2* It is the glory of God to conceal a matter,

and the glory of kings to fathom a matter.*

3Like the heavens in height, and the earth in depth,

the heart of kings is unfathomable.

4* Remove the dross from silver,

and it comes forth perfectly purified;

5Remove the wicked from the presence of the king,

and his throne is made firm through justice.

6* Claim no honor in the king’s presence,

nor occupy the place of superiors;

7For it is better to be told, “Come up closer!”

than to be humbled before the prince.b

8What your eyes have seen

do not bring forth too quickly against an opponent;

For what will you do later on

when your neighbor puts you to shame?

9* Argue your own case with your neighbor,

but the secrets of others do not disclose;

10Lest, hearing it, they reproach you,

and your ill repute never ceases.

11Golden apples in silver settings

are words spoken at the proper time.

12A golden earring or a necklace of fine gold—

one who gives wise reproof to a listening ear.

13Like the coolness of snow in the heat of the harvest

are faithful messengers for those who send them,

lifting the spirits of their masters.

14Clouds and wind but no rain—

the one who boasts of a gift not given.

15By patience is a ruler persuaded,c

and a soft tongue can break a bone.

16* If you find honey, eat only what you need,

lest you have your fill and vomit it up.

17Let your foot be seldom in your neighbors’ house,

lest they have their fill of you—and hate you.

18A club, sword, or sharp arrow—

the one who bears false witness against a neighbor.d

19A bad tooth or an unsteady foot—

a trust betrayed in time of trouble.*

20Like the removal of clothes on a cold day, or vinegar on soda,

is the one who sings to a troubled heart.

21* If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat,

if thirsty, give something to drink;e

22For live coals you will heap on their heads,

and the Lord will vindicate you.

23The north wind brings rain,

and a backbiting tongue, angry looks.

24It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop

than in a mansion with a quarrelsome wife.* f

25Cool water to one faint from thirst

is good news from a far country.

26A trampled fountain or a polluted spring—*

a just person fallen before the wicked.

27To eat too much honey is not good;

nor to seek honor after honor.*

28A city breached and left defenseless

are those who do not control their temper.