1. The words of King Lemuel,an oracle that his mother taught him:
2. What should I say, my son?What, son of my womb? What, son of my vows?
3. Don’t spend your energy on womenor your efforts on those who destroy kings.
4. It is not for kings, Lemuel,it is not for kings to drink wine or for rulers to desire beer.
5. Otherwise, they will drink,forget what is decreed, and pervert justice for all the oppressed.
6. Give beer to one who is dyingand wine to one whose life is bitter.
7. Let him drink so that he can forget his povertyand remember his trouble no more.
8. Speak up for those who have no voice, for the justice of all who are dispossessed.
9. Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the oppressed and needy.
10. Who can find a capable wife? She is far more precious than jewels.
11. The heart of her husband trusts in her,and he will not lack anything good.
12. She rewards him with good, not evil,all the days of her life.
13. She selects wool and flaxand works with willing hands.
14. She is like the merchant ships,bringing her food from far away.
15. She rises while it is still night and provides food for her householdand portions for her female servants.
16. She evaluates a field and buys it;she plants a vineyard with her earnings.
17. She draws on her strength and reveals that her arms are strong.