Add parallel Print Page Options

    The hands of those who should know better are good at doing evil:
        the ruler and the judge ask for bribes;
    The people in power merely mention their deepest desires,
        and the ruler and judge make sure they happen.
    The best of them is as painful to deal with as a briar,
        the most honest of them like a hedge heavy with thorns.
    So the day your watchmen have awaited—
        the day of your punishment—has come.
    Now you will be confused and confounded.
    Do not trust your neighbor or rely on a friend.
        Do not tell your secrets even to the spouse who shares your bed,

Read full chapter

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.
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)
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.

Read full chapter