Proverbs

²When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan. ³A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. ⁴By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down. ⁵Those who flatter their neighbors are spreading nets for their feet. ⁶Evildoers are snared by their own sin, but the righteous shout for joy and are glad. ⁷The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern. ⁸Mockers stir up a city, but the wise turn away anger.