² It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the honor of kings is to search out a matter.

³ As the heaven for height and the earth for depth, so the heart of kings is unsearchable.

⁴ Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the refiner.

⁵ Take away the wicked from the presence of the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.

⁶ Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men;

⁷ for better it is that it be said unto thee, “Come up hither,” than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.

¹⁵ By much forbearance is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.