1No evil can harm the one who fears the Lord;

through trials, again and again he is rescued.a

2Whoever hates the law is without wisdom,

and is tossed about like a boat in a storm.

3The prudent trust in the word of the Lord,

and the law is dependable for them as a divine oracle.*

4Prepare your words and then you will be listened to;

draw upon your training, and give your answer.

5Like the wheel of a cart is the mind of a fool,

and his thoughts like a turning axle.

6A mocking friend is like a stallion

that neighs, no matter who the rider may be.

7* Why is one day more important than another,

when the same sun lights up every day of the year?

8By the Lord’s knowledge they are kept distinct;

and he designates the seasons and feasts.b

9Some he exalts and sanctifies,

and others he lists as ordinary days.c

10Likewise, all people are of clay,

and from earth humankind was formed;d

11In the fullness of his knowledge the Lord distinguished them,

and he designated their different ways.

12Some he blessed and exalted,

and some he sanctified and drew to himself.

Others he cursed and brought low,

and expelled them from their place.

13Like clay in the hands of a potter,

to be molded according to his pleasure,

So are people in the hands of their Maker,

to be dealt with as he decides.e

14As evil contrasts with good, and death with life,

so are sinners in contrast with the godly.f

15See now all the works of the Most High:

they come in pairs, one the opposite of the other.

16Now I am the last to keep vigil,*

like a gleaner following the grape-pickers;

17Since by the Lord’s blessing I have made progress

till like a grape-picker I have filled my wine press,

18Consider that not for myself only have I labored,

but for all who seek instruction.