Chapters of the Bible

Proverbs on justice and righteousness: The king's heart is a stream of water in God's hands. Sacrifice from the wicked is an abomination.

Proverbs on rearing children and the poor: A good name is more desirable than great riches. Train up a child in the way he should go.

Warnings against gluttony, drunkenness, and trusting in fleeting wealth. Do not spend time with gluttons, and listen to your father’s wisdom.

Proverbs on planning and envy: Do not envy the wicked; build your life through wisdom and sound judgment. Know the importance of patient labor.

This section contains proverbs compiled by the men of King Hezekiah. It stresses royal prudence, self-control, and careful communication.

Proverbs on fools and sluggards: A proverb in a fool's mouth is useless. A sluggard (lazy person) excuses his laziness with wild, outlandish reasons.

Proverbs on friendships and loyalty: Do not boast about tomorrow. Better is an open rebuke than hidden love. Iron sharpens iron.

Proverbs contrasting the righteous with the wicked: The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion. Honesty brings wealth.

Proverbs on anger and government: A ruler who listens to lies has corrupt officials. Where there is no prophetic vision, the people cast off restraint.

The wise sayings of Agur. He asks God for a middle way: neither poverty nor riches. He observes the mystery of four amazing things, including the way of a man with a virgin.

The counsel of King Lemuel's mother. It warns against intoxication and urges him to speak up for the poor. The chapter concludes with the famous tribute to the Excellent Wife.

The Preacher declares, "Meaningless! Meaningless! Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless." He observes that life is cyclic, laborious, and all human effort is futile under the sun.