³ Both hands are skilled in doing evil;^(A)
    the ruler demands gifts,
the judge accepts bribes,^(B)
    the powerful dictate what they desire—
    they all conspire together.
⁴ The best of them is like a brier,^(C)
    the most upright worse than a thorn^(D) hedge.
The day God visits you has come,
    the day your watchmen sound the alarm.
    Now is the time of your confusion.^(E)
5 Do not trust a neighbor;
    put no confidence in a friend.^(F)
Even with the woman who lies in your embrace
    guard the words of your lips.