Proverbs 14

This chapter highlights the qualities of wisdom and folly, often in domestic terms. The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish one tears it down with her own hands. Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people. It teaches that even in laughter the heart is sad, and the end of joy can be grief. The chapter concludes by linking social justice to piety: whoever oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, but whoever is gracious to the needy honors Him.