1 If they have appointed youas the banquet leader,don’t think too much of yourself;behave toward themas if you were one of them.Take care of their needsand then sit down.
2 When you have doneeverything necessary, recline,so that you can have fun with them,and because of your excellent behavioryou will receive a wreath.
3 Speak, you who are older,for it’s your privilege.But know what you’re talking about,and don’t interrupt the music.
4 Where there’s a performance,don’t talk too much,and don’t be clever at the wrong time.
5 A musical performance at a wine partyis like a ruby seal on a gold ornament.
6 Melodic music accompanying sweet wineis like an emerald sealin a setting of gold.
7 Speak, you who are young,if it’s necessary,but only twice,and only if you are asked.
8 Sum up what you have to say;much can be said in few words.Be like one who knowsbut who can keep silent.
9 When you are among the more influential, don’t presume authority;and where elders are present,don’t talk idly about many things.
10 Lightning comes before thunder,and good favor walksin front of a modest person.
11 Rise up to leave in time,and don’t be the last person out;go back to your own home,and don’t miss your workthe next day.
12 Enjoy yourself there,and do what you please,but don’t sin with arrogant words.
13 More than this,bless the one who made youand who lets you drink freelyfrom his good bounty.
14 Whoever fears the Lordwill accept instruction;those who rise earlywill find approval.
15 Whoever seeks the Lawwill be filled with it,but the hypocrite will stumble over it.
16 Those who fear the Lordwill discover his decree,and they will kindle righteous deedslike a lamp.
17 Sinful people turn away from correction;they will look for a judgmentthat suits them.
18 A well-advised personwon’t overlook an intelligent thought;the stranger and the arrogantwon’t cower out of fear.
19 Do nothing without deliberation,and when you have acted,don’t feel regret.
20 Don’t walk on a hazardous path,and don’t stumble on stony ground.
21 Don’t trust an unexplored road,
22 and be on guardconcerning your children.
23 Trust yourself in every action,because this also meanskeeping the commandments.
24 Whoever has faith in the Lawpays attention to the commandments;whoever trusts the Lordwon’t suffer loss.