus suis impie agit
A good man obtaineth favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.
3 : non roborabitur homo ex impietate et radix iustorum non commovebitur
A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.
4 : mulier diligens corona viro suo et putredo in ossibus eius quae confusione res dignas gerit
A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.
5 : cogitationes iustorum iudicia et consilia impiorum fraudulentia
The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.
6 : verba impiorum insidiantur sanguini os iustorum liberabit eos
The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.
7 : verte impios et non erunt domus autem iustorum permanebit
The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.
8 : doctrina sua noscetur vir qui autem vanus et excors est patebit contemptui
A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.
9 : melior est pauper et sufficiens sibi quam gloriosus et indigens pane
He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.
10 : novit iustus animas iumentorum suorum viscera autem impiorum crudelia
A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.
11 : qui operatur terram suam saturabitur panibus qui autem sectatur otium stultissimus est
He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.
12 : desiderium impii munimentum est pessimorum radix autem iustorum proficiet
The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.
13 : propter peccata labiorum ruina proximat malo effugiet autem iustus de angustia
The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.
14 : de fructu oris sui unusquisque replebitur bonis et iuxta opera manuum suarum retribuetur ei
A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.
15 : via stulti recta in oculis eius qui autem sapiens est audit consilia
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.
16 : fatuus statim indicat iram suam qui autem dissimulat iniuriam callidus est
A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.
17 : qui quod novit loquitur index iustitiae est qui autem mentitur testis est fraudulentus
He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.
18 : est qui promittit et quasi gladio pungitur conscientiae lingua autem sapientium sanitas est
There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.
19 : labium veritatis firmum erit in perpetuum qui autem testis est repentinus concinnat linguam mendacii
The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
20 : dolus in corde cogitantium mala qui autem ineunt pacis consilia sequitur eos gaudium
Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.
21 : non contristabit iustum quicquid ei acciderit impii autem replebuntur malo
There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.
22 : abominatio Domino labia mendacia qui autem fideliter agunt placent ei
Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.
23 : homo versutus celat scientiam et cor insipientium provocabit stultitiam
A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.
24 : manus fortium dominabitur quae autem remissa est tributis serviet
The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.
25 : maeror in corde viri humiliabit illud et sermone bono laetificabitur
Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.
26 : qui neglegit damnum propter amicum iustus est iter autem impiorum decipiet eos
The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.
27 : non inveniet fraudulentus lucrum et substantia hominis erit auri pretium
The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.
28 : in semita iustitiae vita iter autem devium ducit ad mortem
In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.

13

1 : filius sapiens doctrina patris qui autem inlusor est non audit cum arguitur
A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.
2 : de fructu oris homo saturabitur bonis anima autem praevaricatorum iniqua
A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.
3 : qui custodit os suum custodit animam suam qui autem inconsideratus est ad loquendum sentiet mala
He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.
4 : vult et non vult piger anima autem operantium inpinguabitur
The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
5 : verbum mendax iustus detestabitur impius confundit et confundetur
A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame.
6 : iustitia custodit innocentis viam impietas vero peccato subplantat
Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.
7 : est quasi dives cum nihil habeat et est quasi pauper cum in multis divitiis sit
There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.
8 : redemptio animae viri divitiae suae qui autem pauper est increpationem non sustinet
The ransom of a man's life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.
9 : lux iustorum laetificat lucerna autem impiorum extinguetur
The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.
10 : inter superbos semper iurgia sunt qui autem agunt cuncta consilio reguntur sapientia
Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.
11 : substantia festinata minuetur quae autem paulatim colligitur manu multiplicabitur
Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.
12 : spes quae differtur adfligit animam lignum vitae desiderium veniens
Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.
13 : qui detrahit alicui rei ipse se in futurum obligat qui autem timet praeceptum in pace versabitur
Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.
14 : lex sapientis fons vitae ut declinet a ruina mortis
The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
15 : doctrina bona dabit gratiam in itinere contemptorum vorago
Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.
16 : astutus omnia agit cum consilio qui autem fatuus est aperit stultitiam
Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.
17 : nuntius impii cadet in malum legatus fidelis sanitas
A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.
18 : egestas et ignominia ei qui deserit disciplinam qui autem adquiescit arguenti glorificabitur
Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.
19 : desiderium si conpleatur delectat animam detestantur stulti eos qui fugiunt mala
The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.
20 : qui cum sapientibus graditur sapiens erit amicus stultorum efficietur similis
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
21 : peccatores persequetur malum et iustis retribuentur bona
Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed.
22 : bonus relinquet heredes filios et nepotes et custoditur iusto substantia peccatoris
A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.
23 : multi cibi in novalibus patrum et alii congregantur absque iudicio
Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.
24 : qui parcit virgae suae odit filium suum qui autem diligit illum instanter erudit
He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
25 : iustus comedit et replet animam suam venter autem impiorum insaturabilis
The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want.

14

1 : sapiens mulier aedificavit domum suam insipiens instructam quoque destruet manibus
Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.
2 : ambulans recto itinere et timens Deum despicitur ab eo qui infami graditur via
He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.
3 : in ore stulti virga superbiae labia sapientium custodiunt eos
In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.
4 : ubi non sunt boves praesepe vacuum est ubi autem plurimae segetes ibi manifesta fortitudo bovis
Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.
5 : testis fidelis non mentietur profert mendacium testis dolosus
A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.
6 : quaerit derisor sapientiam et non inveniet doctrina prudentium facilis
A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.
7 : vade contra virum stultum et nescito labia prudentiae
Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.
8 : sapientia callidi est intellegere viam suam et inprudentia stultorum errans
The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.
9 : stultis inludet peccatum inter iustos morabitur gratia
Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.
10 : cor quod novit amaritudinem animae suae in gaudio eius non miscebitur extraneus
The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.
11 : domus impiorum delebitur tabernacula iustorum germinabunt
The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.
12 : est via quae videtur homini iusta novissima autem eius deducunt ad mortem
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
13 : risus dolore miscebitur et extrema gaudii luctus occupat
Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.
14 : viis suis replebitur stultus et super eum erit vir bonus
The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.
15 : innocens credit omni verbo astutus considerat gressus suos
The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.
16 : sapiens timet et declinat malum stultus transilit et confidit
A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.
17 : inpatiens operabitur stultitiam et vir versutus odiosus est
He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.
18 : possidebunt parvuli stultitiam et astuti expectabunt scientiam
The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
19 : iacebunt mali ante bonos et impii ante portas iustorum
The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.
20 : etiam proximo suo pauper odiosus erit amici vero divitum multi
The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.
21 : qui despicit proximum suum peccat qui autem miseretur pauperi beatus erit
He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.
22 : errant qui operantur malum misericordia et veritas praeparant bona
Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.
23 : in omni opere erit abundantia ubi autem verba sunt plurima frequenter egestas
In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.
24 : corona sapientium divitiae eorum fatuitas stultorum inprudentia
The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.
25 : liberat animas testis fidelis et profert mendacia versipellis
A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.
26 : in timore Domini fiducia fortitudinis et filiis eius erit spes
In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
27 : timor Domini fons vitae ut declinet a ruina mortis
The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
28 : in multitudine populi dignitas regis et in paucitate plebis ignominia principis
In the multitude of people is the king's honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.
29 : qui patiens est multa gubernatur prudentia qui autem inpatiens exaltat stultitiam suam
He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.
30 : vita carnium sanitas cordis putredo ossuum invidia
A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
31 : qui calumniatur egentem exprobrat factori eius honorat autem eum qui miseretur pauperis
He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.
32 : in malitia sua expelletur impius sperat autem iustus in morte sua
The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.
33 : in corde prudentis requiescit sapientia et indoctos quoque erudiet
Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.
34 : iustitia elevat gentem miseros facit populos peccatum
Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.
35 : acceptus est regi minister intellegens iracundiam eius inutilis sustinebit
The king's favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.

15

1 : responsio mollis frangit iram sermo durus suscitat furorem
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
2 : lingua sapientium ornat scientiam os fatuorum ebullit stultitiam
The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
3 : in omni loco oculi Domini contemplantur malos et bonos
The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.
4 : lingua placabilis lignum vitae quae inmoderata est conteret spiritum
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.
5 : stultus inridet disciplinam patris sui qui autem custodit increpationes astutior fiet
A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
6 : domus iusti plurima fortitudo et in fructibus impii conturbatur
In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.
7 : labia sapientium disseminabunt scientiam cor stultorum dissimile erit
The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.
8 : victimae impiorum abominabiles Domino vota iustorum placabilia
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
9 : abominatio est Domino via impii qui sequitur iustitiam diligetur ab eo
The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.
10 : doctrina mala deserenti viam qui increpationes odit morietur
Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.
11 : infernus et perditio coram Domino quanto magis corda filiorum hominum
Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?
12 : non amat pestilens eum qui se corripit nec ad sapientes graditur
A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.
13 : cor gaudens exhilarat faciem in maerore animi deicitur spiritus
A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
14 : cor sapientis quaerit doctrinam et os stultorum pascetur inperitia
The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.
15 : omnes dies pauperis mali secura mens quasi iuge convivium
All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.
16 : melius est parum cum timore Domini quam thesauri magni et insatiabiles
Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.
17 : melius est vocare ad holera cum caritate quam ad vitulum saginatum cum odio
Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.
18 : vir iracundus provocat rixas qui patiens est mitigat suscitatas
A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.
19 : iter pigrorum quasi sepes spinarum via iustorum absque offendiculo
The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.
20 : filius sapiens laetificat patrem et stultus homo despicit matrem suam
A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.
21 : stultitia gaudium stulto et vir prudens dirigit gressus
Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.
22 : dissipantur cogitationes ubi non est consilium ubi vero plures sunt consiliarii confirmantur
Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.
23 : laetatur homo in sententia oris sui et sermo oportunus est optimus
A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!
24 : semita vitae super eruditum ut declinet de inferno novissimo
The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.
25 : domum superborum demolietur Dominus et firmos facit terminos viduae
The LORD will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow.
26 : abominatio Domini cogitationes malae et purus sermo pulcherrimus
The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.
27 : conturbat domum suam qui sectatur avaritiam qui autem odit munera vivet
He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
28 : mens iusti meditatur oboedientiam os impiorum redundat malis
The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.
29 : longe est Dominus ab impiis et orationes iustorum exaudiet
The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.
30 : lux oculorum laetificat animam fama bona inpinguat ossa
The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.
31 : auris quae audit increpationes vitae in medio sapientium commorabitur
The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.
32 : qui abicit disciplinam despicit animam suam qui adquiescit increpationibus possessor est cordis
He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
33 : timor Domini disciplina sapientiae et gloriam praecedit humilitas
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

16

1 : hominis est animum praeparare et Dei gubernare linguam
The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD.
2 : omnes viae hominum patent oculis eius spirituum ponderator est Dominus
All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.
3 : revela Domino opera tua et dirigentur cogitationes tuae
Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.
4 : universa propter semet ipsum operatus est Dominus impium quoque ad diem malum
The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.
5 : abominatio Domini omnis arrogans etiam si manus ad manum fuerit non erit innocens
Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.
6 : misericordia et veritate redimitur iniquitas et in timore Domini declinatur a malo
By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.
7 : cum placuerint Domino viae hominis inimicos quoque eius convertet ad pacem
When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
8 : melius est parum cum iustitia quam multi fructus cum iniquitate
Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.
9 : cor hominis disponet viam suam sed Domini est dirigere gressus eius
A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
10 : divinatio in labiis regis in iudicio non errabit os eius
A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.
11 : pondus et statera iudicia Domini sunt et opera eius omnes lapides sacculi
A just weight and balance are the LORD'S: all the weights of the bag are his work.
12 : abominabiles regi qui agunt impie quoniam iustitia firmatur solium
It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.
13 : voluntas regum labia iusta qui recta loquitur diligetur
Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.
14 : indignatio regis nuntii mortis et vir sapiens placabit eam
The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.
15 : in hilaritate vultus regis vita et clementia eius quasi imber serotinus
In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.
16 : posside sapientiam quia auro melior est et adquire prudentiam quia pretiosior est argento
How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!
17 : semita iustorum declinat mala custos animae suae servat viam suam
The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.
18 : contritionem praecedit superbia et ante ruinam exaltatur spiritus
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
19 : melius est humiliari cum mitibus quam dividere spolia cum superbis
Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.
20 : eruditus in verbo repperiet bona et qui in Domino sperat beatus est
He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he.
21 : qui sapiens corde est appellabitur prudens et qui dulcis eloquio maiora percipiet
The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.
22 : fons vitae eruditio possidentis doctrina stultorum fatuitas
Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.
23 : cor sapientis erudiet os eius et labiis illius addet gratiam
The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
24 : favus mellis verba conposita dulcedo animae et sanitas ossuum
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
25 : est via quae videtur homini recta et novissimum eius ducit ad mortem
There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
26 : anima laborantis laborat sibi quia conpulit eum os suum
He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.
27 : vir impius fodit malum et in labiis eius ignis ardescit
An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.
28 : homo perversus suscitat lites et verbosus separat principes
A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.
29 : vir iniquus lactat amicum suum et ducit eum per viam non bonam
A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.
30 : qui adtonitis oculis cogitat prava mordens labia sua perficit malum
He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.
31 : corona dignitatis senectus in viis iustitiae repperietur
The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.
32 : melior est patiens viro forte et qui dominatur animo suo expugnatore urbium
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.
33 : sortes mittuntur in sinu sed a Domino temperantur
The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.

17

1 : melior est buccella sicca cum gaudio quam domus plena victimis cum iurgio
Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.
2 : servus sapiens dominabitur filiis stultis et inter fratres hereditatem dividet
A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.
3 : sicut igne probatur argentum et aurum camino ita corda probat Dominus
The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts.
4 : malus oboedit linguae iniquae et fallax obtemperat labiis mendacibus
A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.
5 : qui despicit pauperem exprobrat factori eius et qui in ruina laetatur alterius non erit inpunitus
Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.
6 : corona senum filii filiorum et gloria filiorum patres sui
Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.
7 : non decent stultum verba conposita nec principem labium mentiens
Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.
8 : gemma gratissima expectatio praestolantis quocumque se verterit prudenter intellegit
A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.
9 : qui celat delictum quaerit amicitias qui altero sermone repetit separat foederatos
He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.
10 : plus proficit correptio apud prudentem quam centum plagae apud stultum
A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.
11 : semper iurgia quaerit malus angelus autem crudelis mittetur contra eum
An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.
12 : expedit magis ursae occurrere raptis fetibus quam fatuo confidenti sibi in stultitia sua
Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly.
13 : qui reddit mala pro bonis non recedet malum de domo eius
Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.
14 : qui dimittit aquam caput est iurgiorum et antequam patiatur contumeliam iudicium deserit
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
15 : et qui iustificat impium et qui condemnat iustum abominabilis est uterque apud Dominum
He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.
16 : quid prodest habere divitias stultum cum sapientiam emere non possit
Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?
17 : omni tempore diligit qui amicus est et frater in angustiis conprobatur
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
18 : homo stultus plaudet manibus cum spoponderit pro amico suo
A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.
19 : qui meditatur discordiam diligit rixas et qui exaltat ostium quaerit ruinam
He loveth transgression that loveth strife: and he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction.
20 : qui perversi cordis est non inveniet bonum et qui vertit linguam incidet in malum
He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief.
21 : natus est stultus in ignominiam suam sed nec pater in fatuo laetabitur
He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.
22 : animus gaudens aetatem floridam facit spiritus tristis exsiccat ossa
A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
23 : munera de sinu impius accipit ut pervertat semitas iudicii
A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.
24 : in facie prudentis lucet sapientia oculi stultorum in finibus terrae
Wisdom is before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth.
25 : ira patris filius stultus et dolor matris quae genuit eum
A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him.
26 : non est bonum damnum inferre iusto nec percutere principem qui recta iudicat
Also to punish the just is not good, nor to strike princes for equity.
27 : qui moderatur sermones suos doctus et prudens est et pretiosi spiritus vir eruditus
He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.
28 : stultus quoque si tacuerit sapiens putabitur et si conpresserit labia sua intellegens
Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

18

1 : occasiones quaerit qui vult recedere ab amico omni tempore erit exprobrabilis
Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
2 : non recipit stultus verba prudentiae nisi ea dixeris quae versantur in corde eius
A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.
3 : impius cum in profundum venerit peccatorum contemnit sed sequitur eum ignominia et obprobrium
When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.
4 : aqua profunda verba ex ore viri et torrens redundans fons sapientiae
The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.
5 : accipere personam impii non est bonum ut declines a veritate iudicii
It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.
6 : labia stulti inmiscunt se rixis et os eius iurgia provocat
A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.
7 : os stulti contritio eius et labia illius ruina animae eius
A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.
8 : verba bilinguis quasi simplicia et ipsa perveniunt usque ad interiora ventris
The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
9 : qui mollis et dissolutus est in opere suo frater est sua opera dissipantis
He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.
10 : turris fortissima nomen Domini ad ipsum currit iustus et exaltabitur
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
11 : substantia divitis urbs roboris eius et quasi murus validus circumdans eum
The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.
12 : antequam conteratur exaltatur cor hominis et antequam glorificetur humiliatur
Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.
13 : qui prius respondit quam audiat stultum se esse demonstrat et confusione dignum
He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
14 : spiritus viri sustentat inbecillitatem suam spiritum vero ad irascendum facilem quis poterit sustinere
The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?
15 : cor prudens possidebit scientiam et auris sapientium quaerit doctrinam
The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
16 : donum hominis dilatat viam eius et ante principes spatium ei facit
A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
17 : iustus prior est accusator sui venit amicus eius et investigavit eum
He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.
18 : contradictiones conprimit sors et inter potentes quoque diiudicat
The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.
19 : frater qui adiuvatur a fratre quasi civitas firma et iudicia quasi vectes urbium
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
20 : de fructu oris viri replebitur venter eius et genimina labiorum illius saturabunt eum
A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.
21 : mors et vita in manu linguae qui diligunt eam comedent fructus eius
Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
22 : qui invenit mulierem invenit bonum et hauriet iucunditatem a Domino
Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD.
23 : cum obsecrationibus loquetur pauper et dives effabitur rigide
The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.
24 : vir amicalis ad societatem magis amicus erit quam frater
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

19

1 : melior est pauper qui ambulat in simplicitate sua quam torquens labia insipiens
Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.
2 : ubi non est scientia animae non est bonum et qui festinus est pedibus offendit
Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.
3 : stultitia hominis subplantat gressus eius et contra Deum fervet animo suo
The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the LORD.
4 : divitiae addunt amicos plurimos a paupere autem et hii quos habuit separantur
Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.
5 : testis falsus non erit inpunitus et qui mendacia loquitur non effugiet
A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.
6 : multi colunt personam potentis et amici sunt dona tribuenti
Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.
7 : fratres hominis pauperis oderunt eum insuper et amici procul recesserunt ab eo qui tantum verba sectatur nihil habebit
All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.
8 : qui autem possessor est mentis diligit animam suam et custos prudentiae inveniet bona
He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.
9 : testis falsus non erit inpunitus et qui loquitur mendacia peribit
A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.
10 : non decent stultum deliciae nec servum dominari principibus
Delight is not seemly for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes.
11 : doctrina viri per patientiam noscitur et gloria eius est iniqua praetergredi
The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.
12 : sicut fremitus leonis ita et regis ira et sicut ros super herbam ita hilaritas eius
The king's wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass.
13 : dolor patris filius stultus et tecta iugiter perstillantia litigiosa mulier
A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.
14 : domus et divitiae dantur a patribus a Domino autem proprie uxor prudens
House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the LORD.
15 : pigredo inmittit soporem et anima dissoluta esuriet
Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.
16 : qui custodit mandatum custodit animam suam qui autem neglegit vias suas mortificabitur
He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.
17 : feneratur Domino qui miseretur pauperis et vicissitudinem suam reddet ei
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.
18 : erudi filium tuum ne desperes ad interfectionem autem eius ne ponas animam tuam
Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.
19 : qui inpatiens est sustinebit damnum et cum rapuerit aliud adponet
A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.
20 : audi consilium et suscipe disciplinam ut sis sapiens in novissimis tuis
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
21 : multae cogitationes in corde viri voluntas autem Domini permanebit
There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.
22 : homo indigens misericors est et melior pauper quam vir mendax
The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.
23 : timor Domini ad vitam et in plenitudine commorabitur absque visitatione pessimi
The fear of the LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.
24 : abscondit piger manum suam sub ascella nec ad os suum adplicat eam
A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.
25 : pestilente flagellato stultus sapientior erit sin autem corripueris sapientem intelleget disciplinam
Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.
26 : qui adfligit patrem et fugat matrem ignominiosus est et infelix
He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach.
27 : non cesses fili audire doctrinam nec ignores sermones scientiae
Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.
28 : testis iniquus deridet iudicium et os impiorum devorat iniquitatem
An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.
29 : parata sunt derisoribus iudicia et mallei percutientes stultorum corporibus
Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.

20

1 : luxuriosa res vinum et tumultuosa ebrietas quicumque his delectatur non erit sapiens
Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.
2 : sicut rugitus leonis ita terror regis qui provocat eum peccat in animam suam
The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.
3 : honor est homini qui separat se a contentionibus omnes autem stulti miscentur contumeliis
It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.
4 : propter frigus piger arare noluit mendicabit ergo aestate et non dabitur ei
The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.
5 : sicut aqua profunda sic consilium in corde viri sed homo sapiens exhauriet illud
Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.
6 : multi homines misericordes vocantur virum autem fidelem quis inveniet
Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?
7 : iustus qui ambulat in simplicitate sua beatos post se filios derelinquet
The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.
8 : rex qui sedet in solio iudicii dissipat omne malum intuitu suo
A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes.
9 : quis potest dicere mundum est cor meum purus sum a peccato
Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?
10 : pondus et pondus mensura et mensura utrumque abominabile est apud Deum
Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the LORD.
11 : ex studiis suis intellegitur puer si munda et si recta sint opera eius
Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
12 : aurem audientem et oculum videntem Dominus fecit utrumque
The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them.
13 : noli diligere somnum ne te egestas opprimat aperi oculos tuos et saturare panibus
Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.
14 : malum est malum est dicit omnis emptor et cum recesserit tunc gloriabitur
It is naught, it is naught, saith the buyer: but when he is gone his way, then he boasteth.
15 : est aurum et multitudo gemmarum vas autem pretiosum labia scientiae
There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
16 : tolle vestimentum eius qui fideiussor extitit alieni et pro extraneis aufer pignus ab eo
Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.
17 : suavis est homini panis mendacii et postea implebitur os eius calculo
Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.
18 : cogitationes consiliis roborantur et gubernaculis tractanda sunt bella
Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.
19 : ei qui revelat mysteria et ambulat fraudulenter et dilatat labia sua ne commiscearis
He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.
20 : qui maledicit patri suo et matri extinguetur lucerna eius in mediis tenebris
Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.
21 : hereditas ad quam festinatur in principio in novissimo benedictione carebit
An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.
22 : ne dicas reddam malum expecta Dominum et liberabit te
Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
23 : abominatio est apud Deum pondus et pondus statera dolosa non est bona
Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.
24 : a Domino diriguntur gressus viri quis autem hominum intellegere potest viam suam
Man's goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way?
25 : ruina est hominis devorare sanctos et post vota tractare
It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry.
26 : dissipat impios rex sapiens et curvat super eos fornicem
A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel over them.
27 : lucerna Domini spiraculum hominis quae investigat omnia secreta ventris
The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.
28 : misericordia et veritas custodiunt regem et roboratur clementia thronus eius
Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy.
29 : exultatio iuvenum fortitudo eorum et dignitas senum canities
The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the gray head.
30 : livor vulneris absterget mala et plagae in secretioribus ventris
The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.

21

1 : sicut divisiones aquarum ita cor regis in manu Domini quocumque voluerit inclinabit illud
The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
2 : omnis via viri recta sibi videtur adpendit autem corda Dominus
Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.
3 : facere misericordiam et iudicium magis placent Domino quam victimae
To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
4 : exaltatio oculorum et dilatatio cordis lucerna impiorum peccatum
An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.
5 : cogitationes robusti semper in abundantia omnis autem piger semper in egestate
The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.
6 : qui congregat thesauros lingua mendacii vanus est et inpingetur ad laqueos mortis
The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.
7 : rapinae impiorum detrahent eos quia noluerunt facere iudicium
The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; because they refuse to do judgment.
8 : perversa via viri aliena est qui autem mundus est rectum opus eius
The way of man is froward and strange: but as for the pure, his work is right.
9 : melius est sedere in angulo domatis quam cum muliere litigiosa et in domo communi
It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
10 : anima impii desiderat malum non miserebitur proximo suo
The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes.
11 : multato pestilente sapientior erit parvulus et si sectetur sapientem sumet scientiam
When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.
12 : excogitat iustus de domo impii ut detrahat impios in malum
The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.
13 : qui obturat aurem suam ad clamorem pauperis et ipse clamabit et non exaudietur
Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
14 : munus absconditum extinguet iras et donum in sinu indignationem maximam
A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.
15 : gaudium iusto est facere iudicium et pavor operantibus iniquitatem
It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.
16 : vir qui erraverit a via doctrinae in coetu gigantum commorabitur
The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.
17 : qui diligit epulas in egestate erit qui amat vinum et pinguia non ditabitur
He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.
18 : pro iusto datur impius et pro rectis iniquus
The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.
19 : melius est habitare in terra deserta quam cum muliere rixosa et iracunda
It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.
20 : thesaurus desiderabilis et oleum in habitaculo iusti et inprudens homo dissipabit illud
There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.
21 : qui sequitur iustitiam et misericordiam inveniet vitam et iustitiam et gloriam
He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.
22 : civitatem fortium ascendit sapiens et destruxit robur fiduciae eius
A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.
23 : qui custodit os suum et linguam suam custodit ab angustiis animam suam
Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.
24 : superbus et arrogans vocatur indoctus qui in ira operatur superbiam
Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.
25 : desideria occidunt pigrum noluerunt enim quicquam manus eius operari
The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.
26 : tota die concupiscit et desiderat qui autem iustus est tribuet et non cessabit
He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.
27 : hostiae impiorum abominabiles quia offeruntur ex scelere
The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?
28 : testis mendax peribit vir oboediens loquitur victoriam
A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.
29 : vir impius procaciter obfirmat vultum suum qui autem rectus est corrigit viam suam
A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way.
30 : non est sapientia non est prudentia non est consilium contra Dominum
There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.
31 : equus paratur ad diem belli Dominus autem salutem tribuet
The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.

22

1 : melius est nomen bonum quam divitiae multae super argentum et aurum gratia bona
A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.
2 : dives et pauper obviaverunt sibi utriusque operator est Dominus
The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.
3 : callidus vidit malum et abscondit se innocens pertransiit et adflictus est damno
A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.
4 : finis modestiae timor Domini divitiae et gloria et vita
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
5 : arma et gladii in via perversi custos animae suae longe recedit ab eis
Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.
6 : proverbium est adulescens iuxta viam suam etiam cum senuerit non recedet ab ea
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
7 : dives pauperibus imperat et qui accipit mutuum servus est fenerantis
The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.
8 : qui seminat iniquitatem metet mala et virga irae suae consummabitur
He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.
9 : qui pronus est ad misericordiam benedicetur de panibus enim suis dedit pauperi
He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.
10 : eice derisorem et exibit cum eo iurgium cessabuntque causae et contumeliae
Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.
11 : qui diligit cordis munditiam propter gratiam labiorum suorum habebit amicum regem
He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.
12 : oculi Domini custodiunt scientiam et subplantantur verba iniqui
The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor.
13 : dicit piger leo foris in medio platearum occidendus sum
The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.
14 : fovea profunda os alienae cui iratus est Dominus incidet in eam
The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein.
15 : stultitia conligata est in corde pueri et virga disciplinae fugabit eam
Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
16 : qui calumniatur pauperem ut augeat divitias suas dabit ipse ditiori et egebit
He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.
17 : inclina aurem tuam et audi verba sapientium adpone autem cor ad doctrinam meam
Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.
18 : quae pulchra erit tibi cum servaveris eam in ventre tuo et redundabit in labiis tuis
For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.
19 : ut sit in Domino fiducia tua unde et ostendi eam tibi hodie
That thy trust may be in the LORD, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee.
20 : ecce descripsi eam tibi tripliciter in cogitationibus et scientia
Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,
21 : ut ostenderem tibi firmitatem et eloquia veritatis respondere ex his illi qui misit te
That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?
22 : non facias violentiam pauperi quia pauper est neque conteras egenum in porta
Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate:
23 : quia Dominus iudicabit causam eius et configet eos qui confixerint animam eius
For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.
24 : noli esse amicus homini iracundo neque ambules cum viro furioso
Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:
25 : ne forte discas semitas eius et sumas scandalum animae tuae
Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.
26 : noli esse cum his qui defigunt manus suas et qui vades se offerunt pro debitis
Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.
27 : si enim non habes unde restituas quid causae est ut tollat operimentum de cubili tuo
If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee?
28 : ne transgrediaris terminos antiquos quos posuerunt patres tui
Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.
29 : vidisti virum velocem in opere suo coram regibus stabit nec erit ante ignobiles
Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.

23

1 : quando sederis ut comedas cum principe diligenter adtende quae posita sunt ante faciem tuam
When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:
2 : et statue cultrum in gutture tuo si tamen habes in potestate animam tuam
And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.
3 : ne desideres de cibis eius in quo est panis mendacii
Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.
4 : noli laborare ut diteris sed prudentiae tuae pone modum
Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
5 : ne erigas oculos tuos ad opes quas habere non potes quia facient sibi pinnas quasi aquilae et avolabunt in caelum
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.
6 : ne comedas cum homine invido et ne desideres cibos eius
Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:
7 : quoniam in similitudinem arioli et coniectoris aestimat quod ignorat comede et bibe dicet tibi et mens eius non est tecum
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.
8 : cibos quos comederas evomes et perdes pulchros sermones tuos
The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.
9 : in auribus insipientium ne loquaris quia despicient doctrinam eloquii tui
Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.
10 : ne adtingas terminos parvulorum et agrum pupillorum ne introeas
Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:
11 : propinquus enim eorum Fortis est et ipse iudicabit contra te causam illorum
For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
12 : ingrediatur ad doctrinam cor tuum et aures tuae ad verba scientiae
Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.
13 : noli subtrahere a puero disciplinam si enim percusseris eum virga non morietur
Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.
14 : tu virga percuties eum et animam eius de inferno liberabis
Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.
15 : fili mi si sapiens fuerit animus tuus gaudebit tecum cor meum
My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.
16 : et exultabunt renes mei cum locuta fuerint rectum labia tua
Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.
17 : non aemuletur cor tuum peccatores sed in timore Domini esto tota die
Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.
18 : quia habebis spem in novissimo et praestolatio tua non auferetur
For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.
19 : audi fili mi et esto sapiens et dirige in via animum tuum
Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.
20 : noli esse in conviviis potatorum nec in comesationibus eorum qui carnes ad vescendum conferunt
Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:
21 : quia vacantes potibus et dantes symbola consumentur et vestietur pannis dormitatio
For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.
22 : audi patrem tuum qui genuit te et ne contemnas cum senuerit mater tua
Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.
23 : veritatem eme et noli vendere sapientiam et doctrinam et intellegentiam
Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
24 : exultat gaudio pater iusti qui sapientem genuit laetabitur in eo
The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.
25 : gaudeat pater tuus et mater tua et exultet quae genuit te
Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.
26 : praebe fili mi cor tuum mihi et oculi tui vias meas custodiant
My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.
27 : fovea enim profunda est meretrix et puteus angustus aliena
For a whore is a deep ditch; and a strange woman is a narrow pit.
28 : insidiatur in via quasi latro et quos incautos viderit interficit
She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.
29 : cui vae cuius patri vae cui rixae cui foveae cui sine causa vulnera cui suffusio oculorum
Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?
30 : nonne his qui morantur in vino et student calicibus epotandis
They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.
31 : ne intuearis vinum quando flavescit cum splenduerit in vitro color eius ingreditur blande
Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.
32 : sed in novissimo mordebit ut coluber et sicut regulus venena diffundet
At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.
33 : oculi tui videbunt extraneas et cor tuum loquetur perversa
Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.
34 : et eris sicut dormiens in medio mari et quasi sopitus gubernator amisso clavo
Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.
35 : et dices verberaverunt me sed non dolui traxerunt me et ego non sensi quando evigilabo et rursum vina repperiam
They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.

24

1 : ne aemuleris viros malos nec desideres esse cum eis
Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.
2 : quia rapinas meditatur mens eorum et fraudes labia eorum loquuntur
For their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.
3 : sapientia aedificabitur domus et prudentia roborabitur
Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established:
4 : in doctrina replebuntur cellaria universa substantia pretiosa et pulcherrima
And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
5 : vir sapiens et fortis est et vir doctus robustus et validus
A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.
6 : quia cum dispositione initur bellum et erit salus ubi multa consilia sunt
For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.
7 : excelsa stulto sapientia in porta non aperiet os suum
Wisdom is too high for a fool: he openeth not his mouth in the gate.
8 : qui cogitat malefacere stultus vocabitur
He that deviseth to do evil shall be called a mischievous person.
9 : cogitatio stulti peccatum est et abominatio hominum detractor
The thought of foolishness is sin: and the scorner is an abomination to men.
10 : si desperaveris lassus in die angustiae inminuetur fortitudo tua
If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.
11 : erue eos qui ducuntur ad mortem et qui trahuntur ad interitum liberare ne cesses
If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain;
12 : si dixeris vires non suppetunt qui inspector est cordis ipse intellegit et servatorem animae tuae nihil fallit reddetque homini iuxta opera sua
If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?
13 : comede fili mi mel quia bonum est et favum dulcissimum gutturi tuo
My son, eat thou honey, because it is good; and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste:
14 : sic et doctrina sapientiae animae tuae quam cum inveneris habebis in novissimis et spes tua non peribit
So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.
15 : ne insidieris et quaeras impietatem in domo iusti neque vastes requiem eius
Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; spoil not his resting place:
16 : septies enim cadet iustus et resurget impii autem corruent in malum
For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.
17 : cum ceciderit inimicus tuus ne gaudeas et in ruina eius ne exultet cor tuum
Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
18 : ne forte videat Dominus et displiceat ei et auferat ab eo iram suam
Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.
19 : ne contendas cum pessimis nec aemuleris impios
Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked;
20 : quoniam non habent futurorum spem mali et lucerna impiorum extinguetur
For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out.
21 : time Dominum fili mi et regem et cum detractoribus non commiscearis
My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change:
22 : quoniam repente consurget perditio eorum et ruinam utriusque quis novit
For their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth the ruin of them both?
23 : haec quoque sapientibus cognoscere personam in iudicio non est bonum
These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment.
24 : qui dicit impio iustus es maledicent ei populi et detestabuntur eum tribus
He that saith unto the wicked, Thou art righteous; him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him:
25 : qui arguunt laudabuntur et super ipsos veniet benedictio
But to them that rebuke him shall be delight, and a good blessing shall come upon them.
26 : labia deosculabitur qui recta verba respondet
Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.
27 : praepara foris opus tuum et diligenter exerce agrum tuum ut postea aedifices domum tuam
Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.
28 : ne sis testis frustra contra proximum tuum nec lactes quemquam labiis tuis
Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause; and deceive not with thy lips.
29 : ne dicas quomodo fecit mihi sic faciam ei reddam unicuique secundum opus suum
Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
30 : per agrum hominis pigri transivi et per vineam viri stulti
I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;
31 : et ecce totum repleverant urticae operuerant superficiem eius spinae et maceria lapidum destructa erat
And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.
32 : quod cum vidissem posui in corde meo et exemplo didici disciplinam
Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction.
33 : parum inquam dormies modicum dormitabis pauxillum manus conseres ut quiescas
Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:
34 : et veniet quasi cursor egestas tua et mendicitas quasi vir armatus
So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.

25

1 : haec quoque parabolae Salomonis quas transtulerunt viri Ezechiae regis Iuda
These are also proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out.
2 : gloria Dei celare verbum et gloria regum investigare sermonem
It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.
3 : caelum sursum et terra deorsum et cor regum inscrutabile
The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unsearchable.
4 : aufer robiginem de argento et egredietur vas purissimum
Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.
5 : aufer impietatem de vultu regis et firmabitur iustitia thronus eius
Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.
6 : ne gloriosus appareas coram rege et in loco magnorum ne steteris
Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:
7 : melius est enim ut dicatur tibi ascende huc quam ut humilieris coram principe
For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.
8 : quae viderunt oculi tui ne proferas in iurgio cito ne postea emendare non possis cum dehonestaveris amicum tuum
Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.
9 : causam tuam tracta cum amico tuo et secretum extraneo non reveles
Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:
10 : ne forte insultet tibi cum audierit et exprobrare non cesset
Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.
11 : mala aurea in lectis argenteis qui loquitur verbum in tempore suo
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
12 : inauris aurea et margaritum fulgens qui arguit sapientem et aurem oboedientem
As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
13 : sicut frigus nivis in die messis ita legatus fidelis ei qui misit eum animam illius requiescere facit
As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.
14 : nubes et ventus et pluviae non sequentes vir gloriosus et promissa non conplens
Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift is like clouds and wind without rain.
15 : patientia lenietur princeps et lingua mollis confringet duritiam
By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.
16 : mel invenisti comede quod sufficit tibi ne forte saturatus evomas illud
Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.
17 : subtrahe pedem tuum de domo proximi tui nequando satiatus oderit te
Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour's house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee.
18 : iaculum et gladius et sagitta acuta homo qui loquitur contra proximum suum testimonium falsum
A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.
19 : dens putridus et pes lapsus qui sperat super infideli in die angustiae
Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.
20 : et amittit pallium in die frigoris acetum in nitro et qui cantat carmina cordi pessimo
As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.
21 : si esurierit inimicus tuus ciba illum et si sitierit da ei aquam bibere
If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
22 : prunam enim congregabis super caput eius et Dominus reddet tibi
For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee.
23 : ventus aquilo dissipat pluvias et facies tristis linguam detrahentem
The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.
24 : melius est sedere in angulo domatis quam cum muliere litigiosa et in domo communi
It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.
25 : aqua frigida animae sitienti et nuntius bonus de terra longinqua
As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.
26 : fons turbatus pede et vena corrupta iustus cadens coram impio
A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.
27 : sicut qui mel multum comedit non est ei bonum sic qui scrutator est maiestatis opprimitur gloria
It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory.
28 : sicut urbs patens et absque murorum ambitu ita vir qui non potest in loquendo cohibere spiritum suum
He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

26

1 : quomodo nix aestate et pluvia in messe sic indecens est stulto gloria
As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.
2 : sicut avis ad alia transvolans et passer quolibet vadens sic maledictum frustra prolatum in quempiam superveniet
As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.
3 : flagellum equo et camus asino et virga dorso inprudentium
A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back.
4 : ne respondeas stulto iuxta stultitiam suam ne efficiaris ei similis
Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.
5 : responde stulto iuxta stultitiam suam ne sibi sapiens esse videatur
Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
6 : claudus pedibus et iniquitatem bibens qui mittit verba per nuntium stultum
He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.
7 : quomodo pulchras frustra habet claudus tibias sic indecens est in ore stultorum parabola
The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
8 : sicut qui mittit lapidem in acervum Mercurii ita qui tribuit insipienti honorem
As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.
9 : quomodo si spina nascatur in manu temulenti sic parabola in ore stultorum
As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
10 : iudicium determinat causas et qui inponit stulto silentium iras mitigat
The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.
11 : sicut canis qui revertitur ad vomitum suum sic inprudens qui iterat stultitiam suam
As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.
12 : vidisti hominem sapientem sibi videri magis illo spem habebit stultus
Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
13 : dicit piger leaena in via leo in itineribus
The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets.
14 : sicut ostium vertitur in cardine suo ita piger in lectulo suo
As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.
15 : abscondit piger manus sub ascellas suas et laborat si ad os suum eas converterit
The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.
16 : sapientior sibi piger videtur septem viris loquentibus sententias
The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.
17 : sicut qui adprehendit auribus canem sic qui transit et inpatiens commiscetur rixae alterius
He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.
18 : sicut noxius est qui mittit lanceas et sagittas et mortem
As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,
19 : sic vir qui fraudulenter nocet amico suo et cum fuerit deprehensus dicit ludens feci
So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?
20 : cum defecerint ligna extinguetur ignis et susurrone subtracto iurgia conquiescunt
Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.
21 : sicut carbones ad prunam et ligna ad ignem sic homo iracundus suscitat rixas
As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
22 : verba susurronis quasi simplicia et ipsa perveniunt ad intima ventris
The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
23 : quomodo si argento sordido ornare velis vas fictile sic labia tumentia cum pessimo corde sociata
Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
24 : labiis suis intellegitur inimicus cum in corde tractaverit dolos
He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him;
25 : quando submiserit vocem suam ne credideris ei quoniam septem nequitiae sunt in corde illius
When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.
26 : qui operit odium fraudulenter revelabitur malitia eius in concilio
Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.
27 : qui fodit foveam incidet in eam et qui volvit lapidem revertetur ad eum
Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.
28 : lingua fallax non amat veritatem et os lubricum operatur ruinas
A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.

27

1 : ne glorieris in crastinum ignorans quid superventura pariat dies
Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.
2 : laudet te alienus et non os tuum extraneus et non labia tua
Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.
3 : grave est saxum et onerosa harena sed ira stulti utroque gravior
A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.
4 : ira non habet misericordiam nec erumpens furor et impetum concitati ferre quis poterit
Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
5 : melior est manifesta correptio quam amor absconditus
Open rebuke is better than secret love.
6 : meliora sunt vulnera diligentis quam fraudulenta odientis oscula
Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
7 : anima saturata calcabit favum anima esuriens et amarum pro dulce sumet
The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.
8 : sicut avis transmigrans de nido suo sic vir qui relinquit locum suum
As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.
9 : unguento et variis odoribus delectatur cor et bonis amici consiliis anima dulcoratur
Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.
10 : amicum tuum et amicum patris tui ne dimiseris et domum fratris tui ne ingrediaris in die adflictionis tuae melior est vicinus iuxta quam frater procul
Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off.
11 : stude sapientiae fili mi et laetifica cor meum ut possim exprobranti respondere sermonem
My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.
12 : astutus videns malum absconditus est parvuli transeuntes sustinuere dispendia
A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished.
13 : tolle vestimentum eius qui spopondit pro extraneo et pro alienis auferto pignus
Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.
14 : qui benedicit proximo suo voce grandi de nocte consurgens maledicenti similis erit
He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him.
15 : tecta perstillantia in die frigoris et litigiosa mulier conparantur
A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.
16 : qui retinet eam quasi qui ventum teneat et oleum dexterae suae vocabit
Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.
17 : ferrum ferro acuitur et homo exacuit faciem amici sui
Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.
18 : qui servat ficum comedet fructus eius et qui custos est domini sui glorificabitur
Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.
19 : quomodo in aquis resplendent vultus prospicientium sic corda hominum manifesta sunt prudentibus
As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.
20 : infernus et perditio non replentur similiter et oculi hominum insatiabiles
Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.
21 : quomodo probatur in conflatorio argentum et in fornace aurum sic probatur homo ore laudantis
As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.
22 : si contuderis stultum in pila quasi tisanas feriente desuper pilo non auferetur ab eo stultitia eius
Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him.
23 : diligenter agnosce vultum pecoris tui tuosque greges considera
Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.
24 : non enim habebis iugiter potestatem sed corona tribuetur in generatione generationum
For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?
25 : aperta sunt prata et apparuerunt herbae virentes et collecta sunt faena de montibus
The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered.
26 : agni ad vestimentum tuum et hedi agri pretium
The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field.
27 : sufficiat tibi lac caprarum in cibos tuos in necessaria domus tuae et ad victum ancillis tuis
And thou shalt have goats' milk enough for thy food, for the food of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens.

28

1 : fugit impius nemine persequente iustus autem quasi leo confidens absque terrore erit
The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.
2 : propter peccata terrae multi principes eius et propter hominis sapientiam et horum scientiam quae dicuntur vita ducis longior erit
For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged.
3 : vir pauper calumnians pauperes similis imbri vehementi in quo paratur fames
A poor man that oppresseth the poor is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.
4 : qui derelinquunt legem laudant impium qui custodiunt succenduntur contra eum
They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them.
5 : viri mali non cogitant iudicium qui autem requirunt Dominum animadvertunt omnia
Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things.
6 : melior est pauper ambulans in simplicitate sua quam dives pravis itineribus
Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.
7 : qui custodit legem filius sapiens est qui pascit comesatores confundit patrem suum
Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.
8 : qui coacervat divitias usuris et fenore liberali in pauperes congregat eas
He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.
9 : qui declinat aurem suam ne audiat legem oratio eius erit execrabilis
He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.
10 : qui decipit iustos in via mala in interitu suo corruet et simplices possidebunt bona
Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit: but the upright shall have good things in possession.
11 : sapiens sibi videtur vir dives pauper autem prudens scrutabitur eum
The rich man is wise in his own conceit; but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out.
12 : in exultatione iustorum multa gloria regnantibus impiis ruinae hominum
When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.
13 : qui abscondit scelera sua non dirigetur qui confessus fuerit et reliquerit ea misericordiam consequetur
He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
14 : beatus homo qui semper est pavidus qui vero mentis est durae corruet in malum
Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.
15 : leo rugiens et ursus esuriens princeps impius super populum pauperem
As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.
16 : dux indigens prudentia multos opprimet per calumniam qui autem odit avaritiam longi fient dies eius
The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.
17 : hominem qui calumniatur animae sanguinem si usque ad lacum fugerit nemo sustentet
A man that doeth violence to the blood of any person shall flee to the pit; let no man stay him.
18 : qui ambulat simpliciter salvus erit qui perversis ingreditur viis concidet semel
Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved: but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.
19 : qui operatur terram suam saturabitur panibus qui sectatur otium replebitur egestate
He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.
20 : vir fidelis multum laudabitur qui autem festinat ditari non erit innocens
A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.
21 : qui cognoscit in iudicio faciem non facit bene iste et pro buccella panis deserit veritatem
To have respect of persons is not good: for for a piece of bread that man will transgress.
22 : vir qui festinat ditari et aliis invidet ignorat quod egestas superveniat ei
He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.
23 : qui corripit hominem gratiam postea inveniet apud eum magis quam ille qui per linguae blandimenta decipit
He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.
24 : qui subtrahit aliquid a patre suo et matre et dicit hoc non est peccatum particeps homicidae est
Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer.
25 : qui se iactat et dilatat iurgia concitat qui sperat in Domino saginabitur
He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat.
26 : qui confidit in corde suo stultus est qui autem graditur sapienter iste salvabitur
He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.
27 : qui dat pauperi non indigebit qui despicit deprecantem sustinebit penuriam
He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.
28 : cum surrexerint impii abscondentur homines cum illi perierint multiplicabuntur iusti
When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase.

29

1 : viro qui corripientem dura cervice contemnit repentinus superveniet interitus et eum sanitas non sequitur
He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.
2 : in multiplicatione iustorum laetabitur vulgus cum impii sumpserint principatum gemet populus
When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.
3 : vir qui amat sapientiam laetificat patrem suum qui autem nutrit scorta perdet substantiam
Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.
4 : rex iustus erigit terram vir avarus destruet eam
The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.
5 : homo qui blandis fictisque sermonibus loquitur amico suo rete expandit gressibus eius
A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.
6 : peccantem virum iniquum involvet laqueus et iustus laudabit atque gaudebit
In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.
7 : novit iustus causam pauperum impius ignorat scientiam
The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.
8 : homines pestilentes dissipant civitatem sapientes avertunt furorem
Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise men turn away wrath.
9 : vir sapiens si cum stulto contenderit sive irascatur sive rideat non inveniet requiem
If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.
10 : viri sanguinum oderunt simplicem iusti quaerunt animam eius
The bloodthirsty hate the upright: but the just seek his soul.
11 : totum spiritum suum profert stultus sapiens differt et reservat in posterum
A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
12 : princeps qui libenter audit verba mendacii omnes ministros habebit impios
If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked.
13 : pauper et creditor obviam fuerunt sibi utriusque inluminator est Dominus
The poor and the deceitful man meet together: the LORD lighteneth both their eyes.
14 : rex qui iudicat in veritate pauperes thronus eius in aeternum firmabitur
The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, his throne shall be established for ever.
15 : virga atque correptio tribuet sapientiam puer autem qui dimittitur voluntati suae confundet matrem suam
The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.
16 : in multiplicatione impiorum multiplicabuntur scelera et iusti ruinas eorum videbunt
When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.
17 : erudi filium tuum et refrigerabit te et dabit delicias animae tuae
Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.
18 : cum prophetia defecerit dissipabitur populus qui custodit legem beatus est
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
19 : servus verbis non potest erudiri quia quod dicis intellegit et respondere contemnit
A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.
20 : vidisti hominem velocem ad loquendum stulti magis speranda est quam illius correptio
Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
21 : qui delicate a pueritia nutrit servum suum postea illum sentiet contumacem
He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child shall have him become his son at the length.
22 : vir iracundus provocat rixas et qui ad indignandum facilis est erit ad peccata proclivior
An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.
23 : superbum sequitur humilitas et humilem spiritu suscipiet gloria
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.
24 : qui cum fure partitur odit animam suam adiurantem audit et non indicat
Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.
25 : qui timet hominem cito corruet qui sperat in Domino sublevabitur
The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.
26 : multi requirunt faciem principis et a Domino iudicium egreditur singulorum
Many seek the ruler's favour; but every man's judgment cometh from the LORD.
27 : abominantur iusti virum impium et abominantur impii eos qui in recta sunt via
An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.

30

1 : verba Congregantis filii Vomentis visio quam locutus est vir cum quo est Deus et qui Deo secum morante confortatus ait
The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, even the prophecy: the man spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal,
2 : stultissimus sum virorum et sapientia hominum non est mecum
Surely I am more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man.
3 : non didici sapientiam et non novi sanctorum scientiam
I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy.
4 : quis ascendit in caelum atque descendit quis continuit spiritum manibus suis quis conligavit aquas quasi in vestimento quis suscitavit omnes terminos terrae quod nomen eius et quod nomen filii eius si nosti
Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?
5 : omnis sermo Dei ignitus clypeus est sperantibus in se
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.
6 : ne addas quicquam verbis illius et arguaris inveniarisque mendax
Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.
7 : duo rogavi te ne deneges mihi antequam moriar
Two things have I required of thee; deny me them not before I die:
8 : vanitatem et verba mendacia longe fac a me mendicitatem et divitias ne dederis mihi tribue tantum victui meo necessaria
Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:
9 : ne forte saturatus inliciar ad negandum et dicam quis est Dominus et egestate conpulsus furer et peierem nomen Dei mei
Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.
10 : ne accuses servum ad dominum suum ne forte maledicat tibi et corruas
Accuse not a servant unto his master, lest he curse thee, and thou be found guilty.
11 : generatio quae patri suo maledicit et quae non benedicit matri suae
There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.
12 : generatio quae sibi munda videtur et tamen non est lota a sordibus suis
There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.
13 : generatio cuius excelsi sunt oculi et palpebrae eius in alta subrectae
There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up.
14 : generatio quae pro dentibus gladios habet et commandit molaribus suis ut comedat inopes de terra et pauperes ex hominibus
There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.
15 : sanguisugae duae sunt filiae dicentes adfer adfer tria sunt insaturabilia et quartum quod numquam dicit sufficit
The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough:
16 : infernus et os vulvae et terra quae non satiatur aqua ignis vero numquam dicit sufficit
The grave; and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water; and the fire that saith not, It is enough.
17 : oculum qui subsannat patrem et qui despicit partum matris suae effodiant corvi de torrentibus et comedant illum filii aquilae
The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.
18 : tria sunt difficilia mihi et quartum penitus ignoro
There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not:
19 : viam aquilae in caelo viam colubri super petram viam navis in medio mari et viam viri in adulescentula
The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid.
20 : talis est via mulieris adulterae quae comedit et tergens os suum dicit non sum operata malum
Such is the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness.
21 : per tria movetur terra et quartum non potest sustinere
For three things the earth is disquieted, and for four which it cannot bear:
22 : per servum cum regnaverit per stultum cum saturatus fuerit cibo
For a servant when he reigneth; and a fool when he is filled with meat;
23 : per odiosam mulierem cum in matrimonio fuerit adsumpta et per ancillam cum heres fuerit dominae suae
For an odious woman when she is married; and an handmaid that is heir to her mistress.
24 : quattuor sunt minima terrae et ipsa sunt sapientiora sapientibus
There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise:
25 : formicae populus infirmus quae praeparant in messe cibum sibi
The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;
26 : lepusculus plebs invalida quae conlocat in petra cubile suum
The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;
27 : regem lucusta non habet et egreditur universa per turmas
The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands;
28 : stilio manibus nititur et moratur in aedibus regis
The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.
29 : tria sunt quae bene gradiuntur et quartum quod incedit feliciter
There be three things which go well, yea, four are comely in going:
30 : leo fortissimus bestiarum ad nullius pavebit occursum
A lion which is strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;
31 : gallus succinctus lumbos et aries nec est rex qui resistat ei
A greyhound; an he goat also; and a king, against whom there is no rising up.
32 : et qui stultus apparuit postquam elatus est in sublime si enim intellexisset ori inposuisset manum
If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth.
33 : qui autem fortiter premit ubera ad eliciendum lac exprimit butyrum et qui vehementer emungitur elicit sanguinem et qui provocat iras producit discordias
Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.

31

1 : verba Lamuhel regis visio qua erudivit eum mater sua
The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.
2 : quid dilecte mi quid dilecte uteri mei quid dilecte votorum meorum
What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?
3 : ne dederis mulieribus substantiam tuam et vias tuas ad delendos reges
Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.
4 : noli regibus o Lamuhel noli regibus dare vinum quia nullum secretum est ubi regnat ebrietas
It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:
5 : ne forte bibat et obliviscatur iudiciorum et mutet causam filiorum pauperis
Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.
6 : date siceram maerentibus et vinum his qui amaro sunt animo
Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.
7 : bibant ut obliviscantur egestatis suae et doloris non recordentur amplius
Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.
8 : aperi os tuum muto et causis omnium filiorum qui pertranseunt
Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.
9 : aperi os tuum decerne quod iustum est et iudica inopem et pauperem
Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.
10 : aleph mulierem fortem quis inveniet procul et de ultimis finibus pretium eius
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 : beth confidit in ea cor viri sui et spoliis non indigebit
The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 : gimel reddet ei bonum et non malum omnibus diebus vitae suae
She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13 : deleth quaesivit lanam et linum et operata est consilio manuum suarum
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 : he facta est quasi navis institoris de longe portat panem suum
She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 : vav et de nocte surrexit deditque praedam domesticis suis et cibaria ancillis suis
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
16 : zai consideravit agrum et emit eum de fructu manuum suarum plantavit vineam
She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
17 : heth accinxit fortitudine lumbos suos et roboravit brachium suum
She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18 : teth gustavit quia bona est negotiatio eius non extinguetur in nocte lucerna illius
She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 : ioth manum suam misit ad fortia et digiti eius adprehenderunt fusum
She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 : caph manum suam aperuit inopi et palmas suas extendit ad pauperem
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21 : lameth non timebit domui suae a frigoribus nivis omnes enim domestici eius vestiti duplicibus
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 : mem stragulam vestem fecit sibi byssus et purpura indumentum eius
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
23 : nun nobilis in portis vir eius quando sederit cum senatoribus terrae
Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
24 : samech sindonem fecit et vendidit et cingulum tradidit Chananeo
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 : ain fortitudo et decor indumentum eius et ridebit in die novissimo
Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 : phe os suum aperuit sapientiae et lex clementiae in lingua eius
She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 : sade considerat semitas domus suae et panem otiosa non comedet
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 : coph surrexerunt filii eius et beatissimam praedicaverunt vir eius et laudavit eam
Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 : res multae filiae congregaverunt divitias tu supergressa es universas
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 : sin fallax gratia et vana est pulchritudo mulier timens Dominum ipsa laudabitur
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 : thau date ei de fructu manuum suarum et laudent eam in portis opera eius
Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.