² for gaining wisdom and instruction;
    for understanding words of insight;
³ for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
    doing what is right and just and fair;

29 Whoever remains stiff-necked^(A) after many rebukes
    will suddenly be destroyed^(B)—without remedy.^(C)

² When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice;^(D)
    when the wicked rule,^(E) the people groan.^(F)

³ A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father,^(G)
    but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.^(H)

⁴ By justice a king gives a country stability,^(I)
    but those who are greedy for^[a] bribes tear it down.

⁵ Those who flatter their neighbors
    are spreading nets for their feet.^(J)

⁶ Evildoers are snared by their own sin,^(K)
    but the righteous shout for joy and are glad.

⁷ The righteous care about justice for the poor,^(L)
    but the wicked have no such concern.

⁷ “Two things I ask of you, Lord;
    do not refuse me before I die:
⁸ Keep falsehood and lies far from me;
    give me neither poverty nor riches,
    but give me only my daily bread.^(A)
9 Otherwise, I may have too much and disown^(B) you
    and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’^(C)
Or I may become poor and steal,
    and so dishonor the name of my God.^(D)

⁸ Speak^(A) up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
    for the rights of all who are destitute.
⁹ Speak up and judge fairly;
    defend the rights of the poor and needy.^(B)