17Turn your ear, and listen to the words of the wise. Apply your heart to my teaching.
18For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips.
19I teach you today, even you, so that your trust may be in Yahweh.
20Haven’t I written to you thirty excellent things of counsel and knowledge,
21To teach you truth, reliable words, to give sound answers to the ones who sent you?
22Don’t exploit the poor because he is poor; and don’t crush the needy in court;
23for Yahweh will plead their case, and plunder the life of those who plunder them.
24Don’t befriend a hot-tempered man. Don’t associate with one who harbors anger,
25lest you learn his ways and ensnare your soul.