1These are also proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah transcribed. 2It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the honor of kings is to search out a matter. 3The heavens for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unreachable. 4Take away the dross from the silver and it will go to the refiner. 5Take away the wicked before the king, and his throne will be established in righteousness. 6Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king, and do not stand in the place of great men. 7Better that he says: »Come up here than you be put down in the presence of the prince, whom your eyes have seen.« 8Do not run quickly to court, for what will you do in the end, when your neighbor puts you to shame. 9Debate your cause with your neighbor direct; and do not reveal the secret of another. 10In case he hears it and puts you to shame. The bad report about you will not pass away. 11A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. 12As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise provider to a listening ear. 13As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to those who send him. He refreshes his masters. 14He who falsely boasts of a gift is like clouds and wind without rain. 15A ruler is persuaded by patience, and a soft tongue breaks the bone. 16Have you found honey? Eat only what is needed or you will be too full and vomit. 17Withdraw your foot from your neighbor's house; or he will tire of you and hate you. 18A man who bears false witness against his neighbor is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow. 19Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint. 20Like the man does not wear a coat in winter, or like vinegar on soda, so is he who sings songs to a heavy heart. 21If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat. If he is thirsty, give him water to drink. 22You will heap coals of fire upon his head, and Jehovah will reward you. 23The north wind drives away rain. So does an angry countenance a backbiting tongue. 24It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than to share the house with a contentious woman. 25As cold waters to a thirsty man, so is good news from a far country. 26A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring. 27It is not good to eat too much honey. To seek ones own glory is not glory. 28He who cannot control his own spirit life is as helpless as a city without walls, open to trouble.