2 My son Lemuel, you were bornin answer to my prayers,so listen carefully.
3 Don't waste your lifechasing after women!This has ruined many kings.
4 Kings and leadersshould not get drunkor even want to drink.
5 Drinking makes you forgetyour responsibilities,and you ill-treat the poor.
6 Beer and wine are onlyfor the dying or for thosewho have lost all hope.
7 Let them drink and forgethow poor and miserablethey feel.
8 But you must defendthose who are helplessand have no hope.