Study Desk

Do not say, "I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for his deed."

As the heavens for height and the earth for depth, So the hearts and minds of kings are unsearchable.

Take away the dross from the silver, And there comes out [the pure metal for] a vessel for the silversmith [to shape].

For it is better that it be said to you, "Come up here," Than for you to be placed lower in the presence of the prince, Whom your eyes have seen.

Like the cold of snow [brought from the mountains] in the time of harvest, So is a faithful messenger to those who send him; For he refreshes the life of his masters.

For in doing so, you will heap coals of fire upon his head, And the LORD will reward you.

Like a city that is broken down and without walls [leaving it unprotected] Is a man who has no self-control over his spirit [and sets himself up for trouble].

Like snow in summer and like rain in harvest, So honor is not fitting for a [shortsighted] fool.

A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, And a rod for the backs of fools [who refuse to learn].

Do you see a man [who is unteachable and] wise in his own eyes and full of self-conceit? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

For lack of wood the fire goes out, And where there is no whisperer [who gossips], contention quiets down.

When he speaks graciously and kindly [to conceal his malice], do not trust him, For seven abominations are in his heart.

Whoever digs a pit [for another man's feet] will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone [up a hill to do mischief], it will come back on him.

Do not boast about tomorrow, For you do not know what a day may bring.

[The judge tells the creditor,] "Take the garment of one who is surety (guarantees a loan) for a stranger; And hold him in pledge when he is surety for an immoral woman [for it is unlikely the debt will be repaid]."

He who blesses his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning, It will be counted as a curse to him [for it will either be annoying or his purpose will be suspect].

He who tends the fig tree will eat its fruit, And he who faithfully protects and cares for his master will be honored.

The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold [to separate the impurities of the metal], And each is tested by the praise given to him [and his response to it, whether humble or proud].

For riches are not forever, Nor does a crown endure to all generations.

The lambs will supply wool for your clothing, And the goats will bring the price of a field.