²³ The wicked accepts ^(A)a bribe in secret^[a]
    to ^(B)pervert the ways of justice.

¹⁶ A man's ^(A)gift makes room for him
    and brings him before the great.

⁶ Many seek the favor of a generous man,^[a]
    and everyone is a friend to a man who gives ^(A)gifts.

^14 (A)A gift in secret averts anger,
    and a concealed bribe,^[a] strong wrath.

²³ Your princes are rebels
    and companions of thieves.
Everyone ^(A)loves a bribe
    and runs after gifts.
^(B)They do not bring justice to the fatherless,
    and the widow's cause does not come to them.

¹² For I know how many are your transgressions
    and how great are your sins—
you who afflict the righteous, who ^(A)take a bribe,
    and ^(B)turn aside the needy ^(C)in the gate.