18 The wicked earn deceptive wages, but a sower of righteousness reaps a true reward.
19 Steadfast righteousness leads to life, but pursuing evil ends in death.
20 Perverse hearts are an abomination to Adonai. His favor is on those blameless in their ways.
21 Be sure, the evil will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered.
22 Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion.
23 The desire of the righteous is only good, but the hope of the wicked only wrath.
24 One gives freely, yet gains even more. Another withholds unjustly, and comes to poverty.