27The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life,
         That one may avoid the snares of death.

28In a multitude of people is a king’s glory,
         But in the dearth of people is a prince’s ruin.

29He who is slow to anger has great understanding,
         But he who is quick-tempered exalts folly.

30A tranquil heart is life to the body,
         But passion is rottenness to the bones.

31He who oppresses the poor taunts his Maker,
         But he who is gracious to the needy honors Him.

32The wicked is thrust down by his wrongdoing,
         But the righteous has a refuge when he dies.

33Wisdom rests in the heart of one who has understanding,
         But in the hearts of fools it is made known.

34Righteousness exalts a nation,
         But sin is a disgrace to any people.

35The king’s favor is toward a servant who acts wisely,
         But his anger is toward him who acts shamefully.

NASB ©1995