Proverbs 21 summary meaning ai explained commentary

Proverbs 21 meaning explained in AI Summary

Proverbs Chapter 21 continues the book's exploration of wisdom and folly, focusing on themes of:

1. God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility:

God's control over everything: Even a king's heart is like a stream directed by the Lord (v. 1). True justice and righteousness are more pleasing to God than religious rituals (v. 3).
Human responsibility for choices: Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but those who gather little by little will prosper (v. 5). The wicked's own desires entrap them (v. 6).

2. Contrasting the Righteous and the Wicked:

The righteous are characterized by: honesty (v. 3), diligence (v. 5), generosity (v. 13), wisdom (v. 20), and justice (v. 21).
The wicked are characterized by: pride (v. 4), deceit (v. 6), violence (v. 7), crookedness (v. 8), contentiousness (v. 9), greed (v. 10), and laziness (v. 25).

3. Consequences of Choices:

Blessings for the righteous: Life, righteousness, honor (v. 21).
Destruction for the wicked: The house of the wicked will be destroyed (v. 12). The lazy will face want (v. 25).

4. Practical Wisdom for Life:

Value wisdom and understanding: They are more desirable than silver and gold (v. 19-20).
Be generous: Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered (v. 13).
Control your anger: A patient person is better than a warrior (v. 19).

Overall Message:

Chapter 21 emphasizes that true wisdom comes from fearing the Lord and aligning our lives with His ways. This leads to blessings and a life of purpose, while choosing wickedness ultimately leads to destruction. The chapter encourages readers to pursue righteousness, generosity, and self-control, reminding us that our choices have lasting consequences.

Proverbs 21 bible study ai commentary

Proverbs 21 is a collection of antithetical and synthetical couplets that emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty over all human affairs, from the heart of the king to the outcome of battle. It contrasts the life of the righteous, marked by justice, diligence, and humility, with the life of the wicked, characterized by pride, violence, and hypocritical religiosity. The central thesis is that true righteousness, which involves justice and mercy, is infinitely more valuable to God than empty religious rituals, and that ultimate success and deliverance come from the LORD alone, regardless of human strength or cunning.

Proverbs 21 Context

The proverbs in this chapter are attributed to Solomon and are part of the "Proverbs of Solomon" collection (Proverbs 10:1–22:16). This is classic Hebrew Wisdom Literature, designed for instructing young men, particularly those in or aspiring to royal court positions, in practical and theological wisdom. It operates within a covenantal framework where wisdom is not mere pragmatism but is rooted in the "fear of the LORD." Culturally, these sayings stand in contrast to other Ancient Near Eastern wisdom texts which might advocate for similar ethics but without the foundational belief in a single, sovereign, and just God (YHWH). These proverbs directly challenge the idea that kings are autonomous or that gods can be manipulated through ritual sacrifice.

Proverbs 21:1

The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will.

In-depth-analysis

A powerful statement of God's absolute sovereignty over even the most powerful human rulers.
Heart (lev in Hebrew): Represents the king's entire inner being—his thoughts, will, plans, and decisions.
Stream of water: An agricultural metaphor. A farmer easily diverts a small irrigation channel to water specific parts of a field. Likewise, God effortlessly directs the king's will to accomplish His divine purposes.
The king, who seems all-powerful to his subjects, is completely pliable in God's hands.

Bible references

Ezra 6:22: "...for the LORD had made them joyful and had turned the heart of the king of Assyria to them..." (God changing a foreign king's heart to help Israel).
Dan 4:35: "...he does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth..." (Nebuchadnezzar's testimony to God's total sovereignty).
Isa 45:1-4: "This is what the LORD says to his anointed, to Cyrus... I will go before you..." (God directing King Cyrus for Israel's sake).

Cross references

Gen 50:20 (God's sovereign plan); Ex 10:1 (God hardening Pharaoh's heart); Prov 16:9 (Man plans, God directs); Acts 4:27-28 (Herod and Pilate fulfilled God's plan).

Polemics

This verse is a direct polemic against the Ancient Near Eastern deification of kings. In Egypt and Mesopotamia, the king was often seen as a god or a god's son, with autonomous power. This proverb radically demotes the king to a mere instrument in the hand of the one true God, YHWH.

Proverbs 21:2

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart.

In-depth-analysis

Humans are masters of self-justification and are often blind to their own skewed motives and faults.
Weighs the heart: God's judgment is not based on outward appearance or a person's self-assessment, but on the true character and motives of the heart. His evaluation is perfect and cannot be deceived.

Bible references

1 Sam 16:7: "...The LORD does not look at the things people look at... the LORD looks at the heart." (Samuel choosing David).
Jer 17:9-10: "The heart is deceitful above all things... I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind..." (God's deep knowledge of the inner person).
Heb 4:12: "For the word of God... judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (The penetrating nature of God's truth).

Cross references

Prov 16:2 (Parallel verse); Judg 17:6 (Right in own eyes); 1 Cor 4:4-5 (God exposes motives); Gal 6:3 (Self-deception).

Proverbs 21:3

To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

In-depth-analysis

This is a foundational principle of the Old Testament prophets and a central theme in Scripture.
It is not a condemnation of the sacrificial system itself, which was ordained by God.
It condemns ritualism devoid of a righteous life. God desires a changed heart that results in just and merciful actions, not just outward religious acts performed to "check a box" or manipulate Him.
Righteousness (tsedaqah) and Justice (mishpat): Core attributes of God that He desires to see reflected in His people's social and personal conduct.

Bible references

1 Sam 15:22: "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." (Samuel's rebuke to Saul).
Mic 6:8: "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good... To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." (The essence of true religion).
Matt 23:23: "Woe to you... You have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness." (Jesus' rebuke of the Pharisees).

Cross references

Isa 1:11-17 (God rejects hypocritical worship); Hos 6:6 (God desires mercy, not sacrifice); Amos 5:21-24 (Let justice roll on like a river); Mark 12:33 (Love God/neighbor is better than offerings).

Proverbs 21:4

Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, are sin.

In-depth-analysis

Pride is identified as the very essence or defining characteristic of the wicked.
Haughty eyes and a proud heart: Classic biblical descriptions for arrogance, the attitude that one is self-sufficient and does not need God.
The lamp of the wicked: "Lamp" here can be interpreted as their "guiding light," "plowed field" (i.e., their entire enterprise), or their "life-source." In any reading, it means their entire existence and all they produce from their arrogant worldview is sin.

Bible references

Prov 6:16-17: "There are six things the LORD hates... haughty eyes..." (Pride as first on the list of abominations).
Isa 2:11: "The arrogant man will be humbled and the proud man brought low..." (Pride will be judged).
James 4:6: "...'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'" (The New Testament principle).

Cross references

Psa 101:5 (David's opposition to pride); Prov 16:18 (Pride goes before a fall); 1 Pet 5:5 (Be clothed with humility).

Proverbs 21:5

The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.

In-depth-analysis

A contrast between careful, thoughtful planning and impulsive, get-rich-quick schemes.
Diligent (charuts): Refers to one who is sharp, decisive, and persistently hard-working. Their careful planning leads to profit (motar).
Hasty ('uts): Describes rushing into things without foresight. This inevitably leads to lack (machsor).
This is a general principle of wisdom, not an absolute guarantee in every single case, as the righteous can suffer.

Bible references

Prov 10:4: "Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth." (A parallel proverb).
Prov 13:4: "A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied." (Diligence brings satisfaction).
Eph 5:15-16: "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity..." (A call to deliberate, wise living).

Cross references

Prov 6:6-8 (The ant's example); Prov 20:21 (Inheritance gained hastily); Luke 14:28-30 (The cost of discipleship).

Proverbs 21:6

The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death.

In-depth-analysis

Wealth obtained through deceit and dishonesty is insubstantial and deadly.
Fleeting vapor (hevel): The same word used in Ecclesiastes for "vanity." It implies something that is substanceless, meaningless, and quickly disappears.
Snare of death: Not only is the wealth temporary, but the path to acquiring it is self-destructive and leads to ruin. It's a trap.

Bible references

Jer 17:11: "Like a partridge that hatches eggs it did not lay is the one who gains riches by unjust means..." (Unjust wealth will be lost).
1 Tim 6:9-10: "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money... have pierced themselves with many griefs." (The destructive nature of greed).
James 5:1-4: "Now listen, you rich people... your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you..." (Judgment on wealth gained by fraud).

Cross references

Prov 10:2 (Ill-gotten gains do not profit); Hab 2:6 (Woe to him who piles up stolen goods); Prov 1:19 (Greed takes the life of its possessors).

Proverbs 21:7

The violence of the wicked will drag them away, for they refuse to do justice.

In-depth-analysis

The very tool the wicked use to get ahead—violence and oppression—will become the instrument of their own downfall.
This is a form of divine poetic justice (lex talionis).
Their fundamental sin is a rejection of justice (mishpat), connecting this back to verse 3. Their downfall is a direct consequence of this moral failure.

Bible references

Psa 7:15-16: "Whoever digs a hole... falls into the pit they have made... the violence they do descends on their own heads." (The principle of self-ensnarement).
Matt 26:52: "...for all who draw the sword will die by the sword." (Jesus to Peter).
Gal 6:7: "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." (The principle of sowing and reaping).

Cross references

Obad 1:15 (As you have done, it will be done to you); Esth 7:10 (Haman hanged on his own gallows); Matt 7:2 (By your standard you will be judged).

Proverbs 21:8

The way of the guilty is crooked, but the conduct of the pure is upright.

In-depth-analysis

A straightforward contrast between the moral paths of two types of people.
Crooked: Devious, twisted, unpredictable, and corrupt.
Upright (yashar): Straight, right, just. The path of integrity. Character determines conduct.

Bible references

Psa 125:5: "But those who turn to crooked ways the LORD will banish with the evildoers." (The destiny of the crooked).
Titus 2:7: "In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness..." (A call to upright conduct).
1 John 3:7: "...The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous." (Righteousness demonstrated by action).

Cross references

Prov 2:15 (Whose paths are crooked); Psa 25:4 (Show me your ways, Lord).

Proverbs 21:9

It is better to live on a corner of the roof than in a shared house with a quarrelsome wife.

In-depth-analysis

A memorable hyperbole emphasizing the misery caused by constant strife in the home.
Corner of the roof: An exposed, uncomfortable, and tiny space. The point is that even this misery is preferable to a large, comfortable house filled with conflict.
Quarrelsome wife: This describes a character type marked by contention and strife, not a blanket statement on women. The focus is on the devastating effect of discord on domestic peace.

Bible references

Prov 21:19: "It is better to live in a desert land than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman." (A near-identical proverb, emphasizing the theme).
Prov 19:13: "...a wife's quarreling is a continual dripping of rain." (Another vivid image of the same problem).
Prov 17:1: "Better is a dry morsel with quiet than a house full of feasting with strife." (The value of peace over material comfort).

Cross references

Prov 25:24 (Parallel verse); Prov 27:15 (Continual dripping on a rainy day).

Proverbs 21:10

The soul of the wicked desires evil; his neighbor finds no mercy in his eyes.

In-depth-analysis

Wickedness is not an accident but a deep-seated desire ('avah) of the soul (nephesh).
This inner corruption manifests in outward action: a complete lack of compassion or favor (chen) for others, even one's neighbor. The wicked person's desires are fundamentally selfish and destructive.

Bible references

James 1:14-15: "...but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire. Then... desire gives birth to sin..." (The progression from desire to action).
Rom 1:29-31: "They have become filled with every kind of wickedness... they are full of envy, murder, strife..." (A portrait of the sinful nature).
1 John 3:17: "If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?" (Lack of mercy reveals a lack of God's love).

Cross references

Psa 36:4 (Plots evil on his bed); Mic 2:1 (Woe to those who plan iniquity); Gen 4:8 (Cain's lack of mercy for his brother).

Proverbs 21:11

When a scoffer is punished, the simple becomes wise; but when a wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge.

In-depth-analysis

There are two paths to gaining wisdom: one negative, one positive.
The simple: The naive or gullible person learns wisdom by observing the negative consequences that befall the arrogant scoffer. It is wisdom by second-hand experience.
The wise: The wise person learns proactively by receiving instruction and correction directly, leading to deeper understanding. This is the superior path.

Bible references

Prov 19:25: "Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge." (A direct parallel).
Psa 19:7: "The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple." (God's word makes the simple wise).
Deut 13:11: "Then all Israel will hear and be afraid, and no one will again do such a wicked thing among you." (Punishment as a public deterrent and lesson).

Cross references

Prov 1:5 (Let the wise listen); Prov 9:9 (Instruct the wise and they will be wiser).

Proverbs 21:12

The Righteous One observes the house of the wicked; he throws the wicked down to ruin.

In-depth-analysis

The Righteous One (Tsaddiq): This can refer to a righteous person, but its context and definitive action strongly suggest this is God Himself. God is the ultimate observer and judge.
God is not indifferent to evil. He carefully considers the life and home of the wicked and, at the proper time, actively brings about their destruction. It links divine observation with divine judgment.

Bible references

Psa 37:35-36: "I have seen a wicked and ruthless man... but he was no more; though I looked for him, he could not be found." (The transience of the wicked under God's watch).
Job 18:21: "Surely such are the dwellings of the ungodly, such is the place of one who does not know God." (The fate of the wicked household).
2 Pet 2:9: "...the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment on the day of judgment." (God's judicial observation).

Cross references

Psa 11:4-5 (The Lord tests the righteous and the wicked); Psa 145:20 (The Lord watches over all who love him).

Proverbs 21:13

Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself cry out and not be answered.

In-depth-analysis

A powerful statement on retributive justice, specifically concerning mercy.
A lack of compassion for those in need will result in God withholding compassion from you in your time of need.
The principle is one of divine reciprocity: the measure you use will be measured to you.

Bible references

Matt 18:32-35: "Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you? ...This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother..." (Parable of the unforgiving servant).
James 2:13: "...because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment." (A core NT principle).
Isa 1:15-17: "...I will hide my eyes from you... your hands are full of blood. Wash and make yourselves clean... defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow." (Answered prayer is tied to social justice).

Cross references

Prov 28:27 (He who gives to the poor will not want); 1 John 3:17 (Closing one's heart to a brother in need); Luke 6:38 (Give, and it will be given to you).

Proverbs 21:27

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more when he brings it with a wicked purpose!

In-depth-analysis

This verse builds upon the theme of verse 3, but intensifies it.
Even a correctly performed ritual sacrifice is an abomination (to'ebah) to God if it comes from a wicked person, whose life is one of rebellion.
How much more: The abomination is compounded when the sacrifice is offered with a sinister motive (zimmah)—for example, to bribe God, to create a pious smokescreen for evil deeds, or to trap someone else.

Bible references

Gen 4:3-5: "the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard." (The heart of the worshiper matters more than the offering itself).
Isa 66:3: "But whoever sacrifices a bull is like one who kills a person... Their evil desires are with their offerings..." (God despising hypocritical ritual).
Mark 12:40: "[They] devour widows' houses and for a show make long prayers. These men will receive the greater condemnation." (Wicked motives nullifying religious acts).

Cross references

Prov 15:8 (The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination); Amos 5:21-22 (I hate, I despise your feasts).

Proverbs 21:30

There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD.

In-depth-analysis

A powerful summary of God's absolute sovereignty, forming a thematic bookend with verse 1.
Human wisdom (chokmah), understanding (tevunah), and counsel ('etsah) are completely futile when they are set up in opposition to God's will and purpose.
All human schemes aimed at thwarting God's plan will ultimately fail.

Bible references

Acts 5:38-39: "...For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men..." (Gamaliel's wise counsel).
1 Cor 1:25: "For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength." (The supremacy of God's 'foolish' plan of the cross).
Isa 8:10: "Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us." (Immanuel as the guarantee of failure for opposing plans).

Cross references

Gen 11:4-9 (The Tower of Babel); Ex 14 (Pharaoh's army); Psa 33:10-11 (The Lord foils the plans of the nations); Isa 46:10 (My purpose will stand).

Proverbs 21:31

The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.

In-depth-analysis

This proverb does not condemn preparation. Making the horse ready is prudent and necessary.
However, it declares that human preparation, military might, and technology (the horse being the ultimate weapon of the age) are not the decisive factors in a conflict.
Ultimate victory or deliverance (yeshu'ah) comes from God alone. It's a call to trust in God, not in one's own strength.

Bible references

Psa 20:7: "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." (The classic expression of this principle).
1 Sam 17:47: "...for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give you into our hands." (David to Goliath).
2 Chr 14:11: "Asa cried to the LORD his God, 'LORD, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty...'" (Dependence on God for victory).

Cross references

Psa 33:17 (A horse is a vain hope for deliverance); Deut 20:1-4 (God fights for you); Zech 4:6 ('Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit').

Proverbs chapter 21 analysis

The Sovereignty of God as Bookends: The chapter is framed by declarations of God's ultimate control. It begins with His control over the most powerful ruler's inner thoughts (v. 1) and ends with His control over the outcome of the greatest national endeavors (v. 30-31). All the practical advice in between is grounded in this theological reality.
Thematic Pairing: Several proverbs are paired or grouped by theme:
- Authentic vs. Hypocritical Worship: Verses 3 and 27 both contrast genuine justice with the empty sacrifices of the wicked.
- Domestic Strife: Verses 9 and 19 use almost identical structures to lament the pain of living with a contentious person.
- God's Sovereignty: Verses 1, 30, and 31 form a powerful triad on God's ultimate authority over human will, plans, and power.
The Anatomy of Wickedness and Righteousness: The chapter provides a detailed composite sketch of two opposing characters:| The Wicked | The Righteous || --- | --- || Are proud and haughty (v. 4) | Practice justice and righteousness (v. 3, 15) || Desire evil and show no mercy (v. 10) | Are diligent in their plans (v. 5) || Gain wealth by deceit (v. 6) | Are observed and vindicated by God (v. 12) || Use violence which destroys them (v. 7) | Their conduct is upright (v. 8) || Their worship is an abomination (v. 27) | Listen to the poor (implies they will be heard by God, v. 13) |
Justice as the Core Issue: The refusal to "do justice" (mishpat) is presented as the core sin of the wicked (v. 7) and a reason for God's anger, while the practice of justice is what pleases God (v. 3) and brings joy to the righteous (v. 15). This elevates social ethics to an act of worship.

Proverbs 21 summary

Proverbs 21 asserts that God is sovereign over every sphere of life, effortlessly directing kings' hearts and determining the outcome of battles. It sharply contrasts the wicked—whose pride, greed, violence, and hypocritical worship lead to ruin—with the righteous, who find joy and success through diligence, integrity, and a commitment to justice. The chapter's central message is that a life of justice and righteousness is far more pleasing to God than hollow religious observance, and ultimate deliverance belongs to the LORD alone.

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Proverbs chapter 21 kjv

¹ The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
² Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.
³ To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
⁴ An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.
⁵ The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.
⁶ The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.
⁷ The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; because they refuse to do judgment.
⁸ The way of man is froward and strange: but as for the pure, his work is right.
⁹ It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
¹⁰ The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes.
¹¹ When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.
¹² The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.
¹³ Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
¹⁴ A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.
¹⁵ It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.
¹⁶ The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.
¹⁷ He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.
¹⁸ The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.
¹⁹ It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.
²⁰ There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.
²¹ He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.
²² A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.
²³ Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.
²⁴ Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.
²⁵ The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.
²⁶ He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.
²⁷ The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?
²⁸ A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.
²⁹ A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way.
³⁰ There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.
³¹ The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.

Proverbs chapter 21 nkjv

¹ The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.
² Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the hearts.
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.
²² A wise man scales the city of the mighty, And brings down the trusted stronghold.
²³ Whoever guards his mouth and tongue Keeps his soul from troubles.
²⁴ A proud and haughty man? "Scoffer" is his name; He acts with arrogant pride.
²⁵ The desire of the lazy man kills him, For his hands refuse to labor.
²⁶ He covets greedily all day long, But the righteous gives and does not spare.
²⁷ The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; How much more when he brings it with wicked intent!
²⁸ A false witness shall perish, But the man who hears him will speak endlessly.
²⁹ A wicked man hardens his face, But as for the upright, he establishes his way.
³⁰ There is no wisdom or understanding Or counsel against the LORD.
³¹ The horse is prepared for the day of battle, But deliverance is of the LORD.

Proverbs chapter 21 niv

¹ In the LORD's hand the king's heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.
² A person may think their own ways are right, but the LORD weighs the heart.
³ To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
⁴ Haughty eyes and a proud heart? the unplowed field of the wicked?produce sin.
⁵ The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.
⁶ A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.
⁷ The violence of the wicked will drag them away, for they refuse to do what is right.
⁸ The way of the guilty is devious, but the conduct of the innocent is upright.
⁹ Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
¹⁰ The wicked crave evil; their neighbors get no mercy from them.
¹¹ When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; by paying attention to the wise they get knowledge.
¹² The Righteous One takes note of the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin.
¹³ Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered.
¹⁴ A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak pacifies great wrath.
¹⁵ When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.
¹⁶ Whoever strays from the path of prudence comes to rest in the company of the dead.
¹⁷ Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich.
¹⁸ The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, and the unfaithful for the upright.
¹⁹ Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and nagging wife.
²⁰ The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.
²¹ Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.
²² One who is wise can go up against the city of the mighty and pull down the stronghold in which they trust.
²³ Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.
²⁴ The proud and arrogant person?"Mocker" is his name? behaves with insolent fury.
²⁵ The craving of a sluggard will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work.
²⁶ All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing.
²⁷ The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable? how much more so when brought with evil intent!
²⁸ A false witness will perish, but a careful listener will testify successfully.
²⁹ The wicked put up a bold front, but the upright give thought to their ways.
³⁰ There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD.
³¹ The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.

Proverbs chapter 21 esv

¹ The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will.
² Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart.
³ To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
⁴ Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, are sin.
⁵ The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.
⁶ The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a snare of death.
⁷ The violence of the wicked will sweep them away, because they refuse to do what is just.
⁸ The way of the guilty is crooked, but the conduct of the pure is upright.
⁹ It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife.
¹⁰ The soul of the wicked desires evil; his neighbor finds no mercy in his eyes.
¹¹ When a scoffer is punished, the simple becomes wise; when a wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge.
¹² The Righteous One observes the house of the wicked; he throws the wicked down to ruin.
¹³ Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.
¹⁴ A gift in secret averts anger, and a concealed bribe, strong wrath.
¹⁵ When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.
¹⁶ One who wanders from the way of good sense will rest in the assembly of the dead.
¹⁷ Whoever loves pleasure will be a poor man; he who loves wine and oil will not be rich.
¹⁸ The wicked is a ransom for the righteous, and the traitor for the upright.
¹⁹ It is better to live in a desert land than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman.
²⁰ Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.
²¹ Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.
²² A wise man scales the city of the mighty and brings down the stronghold in which they trust.
²³ Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.
²⁴ "Scoffer" is the name of the arrogant, haughty man who acts with arrogant pride.
²⁵ The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.
²⁶ All day long he craves and craves, but the righteous gives and does not hold back.
²⁷ The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more when he brings it with evil intent.
²⁸ A false witness will perish, but the word of a man who hears will endure.
²⁹ A wicked man puts on a bold face, but the upright gives thought to his ways.
³⁰ No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel can avail against the LORD.
³¹ The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.

Proverbs chapter 21 nlt

¹ The king's heart is like a stream of water directed by the LORD;
he guides it wherever he pleases.
² People may be right in their own eyes,
but the LORD examines their heart.
³ The LORD is more pleased when we do what is right and just
than when we offer him sacrifices.
⁴ Haughty eyes, a proud heart,
and evil actions are all sin.
⁵ Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity,
but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.
⁶ Wealth created by a lying tongue
is a vanishing mist and a deadly trap.
⁷ The violence of the wicked sweeps them away,
because they refuse to do what is just.
⁸ The guilty walk a crooked path;
the innocent travel a straight road.
⁹ It's better to live alone in the corner of an attic
than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home.
¹⁰ Evil people desire evil;
their neighbors get no mercy from them.
¹¹ If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded become wise;
if you instruct the wise, they will be all the wiser.
¹² The Righteous One knows what is going on in the homes of the wicked;
he will bring disaster on them.
¹³ Those who shut their ears to the cries of the poor
will be ignored in their own time of need.
¹⁴ A secret gift calms anger;
a bribe under the table pacifies fury.
¹⁵ Justice is a joy to the godly,
but it terrifies evildoers.
¹⁶ The person who strays from common sense
will end up in the company of the dead.
¹⁷ Those who love pleasure become poor;
those who love wine and luxury will never be rich.
¹⁸ The wicked are punished in place of the godly,
and traitors in place of the honest.
¹⁹ It's better to live alone in the desert
than with a quarrelsome, complaining wife.
²⁰ The wise have wealth and luxury,
but fools spend whatever they get.
²¹ Whoever pursues righteousness and unfailing love
will find life, righteousness, and honor.
²² The wise conquer the city of the strong
and level the fortress in which they trust.
²³ Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut,
and you will stay out of trouble.
²⁴ Mockers are proud and haughty;
they act with boundless arrogance.
²⁵ Despite their desires, the lazy will come to ruin,
for their hands refuse to work.
²⁶ Some people are always greedy for more,
but the godly love to give!
²⁷ The sacrifice of an evil person is detestable,
especially when it is offered with wrong motives.
²⁸ A false witness will be cut off,
but a credible witness will be allowed to speak.
²⁹ The wicked bluff their way through,
but the virtuous think before they act.
³⁰ No human wisdom or understanding or plan
can stand against the LORD.
³¹ The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
but the victory belongs to the LORD.