1When you sit down to eat with a ruler, pay close attention to what is in front of you.
2If you are a big eater, put a knife to your throat (control your appetite).
3Don’t crave his fancy food, because it might be a trick.
4Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich; use your wisdom to hold back.
5Why do you focus on what doesn't last? For it will surely sprout wings like an eagle and fly away into the sky.
6Don't eat the food of someone who is stingy; don't desire his fancy dishes:
7because he's always thinking about the cost. He tells you, "Eat and drink!" but he doesn't genuinely care about you.
8You will throw up the little bit you ate and lose your kind words.
9Don't speak to a fool, because he will despise the wisdom of your words.
10Don't move an old property marker. Don't trespass on the land of orphans:
11because their Protector is strong. He will argue their case against you.
12Commit yourself to learning, and listen to words of knowledge.
13Don't hesitate to discipline a child. If you punish him physically, he won't die.
14Punish him physically, and save him from the grave.
15My son, if you are wise, then I, too, will be glad in my heart:
16yes, my heart will celebrate when you speak what is right.
17Don't envy sinners; instead, respect Yahweh all day long.
18Surely there is a future hope, and your hope will not be taken away.
19Listen, my son, be wise, and keep your life on the right path!
20Don't spend time with people who drink too much wine or those who overeat meat:
21because drunkards and gluttons will become poor; and sleepiness will clothe them in rags.
22Listen to your father, who gave you life, and don't disrespect your mother when she is old.
23Buy the truth and never sell it. Get wisdom, self-control, and understanding.
24The father of a righteous person has great joy. Whoever has a wise child delights in him.
25Let your father and your mother be happy! Let the woman who gave birth to you rejoice!
26My son, give me your attention and follow my ways.
27A prostitute is like a deep pit, and an unfaithful wife is like a narrow well.
28Indeed, she waits in ambush like a robber and causes many men to be unfaithful.
29Who has trouble? Who has sorrow? Who has arguments? Who has complaints? Who has unnecessary bruises? Who has red, bloodshot eyes?
30Those who spend too much time drinking wine, those who go looking for mixed drinks.
31Don’t look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly.
32In the end, it stings like a snake and poisons like a viper.
33You will see strange things, and your mind will imagine confusing things.
34You will be like someone lying in the middle of the ocean or like someone sleeping on top of a ship's mast.
35They hit me, but I wasn't hurt! They beat me, but I don't feel it! When will I wake up? I can do it again. I can find another drink.