Proverbs

²When the [uncompromisingly] righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked man rules, the people groan and sigh. ³Whoever loves skillful and godly Wisdom rejoices his father, but he who associates with harlots wastes his substance. ⁴The king by justice establishes the land, but he who exacts gifts and tribute overthrows it. ⁵A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his own feet. ⁶In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare, but the [uncompromisingly] righteous man sings and rejoices. ⁷The [consistently] righteous man knows and cares for the rights of the poor, but the wicked man has no interest in such knowledge. [Job 29:16; 31:13; Ps. 41:1.] ⁸Scoffers set a city afire [inflaming the minds of the people], but wise men turn away wrath.