1. Do not envy the wicked,nor desire to be with them;
2. For their hearts plot violence,and their lips speak of foul play.
3. By wisdom a house is built,by understanding it is established;
4. And by knowledge its rooms are filledwith every precious and pleasing possession.
5. The wise are more powerful than the strong,and the learned, than the mighty,
6. For by strategy war is waged,and victory depends on many counselors.
7. Wise words are beyond fools’ reach,in the assembly they do not open their mouth;
8. As they calculate how to do evil,people brand them troublemakers.
9. The scheme of a fool gains no acceptance,the scoffer is an abomination to the community.
10. Did you fail in a day of adversity,did your strength fall short?
11. Did you fail to rescue those who were being dragged off to death,those tottering, those near death,
12. because you said, “We didn’t know about it”?Surely, the Searcher of hearts knowsand will repay all according to their deeds.
13. If you eat honey, my son, because it is good,if pure honey is sweet to your taste,
14. Such, you must know, is wisdom to your soul.If you find it, you will have a future,and your hope will not be cut off.
15. Do not lie in wait at the abode of the just,do not ravage their dwelling places;