Add parallel Print Page Options

It is not for kings, O Lemuel,
    it is not for kings to drink wine,
    or for rulers to desire[a] strong drink;
lest they drink and forget what has been decreed,
    and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.
Give strong drink to him who is perishing,
    and wine to those in bitter distress;

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 31:4 Cn: Heb where

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!

Read full chapter