God's First Truth: Tyndale/Rogers


The Proverbs of Solomon

The First Chapter.

The proverbs of Solomon the son of David King of Israel: To learn wisdom, instruction, understanding, prudence, righteousness, judgment and equity. That the very babes might have wit, and that young men might have knowledge and understanding. By hearing, the wise man shall come by more wisdom: and by experience he shall be more apt to understand a parable, and the interpretation thereof, the words of the wise, and the dark speeches of the same. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

My son, hear thy fathers doctrine, and forsake not the law of thy mother: for that shall bring grace unto thy head, and shall be a chain about thy neck. My son, consent not unto sinners, if they entice thee, and say: Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, and lurk privily for the innocent without a cause: Let us swallow them up like the hell, let us swallow them quick and whole, as those that go down into the pit. So we shall find all manner of costly riches, and fill our houses with spoils. Cast in thy lot among us, we shall have all one purse.

My son, walk not thou with them, refrain thy foot from their ways. For their feet run to evil, and are hasty to shed blood. But in vain is the net laid forth before the birds eyes. Yee they themselves lay wait one for anothers blood and one of them would slay another. These are the ways as all such as be covetous, that one would ravish anothers life.

Wisdom crieth without and putteth forth her voice in the streets. She calleth before the congregation in the open gates, and showeth her words throw the city saying: O' ye children how long will ye live childishly? how long will the scorners delight in scorning, and the unwise be enemies unto knowledge? O' turn you unto my correction: lo, I will express my mind unto you, and make you understand my words. Seeing then that I have called, and ye refused it, I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded it, but all my counsels ye have despised and set my corrections to naught. Therefore shall I also laugh in your destruction, and mock you, when the thing that you fear cometh upon you: even when the thing that ye be afraid of, falleth in suddenly like a storm, and your misery like a tempest: yee when trouble and heaviness come upon you. Then shall they call upon me, but I will not hear: they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me: And that because they hated knowledge, and received not fear of the Lord, but abhorred my counsel, and despised my correction. Therefore shall they eat the fruits of their own way, and be filled with their own counsels: for the turning away of the unwise shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall be their own destruction. But who so hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and have enough without any fear of evil.



The Second Chapter.

My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and keep (KJV =hide) my commandments by thee, that thine ear may hearken unto wisdom, apply thine heart then to understanding. For if thou criest after wisdom, and callest after knowledge: If thou seekest her as after money, and diggest for her as for treasures: then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For it is the Lord that giveth wisdom, out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He preserveth the welfare of the righteous, and defendeth them that walk innocently: He keepeth them in the right path, and preserveth the way of his saints. Then shalt thou understand righteousness, judgment and equity, yee and every good path. If wisdom enter into thine heart, and thy soul delight in knowledge: then shall counsel preserve thee, and understanding shall keep thee. That thou mayest be delivered from the evil way, and from the man that speaketh *froward things. (froward means: stubbornly contrary) From such as leave the high street, and walk in the ways of darkness: Which rejoice in doing evil, and delight in wicked things: Whose ways are crooked, and their paths *sclanderous .( appears that middle English had one word for scandal and slanderous.) That thou mayest be delivered from the strange woman, and from her that is not thine own: which giveth sweet words, forsaketh the husband of her youth, and fogeteth the covenant of her God. For her house is inclineth unto death, and her paths into hell. All they that go unto her, come not again, neither take they hold of the way of life. That thou mayest walk in the good way, (KJV = of good men) and keep the paths of the righteous. For the just shall dwell in the land, and the *innocent (KJV =perfect) shall remain in it. but the ungodly shall be rooted out of the land, and the wicked doers shall be taken out of it.

The Third Chapter

O' my son, forget not my law, but see that thine heart keep my commandments. For they shall prolong the days and years of thy life, and bring thee peace. Let mercy and faithfulness never go from thee: bind them about thy neck, and write them upon the tables of thine heart. So shalt thou find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and men. Put thy trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and he shall order thy goings. Be not wise in thine own conceit, but fear the Lord, and depart from evil: so shall thy navel be whole, and thy bones strong.

Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstlings of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenteousness, and thy presses shall flow over with new wine. My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord, neither faint when thou are rebuked of him. For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth: and yet delighteth in him even as a father in his own son. Well is him that findeth wisdom, and obtaineth understanding, for the getting of it is better than any merchandise of silver, and the profit is better than gold. Wisdom is more worth than precious stones, and all the things that thou canst desire, are not to be compared unto her. Upon her right hand is long life, and upon her left hand is riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, and her paths are peaceable. She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her, and blessed are they that keep her fast.

With wisdom hath the Lord layed the foundation of the earth, and through understanding hath he stablished the heavens. Through his wisdom the deeps break up, and the clouds drop down of the dew. My son, let not these things depart from thine eyes, but keep my law and my counsel: So it be life unto thy soul, and grace unto thy mouth. Then shalt thou walk safely in thy way, and thy foot shall not stumble. If thou sleepest thou shalt not be afraid, but shall take thy rest and sleep sweetly. Thou needest not be afraid of any sudden fear, neither for the violent rushing of the ungodly, when it cometh. For the Lord shall besiege thee and keep thy foot that thou be not taken. Refuse not to do good unto him that should have it, so long as thine hand is able to do it. Say not unto thy neighbor: Go thy way and come again, tomorrow I will give thee: where as thou hast now to give him. Intend no hurt unto thy neighbor, seeing he hopeth to dwell in rest by thee. Strive not lightly with any man, where as he hath done thee no harm. Follow not a wicked man, and choose none of his ways: for the Lord abhoreth the froward, but his secret is among the righteous. The curse of the Lord is in the house of the ungodly, but he blesseth the dwellings of the righteous. As for the scornful, he shall laugh them to scorn, but he shall give grace unto the lowly. The wise shall have honor in possession, but shame is the promotion that fools shall have.

The Fourth Chapter

Hear, O' ye children, the fatherly exhortation, and take good heed, that ye may learn wisdom. Yee I shall give you a good *reward, (KJV =doctrine) if ye will not forsake my law. For when I my self was my fathers dear son, and tenderly beloved of my mother, he taught me also, saying: Let thine heart receive my words, keep my commandments, and thou shalt live. Get thee wisdom, get thee understanding, forget not the words of my mouth, and shrink not from them. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. The chief point of wisdom is, that thou be willing to obtain wisdom, and before all thy goods to get understanding. Make much of her and she shall promote thee: Yee if thou embrace her, she shall bring thee unto honor.

She shall make thee a gracious head, and garnish thee with a crown of glory. Hear, my son, and receive my words, that the years of thy life may be many. I will show thee, the way of wisdom, and lead thee in the right paths. So if thou goest therin, the way of wisdom, there shall no *straiteness hinder thee: and when thou runnest, thou shalt not fall. Take fast hold of doctrine, let her not go: keep her for she is thy life. Come not in the path of the ungodly, and walk not in the way of the wicked. Eschue it, and go not therin: depart aside, and pass over by it. For they cannot sleep, except they have first done some mischief: neither take they any rest, except they have first done some harm. For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of *robbery. (KJV =violence) The path of the righteous shineth as the light, and is ever brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. But the way of the ungodly is as the darkness, wherein men fall, or they be a war.

My son, *mark my words, and incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes, keep them even in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto all those that find them, and health unto all their bodies. Keep thine heart with all diligence, for there upon hangeth life. KJV =out of it [are] the issues of life. Put away from thee a *froward mouth, and let the lips of *sclaunder be far from thee. (*See in Ch 2) Let thine eyes behold the thing that is right, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, so shall all thy ways be sure. Turn not aside, neither to the right hand nor to the left, but withhold thy foot from evil. *mark my words. here is the "mark" as those marked in the heart are seen of God to love the truth. 2 Thess 2 RN

The Fifth Chapter.

My son, give heed unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my *prudence: that thou mayest regard good counsel, and that thy lips may keep nurture. For the lips of a harlot are a dropping honeycomb, and her throat is softer than oil. But at the last she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a two edged sword. Her feet go down unto death, and her steps pierce through unto hell. She regardeth not the path of life, so unsteadfast are her ways, that thou canst not know them. Hear me therefore, ( O' my son ) and depart not from the words of my mouth. Keep thy way far from her, and come not nigh the doors of her house. That thou give not thine honor unto another, and thy years to the cruel. That other men be not filled with thy goods, and thy labors come not in a strange house. Yee that thou mourn not at the last, ( when thou hast spent thy body and goods ) and then say: Alas, why hated I nurture? why did my heart despise correction? Wherefore was not I obedient unto the voice of my teachers, and hearken not unto them that informed me? Iam come almost into all my misfortune, in the midst of the multitude and congregation. Drink of the water of thine own well, and of the rivers that run out of thine own springs. Let the wells flow out abroad, that there may be rivers of water in the streets: but let them be only thine own, and not strangers with thee. *prudence = caution and the ability to see out comes of actions.

Let thy well be blessed, and be glad with the wife of thy youth. Loving is the *hind and friendly is the Roo: let her breasts always satisfy thee, and hold thee ever content with her love. My son, wilt thou have pleasure in an harlot, and embrace the bosom of another woman? For every mans ways are open in the sight of the Lord, and he pondereth all their goings. The wickedness of the ungodly shall catch himself, and with the snares of his own sins shall he be trapped. Because he would not be reformed, he shall die: and for his great foolishness he shall be destroyed.

*hind is from the Hebrew sacrifical ram

The Sixth Chapter.

My son, if thou be surety for thy neighbor, thou hast fastened thy hand with another man: yee thou art bound with thine own words, and taken with thine own speach. Therefore my son, do this: discharge thyself, for thou art come into thy neighbors danger. Go thy way then soon, and entreat thy neighbor: let not thine eyes sleep ner thine eyelids to slumber. Save thyself as a doe from the hand, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler. Go to the *Emmet (ant) ( thou sluggard) consider her ways, and learn to be wise. She hath no guide, no teacher, no leader: yet in the Summer she provideth her increase, and gathereth her food together in the harvest. How long wilt thou sleep, thou sluggish man? When wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? Yee sleep on still alittle, slumber alittle, fold thy hands together yet alittle, that thou mayest sleep: so shall poverty come unto thee as one that travaileth by the way, and necessity like a weaponed man. A dissembling person, a wicked man goeth with a froward mouth, he winketh with his eyes, he tokeneth with his feet, he pointeth with his fingers, he is ever imagining mischief and frowardness in his heart, and causeth discord. Therefore shall his destruction come hastily upon him, suddenly shall he be all broken, and not healed.

There be six things which the Lord hateth, and the seventh he utterly abhoreth: A proud look, a dissembling (KJV= lying) tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, an heart that goeth about with wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to do mischief, a false witness that bringeth up lies, and such one as soweth discord among brethren. My son, keep thy fathers commandments, and forsake not the law of thy mother. Put them up together in thine heart, and bind them about thy neck. That they may lead thee where thou goest, preserve the when thou art a sleep, and when thou awakest, thou mayest talk of them. For the commandment is a lantern, and the law a light: yee chastening and nurture is the way of life: that we may keep thee from the evil woman, and flattering tongue of the harlot: that thou lust not after her beauty in thine heart, and lest thou be taken with her fair looks. An Harlot will make a man to beg for his bread, but a married woman will hunt for that precious life. Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burnt? Or can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be hurt? Even so, whosoever goeth in to his neighbors wife, and toucheth her shall not be unguilty. Men do not utterly despise a thief, that stealeth to satisfy his soul, when he is hungry: But if he may be gotten, he restoreth seven times as much, or else he maketh recompense with all the goods of his house. But whoso committeth advoutry with a woman, he is a fool, and bringeth his life to destruction. He getteth himself also shame and dishonor, such as shall never be put out. For the jealousy and wrath of the man will not be entreated, no though thou wouldest offer him great gifts to make amends, he will not receive them.



The Seventh Chapter.

My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments by thee. Keep my commandments and my law even as the apple of thine eye, and thou shalt live. Bind them upon thy fingers, write them in the table of thine heart. Say unto wisdom: Thou art my sister, and call understanding thy kinswoman: That she may keep thee from the strange woman, and from the harlot which giveth sweet words. From the window of my house I looked through the trellis, and beheld the simple people: and among other young folks I spied one young fool going over the streets, by the corner in the way toward the harlots house in the twilight of the evening, when it began now to be night and dark. And behold, there met him a woman in an harlots apparel ( a deceitful, wanton and an unsteadfast woman: whos feet could not abide in the house, now is she without, now in the streets, and lurketh in every corner.) She caught the young man, kissed him, and was not ashamed, saying: I had a vow to pay, and this day I perform it. Therefore I came forth to meet thee, that I might seek thy face, and so I have found thee. I have decked my bed with coverings and clothes of Egypt. My bed have I made with to smell of Myrrh, Aloes, and Cinnamon. Come, let us lie together, and take our pleasure till it be day light. For the goodman is not at home, he is gone a far off. He hath taken the bag of money with him: who can tell when he cometh home? Thus with many sweet words she over came him, and with her flattering lips she *wanne him. *wanne from wane meaning to gradually reduce and subdue. This is to say in the spirit, as she leadeth to hell. RN

Immediately he followed her, as it were an ox to the slaughter ( like as it were to the stocks, where fools are punished ) so long till he had wounded his liver with her dart: like as if a bird hasted to the snare, not knowing that the peril of his life lieth thereupon. Hear me now therefore, O' my son, and mark the words of my mouth. Let not thine heart wander in her ways, and be not thou deceived in her paths. For many a strong man hath she slain. Her houses is the way to hell, where men go down into the chambers of death.

The Eighth Chapter

Doth not wisdom cry? doeth not understanding put forth her voice? Standeth she not in the high places of the streets, and ways? Doeth she not cry before the whole city, and in the gates where men go out and in? Is it you, O' ye men,( sayeth she) whom I call? Unto you ( O' ye children of men ) lift up I my voice. Take heed unto knowledge O' ye ignorant, be wise in heart O' ye fools. Give ear, for I will speak of great matters, and open my lips to tell things that be right. For my mouth shall be talking of the truth, and my lips abhor ungodliness. All the words of my mouth are righteousness, there is no froward nor fallacies therin. They are all plain to such as will understand, and right to them that find knowledge. Receive my doctrine therefore, and not silver: and my knowledge, more than fine gold. For wisdom is more worth than precious stones, yee all the things that thou canst desire, are not to be compared unto it.

I wisdom have my dwelling with knowledge, and prudent counsel is my own. With me is the fear of the Lord, and the eschewing of evil. As for pride, disdain, and evil way, and a mouth that speaketh wicked things, I utterly abhor them. I can give counsel, and be a guide: I have understanding, I have strength. Through me, Kings reign: through me, princes make just laws. Through me, Lords bear rule, and all judges of the earth execute judgement. Iam loving unto those that love me, and they that seek me early, shall find me. Riches and honor are with me, yee excellent goods and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, and precious stone, and mine increase more worth than silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, and in the street of judgment.

That I may send prosperity to those that love me, and to increase their treasure. The Lord himself had me in possession in the beginning of his ways, or ever he began his works afore time. I have been ordained from everlasting, and from the beginning, or ever the earth was made. When I was born, there were neither depths nor springs of water. Before the foundations of the mountains were layed, yee before all hills was I born. The earth and all that is upon the earth was not yet made, no not the ground itself. Fro when he made the heavens, I was present: when he set up the depths in order: when he hanged the clouds above: when he fastened the springs of the deep: When he shut the sea within certain bounds, that the waters should not go over their marks. When he layed the foundations of the earth I was with him, ordering all things, delighting daily, and rejoicing all the way before him.

As for the round compass of his world, I make it joyful: for my delight is to be among the children of men. Therefore harken unto me, O' ye children, for blessed are they that keep my ways. O' give ear unto nurture, be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, and giving attendance at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me, findeth life, and shall obtain favor of the Lord. But whoso offendeth against me, hurteth his own soul. All they that hate me, are lovers of death.

The Ninth Chapter.

Wisdom hath builded herself an house, and hewn out seven pillars: She hath killed her vitailes, *poured out her wine, and prepared her table. ( KJV =beasts; she hath mingled her wine ) She hath sent forth her maidens to cry upon the highest place of the city: Whoso is ignorant, let him come hither. And to the unwise she said: O' come on your way, eat my bread, and drink my wine, which I have poured out for you. forsake ignorance, and ye shall live: and see that ye go in the way of understanding. Who so reproveth a scornful person, getteth himself dishonor: and he that rebuketh the ungodly, staineth himself. Reprove not a scorner, lest he owe the evil will: but rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. Give a discrete man but occasion, and he will be the wiser, teach a righteous man, and he will increase. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of holy things is understanding. For through me thy days shall be prolonged, and the years of thy life shall be many. If thou be wise thy wisdom shall do thyself good: but if thou thinkest scorn thereof, it shall be thine own harm.

A foolish restless woman, full of words, and such one as hath no knowledge, sitteth in the doors of her house upon a stool above in the city, to call such as go by, and walk straight in their ways. Who so is ignorant ( sayeth she ) let him come hither, and to the unwise she sayeth: stolen waters are sweet, and the bread that is privately eaten, hath good taste. But they consider not that death is there, and that her guests go down to hell.

The Tenth Chapter.

The Parables of Solomon

A wise son maketh a glad father, but an indiscreet son is the heaviness of his mother.

Treasures that are wickedly gotten, profit nothing, but righteousness delivereth from death.

The Lord will not let the soul of the righteous suffer hunger, but he putteth the ungodly from his desire.

An idle hand maketh poor, but a quick laboring hand maketh rich.

Who so gathereth in summer is wise: but he that is sluggish in harvest, bringeth himself to confusion.

Loving and favorable is the face of the righteous, but the forehead of the ungodly is past shame, and presumptuous.

The memorial of the just shall have a good report, but the name of the ungodly shall stink.

A wise man will receive warning, but fool will sooner be smitten in the face.

He that leadeth an innocent life, walketh surely: but who so goeth a wrong way, shall be known.

He that winketh with his eye, will do some harm: but he that hath a foolish mouth shall be beaten.

The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life, but the mouth of the ungodly is past shame, and presumptuous.

Evil will stirreth up strife, but love covereth the multitude of sins.

In the lips of him that hath understanding a man shall find wisdom, but the rod belongeth to the back of the foolish.

Wise men lay up knowledge, but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.

The rich mans goods are his stronghold, but poverty oppresseth the poor.

The righteous laboureth to do good, but the ungodly useth his increase unto sin.

To take heed unto the chastening of nurture, is the way of life: but he that refuseth to be reformed, goeth wrong.

Disassembling lips keep hatred secretly, and he that speaketh any slander is a fool.

Where much babbling is, there must needs be offense: he that refraineth his lips is wisest of all.

An innocent tongue is a noble treasure, but the heart of the ungodly is worth nothing.

The lips of the righteous feed a whole multitude, but fools shall die in their own folly.

The blessing of the Lord, maketh rich men, as for careful travail, it doth nothing thereto.

A fool doth wickedly make sport of it: nevertheless it is wisdom for a man to beware of such.

The thing that the ungodly are afraid of, shall come upon them, but the righteous shall have their desire.

The ungodly is like a tempest that passeth over, and is no more seen, but the righteous remaineth sure forever.

As vinegar is to the teeth, and as smoke is to the eyes, even so is the sluggish person to them that send him forth..

The fear of the Lord maketh a long life, but the years of the ungodly shall be shortened.

The patient abiding of the righteous shall be turned to gladness, but the hope of the ungodly shall perish.

The way of the Lord giveth a courage to the godly, but it is a fear for the wicked doers.

The righteous shall never be overthrown, but the ungodly shall not remain in the land.

The mouth of the just will be talking of wisdom, but the tongue of the froward shall perish.

The lips of the righteous are occupied in acceptable things, but the mouth of the ungodly taketh them to the worst.

The Eleventh Chapter.

A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a true weight pleaseth him.

Where pride is, there is shame also and confusion: but where as is lowliness, there is wisdom.

The innocent dealings of the just shall lead them, but the unfaithfulness of the despisers shall be their own destruction.

Riches help not in the day of vengeance, but righteousness delivereth from death.

The righteousness of the innocent ordereth his way, but the ungodly shall fall by his own wickedness.

The righteousness of the just shall deliver them, but the dispisers shall be taken in their own ungodliness.

When an ungodly man dieth, his hope is gone, the confidence of riches shall perish.

The righteous shall be delivered out of trouble, and the ungodly shall come in his stead.

Through the mouth of the disassembler is his neighbor destroyed, but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.

When it goeth well with the righteous, the city is merry: and when the ungodly perish, there is gladness.

When the just are in wealth, the city prospereth: but when the ungodly have the rule, it decayeth.

A fool bringeth up a sclander of his neighbor, but a wise man will keep it secret.

A disasembling person will discover privy things, but he that is of a faithful heart, will keep counsel.

Where no good counsel is there the people decay: but where as many are that can give counsel, there is wealth.

He that is surety for a stranger, hurteth himself: but he that meddleth not with suretyship, is sure.

A gracious woman maintaineth honesty, as for the mighty, they maintain riches.

He that hath a gentle liberal stomach is merciful: but who so hurteth his neighbor, is a tyrant.

The labor of the ungodly prospereth not, but he that showeth righteousness, shall receive a sure reward.

Like as righteousness bringeth forth life: even so to cleave to evil bringeth death.

The Lord abhorreth a *fained heart, but he hath pleasure in them that are undefiled. *fained here is an obliged

It shall not help the wicked though they lay all their hands together, but the seed of the righteous shall be preserved.

A fair woman without discreet manners, is like a ring of gold in a swines snout.

The just labor for peace and tranquility, but the ungodly for disquietness.

Some man giveth out his goods, and is richer, but the *nigard ( having enough) will depart from nothing, and is yet ever in poverty. *nigard= cheap, miserly, petty.

He that is liberal in giving, shall have plenty: and he that watereth, shall be watered also himself.

Who so hordeth up his corn, shall be cursed among the people: but blessing shall light upon the head of him that selleth it. corn from the Hebrew is "increase" as of the spirit even equity in our dealings with one another. RN

He that laboreth for honesty findeth his desire: but who so seeketh after mischief, it shall happen unto him.

He that trusteth in his riches shall fall, but the righteous shall flourish as the green leaf.

Who so maketh disquietness in his own house, he shall have wind for his heritage, and the fool shall be servant to the wise.

The fruit of the righteous is as the tree of life; a wise man also winneth mens souls.

If the righteous be recompensed upon the earth, how much more then the ungodly and the sinner?

The Twelfth Chapter.

Whoso loveth wisdom, will be content to be reformed: but he that hateth to be reproofed is a fool.

A good man is acceptable unto the Lord: but the wicked will he condemn.

A man cannot endure in ungodliness, but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.

A steadfast woman is a crown unto her husband: but she that behaveth herself unhonestly is a corruption in his bones.

The thoughts of the righteous are right, but the imagination of the ungodly are deceitful.

The talking of the ungodly is how they may lie wait for blood, but the mouth of the righteous shall deliver them.

Or ever thou canst turn thee about, the ungodly shall be overthrown: but the house of the righteous shall stand.

A man shall be commended for his wisdom, but a fool shall be despised.

A simple man which laboreth and worketh, is better than one that is gorgeous and wanteth bread.

A righteous man regardeth the life of his cattle, but the ungodly have cruel hearts.

He that tilleth his land, shall have plenteous of bread: but he that followeth idleness, is a very fool.

The desire of the ungodly hunteth after mischief, but the root of the righteous bringeth forth fruit.

The wicked falleth into the snare thrown, the malice of his own mouth, but the just shall escape out of peril.

Every man enjoyeth good according to the innocency of his mouth, and after the works of his hands shall he be rewarded.

Look what a fool taketh in hand, he thinketh it well done: but he that is wise, will be counseled.

A fool uttereth his wrath in all the hast, but a discreet man forgiveth wrong.

A just man will tell the truth, and show the thing that is right: but a false witness deceiveth.

A scanderlous person pricketh like a sword, but a wise mans tongue is wholesome.

A true mouth is ever constant, but a disassembling tongue is soon changed.

They that imagine evil in their mind, will deceive: but the counselors of peace shall have joy following them.

There shall no misfortune happen to the just, but the ungodly shall be filled with misery.

The Lord abhoreth deceitful lips, but they that labor for truth please him.

He that hath understanding can hide his wisdom: but an indiscreet heart telleth out his foolishness.

A diligent hand shall bear rule, but the idle shall be under tribute.

Heaviness discourageth the heart of man, but a good word maketh it glad again.

The righteous is liberal unto his neighbor, but the way of the ungodly decieveth themselves.

A deceitful man shall find no vantage, but he that is content with that he hath is more worth than gold.

In the way of righteousness there is life, as for any other way it is the path unto death.

The Thirteenth Chapter

A wise son will receive his fathers warning, but he that is scornful, will not hear when he is reproved.

A good man shall enjoy the fruit of his mouth, but he that hath a froward mind shall be spoiled.

He that keepeth his mouth, keepeth his life: but who so speaketh unadvised, findeth harm.

The sluggard would faine have, and cannot get his desire: but the soul of the diligent shall have plenty. fained is an obliged, or required/ willing

A righteous man abhoreth lies, but the ungodly shameth both other and himself.

Righteousness keepeth the innocent in the way, but ungodliness shall overthrow the sinner.

Some men are rich, though they have nothing: again some men are poor having great riches.

With goods every man delivereth his life, and the poor will not be reproved.

The light of the righteous maketh joyful, but the candle of the ungodly shall be put out.

Among the proud there is ever strife, but among those that doeth all things with advisement, there is wisdom.

Hastily gotten goods are soon spent, but they that be gathered together with the hand, shall increase.

Long tarring for a thing that is deferred, grieveth the heart: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

Whoso despiseth the word, destroyeth himself: but he that feareth the commandment shall have peace.

The law is a well of life unto the wise, that it may keep him from the snares of death.

Good understanding giveth favor, but hard is the way of the despisers.

A wise man doeth all things with discretion, but a fool will declare his folly.

An ungodly messenger bringeth mischief, but a faithful ambassador is wholesome.

He that thinketh scorn to be reformed, cometh to poverty and shame: but who so receiveth correction, shall come to honor.

When a desire is brought to pass, it delighteth the soul: but fools abhor him that eschueth evil.

He that goeth in the company of wise men, shall be wise: but who so is a companion of fools shall be hurt.

Mischief followeth upon sinners, but the righteous shall have a good reward.

Which their childrens children shall have in possession, for the riches of the sinner is layed up for the just.

There is plenteousness of food is in the fields of the poor, and shall be increased out of measure.

He that spareth his rod, hateth his son: but who so loveth him, holdeth him ever in nurture.

The righteous eateth, and is satisfied, but the belly of the ungodly hath never enough.

The Fourteenth Chapter

A wise woman upholdeth her house, but a foolish wife plucketh it down.

Who so feareth the Lord, walketh in the right path: and regardeth not him that abhorreth the ways of the Lord.

In the mouth of the foolish is the boasting of lordship, but the lips of the wise will beware of such.

Where no oxen are, the crib is empty: but where the oxen labor there is much fruit.

A faithful witness will disassemble, but a false record will make a lie.

A scornful body seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy to come by, unto him that will understand.

See that thou meddle not with a fool, and do as though thou haddest no knowledge.

The wisdom of him that hath understanding is, to take heed unto his way, but the foolishness of the unwise deceiveth.

Fools make but of sport of sin, but there is favorable love among the righteous.

The heart of him that hath understanding will neither despair for any sorrow, ner be too presumptuous for any sudden joy.

The houses of the ungodly shall be overthrown, but the tabernacles of the righteous shall flourish.

There is a way which some men think to be right, but the end thereof leadeth unto death.

The heart is sorrowful even in laughter, and the end of mirth is heaviness.

An unfaithful person shall be filled with his own ways, but a good man will beware of such.

An ignorant body believeth all things, but who so hath understanding, looketh well to his goings.

A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil, but a fool goeth on presumptuously.

An unpatient man dealeth foolishly, but he that is well advised, doth other ways.

The ignorant have foolishness in possession, but the wise are crowned with knowledge.

The evil shall bow themselves before the good, and the ungodly shall wait at the doors of the righteous.

The poor is hated even of his own neighbors, but the rich hath many friends.

Who so despiseth his neighbor, doth amiss: but blessed is he that hath pity of the poor.

They that imagine wickedness, shall be disappointed: but they that muse upon good things, unto such shall happen mercy and faithfulness.

Diligent labor bringeth riches, but where many vain words are, truly there is scarceness.

Riches are an ornament unto the wise, but the ignorance of fools is very foolishness.

A faithful witness delivereth souls, but a liar deceiveth them.

The fear of the Lord is a stronghold, for unto his he will be a sure defense.

The fear of the Lord is a well of life, to avoid the snares of death.

The increase and prosperity of the commons is the Kings honor, but the decay of the people is the confusion of the Prince.

Patience is a token of wisdom, but wrath and hasty displeasure is a token of foolishness.

A merry heart is the life of the body, but rancor consumeth away the bones. He that doeth a poor man wrong, blasphemeth his maker: but who so hath pity of the poor, doth honor unto God.

The ungodly is afraid of every peril, but the righteous hath a good hope even in death.

Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding, and he will teach them that are unlearned.

Righteousness setteth up the people, but wickedness bringeth folk to destruction.

A discreet servant is a pleasure unto the King, but one that is not honest provoketh him unto wrath.

The Fifteenth Chapter

A soft answer putteth down displeasure, but froward words provoke to anger.

A wise tongue commendeth knowledge, a foolish tongue babbleth out nothing but foolishness.

The eyes of the Lord look on every place, both upon the good and the bad.

A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but he that abuseth it, hath a broken mind.

A fool despiseth his fathers correction, but he that taketh heed when he is reproved, shall have the more understanding.

In the house of the righteous are great riches, but in the increase of the ungodly there is misorder.

A wise mouth poureth out knowledge, but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

The Lord abhorreth the sacrifice of the ungodly, but the prayer of the righteous is acceptable to him.

The way of the ungodly is an abomination unto the Lord, but who so followeth righteousness, him he loveth.

He that forsaketh the right street, shall be sore punished: and who so hateth instruction shall fall to death.

The hell with her pain is known to the Lord, how much more then the hearts of men?

A scornful body loveth not the one that rebuketh him, neither will he come among the wise.

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance, but an unquiet mind maketh it heavy.

A wise heart will seek after knowledge, but the mouth of fools meddle with foolishness.

All the days of the poor are miserable, but a quiet heart is as a continual feast.

Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure, for they are not without sorrow.

Better is a mess of potage with love, than a fat ox with evil will.

An angry man stirreth up strife, but he that is patient stilleth discord.

The way of the slothful is full of thorns, but the street of the righteous is well cleansed.

A wise son maketh a glad father, but an undiscreet body shameth his mother.

A fool rejoiceth in foolish things, but a wise man looketh well to his own goings.

Unadvised thoughts shall come to naught, but where as men are that can give counsel, there is steadfastness.

O' how joyful a thing it is, a man to give a convenient answer?

O' how pleasant is a word spoken in due season.

The way of life leadeth unto heaven, that a man should beware of hell beneath.

The Lord will break down the house of the proud, but he shall make fast the borders of wisdom.

The Lord abhorreth the imaginations of the wicked, but pure words are pleasant to him.

The covetous man rooteth up his own house, but who so hateth rewards, shall live.

A righteous man museth in his mind how to do good, but the mind of the ungodly imagineth, how he may do harm.

The Lord is far from the ungodly, but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

Like as the clearness of the eyes rejoiceth the heart, so doth a good name feed the bones.

The ear that harkeneth unto wholesome warning, and enclineth thereto, shall dwell among the wise.

He that refuseth to be reformed, despiseth his own soul: but he that submitteth himself to correction, is wise.



The Sixteenth Chapter

The fear of the Lord is the right science of wisdom, and lowliness goeth before honor.

* A man may well purpose a thing in his heart, but the answer of the tongue cometh from the Lord. That is, no will of man can come to good purpose, without the help of God. MN

A man thinketh all his ways to be clean, but it is the Lord that fashioneth minds.

Commit thy works unto the Lord, and look what thou devisest, it shall prosper.

The Lord doeth all things for his own sake, yee and when he keepeth the ungodly for the day of wrath.

The Lord abhorreth all presumptuous and proud hearts, there may neither strength ner power escape.

With loving mercy and faithfulness sins be forgiven, and who so searcheth the Lord eschueth evil.

When a mans ways please the Lord, he maketh his very enemies to be his friends.

Better is it to have a little thing with righteousness, than great rents wrongfully gotten.

A man deviseth a way in his heart, but it is the Lord that ordereth his goings.

When the prophecy is in the lips of the king, his mouth shall not go wrong in judgement.

A true measure and a true balance are the Lords, he maketh all weights.

It is an great abomination when kings are wicked, for a kings seat should be holden up with righteousness.

Righteous lips are pleasant unto kings, and they love him that speaketh the truth.

The king displeasure is a messenger of death, but a wise man will pacify him.

The cheerful countenance of the king is life, and his loving favor is as the evening dew.

To have wisdom in possession is better than gold, and to get understanding is more worth than silver.

The path for the righteous eschueth evil, and who so looketh well to his ways keepeth his own soul.

Presumptuousness goeth before destruction, and after a proud stomach there followeth a fall.

Better it is to be of humble mind with the lowly, than to divide the spoils with the proud.

He that handleth a matter wisely, obtaineth good: and blessed is he , that putteth his trust in the Lord.

Who so hath a wise understanding is called to counsel: but he that can speak fair getteth more riches.

Understanding is a well of life unto him that hath it, as for the chastening of fools, it is but foolishness.

The heart of the wise enformeth his mouth, and amendeth the doctrine in his lips.

Fair words are an honeycomb, a refreshing of the mind, and health of the bones.

There is a way that men think to be right, but the end thereof leadeth unto death.

A troublous soul disquieteth herself, for her own mouth hath brought her thereto.

An ungodly person stirreth up evil, and in his lips he is as an hot burning fire.

A froward body causeth strife, and he that is a babble of his tongue, maketh division among Princes.

A wicked man beguileth his neighbor, and leadeth him the way that is not good.

He that winketh with his eyes, imagineth mischief: and he that biteth his lips, will do some harm.

Age is a crown of worship, if it be found in the way of righteousness.

A patient man is better than one strong: and he that can rule himself, is more worth than he that winneth a city.

The lots are cast into the lap, but their fall standeth before the Lord.

The Seventeenth Chapter.

Better is a dry morsel with quietness, than a full house and many fat cattle with strife.

A discreet servant shall have more rule than the sons that have no wisdom, and shall have like heritage with the brethren.

Like as silver is tried in the fire and gold in the furnace, even so doth the Lord prove the hearts.

A wicked body holdeth much of false lips, and a disassembling person giveth ear to a disceitful tongue.

Whoso laugheth the poor to scorn, blasphemeth his maker: and he that is glad of another mans hurt, shall not be unpunished.

Childrens children are a worship unto the elders, and the fathers are the honor of the children.

An eloquent speech becometh not a fool, a disassembling mouth also becometh not a Prince.

Liberality is as a precious stone unto him that hath it, for wheresoever he becometh, he prospereth.

Who so covereth another mans offense, seeketh love: but he that discloseth the fault, setteth friends at variance.

One reproof only doeth more good to that hath understanding, than an hundred stripes into a fool.

A *sedicious person seeketh mischief, but a cruel messenger shall be sent against him. sedition = disloyalty, treachery, labored strife, promotes rebellion (against godly ways)

It were better to come against a she bear robbed of her whelps, then against a fool in his foolishness.

Whoso rewardeth evil for good, the plague shall not depart from his house.

He that soweth discord and strife, is like one that diggeth up a water brook: but an open enemy is like the water that breaketh out and runneth abroad.

The Lord hateth as well him that justifieth the ungodly, as him that condemeth the innocent.

What helpeth it to give a fool money in his hand, where as he hath no mind to buy wisdom?

He is a friend that always loveth, and in adversity a man shall know who is his brother.

Whom so promiseth by the hand, and is surety for another, he is a fool.

He that loveth strife, delighteth in sin: and he that setteth his door to high, seeketh after a fall.

Who so hath a froward heart obtaineth no good: and he that hath an *overthwart tongue, shall fall into mischief. *overthwart = to impede, obstruct, prevent, frustrate.

An unwise body bringeth himself in to sorrow, and the father of a fool can have no joy.

A merry heart maketh a lusty age, but a sorrowful mind drieth up the bones.

The ungodly taketh gifts out of the bosom, to *wreste the ways of judgment.

*wreste = from wrest meaning; to distort or twist the nature or meaning of .

Wisdom shineth in the face of him that hath understanding, but the eyes of fools wander throughout all lands.

An undiscreet son is a grief unto his father, and an heaviness unto his mother that bare him.

To punish the innocent, an to smite the Princes that give true judgement, are both evil.

He is wise and discreet that tempereth his words: and he is a man of understanding, that maketh much of his spirit.

Yee a very fool ( when he holdeth his tongue ) is counted wise, and to have understanding, when he shutteth his lips.

The Eighteenth Chapter.

Who so hath pleasure to sow discord, speaketh a quarrel in every thing.

A fool hath no delight in understanding, but only in those things that his heart rejoiceth.

Where ungodliness is, there is also disdain: and so there followeth shame and dishonor.

The words of a mans mouth are like deep waters, and the well of wisdom is like a full stream.

It is not good to regard the person of the ungodly, or to put back the righteous in judgment.

A fools lips are ever brawling, and his mouth provoketh unto battle.

A fools mouth is his own destruction, and his lips are the snare for his own soul.

The words of a sclanderer are very wounds, and go through unto the innermost parts of the body.

Who so is slothful and slack in his labor, is the brother of him that is a waster.

The name of the Lord is a strong castle, the righteous flyeth unto it, and shall be saved.

But the rich mans goods are his stronghold, yee he taketh them for an high wall around about him.

After pride cometh destruction, and honor after lowliness.

He that giveth sentence in a matter before he hear it, is a fool, and worthy to be confounded.

A good stomach driveth away a mans disease, but when the spirit is vexed, who may abide it.

A wise heart laboreth for knowledge, and a prudent ear seeketh understanding.

Liberality bringeth a man to honor and worship, and setteth him among great men.

The righteous accuseth himself first of all, if his neighbor come, he shall find him.

The lot pacifieth the variance, and parteth the mighty asunder.

The unity of brethren is stronger than a castle, and they that hold together are like the bar of a palace.

A mans belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his own mouth, and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.

Death and life stand in the power of the tongue, he that loveth, it shall enjoy the fruit thereof.

Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and receiveth an wholesome benefit of the Lord.

The poor maketh supplication and prayeth meekly, but the rich giveth a rough answer.

A friend that delighteth in love, doth a man more friendship, and sticketh faster unto him than a brother.

The Nineteenth Chapter

Better is the poor that liveth godly, than is the blasphemer that is but a fool.

Where no discretion is, there the soul is not well: and who so is swift of foot, stumbleth hastily.

Foolishness maketh a man to go out of his way, and then is his heart unpatient against the Lord.

Riches make many friends, but the poor is forsaken of his own friends.

A false witness shall not remain unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.

The multitude hangeth upon great men, and every man favoreth him that giveth rewards.

As for the poor, he is hated among all his brethren: yee his own friends forsake him, and he that giveth credence unto words, getteth nothing.

He that is wise loveth his own soul: and who so hath understanding, shall prosper.

A false witness shall not remain unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.

Delicate ease becometh not a fool, much more unseemly is it, a bond man to have rule of princes.

A wise man putteth off displeasure, and it is his honor to let some faults pass.

The kings dishonor is like the roaring of a Lion, but his friendship is like the dew upon the grass.

An undiscreet son is the heaviness of his father, and a *brauling wife is like the top of an house, where through it is ever dropping. *from brawling, loud, quarrelsome

House and riches may a man have by the heritage of his elders, but a discreet woman is a gift of the Lord.

Slothfulness bringeth sleep, and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.

Who so keepeth the commandment, keepeth his own soul: but he that regardeth not his way, shall die.

He that hath pity upon the poor, lendeth unto the Lord: and look what he layeth out, it shall be paid him again.

Chasten thy son while there is hope, but let not thy soul be moved to slay him.

For great wrath bringeth harm, therefore let him go, and so mayest thou teach him more nurture.

O' give ear unto good counsel, and be content to be reformed, that thou mayest be wise here after.

There are many devices in a mans heart, nevertheless the counsel of the Lord shall stand.

It is a mans worship to do good, and better is it to be a poor man, than a dissembler.

The fear of the Lord preserveth life, yee it giveth plenteousness, without the visitation of any plague.

A slothful body shooteth his hand into his bosom, so that he can not put it to his mouth.

If thou smitest a scornful person, the ignorant shall take better heed: and if thou reproveth one that hath understanding, he will be the wiser.

He that hurteth his father or shuteth out his mother, is a shameful and unworthy son.

My son heareth no more the doctrine that leadeth thee away from the words of understanding.

A false witness laugheth judgement to scorn, and the mouth of the ungodly eateth up wickedness.

Punishments are ordered for the scornful, and stripes for the fools back.

The Twentieth Chapter.

Wine is a voluptuous thing, and drunkenness causes sedition: whoso delighteth therin, shall never be wise. voluptuous = provocative. sedition = disloyalty, treachery, labored strife.

The king ought to be feared as the roaring of a lion, whoso provoketh him unto anger, offendeth against his own soul.

It is a mans honor to keep himself from strife, but they that have pleasure in brawling are fools every one.

A slothful body will not go to plow for cold, therefore shall he go a begging in the Summer and have nothing.

Wise counsel in the heart of man is like a water in the deep of the earth, but he that hath understanding bringeth it forth.

Many there be that are called good doers, but where shall one find a true and faithful man?

Who so leadeth a godly and innocent life, happy shall his children be whom he leaveth behind him.

A king that sitteth in judgment, and looketh well about him, driveth away all evil. Who can say: my heart is clean, I am innocent from sin?

To use two manners of weights, or two manners of measures, both these are abominable unto the Lord.

A child is known by his conversation, whether his works be pure and right.

As for the hearing of the ear and the sight of the eye, the Lord hath made them both.

Delight not thou in sleep, lest thou come to poverty: but open thine eyes, and thou shalt have bread enough.

It is naught, It is naught, ( say men ) when they have it, but when it is gone, they give it a good word.

A mouth of understanding is more worth than gold, many precious stones, and costly Jewels.

Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for the unknown mans sake.

Every man liketh the bread that is gotten in deceit, but at the last his mouth shall be filled with gravel.

Through counsel the things that men devise go forward: and with discretion ought wars to be taken in hand.

Meddle not with him that *bewrayeth secretes, and is a sclanderer, and deceiveth with his lips. * bewray = to disclose, betray, or accuse.

Who so curseth his father and mother, his light shall be put out in the midst of darkness.

The heritage that cometh to hasty at first, shall not be praised in the end.

Say not thou: I will recompense evil, but put thy trust in the Lord, and he shall defend thee.

The Lord abhoreth two manner of weights, and an false balance is an evil thing.

For the Lord ordereth every mans goings, for what is he, that understandeth his own way?

It is a snare for a man to blaspheme that which is holy, and then to go about with vows.

A wise king destroyeth the ungodly, and bringeth the wheel over them.

The lantern of the Lord is the breath of man, and goeth through all the inward parts of the body.

Mercy and faithfulness preserve the king, and with loving kindness his seat is holden up.

The strength of young men is their worship, and a grey head, is an honor unto the aged.

Wounds drive away evil, and so do stripes the inward parts of the body.

The Twenty First Chapter

The kings heart is in the hand of the Lord, like as are the rivers of water: he may turneth it whither soever he will.

Every man thinketh his own way to be right, but the Lord judgeth the hearts.

To do righteousness and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

An presumptuous look, and a proud stomach, and the lantern of the ungodly, is sin. See previous lantern of the Lord

The devices of one that is diligent, bring plenteousness: but he that is unadvised, cometh to poverty.

Who so hordeth up treasures with the deceitfulness of his tongue, is a fool, and like unto them that seek their own death.

The robberies of the ungodly shall be their own destruction, for they would not do the thing that was right.

The ways of the froward is strange, but the works of him that is clean, are right.

It is better to dwell in a corner under the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.

The soul of the ungodly wisheth evil, and hath no pity upon his neighbor.

When the scornful is punished, the ignorant take the better heed: and when a wise man is warned, he will receive the more understanding.

The righteous enformeth the house of the ungodly, but the ungodly go on still after their own wickedness.

Whoso stoppeth his ear at the crying of the poor, he shall cry himself and not be heard.

A privy reward pacifieth displeasure, and a gift in the bosom stilleth furriousness.

The just delighteth in doing the thing that is right, but the workers of wickedness abhor the same.

The man that wandereth out of the way of wisdom, shall remain in the congregation of the dead.

He that hath pleasure in bankettes, shall be a poor man: Who so delighteth in wine and delicates, shall not be rich. bankettes = this is most likely banquets. RN

The ungodly shall be given for the righteous, and the wicked for the just.

It is better to dwell in a wilderness, than with a chiding and an angry woman.

In a wise mans house there is great treasure and plenteousness, but a foolish body spendeth up all.

Who so followeth righteousness and mercy, findeth both life, righteousness, and honor.

A wise man winneth the city of the mighty, and as for the strength that they trust in, he bringeth it down.

Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue, the same keepeth his soul from troubles.

He that is proud and presumptuous, is called a scornful man, which in wrath dare work maliciously.

The voluptuousness of the slothful is his own death, for his hands will not labor.

He coveteth and desireth all the day long, but the righteous is always giving and keepeth nothing back.

The sacrifice of the ungodly is abomination, for they offer the thing that is gotten in wickedness.

A false witness shall perish, but he that will be content to hear, shall always have power to speak himself.

A ungodly man goeth forth rashly, but the just reformeth his own way.

There is no wisdom, there is no understanding, there is no counsel against the Lord.

The horse is prepared against the day of battle, but the Lord giveth victory.

The Twenty Second Chapter

A good name is more worth than great riches, and loving favor is better than silver and gold.

Whether riches or poverty do meet us, it cometh all of God.

A wise man seeth the plague and hideth himself, but the foolish go on still and are punished.

The end of lowliness and the fear of God, is riches honor, prosperity and health.

Spears and snares are in the way of the froward, but he that will keep his soul, let him flee from such.

If thou teacheth a child in his youth what way he should go, he shall not leave it when he is old.

The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

He that soweth wickedness shall reap sorrow, and the rod of his plague shall destroy him.

A loving eye shall be blessed, for he giveth of his bread unto the poor.

Cast out the scornful man, and so shall strife go out with him, yee variance and sclander shall cease.

Who so delighteth to be of a clean heart and of gracious lips, the king shall be his friend.

The eyes of the Lord preserve knowledge, but as for the words of the despiteful, he bringeth them to naught.

The slothful body sayeth: There is a lion without, I might be slain in the street.

The mouth of an harlot is a open pit, wherein he falleth that the Lord is angry withal.

Foolishness sticketh in the heart of the lad, but the rod of correction driveth it away.

Who so doeth a poor man wrong to increase his own riches, giveth (commonly) unto the rich, and at the last cometh to poverty himself.

My son bow down thine ear, and harken unto the words of wisdom, apply thine mind unto my doctrine: for it is a pleasant thing if thou keep it in thine heart, and practice it in thy mouth: that thou mayest always put thy trust in the Lord.

Have not I warned thee very often with the counsel of learning?

That I might show thee the truth and that thou with verity mightest answer them that lay anything against thee?

See that thou rob not the poor because he is weak, and oppress not the simple in judgement: for the Lord himself will defend their cause, and do violence unto them that have used violence.

Make no friendship with an angry willful man, and keep no company with the furious: lest thou learn his ways, and receive hurt unto thy soul.

Be not thou one of them that bind their hand upon promise, and are surety for debt: for if thou hast nothing to pay, they shall take away thy bed from under thee.

Thou shalt not remove the landmark, which thy fore elders have set.

Seest thou not, that they which be diligent in their business stand before kings, and not among the simple folk?

The Twenty Third Chapter

When thou sittest at the table to eat with a Lord, order thyself mannerly with the things that are set before thee.

Measure thine appetite: and if thou wilt rule thy own self, be not over greedy with his meat, for meat beguileth and decieveth.

Take not over great travail and labor to be rich, beware of such a purpose.

Why wilt thou set thine eye upon the thing, which suddenly vanisheth away?

For riches make themselves wings, and take their flight like an eagle into the air.

Eat not thou with the envious, and desire not his meat, for he hath a *marvelous heart. * that is a heart that marvels at the works of man, worldly things. RN

He sayeth unto thee: eat and drink, whereas his heart is not with thee.

Yee the morsels that thou hast eaten shalt thou perbrake (kjv = vomit up) and *lese those sweet words. perbrake = per; each one, break ; expel. *lese = 1) lose 2) lease; rent out the mouth 3) an insult to this persons dignity

Tell nothing into the ears of a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

Remove not the old landmark, and come not within the field of the fatherless. For he that delivereth them is mighty, even he shall defend their cause against thee.

Apply thine heart unto learning, and thine ear to the words of knowledge.

Withhold not correction from the child, for if thou beatest him with the rod, he will not die thereof.

Thou smitest him with the rod, but thou deliverest his soul from hell.

My son, if thy heart receive wisdom, my heart also shall rejoice: yee my reins shall be very glad, if thy lips speak the thing that is right.

Let not thine heart be jealous to follow sinners, but keep thee still in the fear of the Lord all the day long: For the end is not yet come and thy patient abiding shall not be in vain.

My son, give ear and be wise, so shall thine heart prosper in the way.

Keep no company with winebibbers and riotous eaters of flesh: for such as be drunkards and riotous shall come to poverty, and he that is given to much sleep, shall go with a ragged coat.

Give ear unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.

*Labor for to get the truth: sell not away wisdom, nurture and understanding, for a righteous father is marvelous glad of a wise son, and delighteth in him, so shall thy father be glad, and thy mother that bare thee, shall rejoice.

kjv =Buy the truth: and sell it not,

My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes have pleasure in my ways.

For an whore is a deep grave, and an harlot is a narrow pit.

She lurketh like a thief, and those that be not aware she bringeth unto her.

Where is woe? where is sorrow? where is strife? where is brawling? where are wounds without cause? where be red eyes?

Even among those that be ever at wine, and seek out were the best is.

Look not thou upon the wine, how red it is, and what a color it giveth in the glass.

It goeth down softly, but at the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth as an adder.

So shall thine eyes look unto strange women, and thine heart shall muse upon froward things.

Yee, thou shalt be as though thou sleepest in the middest of the sea, or on the top of the mast.

They wounded me ( thou shalt say ) but it hath not hurt me, they smote me, but i felt it not.

When Iam well awakened, I will go to drink again.

The Twenty Fourth Chapter

Be not thou jealous over wicked men, and desire not thou to be among them. For their heart imagineth to do hurt, and their lips talk of mischief.

Through wisdom an house shall be builded, and with understanding it shall be set up.

Through discretion shall the chambers be filled with all costly and pleasant riches.

A wise man is strong, yee, and a man of understanding is better than he that is mighty of strength.

For with discretion must wars be taken in hand, and where as are many that can give counsel, there is the victory.

Wisdom is an high thing, yee even to the fool, for he dare not open his mouth in the gate.

He that imagineth mischief, may well be called an ungracious person.

The thought of the fool is sin, and the scornful is an abomination to men.

If thou be *oversene and negligent in time of need, then is thy strength but small. *oversene = overseen

Deliver them that go unto death, and are lead away to be slain, and be not negligent therin.

If thou wilt say: I knew of it,

Thinkest thou that he which made the hearts, doth not consider it?

And that he which regardeth thy soul, seeth it not?

Shall he not recompense every man according to his works?

My son, thou eatest honey and the sweet honeycomb, because it is sweet in thy mouth.

Even so shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul, as soon as thou hast gotten it.

And there is good hope, yee thy hope shall not be in vain.

Lay no privy wait wickedly upon the house of the righteous, and disquiet not his resting place.

For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again, but the ungodly fall into wickedness.

Rejoice not thou at the fall of thine enemy, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth.

Lest the Lord when he seeth it, be angry, and turn his wrath from him to the.

Let not thy wrath and jealousy move thee, to follow the wicked and ungodly.

And why? the wicked have nothing to hope for, and the candle of the ungodly shall be put out.

My son, fear thou the Lord and the king, and keep no company with the sclaunderous: For their destruction shall come suddenly, and who knoweth the fall of them both?

These are also the sayings the wise.

It is not good to have respect of any person in judgment.

He that saith unto the ungodly: Thou art righteous, him shall the people curse, yee and the *comentie shall abhor him. *comentie a person unto whom is given a trust or charged to look into things. from cometre: a trustee. RN

But they that rebuke the ungodly shall be commended, and a rich blessing shall come upon them.

He maketh himself to be well loved, that giveth a good answer.

First make up thy work that is without, and look well unto that which thou hast in the field, and then build own house.

Be no false witness against thy neighbor, and hurt him not with thy lips.

Say not: I will handle him, even as he hath dealt with me, and will reward every man according to his deeds.

I went up the field of the slothful, and by the vineyards of the foolish man.

And lo, it was all covered with nettles, and stood full of thistles, and the stone wall was broken down.

This I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and took it for a warning. Yee sleep on still a little, slumber a little, fold thy hands to together yet a little: so shall poverty come unto thee as one that travaileth by the way, and necessity like a weaponed man.

The Twenty Fifth Chapter

These also are the sayings of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah

king of Judah gathered together.

It is the honor of God to keep a thing secret, but the kings is to search out a thing.

The heaven is high, the earth is deep, and the kings heart is unsearchable.

Take the dross from the silver, and there shall be a clean vessel thereof.

Take away ungodliness from the king, and his seat shall be stablished with righteousness.

Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and prease not into the place of great men. prease = may be from pace or prance, as if to place your self expectantly in their presence.

Better it is that it be said unto thee: Come up hither, than thou to be set down in the presence of the prince whom thou seest with thine eyes.

Be not hasty to go to the law, lest happily thou order thyself so that at the last, that thy neighbor put thee to shame.

Handle thy matter with thy neighbor himself, and discover not another mans secret: lest when men hear thereof, it turn to thy dishonor, and lest thine evil name do not cease.

A word spoken in due season, is like apples of gold in a silver dish.

The correction of the wife is to an obedient ear, a golden chain and a Jewel of gold.

Like as the winter cool in the harvest, so is a faithful messenger to him that send him, and refresheth his masters mind.

Whoso maketh great boasts and giveth nothing, is like clouds and wind without rain.

With patience may a prince be pacified, and with a soft tongue may rigorousness be broken.

If thou findest honey, eat so much as is sufficient for thee: lest thou be over full, and perbrake it out again.

Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbors house, lest he be weary of thee, and so abhor thee.

Who so beareth false witness against his neighbor, he is a very spear, a sword, and a sharp arrow.

The hope of the ungodly in time of need, is like a rotten tooth and a slippery foot.

Who so singeth a song to a wicked heart, clotheth him with rags in the cold, and poureth vinegar upon chalk.

If thine enemy hunger, feed him: if he thirst, give him drink: For so shalt thou heap coals of fire upon his head, and the Lord shall reward thee.

The north wind driveth away the rain, even so doth an *earnest sober countenance a backbiting tongue. kjv = angry countenance

It is better to sit in the corner under the roof, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.

A good report out of a far country, is like cold water to a thirsty soul.

A righteous man falling down before the ungodly, is like a troubled well and a spring that is destroyed.

Like as it is not good to eat to much honey, even so he that will search out high things, it shall be to heavy for him.

He that can not rule himself, is like a city which is broken down, and hath no walls.

The Twenty Sixth Chapter

Like as snow is not mete in summer, nor rain in harvest: even so is worship unseemly for a fool.

As the bird and the swallow take their flight and flee here and there, so the curse that is given in vain, shall not light upon a man.

Unto the horse belongeth the whip, to the ass a bridle, and a rod to a fools back.

Give not the fool an answer after his foolishness, lest thou become like him: but make the fool an answer to his foolishness, lest he be wise in his own conceit.

He is lame of his feet, yee drunken is he in vanity, that committeth anything to a fool.

Like as it is an unseemly thing to have legs and yet to halt, even so is a parable in a fools mouth.

He that seateth a fool in a high dignity, that is even as if a man did cast a precious stone upon the galous. galous = may be gallows

A parable in a fools mouth is like a thorn that pricketh a drunken man in the hand.

kjv enters this line here. RN = The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth wickeds.

A man of experience discerneth all things well, but who so hireth a fool, hireth such one as will take no heed.

Like as a the dog turneth again to his vomit, even so a fool beginneth his foolishness again a fresh.

If thou seest a man that is wise in his own conceit, there is more hope in a fool than in him.

The slothful sayeth: There is a leopard in the way, and a lion in the midest of the streets.

Like as the door turneth about upon the threshold, even so doth the slothful *welter himself upon his bed. welter = to waller, roll, and toss about as if in high seas.

The slothful body thrusteth his hand into his bosom, and it grieveth him to put it again to his mouth.

The sluggard thinketh himself wiser, then seven men that sit and teach.

Who so goeth by and meddleth with other mens strife, he is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.

Like as one that shooteth arrows and darts out of a privy place, even so doth a dissembler with his neighbor.

And then sayeth he: I did it in sport.

Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: and where the backbiter is taken away, there the strife ceaseth.

Coals kindle heat, and wood the fire: even so doth a brawling fellow stirreth up variance.

A scaundlers words are like flattery, but they pierce the inward parts of the body.

Envious lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.

An enemy dissembleth with his lips, and in the mean season he imagineth mischief: but when he speaketh fair, believe him not, for there are seven abominations in his heart.

Who so keepeth evil will, secretly do hurt, his malice shall be showed before the whole congregation.

Who diggeth up a pit, shall fall therein: and he that weltereth a stone, shall stumble upon it himself.

A dissembling tongue hateth one that rebuketh him, and a flattering mouth worketh mischief.

The Twenty Seventh Chapter

Make not thy boast of to morrow, for thou knowest not what may happen today.

Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth: yee other folks lips and not thine.

The stone is heavy, and the sand weighty: but a fools wrath is heavier than both.

Wrath is a cruel thing, and furriousness is a very tempest: yee who is able to abide envy?

An open rebuke is better than secret love.

Faithful are the wounds of a lover, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

He that is full, abhoreth the honeycomb: but unto him that is hungry every sour thing is sweet.

He that often times flitteth, is like a bird that foresaketh her nest.

The heart is glad of answer, ointment and savor, but a stomach that can give good counsel, rejoiceth a mans neighbor.

Thine own friend, and thy fathers friend, see thou forsake not, but go not into thy brothers house in time of thy trouble.

Better is a friend at hand than a brother far off.

My son, be wise, and thou shall make me a glad heart: so that I shall make answer unto my rebukers.

A wise man seeing the plague, will hide himself, as for fools they go on still, and suffer harm.

Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for the *unknown mans sake. kjv = a strange woman.

He that is to hasty to praise his neighbor above measure, shall be taken as one that giveth him an evil report.

A brawling woman and the roof of the house dropping in a rainy day, may well be compared together.

He that refraineth her, refraineth the wind, and holdeth oil fast in his hand.

Like as one iron wheteth another, so does one man comfort another.

Whoso keepeth his fig tree, shall enjoy the fruits thereof: he that waiteth upon his master, shall come to honor.

Like as in one water there appear diverse faces, even so diverse men have diverse hearts.

Like as hell and destruction are never full, even so the eyes of men can never be satisfied.

Silver is tried in the mould, and gold in the furnace, and so is a man, when he is openly praised to his face.

Though thou shouldest bray a fool with a pedestal in a mortar like oat meal, yet will not his foolishness go from him.

See that thou know the number of thy cattle thy self, and look well to thy flocks.

For riches abide not away, and the crown endure not for ever. Compare kjv as to the crown enduring for ever. RN

The hay groweth, and the grass cometh up, and herbs are gathered in the mountains.

The lambs shall clothe thee, and for the goats thou shalt have money to thy husbandry.

Thou shalt have goats milk enough to feed thee, to uphold thy household, and to sustain thy maidens.

The Twenty Eighteth Chapter

The ungodly fleeth no man chasing him, but the righteous standeth fast as a lion.

Because of sin the land doth often change her prince: but through men of understanding and wisdom a realm endureth long. Compare kjv as to this text. RN

One poor man oppressing another by violence, is like a continual rain that destroyeth the fruit.

They that forsake the law praise the ungodly: but such as keep the law, abhor them.

Wicked men discern not the things that is right, but they that seek after the Lord, discuss all things.

A poor man leading a godly life, is better than the rich that goeth in froward ways.

Whoso keepeth the law, is a child of understanding: but he that feedeth riotous men, shameth his father.

Who so increaseth his riches by vantage and winning, let him gather them to help the poor withal.

He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, his prayer shall be abhorred.

Whoso leadeth the righteous in to an evil way, shall fall into his own pit, but the just shall have the good in possession.

The rich man thinketh himself to be wise, but the poor that hath understanding, can perceive him well enough.

When righteous men are in prosperity, then doth honor flourish: but when the ungodly come up, the state of men changeth.

He that hideth his sins, shall not prosper: but whoso knowledgeth them and forsaketh them, shall have mercy.

Well is him that standeth always in awe: as for him that hardeneth his heart, he shall fall into mischief.

Like as a roaring lion and a hungry bear, even so is a ungodly prince over the poor people.

Where the prince is without understanding, there is great oppression and wrong: but if he be such one as hateth covetousness, he shall long reign.

He that by violence sheddeth any mans blood, shall be a renegade unto his grave, and no man shall be able to succure him.

Who so leadeth a godly and innocent life, shall be safe: but he that goeth froward ways, shall once have a fall.

He that tilleth his land, shall have plenteousness of bread: but he that followeth idleness, shall have poverty enough.

A faithful man is to be greatly to be commended, but he that maketh to much haste to be rich, shall not be unguilty.

To have respect of persons in judgement is not good: And why? he will do wrong, yee even for a piece of bread.

He that will be rich all to soon, hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

He that rebuketh a man, shall find no favor at the last, than he that flattereth him.

Whoso robbeth his father and mother, and saith it is no sin: the same is like unto a murderer.

He that is of a proud stomach, stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord, shall be well fed.

He that trusteth in his own heart, is a fool: but he that dealeth wisely, shall be safe.

He that giveth unto the poor, shall not want: but he that turneth his eyes from such as be in necessity, shall suffer great poverty himself.

When the ungodly are come up, men are faine to hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase.

The Twenty Ninth Chapter

He that is stiff necked and will not be reformed, shall suddenly be destroyed without any help.

Where the righteous have the over hand, the people are in prosperity: but where the ungodly beareth rule, there the people mourn.

Whoso loveth wisdom, maketh his father a glad man: but he that keepeth harlots spendeth away that he hath.

With true judgment the king setteth up the land, but he be a man that taketh gifts, he turneth it upside down.

Who so flattereth his neighbor, layeth a net for his feet.

The sin of the wicked is his own snare, but the righteous shall be glad and rejoice.

The righteous considereth the cause of the poor, but the ungodly regardeth no understanding.

Wicked people bring a city in decay, but wise men set it up again.

If a wise man go to the law with a fool ( whether he deal with him friendly or roughly) he getteth no rest.

The bloodthirsty hate the righteous, but the just seek his soul.

A fool poureth out his spirit altogether, but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.

If a prince delight in lies, all his servants are ungodly.

The poor and the lender meet together, the Lord lighteneth both their eyes.

The fear of the King that faithfully judgeth the poor, shall continue sure for ever more.

The rod and correction minister wisdom, but if a child be not looked unto, he bringeth his mother to shame.

When the ungodly come up, wickedness increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.

Nurture thy son with correction, and he shall comfort thee, yee, he shall do the good at thine heart.

Where no Prophet is, there the people perish: but well is him that keepeth the law.

A servant will not be the better for words, for though he understand, he will not regard them.

If thou seest a man that is hasty to speak unadvised, thou mayest trust a fool than of him.

He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child, shall make him his master at the length.

An angry man stirreth up strife, and he that beareth evil well in his mind, doth much evil.

After pride cometh fall, but a lowly spirit bringeth great worship.

Whoso keepeth company with a thief, hateth his own soul: he heareth blasphemes and telleth it not forth.

He that feareth men, shall have a fall: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall come to honor.

Many there be that seek the Princes favor, but every mans judgement cometh from the Lord.

The righteous abhorreth the ungodly: but as for those that be in the right way, the wicked hate them.

The Thirtieth Chapter

The words of Agur the son of Jakeh

The prophecy of a true and faithful man, whom God hath helped, whom God had comforted and nourished. kjv has this line... spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal, RN For though Iam least of all, and have no mans understanding ( for I never learned wisdom ) yet have I understanding, and am well informed in Godly things. Who hath climbed up into heaven? Who hath come down from thence? Who hath holden the wind fast in his hands? Who hath comprehended the waters in a garment? Who hath set all the ends of the world? What is his name, or what is his sons name? Canest thou tell? All the words of God are pure and clean, for he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Put thou nothing unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

Two things I require of thee, that thou will not deny me before I die. Remove from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches, only grant me a necessary living. Lest I be so full, I deny thee, and say: What fellow is the Lord? And lest I being constrained through poverty, fall unto stealing, and foreswear the name of my God.

Accuse not a servant unto his master, lest he speak evil of thee also, and thou be hurt. He that bringeth up an evil report upon the generation of his father and mother, is not worthy to be commended.

The generation that think themselves clean, shall not be cleansed from their filthiness. There are people that have a proud look, and cast up their eyelids. This peoples teeth are swords, and their chaft bones they consume and devour the simple of the earth, and the poor from among men.

This generation which is like an horseleach, hath two daughters: the one is called fetch hither, and the other bring hither.

There are three things that are never satisfied, and the fourth sayeth never hoo. The hell, a womans womb, and the earth hath never water enough. As for fire, it sayeth never, hoo. Whoso laugheth his father to scorn, and setteth his mothers commandment to naught: the ravens pick out his eyes in the valley, and devoured be he of the young eagles.

There be three things too high for me, and as for the fourth, it passeth my knowledge. The way of an eagle in the air, the way of a serpent over a stone, the way of a ship in sea, and the way of a man with a young woman. Such is the way of an wife that breaketh wedlock, which wipeth her mouth like as when she hath eaten, and saith. As for me, I have done no harm. Through three things the earth is disquieted, and the fourth may it not bear: Through a servant that beareth rule, through a fool that hath great riches, through an idle housewife, and through an handmaiden that is heir to her mistress.

There be four things in the earth, the which are very little: but in wisdom they exceed the wise. The Emmettes (ants) are but a weak people, yet gather they their meat in the harvest. The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their couches among the rocks. The grasshoppers have not a guide, yet go they forth together by heaps. The spider laboreth with her hands, and that in the Kings palace.

There be three things that go stiffly, but the going of the fourth is the godliest of all. A Lion which is King of beasts, and giveth place to no man: A cock ready to fight: A ram and a King that goeth forth with his people. If thou be so foolish to imagine thyself, or meddlest with any such thing, then lay thine hand upon thy mouth. Who so churneth milk, maketh butter: he that rubbeth his nose, maketh it bleed: and he that causeth wrath, bringeth forth strife.

The Thirty First Chapter

The words of King Lemuel,

and the Prophecy that his mother taught him.

My son, thou son of my body: O' my dear beloved son, give not over thy substance and mind unto women, which are the destruction even of Kings. O' Lamuel. give Kings no wine, give Kings and Princes no strong drink: Lest they being drunk forget the law, and regard not the cause of the poor, and of all such as be in adversity. Be thou an advocate and stand in judgement thyself, to speak for all such as be dumb and socourless. With thy mouth defend the thing that is right, and the cause of the poor and helpless.



Aleph

Who so findeth an honest faithful woman, she is much more worth then pearls.

Beth

The heart of her husband may safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoils.

Gimel

She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

Daleth

She occupieth wool and flax, and laboreth gladly with her hands.

He

She is like the merchants ship, that bringeth her vitailes from afar.

Vav

She is up in the night season, to provide meat for her household, and food for her maidens.

Zain

She considereth land, and buyeth it, with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

Heth

She girdeth her loins with strength, and courageth her arms.

Teth

And if she perceiveth that her housewifery dooth good, her candle goeth not out by night.

Yod

She layeth her fingers to the spindle, and her hand taketh hold of the rock.

Caph

She openeth her hand to the poor, yee she stretcheth forth her hands to such as have need.

Lamed

She feareth not that the cold of winter shall hurt her house, for all her household folks are double clothed. kjv has: clothed with scarlet.

Mem

She maketh herself fair ornaments, her clothing is white silk and purple.

Nun

Her husband is much set by in the gates, when he sitteth among the rulers of the land.

Samech

She maketh cloth of silk and selleth it, and delivereth a girdle unto the merchant.

Ain

Strength and honor is her clothing, and in the latter day she shall rejoice.

Phe

She openeth her mouth with wisdom, and in her tongue is the law of grace.

Zade

She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not her bread with idleness.

Koph

Her children arise, and call her blessed: and her husband maketh much of her.

Res

Many daughters there be that gather riches together, but thou goest above them all.

Sin

As for favor, it is deceitful, and beauty is vain thing: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she is worthy to be praised.

Thau

Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates.

The end of the Proverbs of Solomon