A reading from the book of Proverbs.

He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing.

When the righteous increase, the people rejoice.

But when the wicked rule the people groan.

He who loves wisdom makes his father glad, but a companion of prostitute squanders his wealth. By justice, the king

builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down. A man who flatters his neighbor

spreads a net for his feet. An evil man is ensnared in his transgression, but a righteous man sings

and rejoices. A righteous man knows the rights of the poor. A wicked man does not

understand such knowledge. Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath. If a wise man has an

argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet. Bloodthirsty men hate one who is

blameless and seek the life of the upright. A fool gives

full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back. If a ruler listens to falsehood,

all his officials will be wicked. The poor man and the oppressor meet together. The Lord gives

light to the eyes of both. If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.

The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.

Discipline your son and he will give you rest. will give delight to your heart where there is no

prophetic vision the people cast off restraint but blessed is he who keeps the law by mere words a servant

is not disciplined for though he understands he will not respond do you see a man who is hasty in his

words there is more hope for a fool than for him.

Whoever pampers his servant from childhood will in the end find him his heir.

A man of wrath stirs up strife and one given to anger causes much transgression.

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