Proverbs 21:3-21 (Vespers, 2nd Reading)
3 |
To do righteousness and justice Is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. |
4 |
A haughty look, a proud heart, And the plowing of the wicked are sin. |
5 |
The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty. |
6 |
Getting treasures by a lying tongue Is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death. |
7 |
The violence of the wicked will destroy them, Because they refuse to do justice. |
8 |
The way of a guilty man is perverse; But as for the pure, his work is right. |
9 |
Better to dwell in a corner of a housetop, Than in a house shared with a contentious woman. |
10 |
The soul of the wicked desires evil; His neighbor finds no favor in his eyes. |
11 |
When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise; But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge. |
12 |
The righteous God wisely considers the house of the wicked, Overthrowing the wicked for their wickedness. |
13 |
Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor Will also cry himself and not be heard. |
14 |
A gift in secret pacifies anger, And a bribe behind the back, strong wrath. |
15 |
It is a joy for the just to do justice, But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity. |
16 |
A man who wanders from the way of understanding Will rest in the assembly of the dead. |
17 |
He who loves pleasure will be a poor man; He who loves wine and oil will not be rich. |
18 |
The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, And the unfaithful for the upright. |
19 |
Better to dwell in the wilderness, Than with a contentious and angry woman. |
20 |
There is desirable treasure, And oil in the dwelling of the wise, But a foolish man squanders it. |
21 |
He who follows righteousness and mercy Finds life, righteousness, and honor. |