²² Though you grind a fool in a mortar,
    grinding them like grain with a pestle,
    you will not remove their folly from them.

²³ Be sure you know the condition of your flocks,^(A)
    give careful attention to your herds;
²⁴ for riches do not endure forever,^(B)
    and a crown is not secure for all generations.
²⁵ When the hay is removed and new growth appears
    and the grass from the hills is gathered in,
²⁶ the lambs will provide you with clothing,
    and the goats with the price of a field.
²⁷ You will have plenty of goats’ milk to feed your family
    and to nourish your female servants.

28 The wicked flee^(C) though no one pursues,^(D)
    but the righteous are as bold as a lion.^(E)

² When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers,
    but a ruler with discernment and knowledge maintains order.