Proverbs 28:1-16 ▼

1 The wicked flee when there is no one pursuing, But the righteous are secure as a lion.

2 By the transgression of a land many are its princes, But by a man who understands, who knows, so it endures.

3 A poor man who oppresses the lowly Is a driving rain which leaves no food.

4 Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, But those who keep the law strive with them.

5 Evil men do not understand justice, But those who seek Yahweh understand all things.

6 Better is the poor who walks in his integrity Than he who is crooked—double dealing—though he be rich.

7 He who observes the law is a son who understands, But he who befriends gluttons humiliates his father.

8 He who increases his wealth by interest and usury Gathers it for him who is gracious to the lowly.

9 He who turns away his ear from listening to the law, Even his prayer is an abomination.

10 He who leads the upright astray in an evil way Will himself fall into his own pit, But the blameless will inherit good.

11 The rich man is wise in his own eyes, But the lowly who understands searches him.

12 When the righteous exult, there is great honor, But when the wicked rise, man has to be sought out.

13 He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, But he who confesses and forsakes them will receive compassion.

14 How blessed is the man who is always in dread, But he who hardens his heart will fall into calamity.

15 Like a roaring lion and a rushing bear Is a wicked ruler over a poor people.

16 A leader who lacks discernment abounds in oppressions, But he who hates greedy gain will prolong his days.