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It is not for kings, O Lemuel,
    it is not for kings to drink wine,
    nor for princes strong drink;
lest they drink and forget the law,
    and pervert the justice of any of the afflicted.
Give strong drink to him who is ready to perish,
    and wine to those who are of heavy hearts.

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It is not for kings, Lemuel—
    it is not for kings to drink wine,(A)
    not for rulers to crave beer,
lest they drink(B) and forget what has been decreed,(C)
    and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.
Let beer be for those who are perishing,
    wine(D) for those who are in anguish!

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