25:1
Here are some more of Solomon's proverbs, transcribed at the court of Hezekiah king of Judah:
25:2
To conceal a matter, this is the glory of God, to sift it thoroughly, the glory of kings.
25:3
The heavens for height and the earth for depth, unfathomable, as are the hearts of kings.
25:4
From silver remove the dross and it emerges wholly purified;
25:5
from the king's presence remove the wicked and on uprightness his throne is founded.
25:6
In the presence of the king do not give yourself airs, do not take a place among the great;
25:7
better to be invited, 'Come up here', than be humiliated in the presence of the prince.
25:8
What your eyes have witnessed do not produce too quickly at the trial, for what are you to do at the end should your neighbour confute you?
25:9
Have the quarrel out with your neighbour. but do not disclose another's secret,
25:10
for fear your listener put you to shame, and the loss of repute be irremediable.
25:11
Like apples of gold inlaid with silver is a word that is aptly spoken.
25:12
A golden ring, an ornament of finest gold, is a wise rebuke to an attentive ear.
25:13
The coolness of snow in harvest time, such is a trustworthy messenger to those who send him: he revives the soul of his master.
25:14
Clouds and wind, but no rain: such is anyone whose promises are princely but never kept.
25:15
With patience a judge may be cajoled: a soft tongue breaks bones.
25:16
Eat to your satisfaction what honey you may find, but not to excess or you will bring it up again.
25:17
Do not set foot too often in your neighbour's house, for fear the neighbour tire of you and come to hate you.
25:18
A mace, a sword, a piercing arrow, such is anyone who bears false witness against a companion.
25:19
Decaying tooth, lame foot, such is the fickle when trusted in time of trouble:
25:20
as well take off your coat in bitter weather. You are pouring vinegar on a wound when you sing songs to a sorrowing heart.
25:21
If your enemy is hungry, give him something to eat; if thirsty, something to drink.
25:22
By this you will be heaping red-hot coals on his head, and Yahweh will reward you.
25:23
The north wind begets the rain, and a backbiting tongue, black looks.
25:24
Better the corner of a roof to live on than a house shared with a quarrelsome woman.
25:25
Cold water to a thirsty throat; such is good news from a distant land.
25:26
A churned -- up spring, a fountain fouled; such is the upright person trembling before the wicked.
25:27
It is not good to eat too much honey, nor to seek for glory on top of glory.
25:28
An open town, and without defences: such is anyone who lacks self-control.
Previous
Next