Proverbs 14:27-15:4 (Vespers, 2nd Reading)
27 |
The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death. |
28 |
In a multitude of people is a king’s honor, But in the lack of people is the downfall of a prince. |
29 |
He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, But he who is impulsive exalts folly. |
30 |
A sound heart is life to the body, But envy is rottenness to the bones. |
31 |
He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy. |
32 |
The wicked is banished in his wickedness, But the righteous has a refuge in his death. |
33 |
Wisdom rests in the heart of him who has understanding, But what is in the heart of fools is made known. |
34 |
Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people. |
35 |
The king’s favor is toward a wise servant, But his wrath is against him who causes shame. |
1 |
A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger. |
2 |
The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness. |
3 |
The eyes of the Lord are in every place, Keeping watch on the evil and the good. |
4 |
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness in it breaks the spirit. |