Book of Proverbs — Easy-to-Understand Version

Proverbs 1:1–6

Modern Language: These are the wise sayings of Solomon, the son of David and king of Israel. They are written to help people understand true wisdom, accept correction, and learn how to make fair and honest decisions. They provide good judgment to those who lack experience and give young people knowledge and better thinking skills. Wise people will listen to these words and become even wiser, while those with understanding will gain better guidance. These proverbs will help you understand deep sayings and riddles from wise teachers.

Main Point: The purpose of these proverbs is to teach wisdom, discipline, and understanding so people can live lives characterized by justice and good judgment.

Proverbs 1:7

Modern Language: Respecting and honoring the Lord is where knowledge begins. But fools completely despise wisdom and discipline.

Main Point: You cannot truly be wise without a foundational reverence for God; fools disregard divine wisdom entirely.

Proverbs 1:8–9

Modern Language: My child, listen to the discipline your father gives you, and never abandon the teaching of your mother. Following their advice will make you look dignified and honorable, like wearing a beautiful crown or a necklace of honor.

Main Point: Respecting the guidance of wise parents brings honor and character to a person's life.

Proverbs 1:10–19

Modern Language: My child, if sinners try to convince you to do wrong, do not give in. If they say, "Come with us! Let’s ambush someone and hurt innocent people just for fun. Let’s swallow them whole like the grave does, taking everything they own and filling our houses with stolen goods. Throw in with us and we can all share the loot!" My child, do not walk in their way or follow their path. They are rushing to do evil and are eager to commit violence. It is useless to spread a net right where the birds can see it; similarly, these people are setting a trap for their own lives and destroying themselves. This is the fate of everyone greedy for dishonest gain—it ultimately steals the life of the person who possesses it.

Main Point: Do not join criminals or greedy people, because their path leads to destruction, and their attempts to harm others will ultimately cause their own downfall.

Proverbs 1:20–33

Modern Language: Wisdom shouts in the streets and raises her voice in the public squares. She calls out at the busiest corners and near the city gates, saying: "How long will you foolish people love being simple-minded? How long will mockers enjoy mocking, and fools hate knowledge? If you would only listen to my correction, I would share my thoughts with you and tell you what I know. "But because you have refused to listen and rejected my help, I will laugh when disaster strikes you. I will mock when terror comes upon you like a storm, and trouble overwhelms you like a whirlwind. Then you will call for me, but I will not answer. You will look for me, but you will not find me. "Because you hated knowledge and chose not to respect the Lord, you refused my advice and despised my correction. Therefore, you will deal with the consequences of your choices and be filled with the bad things you planned. The turning away of simple people kills them, and the complacency of fools destroys them. But whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at peace, without fear of evil."

Main Point: Wisdom is available to everyone, but those who ignore it and refuse to respect God will suffer the consequences of their own foolish choices, while those who listen will find security.

Proverbs 2:1–5

Modern Language: My child, if you accept my words and keep my commands in your heart, if you truly listen to wisdom and apply yourself to understanding, if you cry out for insight and look for understanding as if you were searching for hidden silver or buried treasure, then you will understand what it means to respect the Lord and find the knowledge of God.

Main Point: Diligently seeking wisdom like it is a precious treasure is the path to truly knowing God and understanding what is right.

Proverbs 2:6–11

Modern Language: The Lord is the one who gives wisdom; knowledge and understanding come from him. He stores up sound wisdom for the honest and acts as a shield for those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of justice and watches over the way of his faithful people. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair—the right way to live. When wisdom fills your heart and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, good judgment will protect you, and understanding will guard you.

Main Point: God is the source of all wisdom, and he protects those who live honestly and uprightly.

Proverbs 2:12–19

Modern Language: Wisdom will save you from evil paths and from people who speak twisted things—those who abandon the right way to walk in dark paths, who enjoy doing evil and delight in wrongdoing. Their ways are crooked, and their lives are perverted. Wisdom will also save you from the immoral person, the one who uses flattering words to seduce you. They have abandoned the partner of their youth and forgotten their promise to God. Their house leads down to death, and their paths lead to the grave. No one who visits them ever returns to the path of life.

Main Point: Following wisdom protects you from immoral people and dangerous influences that lead to destruction.

Proverbs 2:20–22

Modern Language: Therefore, follow the path of good people and stay on the road of the righteous. For the honest will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it; but the wicked will be cut off, and the unfaithful will be uprooted.

Main Point: Choosing to live honestly and righteously leads to stability and a secure future, while evil actions lead to being removed and destroyed.

Proverbs 3:1–4

Modern Language: My child, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart. They will bring you a long, peaceful life. Never let love and truth leave you; tie them around your neck and write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and a good reputation in the sight of both God and people.

Main Point: Obeying God's teachings and living with love and integrity leads to a long, peaceful life and earns the respect of others.

Proverbs 3:5–6

Modern Language: Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own understanding. In everything you do, acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Main Point: Rely on God's guidance rather than your own limited judgment, and he will guide you to the right destination.

Proverbs 3:7–8

Modern Language: Do not think you are wise on your own. Respect the Lord and turn away from evil. This will bring health to your body and strength to your bones.

Main Point: Humility before God brings physical and spiritual well-being.

Proverbs 3:9–10

Modern Language: Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best of all that you produce. Then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will pour out new wine.

Main Point: Generously honoring God with your resources leads to his provision and abundance.

Proverbs 3:11–12

Modern Language: My child, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or get angry when he corrects you. The Lord disciplines those he loves, just as a father delights in the son he corrects.

Main Point: God's discipline is a sign of his love and is meant for our good, not just punishment.

Proverbs 3:13–18

Modern Language: Joyful is the person who finds wisdom and gains understanding. Profit from it is better than silver, and its gain is better than fine gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare to her. Long life is in her right hand, and riches and honor are in her left. Her ways are pleasant, and all her paths are peaceful. She is a tree of life to those who grab hold of her; whoever keeps hold of her is happy.

Main Point: Wisdom is incredibly valuable, bringing better rewards than wealth, and it leads to a truly fulfilling and peaceful life.

Proverbs 3:19–20

Modern Language: By wisdom the Lord founded the earth, and by understanding he established the heavens. By his knowledge the deep waters were broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew.

Main Point: Wisdom and understanding are fundamental attributes of God used in the creation of the universe.

Proverbs 3:21–26

Modern Language: My child, do not let these teachings depart from your eyes; keep sound wisdom and good judgment. They will be life for your soul and grace to your appearance. Then you will walk securely in your way, and you will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; you will lie down, and your sleep will be sweet. Do not fear sudden terror or the destruction that comes to the wicked. For the Lord will be your confidence, and he will keep your foot from being trapped.

Main Point: Holding onto wisdom provides security, peace of mind, and protection from fear and danger.

Proverbs 3:27–31

Modern Language: Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back later; I’ll give it to you tomorrow," when you have it with you now. Do not plot evil against your neighbor who lives near you in trust. Do not accuse anyone without cause, if they have done you no harm. Do not envy a violent person or choose any of their ways.

Main Point: Live with integrity by helping others promptly, acting fairly, and avoiding violence and jealousy.

Proverbs 3:32–35

Modern Language: The Lord detests the crooked person, but he shares his secret counsel with the upright. The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. He mocks the mockers, but he gives grace to the humble. The wise inherit honor, but fools only get shame.

Main Point: God opposes the wicked but blesses the upright and humble, ultimately giving honor to the wise and shame to fools.

Proverbs 4:1–4

Modern Language: Listen, children, to a father’s instruction; pay attention to gain understanding. I give you good teaching, so do not abandon my rules. When I was a young son, tender and special to my mother, my father taught me and said, "Let your heart hold onto my words; keep my commands and you will live."

Main Point: Passing down godly instruction from generation to generation is vital for living a meaningful life.

Proverbs 4:5–9

Modern Language: Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget it or turn away from the words I speak. Do not abandon wisdom, and she will guard you; love her, and she will protect you. The beginning of wisdom is: Get wisdom! And with all you get, get understanding. Cherish her, and she will elevate you; she will bring you honor when you embrace her. She will place a beautiful garland on your head and give you a crown of glory.

Main Point: Actively pursuing wisdom is the most important thing you can do, and it brings protection and honor.

Proverbs 4:10–13

Modern Language: Listen, my child, and accept my words, and the years of your life will be many. I will teach you the way of wisdom and lead you in straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hindered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold tightly to instruction, do not let it go; keep her, for she is your life.

Main Point: Obeying wise instructions ensures a smooth, successful, and long life.

Proverbs 4:14–19

Modern Language: Do not enter the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil people. Avoid it, do not pass through it; turn away from it and keep going. For they cannot sleep unless they have done something evil; they are robbed of sleep unless they have made someone fall. They eat wickedness as their food and drink violence as their wine. But the path of the righteous is like the shining light of dawn, getting brighter and brighter until the full light of day. The way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.

Main Point: Stay far away from evil people, as their lives are consumed by wrongdoing, whereas the righteous live lives that grow brighter and more honorable over time.

Proverbs 4:20–22

Modern Language: My child, pay attention to my words; listen closely to what I say. Do not let them out of your sight; keep them deep in your heart. For they are life to those who find them and bring health to their whole body.

Main Point: Internalizing wise words leads to health and life.

Proverbs 4:23–27

Modern Language: Guard your heart more than anything else, because the source of life flows from it. Keep your mouth free from crooked talk and keep corrupt speech far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead, and fix your gaze directly before you. Ponder the path of your feet and let all your ways be firm. Do not turn to the right or to the left; keep your foot away from evil.

Main Point: Protect your inner life (thoughts/emotions), speak truthfully, and focus on living a disciplined, upright life without turning toward evil.

Proverbs 5:1–6

Modern Language: My child, pay attention to my wisdom, listen closely to my understanding, so that you may maintain good sense and your lips may preserve knowledge. For the lips of an immoral woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil. But in the end, she is bitter as wormwood and sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave. She does not think about the path of life; her ways wander, and she doesn't know where she is going.

Main Point: The temptation of immorality seems sweet at first but leads to bitter destruction and death.

Proverbs 5:7–14

Modern Language: Now, children, listen to me and do not turn away from what I say. Keep your way far from her, and do not go near the door of her house. Otherwise, you will give your dignity to others and your best years to someone cruel. Strangers will consume your wealth, and the fruits of your hard work will go into someone else’s house. You will moan at the end, when your body and flesh are wasted away, and you will say, "How I hated correction! My heart despised being told what to do! I did not listen to my teachers or listen to my instructors. I was on the brink of total ruin in front of the whole community."

Main Point: Sexual immorality ruins your reputation, wastes your resources, destroys your health, and leads to deep regret.

Proverbs 5:15–20

Modern Language: Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. Should your fountains be poured out in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? Let them be yours alone, not for strangers to share with you. May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. She is a lovely deer, a graceful doe; may her breasts satisfy you at all times, and may you be intoxicated by her love continually. Why, my child, should you be intoxicated by an immoral woman or embrace the bosom of a stranger?

Main Point: Find satisfaction and joy in your own marriage and family, rather than looking for it elsewhere.

Proverbs 5:21–23

Modern Language: For the ways of a person are before the eyes of the Lord, and he examines all their paths. The wicked are trapped by their own sins; they are held fast by the cords of their own wrongdoing. They will die because they lack discipline, and because of their great foolishness, they will wander off.

Main Point: God sees everything we do, and the wicked will be trapped by their own sins and perish due to lack of self-control.

Here is the continuation of the proverbs, rewritten in modern language with key points highlighted.

Proverbs 6:1–5

Modern Language: My child, if you have signed a loan agreement for a friend or pledged to pay for a stranger’s debt, you have trapped yourself with your own words. You are caught in a bad situation. Here is how to get out of it, since you have put yourself in your friend's power: Go, humble yourself, and urgently ask them to release you from the promise. Do not let yourself sleep or even rest until you are free, just like a gazelle escaping a hunter or a bird escaping a bird-catcher.

Main Point: Do not carelessly promise to pay off someone else's debt; if you do, take immediate action to free yourself from that obligation.

Proverbs 6:6–11

Modern Language: Take a lesson from the ants, you lazy person. Observe how they behave and become wise. They have no leader, manager, or ruler, yet they work hard all summer to gather food for the winter. You lazy person, how long will you lie around sleeping? When will you get up? Just a little more sleep, a little more rest, a little more folding your hands to take it easy, and poverty will strike you suddenly like a robber, and want will overpower you like an armed man.

Main Point: Laziness leads to sudden poverty, while hard work and preparation bring security.

Proverbs 6:12–15

Modern Language: A wicked person, a worthless scoundrel, goes around telling lies. He winks with his eyes, signals with his feet, and points with his fingers to make trouble. He has a deceitful heart, constantly plans evil, and causes arguments. Therefore, disaster will strike him suddenly; in an instant, he will be broken beyond repair.

Main Point: People who use dishonest behavior and deception to stir up trouble will face sudden, ruinous destruction.

Proverbs 6:16–19

Modern Language: There are six things the Lord hates—no, seven things he detests: arrogant eyes, a lying tongue, hands that murder innocent people, a heart that plots evil plans, feet that rush to do wrong, a false witness who tells lies, and anyone who stirs up conflict among brothers.

Main Point: God deeply detests attitudes and actions that promote dishonesty, violence, and division.

Proverbs 6:20–23

Modern Language: My child, obey your father's command, and do not abandon your mother’s teaching. Keep their advice in your heart forever; tie it around your neck. When you walk, it will guide you; when you sleep, it will protect you; and when you wake up, it will talk to you. For these commands are a lamp and the teaching is a light; correction and discipline are the way to life.

Main Point: Following the guidance and wisdom of godly parents provides protection, direction, and life-giving correction.

Proverbs 6:24–35

Modern Language: This wisdom will keep you away from the immoral woman, from the smooth talk of a promiscuous woman. Do not lust after her beauty in your heart, and do not let her captivate you with her eyes. A prostitute might cost you only a loaf of bread, but an adulteress hunts for your very life. Can a man carry fire in his lap without burning his clothes? Can someone walk on hot coals without scorching their feet? It is the same for the man who sleeps with another man’s wife; anyone who touches her will not go unpunished. People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger, but if he is caught, he must pay back seven times what he took, even if it costs everything he owns. But the man who commits adultery is crazy; he destroys himself. He will be beaten, disgraced, and his shame will never be forgotten. A husband’s jealousy will make him furious, and he will take revenge without mercy. He will not accept any payment, no matter how much you offer him.

Main Point: Adultery is foolish and destructive; it ruins reputations, invites violent retaliation, and causes irreparable ruin to one's life.

Proverbs 7:1–5

Modern Language: My child, hold onto my words and treasure my commands. Obey them and you will live; protect my teachings as carefully as you protect your own eyes. Tie them on your fingers as a reminder, and write them on your heart. Treat wisdom as your sister and insight as your close relative. They will keep you away from the immoral woman, the stranger who speaks flattering words.

Main Point: Valuing wisdom and commands like a close relative provides necessary protection against temptation.

Proverbs 7:6–23

Modern Language: While looking out the window of my house through the lattice, I noticed a naive young man among the crowd. He was walking down the street near the corner where an immoral woman lived, heading toward her house. It was twilight, just as the day was ending, in the dark and blackness of night. Suddenly, a woman came out to meet him, dressed like a prostitute and full of deceit. She was loud, stubborn, and could never stay home; she was always in the streets, lurking at every corner. She grabbed him, kissed him, and with a bold face, said, "I have peace offerings ready; I just fulfilled my vows, so I have plenty of meat at home. That is why I came out to meet you—I was searching for you, and I found you! I have covered my bed with fine linens from Egypt and perfumed it with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. Come, let’s make love until morning; let’s enjoy ourselves. My husband is not home; he went on a long journey. He took a large bag of money with him and won't be back until the full moon." With all her enticing words, she convinced him. Immediately, he followed her, like an ox going to the slaughter or a fool stepping into a trap. He did not realize that it would cost him his life until an arrow pierced his liver, like a bird rushing into a net.

Main Point: Temptation often appears in the dark and uses flattery, but giving in to it leads blindly to destruction and death.

Proverbs 7:24–27

Modern Language: So now, my children, listen to me. Do not let your hearts turn toward the ways of such a woman, and do not wander onto her paths. She has brought down many wounded men, and all her victims were strong. Her house is a highway to the grave, leading down to the chambers of death.

Main Point: The path of immorality is destructive, killing even strong people and leading directly to death.

Proverbs 8:1–11

Modern Language: Does not wisdom call out, and understanding raise her voice? She stands on the highest points along the way, at the crossroads. Beside the gates, at the entry to the city, at the doors, she shouts: "I call to you, everyone! My voice is for all people. You naive people, learn to be prudent; you fools, learn to understand. Listen, for I speak excellent things, and what I say is right. My mouth speaks the truth; I hate wickedness. All my words are righteous; none of them are twisted or crooked. They are clear to those with understanding and right to those who find knowledge. Choose my instruction rather than silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold; for wisdom is better than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare to her."

Main Point: Wisdom calls out publicly to everyone, offering truth, righteousness, and immense value that far surpasses material wealth.

Proverbs 8:12–21

Modern Language: "I, wisdom, live with prudence and find knowledge and good judgment. To respect the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride, arrogance, evil behavior, and twisted speech. I have good advice and sound judgment; I am understanding, and I have strength. By me kings reign, and rulers make just laws. By me princes govern, and all the nobles who judge the earth. I love those who love me, and those who search for me will find me. Riches and honor are with me, along with lasting wealth and righteousness. My fruit is better than pure gold, and my harvest is better than choice silver. I walk in the path of righteousness, along the paths of justice, to give wealth to those who love me and fill their treasuries."

Main Point: True wisdom brings humility, justice, and lasting prosperity, and it is found by those who diligently seek it.

Proverbs 8:22–31

Modern Language: "The Lord created me at the beginning of his work, long before he made anything else. I was formed long ago, at the beginning, before the earth existed. I was brought forth before there were any oceans, before there were springs overflowing with water. Before the mountains were settled in place, before the hills, I was brought forth—before he made the earth or the fields or even the first dust of the world. "I was there when he prepared the heavens, when he drew the horizon on the face of the deep, when he established the clouds above and fixed the fountains of the deep, when he set a limit for the sea so that the waters would not overstep his command, and when he marked out the foundations of the earth. Then I was beside him, like a master craftsman. I was his daily delight, rejoicing before him all the time—rejoicing in his whole world and taking delight in the human race."

Main Point: Wisdom is a foundational attribute of God, active in the creation of the universe and delighting in humanity.

Proverbs 8:32–36

Modern Language: "Now, children, listen to me; happy are those who keep my ways. Listen to instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Happy is the person who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at the doorway of my house. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. But those who miss me harm themselves; all who hate me love death."

Main Point: Those who seek and follow wisdom find life, favor, and happiness, while rejecting wisdom is self-destructive.

Proverbs 9:1–6

Modern Language: Wisdom has built her house; she has set up its seven pillars. She has prepared her food and mixed her wine; she has set her table. She has sent out her servants, and she calls from the highest point of the city: "Whoever is naive, come in here!" To those who lack judgment, she says: "Come, eat my food and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave your foolish ways behind, and you will live; walk in the way of understanding."

Main Point: Wisdom invites people to abandon foolishness and enjoy a life of understanding and fulfillment.

Proverbs 9:7–9

Modern Language: If you correct a mocker, you will only get insulted; if you rebuke a wicked person, you will only get hurt. Do not rebuke a mocker, or they will hate you; rebuke a wise person, and they will love you. Teach a wise person, and they will become wiser; instruct a righteous person, and they will learn more.

Main Point: Wise people accept correction and grow, while mockers reject it and react with hostility.

Proverbs 9:10–12

Modern Language: Respecting the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowing the Holy One is understanding. For through me your days will be multiplied, and years will be added to your life. If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; but if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer.

Main Point: True wisdom starts with honoring God and leads to a longer, more rewarding life.

Proverbs 9:13–18

Modern Language: Folly is a loud woman; she is ignorant and knows nothing. She sits at the door of her house, on a seat at the highest point of the city, calling out to those who pass by, who are going straight on their way: "Whoever is naive, come in here!" To those who lack judgment, she says: "Stolen water is sweet, and food eaten in secret is delicious!" But they do not realize that the dead are there, that her guests are deep in the grave.

Main Point: Folly loudly promises pleasure, but she actually leads her followers directly to destruction and death.

Proverbs 10:1

Modern Language: The proverbs of Solomon: A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.

Main Point: A child's choices in wisdom or folly directly impact the emotional well-being of their parents.

Proverbs 10:2–3

Modern Language: Dishonest wealth brings no profit, but righteousness saves from death. The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the cravings of the wicked.

Main Point: Integrity is valuable for survival, and God ensures the righteous are provided for, while frustrating the selfish desires of the wicked.

Proverbs 10:4–5

Modern Language: Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth. He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a son who brings shame.

Main Point: Hard work brings success, while laziness during crucial times causes ruin and shame.

Proverbs 10:6–7

Modern Language: Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked. The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.

Main Point: Righteous people are honored and remembered fondly, while the wicked are despised and forgotten.

Proverbs 10:8–10

Modern Language: The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out. Whoever winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering fool comes to ruin.

Main Point: Integrity provides safety and peace, while dishonesty and foolish talking lead to trouble and ruin.

Proverbs 10:11–12

Modern Language: The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.

Main Point: Righteous speech brings life and healing, while hatred causes division; love, however, forgives and resolves conflict.

Proverbs 10:13–14

Modern Language: Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of those who lack judgment. The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.

Main Point: Wise people speak with understanding, while fools bring trouble upon themselves through their words.

Proverbs 10:15–16

Modern Language: The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; the poverty of the poor is their destruction. The earnings of the righteous bring life, but the income of the wicked brings punishment.

Main Point: Wealth provides security, but true life comes from righteous work, not just earning money.

Proverbs 10:17–18

Modern Language: Whoever listens to correction leads the way to life, but whoever ignores discipline goes astray. Whoever conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool.

Main Point: Accepting correction leads to a good life, while harboring hatred and spreading rumors is foolish.

Proverbs 10:19–21

Modern Language: Sin is not absent when there are many words, but whoever holds their tongue is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment.

Main Point: Wise people speak carefully, using their words to help and nourish others, while foolish words are worthless and destructive.

Proverbs 10:22–23

Modern Language: The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, without painful toil for it. A fool finds pleasure in evil schemes, but a person of understanding delights in wisdom.

Main Point: True success comes from God's blessing, and understanding people enjoy the pursuit of wisdom.

Proverbs 10:24–25

Modern Language: What the wicked fear will overtake them; what the righteous desire will be granted. When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever.

Main Point: The righteous have a secure future that lasts, while the wicked are destroyed by the consequences of their actions.

Proverbs 10:26–27

Modern Language: As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so are lazy people to those who send them. The fear of the Lord adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.

Main Point: Laziness is irritating and unproductive; living in reverence to God leads to a longer, better life.

Proverbs 10:28–30

Modern Language: The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing. The way of the Lord is a refuge for the blameless, but it is the ruin of those who do evil. The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land.

Main Point: The righteous have a joyful future and are protected by God, while the wicked face ruin and destruction.

Proverbs 10:31–32

Modern Language: The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be silenced. The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked only speaks what is perverse.

Main Point: Righteous people speak wisely and appropriately, while the wicked speak twisted things that lead to their downfall.

Here is the continuation of the proverbs, rewritten in modern language with key points highlighted.

Proverbs 11:1–3

Modern Language: The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him. When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

Main Point: God demands honesty in business; humility leads to wisdom, and integrity provides guidance, while dishonesty brings destruction.

Proverbs 11:4–6

Modern Language: Wealth is worthless on the day of wrath, but righteousness saves from death. The righteousness of the upright delivers them from trouble, but the unfaithful are trapped by their own evil desires.

Main Point: Righteousness is more valuable than money in times of crisis and protects people from the traps of their own wickedness.

Proverbs 11:7–9

Modern Language: When the wicked die, their hope perishes; all they expected from their power comes to nothing. The righteous are rescued from trouble, and it falls on the wicked instead. With their mouths, the godless destroy their neighbors, but through knowledge, the righteous escape.

Main Point: The righteous are saved from trouble that catches the wicked, and knowledge protects them from the destructive words of the godless.

Proverbs 11:10–13

Modern Language: When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. Through the blessing of the upright, a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked, it is destroyed. Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.

Main Point: The righteous bring blessing to their community, while the wicked destroy it; wise people are discreet and trustworthy.

Proverbs 11:14–15

Modern Language: Where there is no guidance, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors, there is safety. It goes badly for anyone who promises to pay off a stranger's debt, but the one who refuses to do so is secure.

Main Point: Seeking wise advice prevents disaster, and avoiding unnecessary financial risks ensures security.

Proverbs 11:16–17

Modern Language: A gracious woman gains honor, just as violent men gain wealth. The merciful person does good to themselves, but the cruel person brings trouble on themselves.

Main Point: Kindness brings honor and self-benefit, while cruelty brings personal harm.

Proverbs 11:18–19

Modern Language: The wicked earn wages that deceive them, but those who sow righteousness earn a real reward. Truly, righteousness leads to life, but chasing evil leads to death.

Main Point: Dishonest actions bring empty rewards, but living righteously brings true life and lasting benefits.

Proverbs 11:20–21

Modern Language: The Lord detests those whose hearts are perverse, but he delights in those whose ways are blameless. You can be sure that wicked people will not go unpunished, but the children of the righteous will escape.

Main Point: God opposes the corrupt but loves the righteous, guaranteeing justice for the wicked and safety for the righteous.

Proverbs 11:22

Modern Language: A beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in a pig’s snout.

Main Point: Physical beauty without good judgment is valuable and wasted, much like putting gold on a pig.

Proverbs 11:23–26

Modern Language: The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked ends in wrath. One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds more than is right, yet comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. People curse the one who hoards grain, but they bless the one who is willing to sell.

Main Point: Generosity leads to abundance and blessing, while selfishness and hoarding lead to poverty and condemnation.

Proverbs 11:27–28

Modern Language: If you search for good, you will find favor, but if you search for evil, it will find you. Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf.

Main Point: Pursuing good brings favor, while pursuing evil brings destruction; true security and growth come from righteousness, not wealth.

Proverbs 11:29–31

Modern Language: Whoever brings trouble on their family will inherit only wind; a fool will be a servant to the wise. The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who wins souls is wise. If the righteous receive their reward on earth, how much more the wicked and the sinner!

Main Point: Mismanaging one's household leads to loss, while righteous living brings life and influence; justice is guaranteed for everyone.

Proverbs 12:1–3

Modern Language: Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid. A good person obtains favor from the Lord, but he condemns a person who plots evil. No one can establish themselves through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted.

Main Point: Accepting correction is necessary for gaining knowledge and favor, while wickedness is unstable and temporary.

Proverbs 12:4

Modern Language: A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like rottenness in his bones.

Main Point: A virtuous spouse brings honor and strength, while a dishonorable one causes deep personal ruin.

Proverbs 12:5–7

Modern Language: The plans of the righteous are just, but the advice of the wicked is deceitful. The words of the wicked are deadly ambushes, but the speech of the upright rescues them. The wicked are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous stands firm.

Main Point: Righteous plans lead to justice, while evil plans are harmful; ultimately, the righteous have a lasting future, but the wicked do not.

Proverbs 12:8–10

Modern Language: A person is praised according to their wisdom, but a twisted mind is despised. Better to be a nobody with a servant than to pretend to be a somebody and have no food. A righteous person cares for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.

Main Point: True wisdom brings honor, substance is better than appearance, and the righteous show compassion, unlike the heartless wicked.

Proverbs 12:11–12

Modern Language: Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies lack judgment. The wicked desire the loot of evil men, but the root of the righteous endures.

Main Point: Diligent work brings security, while seeking quick, dishonest gain is foolish; righteousness provides stability.

Proverbs 12:13–14

Modern Language: Evildoers are trapped by their own wicked talk, but the righteous escape trouble. From the fruit of their lips, people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward.

Main Point: Dishonest people are ruined by their own lies, while righteous people enjoy the positive outcomes of their words and actions.

Proverbs 12:15–16

Modern Language: The way of a fool seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice. Fools show their annoyance immediately, but prudent people overlook an insult.

Main Point: Fools are arrogant and easily angered, while wise people take advice and show self-control.

Proverbs 12:17–19

Modern Language: A truthful witness tells what is right, but a false witness tells lies. Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Truthful lips last forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

Main Point: Honesty is durable and healing, while lies are temporary and destructive.

Proverbs 12:20–22

Modern Language: Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy. No harm befalls the righteous, but the wicked have their fill of trouble. The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.

Main Point: Evil planners live in deceit, while peacemakers find joy; God protects the righteous and despises dishonest people.

Proverbs 12:23–25

Modern Language: Prudent people conceal their knowledge, but fools shout their foolishness. Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor. Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.

Main Point: Wisdom is shown through discretion, hard work leads to leadership, and kindness alleviates stress.

Proverbs 12:26–28

Modern Language: The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray. Lazy people do not roast their game, but the diligent prize their possessions. In the path of righteousness is life; along that path is immortality.

Main Point: Good company protects, diligence leads to appreciation of resources, and righteousness leads to eternal life.

Proverbs 13:1–3

Modern Language: A wise child accepts a father’s discipline, but a mocker does not listen to rebukes. From the fruit of their lips, people enjoy good things, but the unfaithful have an appetite for violence. Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak recklessly will come to ruin.

Main Point: Listening to correction leads to a good life, while reckless speech and unfaithfulness bring violence and destruction.

Proverbs 13:4–6

Modern Language: A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied. The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace. Righteousness guards the person of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner.

Main Point: Diligence leads to satisfaction, integrity protects, and wickedness destroys.

Proverbs 13:7–8

Modern Language: One person pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth. A person’s riches may ransom their life, but the poor cannot even respond to threats.

Main Point: Wealth can provide security in crises, but appearances can be deceiving.

Proverbs 13:9–11

Modern Language: The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out. Where there is pride, there is contention, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.

Main Point: Righteousness endures, while wickedness and pride lead to ruin; steady, honest work builds lasting wealth.

Proverbs 13:12–14

Modern Language: Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. Whoever scorns instruction will pay for it, but whoever respects a command is rewarded. The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning people from the snares of death.

Main Point: Fulfilling goals brings joy, respecting guidance brings rewards, and wisdom protects from danger.

Proverbs 13:15–18

Modern Language: Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard. All who are prudent act with knowledge, but fools expose their folly. A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing. Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.

Main Point: Understanding and prudence lead to favor and success, while folly and disregarding discipline lead to ruin.

Proverbs 13:19–21

Modern Language: A desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil. Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. Trouble pursues sinners, but the righteous are rewarded with good.

Main Point: Fulfilling desires is satisfying, but fools refuse to change; choosing wise companions ensures success, while evil brings trouble.

Proverbs 13:22–25

Modern Language: A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous. The fields of the poor produce abundant food, but injustice sweeps it away. Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but whoever loves their children is careful to discipline them. The righteous eat to their hearts’ content, but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry.

Main Point: The righteous leave a legacy, but wickedness causes loss; proper discipline is a sign of love, and righteousness brings fulfillment.

Proverbs 14:1–2

Modern Language: The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down. Whoever walks in uprightness fears the Lord, but those whose ways are devious despise him.

Main Point: Wisdom leads to building stability, while folly leads to destruction; upright living shows respect for God.

Proverbs 14:3–4

Modern Language: A fool’s mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them. Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but strength in an ox brings an abundant harvest.

Main Point: Prideful speech brings trouble, while hard work and preparation lead to productivity.

Proverbs 14:5–7

Modern Language: A truthful witness does not lie, but a false witness breathes out lies. The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning. Stay away from a fool, for you will find no knowledge on their lips.

Main Point: Truthfulness is essential, while mockers cannot find wisdom, and fools should be avoided.

Proverbs 14:8–10

Modern Language: The wisdom of the prudent is to understand their way, but the folly of fools is deceit. Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright. Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger can fully share in its joy.

Main Point: Prudence involves self-awareness, while fools ignore sin; personal joy and sorrow are deeply individual experiences.

Proverbs 14:11–13

Modern Language: The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish. There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief.

Main Point: Wickedness brings destruction despite appearances, and earthly joy cannot mask deep sorrow or guarantee safety.

Proverbs 14:14–16

Modern Language: The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the good person rewarded for theirs. The naive believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps. The wise fear the Lord and shun evil, but a fool is hotheaded and reckless.

Main Point: Everyone is rewarded according to their character, while prudence brings caution and wisdom brings fear of God and avoidance of evil.

Proverbs 14:17–19

Modern Language: A quick-tempered person does foolish things, and the one who plots evil is hated. The naive inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge. Evildoers will bow down in the presence of the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

Main Point: Impulsiveness leads to folly, prudence leads to knowledge, and ultimately goodness will prevail over wickedness.

Proverbs 14:20–22

Modern Language: The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends. Whoever despises their neighbor sins, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy. Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness.

Main Point: Society favors the rich, but God favors those who are kind to the poor; plotting evil leads astray, while planning good leads to love.

Proverbs 14:23–25

Modern Language: All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. The wealth of the wise is their crown, but the folly of fools yields folly. A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful.

Main Point: Effort produces results, but empty words produce nothing; wisdom brings honor, and truthfulness is life-saving.

Proverbs 14:26–28

Modern Language: Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death. A large population is a king’s glory, but without subjects a prince is ruined.

Main Point: Reverence for God provides security and life, while a king's strength is found in his people.

Proverbs 14:29–31

Modern Language: Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

Main Point: Patience shows understanding, a peaceful heart brings health, and kindness to the poor honors God.

Proverbs 14:32–35

Modern Language: When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous seek refuge in their integrity. Wisdom rests in the heart of the discerning, but even fools know what is in their own hearts. Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people. A king delights in a wise servant, but his wrath falls on one who causes shame.

Main Point: Integrity provides refuge in trouble, righteousness strengthens a nation, and wisdom brings favor.

Proverbs 15:1–3

Modern Language: A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

Main Point: Communication skills determine conflict outcomes, wisdom is attractive, and God observes all actions.

Proverbs 15:4–6

Modern Language: The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit. A fool spurns a parent’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence. The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the income of the wicked brings ruin.

Main Point: Kind words heal, accepting discipline shows wisdom, and righteous living brings true abundance.

Proverbs 15:7–9

Modern Language: The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not upright. The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him. The Lord detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue righteousness.

Main Point: Wise people share knowledge, while God favors the prayers and actions of the righteous and detests the wicked.

Proverbs 15:10–12

Modern Language: Stern discipline awaits anyone who leaves the path; whoever hates correction will die. Death and Destruction lie open before the Lord—how much more do human hearts! Mockers dislike being corrected, so they avoid the wise.

Main Point: Rejecting correction leads to ruin, God knows all hearts, and mockers avoid accountability.

Proverbs 15:13–15

Modern Language: A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit. The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly. All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

Main Point: Internal emotions determine outward appearance, wise people seek knowledge, and a cheerful attitude makes life enjoyable despite hardships.

Proverbs 15:16–17

Modern Language: Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil. Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.

Main Point: Relationships and reverence for God are more valuable than wealth.

Proverbs 15:18–19

Modern Language: A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the patient calm a dispute. The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway.

Main Point: Patience resolves conflict, while laziness makes life difficult; integrity provides a clear path forward.

Proverbs 15:20–22

Modern Language: A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother. Folly brings joy to one who has no sense, but whoever has understanding keeps a straight course. Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.

Main Point: Children impact parents, foolishness brings temporary pleasure, and wise counsel ensures success.

Proverbs 15:23–24

Modern Language: A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word! The path of life leads upward for the prudent to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead.

Main Point: Wise, timely words bring joy, and prudence leads to a better life.

Proverbs 15:25–27

Modern Language: The Lord tears down the house of the proud, but he maintains the boundary of the widow. The Lord detests the thoughts of the wicked, but gracious words are pure in his sight. The greedy bring ruin to their households, but those who hate bribes will live.

Main Point: God opposes pride and injustice, values pure thoughts and words, and condemns greed while rewarding integrity.

Proverbs 15:28–30

Modern Language: The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil. The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayer of the righteous. A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.

Main Point: Righteous people speak thoughtfully, God listens to them, and positivity brings health.

Proverbs 15:31–33

Modern Language: Whoever listens to life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding. The fear of the Lord teaches wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

Main Point: Accepting correction leads to wisdom, while rejecting it is self-destructive; humility is necessary for honor.

Proverbs 16:1–4

Modern Language: People may make plans in their hearts, but the final answer comes from the Lord. People may think all their ways are pure, but the Lord examines their motives. Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed. The Lord has made everything for his own purpose, even the wicked for the day of disaster.

Main Point: While humans make plans, God determines the outcome and judges the true motives of the heart.

Proverbs 16:5–7

Modern Language: The Lord detests all who are proud of heart; they will certainly not go unpunished. Through love and faithfulness sin is forgiven, and through fear of the Lord people avoid evil. When the Lord is pleased with a person’s ways, he makes even their enemies live at peace with them.

Main Point: God opposes pride but rewards faithfulness, love, and reverence, leading to peace and forgiveness.

Proverbs 16:8–11

Modern Language: Better to have a little with righteousness than great wealth with injustice. In their hearts, people plan their course, but the Lord determines their steps. An oracle is on the lips of a king; his mouth should not betray justice. The Lord demands honest scales and accurate weights; all the weights in the bag are his work.

Main Point: Righteousness is better than wealth, and God guides our paths and demands justice and honesty in all dealings.

Proverbs 16:12–15

Modern Language: Kings detest wrongdoing, because a throne is established through righteousness. Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value those who speak truthfully. A king’s wrath is like a messenger of death, but a wise person will appease it. When a king is pleased, it is like life-giving rain; his favor is like a spring shower.

Main Point: Leaders must govern with integrity to maintain power, and they should value honesty and wisdom in those around them.

Proverbs 16:16–19

Modern Language: How much better to get wisdom than gold, and to choose understanding rather than silver! The path of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their way protect their lives. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be humble among the poor than to share loot with the proud.

Main Point: Wisdom is more valuable than wealth, and humility prevents ruin, while pride leads to downfall.

Proverbs 16:20–24

Modern Language: Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord. The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote learning. Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools. The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction. Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

Main Point: Trusting God, pursuing wisdom, and speaking graciously bring success, knowledge, and health.

Proverbs 16:25–27

Modern Language: There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. The appetite of workers works for them; their hunger drives them on. Scoundrels plot evil, and their speech is like a scorching fire.

Main Point: Human reasoning can be fatally flawed, and evil people work hard to destroy others with their words.

Proverbs 16:28–30

Modern Language: A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. A violent person entices their neighbor and leads them down a harmful path. Those who wink maliciously plot deceit; those who bite their lips bring evil to pass.

Main Point: Evil people maliciously stir up conflict and plot to destroy relationships and lead others astray.

Proverbs 16:31–33

Modern Language: Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness. Better to be patient than mighty, and to control one’s temper than to capture a city. The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.

Main Point: Righteous longevity brings honor, self-control is greater than physical power, and God ultimately controls the outcome of events.

Proverbs 17:1–3

Modern Language: Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife. A wise servant will rule over a disgraceful son and will share in the inheritance as one of the family. The crucible is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests hearts.

Main Point: Peace is more valuable than material abundance, wisdom determines leadership more than birthright, and God tests inner character.

Proverbs 17:4–6

Modern Language: Wicked people listen to evil lips; liars pay attention to a destructive tongue. Whoever mocks the poor insults their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished. Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.

Main Point: Evil corrupts listeners, mocking the poor is an insult to God, and family bonds provide honor across generations.

Proverbs 17:7–9

Modern Language: Arrogant lips do not suit a fool; how much less do lying lips suit a noble person! A bribe is a magic stone in the eyes of the one who gives it; wherever they turn, they succeed. Whoever covers over an offense seeks love, but whoever brings up a matter separates close friends.

Main Point: Lying is disgraceful, bribery can produce temporary success, and forgiving offenses strengthens relationships, while gossiping destroys them.

Proverbs 17:10–12

Modern Language: A rebuke impresses a discerning person more than a hundred lashes a fool. Evildoers foster rebellion against authority; therefore a cruel messenger will be sent against them. Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly.

Main Point: Wise people learn quickly from correction, while rebels face severe consequences, and fools are more dangerous than wild animals.

Proverbs 17:13–15

Modern Language: If someone returns evil for good, evil will never leave their house. Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; stop before a fight breaks out! Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent—the Lord detests them both.

Main Point: Ingratitude brings lasting evil, conflicts escalate quickly and should be stopped early, and God demands just judgment.

Proverbs 17:16–18

Modern Language: Why should a fool have money in their hand to buy wisdom, when they have no sense? A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. One who lacks judgment shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor.

Main Point: Fools cannot purchase wisdom, true friends are loyal in difficult times, and unwise financial guarantees lead to ruin.

Proverbs 17:19–21

Modern Language: Whoever loves a quarrel loves sin; whoever builds a high gate invites destruction. One whose heart is perverse does not prosper; one whose tongue is deceitful falls into trouble. To have a fool for a child brings grief; there is no joy for the parent of a fool.

Main Point: Quarrelers invite sin and ruin, deceit leads to trouble, and raising a foolish child causes immense sorrow.

Proverbs 17:22–24

Modern Language: A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength. The wicked accept bribes in secret to pervert the course of justice. A discerning person keeps wisdom in view, but a fool’s eyes wander to the ends of the earth.

Main Point: A positive attitude brings health, corruption destroys justice, and wisdom requires focus, unlike the scattered mind of a fool.

Proverbs 17:25–28

Modern Language: A foolish son brings grief to his father and bitterness to the mother who bore him. It is not good to punish the innocent or flog noble people for their integrity. The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.

Main Point: Foolish children cause deep sorrow, justice must be maintained, and true wisdom is demonstrated by controlled speech and silence.

Proverbs 18:1–3

Modern Language: An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and defies all sound judgment. Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame comes disgrace.

Main Point: Selfishness rejects wisdom, fools prefer talking over learning, and sin leads to dishonor.

Proverbs 18:4–5

Modern Language: The words of a person’s mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream. It is not good to be partial to the wicked and so deprive the innocent of justice.

Main Point: Wise words are profound and life-giving, and justice must be impartial.

Proverbs 18:6–8

Modern Language: The lips of fools bring them strife, and their mouths invite a beating. The mouths of fools are their undoing, and their lips are a snare to their very lives. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down into the inmost parts.

Main Point: Fools destroy themselves with their words, and gossip is destructively addictive.

Proverbs 18:9–11

Modern Language: One who is slack in their work is brother to one who destroys. The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it a wall too high to scale.

Main Point: Laziness is destructive, God is a true refuge for the righteous, while wealth provides only a false sense of security.

Proverbs 18:12–13

Modern Language: Before destruction the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor. To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.

Main Point: Pride leads to ruin, while humility leads to honor; listening is essential before speaking.

Proverbs 18:14–16

Modern Language: The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. A gift opens doors and brings a person before the great.

Main Point: Emotional strength is vital for survival, wise people constantly seek knowledge, and generosity creates opportunities.

Proverbs 18:17–19

Modern Language: In a lawsuit, the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines them. Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart. A brother offended is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.

Main Point: Hear all sides of a story, disputes require impartial resolution, and broken relationships are hard to mend.

Proverbs 18:20–22

Modern Language: From the fruit of their mouth a person’s stomach is filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied. The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. He who finds a wife finds a good thing and receives favor from the Lord.

Main Point: Our words have consequences, carrying the power to build up or destroy, and a good marriage is a blessing from God.

Proverbs 18:23–24

Modern Language: The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly. One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Main Point: Power dynamics affect speech, and true, loyal friendship is more valuable than a multitude of acquaintances.

Proverbs 19:1–3

Modern Language: Better the poor whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse. Desire without knowledge is not good—how much more will hasty feet miss the way! A person’s own folly leads them to ruin, yet their heart rages against the Lord.

Main Point: Integrity is better than foolishness, enthusiasm without knowledge leads to mistakes, and people often blame God for their own foolish mistakes.

Proverbs 19:4–5

Modern Language: Wealth brings many friends, but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them. A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will not go free.

Main Point: Poverty isolates, while wealth attracts acquaintances; dishonesty brings divine punishment.

Proverbs 19:6–7

Modern Language: Many curry favor with a ruler, and everyone is the friend of one who gives gifts. The poor are shunned by all their relatives—how much more do their friends avoid them! Though the poor pursue them with pleas, they are nowhere to be found.

Main Point: People are selfish, favoring those with power and resources, while abandoning those in need.

Proverbs 19:8–10

Modern Language: The one who gets wisdom loves their own soul; the one who cherishes understanding prospers. A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish. It is not fitting for a fool to live in luxury—how much worse for a servant to rule over princes!

Main Point: Seeking wisdom is self-love, lies bring destruction, and placing unqualified people in power is disastrous.

Proverbs 19:11–12

Modern Language: A person’s wisdom makes them slow to anger; it is their glory to overlook an offense. A king’s rage is like the roar of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass.

Main Point: Self-control brings honor, and leaders have the power to destroy or bring life depending on their temperament.

Proverbs 19:13–15

Modern Language: A foolish child is a father’s ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like the constant dripping of a leaky roof. Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord. Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless person goes hungry.

Main Point: Family conflict causes deep distress, a good spouse is a divine blessing, and laziness leads to poverty.

Proverbs 19:16–18

Modern Language: Whoever keeps commandments keeps their life, but whoever despises ways of life will die. Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done. Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.

Main Point: Obedience brings life, generosity to the poor is rewarded by God, and proper discipline is vital for a child's future.

Proverbs 19:19–21

Modern Language: A hot-tempered person must pay the penalty; rescue them, and you will have to do it again. Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise. Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.

Main Point: Impulsiveness leads to recurring trouble, accepting correction brings wisdom, and God’s plans override human efforts.

Proverbs 19:22–24

Modern Language: What a person desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar. Fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble. A sluggard buries their hand in the dish; they will not even bring it back to their mouth.

Main Point: Integrity is better than material wealth, reverence for God brings security, and extreme laziness brings self-inflicted ruin.

Proverbs 19:25–26

Modern Language: Flog a mocker, and the naive will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge. Whoever robs their father and drives out their mother is a child who brings shame and disgrace.

Main Point: Public correction teaches the naive, but private correction teaches the wise; mistreating parents is shameful.

Proverbs 19:27–29

Modern Language: Stop listening to instruction, my child, and you will stray from the words of knowledge. A corrupt witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil. Penalties are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools.

Main Point: Rejecting wisdom leads to deception, while corruption mocks justice and ensures severe punishment.

Proverbs 20:1–3

Modern Language: Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise. A king’s wrath is like the roar of a lion; those who anger him forfeit their lives. It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.

Main Point: Alcohol destroys judgment, defying authority is deadly, and avoiding conflict shows wisdom.

Proverbs 20:4–6

Modern Language: Sluggards do not plow in season, so at harvest time they look but find nothing. The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but those who have insight draw them out. Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?

Main Point: Laziness brings future poverty, motives are hard to discern, and loyal people are rare.

Proverbs 20:7–9

Modern Language: The righteous walk in their integrity; blessed are their children after them. A king sitting on the throne of judgment sifts out all evil with his eyes. Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?

Main Point: Integrity brings generational blessing, leaders must purge evil, and everyone is susceptible to sin.

Proverbs 20:10–12

Modern Language: Differing weights and differing measures—the Lord detests them both. Even small children are known by their actions, whether their conduct is pure and upright. Ears that hear and eyes that see—the Lord has made them both.

Main Point: God demands honesty in business, a person's character is revealed by their actions, and God is the creator of our senses.

Proverbs 20:13–15

Modern Language: Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare. "It’s no good, it’s no good!" says the buyer—then goes off and boasts about the purchase. Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.

Main Point: Laziness leads to poverty, dishonest negotiation is common, and true wisdom is highly valuable.

Proverbs 20:16–18

Modern Language: Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if they do it for a foreigner. Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel. Plans are established by seeking advice; so if you wage war, obtain guidance.

Main Point: Avoid risky financial guarantees, dishonest gain leads to ruin, and seeking advice is crucial for important decisions.

Proverbs 20:19–21

Modern Language: A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much. If you curse your father or mother, your lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness. An inheritance claimed too soon will not be blessed in the end.

Main Point: Gossip is dangerous, dishonoring parents brings severe consequences, and wealth gained quickly without work is not a blessing.

Proverbs 20:22–24

Modern Language: Do not say, "I’ll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the Lord, and he will avenge you. The Lord detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him. A person’s steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand their own way?

Main Point: Do not seek revenge, maintain honesty, and trust that God guides our lives, even when we don't understand the path.

Proverbs 20:25–27

Modern Language: It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one’s vows. A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing wheel over them. The human spirit is the lamp of the Lord that sheds light on one’s inmost being.

Main Point: Be careful with promises, leaders must punish evil, and conscience is God-given to examine our inner selves.

Proverbs 20:28–30

Modern Language: Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure. The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old. Blows and wounds scrub away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being.

Main Point: Integrity secures leadership, strength defines youth while wisdom defines age, and suffering can discipline and cleanse us.

Here is the continuation of the proverbs, rewritten in modern language with key points highlighted.

Proverbs 21:1–3

Modern Language: In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him. A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart. To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

Main Point: God controls leaders, judges true motives, and values ethical behavior over religious rituals.

Proverbs 21:4–6

Modern Language: Haughty eyes and a proud heart—the lamp of the wicked—are sin. The plans of the diligent lead to plenty as surely as haste leads to poverty. A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.

Main Point: Pride is sin, diligence leads to prosperity while haste brings poverty, and dishonest gain is fleeting and dangerous.

Proverbs 21:7–9

Modern Language: The violence of the wicked will drag them away, for they refuse to do what is right. The way of the guilty is crooked, but the conduct of the innocent is upright. Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.

Main Point: Wickedness is self-destructive, integrity is crucial, and peace is better than shared wealth if it comes with constant conflict.

Proverbs 21:10–12

Modern Language: The wicked crave evil; their neighbors get no mercy from them. When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; when the wise are instructed, they get knowledge. The righteous observe the house of the wicked and bring the wicked to ruin.

Main Point: The wicked are selfish, punishment of fools teaches the naive, and righteousness actively combats wickedness.

Proverbs 21:13–15

Modern Language: Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered. A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak allays great wrath. When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.

Main Point: Ignoring the needy results in being ignored in times of trouble, secret generosity resolves conflict, and justice brings joy to the righteous.

Proverbs 21:16–18

Modern Language: Whoever strays from the path of wisdom comes to rest in the company of the dead. Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich. The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, and the unfaithful for the upright.

Main Point: Abandoning wisdom leads to destruction, overindulgence brings poverty, and ultimately justice prevails.

Proverbs 21:19–21

Modern Language: Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and nagging wife. The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down. Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity, and honor.

Main Point: A peaceful environment is better than a chaotic one, wisdom involves planning rather than wasting resources, and pursuing goodness brings true success.

Proverbs 21:22–24

Modern Language: One who is wise can go up against the city of the mighty and pull down the strongholds in which they trust. Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity. The proud and arrogant person—"Mocker" is his name—behaves with insolent fury.

Main Point: Wisdom defeats physical strength, controlled speech prevents trouble, and pride leads to destructive behavior.

Proverbs 21:25–27

Modern Language: The craving of a sluggard will be the death of them, because their hands refuse to work. All day long they crave more, while the righteous give without sparing. The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable—how much more so when brought with evil intent!

Main Point: Laziness is self-destructive, while generosity is a trait of the righteous, and evil actions disguised as worship are hated by God.

Proverbs 21:28–31

Modern Language: A false witness will perish, but a careful listener will speak with success. The wicked put up a bold front, but the upright give thought to their ways. There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord. The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.

Main Point: Lies lead to destruction, integrity requires introspection, and ultimate success in any endeavor is determined by God, not human effort.

Proverbs 22:1–3

Modern Language: A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all. The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.

Main Point: Reputation is more valuable than wealth, all people have equal worth before God, and wisdom involves anticipating and avoiding danger.

Proverbs 22:4–6

Modern Language: Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life. In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them. Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Main Point: Humility and reverence for God bring true rewards, avoiding evil protects life, and early education shapes a lifelong character.

Proverbs 22:7–9

Modern Language: The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. Whoever sows injustice reaps calamity, and the rod they wield in fury will be broken. The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.

Main Point: Debt creates bondage, unjust actions eventually bring ruin, and generosity results in blessing.

Proverbs 22:10–12

Modern Language: Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended. One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend. The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful.

Main Point: Removing trouble-makers brings peace, speaking with grace brings favor, and God protects true knowledge while exposing lies.

Proverbs 22:13–15

Modern Language: The sluggard says, "There’s a lion outside! I’ll be killed in the public square!" The mouth of an adulterous woman is a deep pit; a man who is under the Lord’s wrath falls into it. Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away.

Main Point: Lazy people make excuses to avoid work, immoral relationships are deadly traps, and firm discipline is necessary to guide children toward wisdom.

Proverbs 22:16

Modern Language: One who oppresses the poor to increase their wealth and one who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.

Main Point: Exploiting the vulnerable for gain or trying to buy favor from the powerful both lead to financial ruin.

Proverbs 22:17–21

Modern Language: Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have them all ready on your lips. So that your trust may be in the Lord, I teach you today, even you. Have I not written thirty sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge, teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth, so that you can bring back truthful reports to those you serve?

Main Point: Wisdom must be learned, internalized, and practiced to build trust in God and ensure integrity in communication.

Proverbs 22:22–25

Modern Language: Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the Lord will take up their case and will exact life for life. Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.

Main Point: God protects the vulnerable, and associating with angry people will lead to harmful behavior and trouble.

Proverbs 22:26–29

Modern Language: Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you. Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors. Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.

Main Point: Avoid irresponsible financial risks, respect established property rights, and diligence brings professional recognition and advancement.

Proverbs 23:1–3

Modern Language: When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony. Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive.

Main Point: Exercise self-control when in positions of influence; do not be blinded by the opportunities or luxury offered by powerful people.

Proverbs 23:4–5

Modern Language: Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.

Main Point: Do not obsess over wealth or rely solely on your own intellect, because material fortune is temporary and fleeting.

Proverbs 23:6–8

Modern Language: Do not eat the food of a begrudging host, do not crave his delicacies; for he is the kind of person who is always thinking about the cost. "Eat and drink," he says to you, but his heart is not with you. You will vomit up the little you have eaten and will have wasted your compliments.

Main Point: Avoid being indebted to selfish or hypocritical people who harbor hidden motives.

Proverbs 23:9–11

Modern Language: Do not speak to fools, for they will scorn the wisdom of your words. Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you.

Main Point: Do not waste effort trying to teach those who refuse to learn, and do not exploit the vulnerable, as God is their defender.

Proverbs 23:12–14

Modern Language: Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die. Punish them with the rod and save them from death.

Main Point: Prioritize learning and discipline your children to save them from destructive paths.

Proverbs 23:15–18

Modern Language: My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad indeed; my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right. Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

Main Point: Wise children bring joy to parents, envy of sinners is foolish, and living in reverence to God ensures a hopeful future.

Proverbs 23:19–21

Modern Language: Listen, my son, and be wise, and set your heart on the right path: Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.

Main Point: Choose wise companions and avoid excessive drinking and eating, as these habits lead to poverty.

Proverbs 23:22–25

Modern Language: Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Buy the truth and do not sell it—wisdom, instruction and insight as well. The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. May your father and mother be glad; may she who gave you birth rejoice!

Main Point: Respect parents, pursue wisdom at all costs, and be a source of joy for your family through righteous living.

Proverbs 23:26–28

Modern Language: My son, give me your heart and let your eyes delight in my ways, for an adulterous woman is a deep pit, and a wayward wife is a narrow well. Like a bandit she lies in wait, and multiplies the unfaithful among men.

Main Point: Remain faithful and focused on wisdom, avoiding the destructive trap of immorality.

Proverbs 23:29–35

Modern Language: Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. "They hit me," you will say, "but I'm not hurt! They beat me, but I don't feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?"

Main Point: Excessive drinking causes pain, confusion, and physical danger, yet it is addicting and makes the drinker unable to recognize the damage it causes.

Proverbs 24:1–2

Modern Language: Do not envy the wicked, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.

Main Point: Do not be jealous of evildoers; their lives are centered on causing harm.

Proverbs 24:3–6

Modern Language: By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. A wise man is strong, and a man of knowledge increases strength. Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers.

Main Point: Success in home, life, and conflict comes from wisdom, knowledge, and seeking wise counsel.

Proverbs 24:7–9

Modern Language: Wisdom is too high for a fool; in the assembly they have nothing to say. Whoever plots evil will be known as a schemer. The schemes of folly are sin, and people detest a mocker.

Main Point: Fools cannot comprehend wisdom, and evil planners are despised by others.

Proverbs 24:10–12

Modern Language: If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength! Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, "But we knew nothing about this," does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay everyone according to what they have done?

Main Point: Strength is tested in adversity, and we have a moral duty to rescue those in danger, as God judges our inaction.

Proverbs 24:13–14

Modern Language: Eat honey, my son, for it is good; honey from the comb is sweet to your taste. Know also that wisdom is like honey for you: If you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

Main Point: Wisdom is pleasant and essential for a secure future.

Proverbs 24:15–16

Modern Language: Do not lie in wait like a thief against the house of the righteous, do not plunder their dwelling; for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble into calamity.

Main Point: Do not attack the righteous, as God protects them and helps them recover, while the wicked are destroyed by their own stumbling.

Proverbs 24:17–18

Modern Language: Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them.

Main Point: Do not rejoice in the misfortune of enemies, as God dislikes maliciousness.

Proverbs 24:19–20

Modern Language: Do not fret because of evildoers or be envious of the wicked, for the evildoer has no future hope, and the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out.

Main Point: Do not be jealous of the wicked; their prosperity is temporary, and they have no lasting hope.

Proverbs 24:21–22

Modern Language: Fear the Lord and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials, for those two will send sudden destruction on them, and who knows what calamities they can bring?

Main Point: Respect God and authority, and avoid those who seek to cause chaos.

Proverbs 24:23–26

Modern Language: These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judging is not good. Whoever says to the guilty, "You are innocent," will be cursed by peoples and denounced by nations. But it will go well with those who convict the guilty, and rich blessing will come on them. An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.

Main Point: Justice must be impartial, and honest judgment brings blessings while corruption brings condemnation.

Proverbs 24:27

Modern Language: Put your outdoor work in order and get your fields ready; after that, build your house.

Main Point: Prioritize your livelihood and responsibilities before pursuing luxury.

Proverbs 24:28–29

Modern Language: Do not testify against your neighbor without cause—would you use your lips to mislead? Do not say, "I’ll do to them as they have done to me; I’ll pay them back for what they did."

Main Point: Avoid false testimony and do not seek personal revenge.

Proverbs 24:30–34

Modern Language: I went past the field of a sluggard, past the vineyard of someone who has no sense; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.

Main Point: Laziness leads directly to ruin, and procrastination allows problems to spiral out of control.

Proverbs 25:1–3

Modern Language: These are more proverbs of Solomon, transcribed by the officials of Hezekiah king of Judah: It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings. As the heavens are high and the earth is deep, so the hearts of kings are unsearchable.

Main Point: God holds ultimate mysteries, while leaders find honor in investigation; the minds of rulers are complex and hard to understand.

Proverbs 25:4–5

Modern Language: Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel; remove wicked officials from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness.

Main Point: Removing corrupt advisors is essential for a leader to establish a righteous government.

Proverbs 25:6–7

Modern Language: Do not exalt yourself in the king’s presence, and do not claim a place among great men; it is better for him to say to you, "Come up here," than for you to be humbled before a nobleman.

Main Point: Be humble in the presence of authority; wait to be honored rather than pushing for attention.

Proverbs 25:8–10

Modern Language: What you have seen with your eyes do not bring hastily to court, for what will you do in the end if your neighbor puts you to shame? If you take your neighbor to court, do not betray another’s confidence, or the one who hears it may shame you and you will never lose your reputation.

Main Point: Do not rush into conflict, and keep secrets to maintain your reputation.

Proverbs 25:11–13

Modern Language: A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise rebuke to a listening ear. Like a cold drink of water on a hot day is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him; he refreshes the spirit of his master.

Main Point: Timely, wise words and trustworthy service are valuable and refreshing.

Proverbs 25:14–15

Modern Language: Like clouds and wind without rain is one who boasts of gifts never given. Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.

Main Point: Dishonest bragging is useless, while patience and gentle speech can influence powerful people.

Proverbs 25:16–17

Modern Language: If you find honey, eat just enough—too much of it, and you will vomit. Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house—too much of you, and they will hate you.

Main Point: Practice moderation in pleasure and respect boundaries in relationships to avoid wearing out your welcome.

Proverbs 25:18–20

Modern Language: Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is one who gives false testimony against a neighbor. Like a broken tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in a time of trouble. Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.

Main Point: False testimony is dangerous, relying on unfaithful people is foolish, and misplaced cheerfulness brings pain to the brokenhearted.

Proverbs 25:21–22

Modern Language: If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.

Main Point: Kindness to enemies overcomes evil and brings divine reward.

Proverbs 25:23–24

Modern Language: The north wind brings rain, and a gossiping tongue brings angry looks. Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.

Main Point: Gossip brings conflict, and peace is better than a shared house with strife.

Proverbs 25:25–26

Modern Language: Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land. Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked.

Main Point: Good news brings relief, but the righteous losing their integrity causes widespread damage.

Proverbs 25:27–28

Modern Language: It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable to search out matters that are too deep. Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.

Main Point: Moderation is key, some knowledge is unnecessary, and self-control is essential for security.

Here is a modern interpretation of the provided verses from the Book of Proverbs, focusing on clarity while retaining the original message.

Proverbs 26:1–3

Modern Language: Just as snow is out of place in summer, honor is inappropriate for a fool. Just as birds fly away, an undeserved curse will not affect you. A horse needs a whip, a donkey needs a bridle, and a fool needs a rod to keep them in line. Main Point: Actions have natural consequences, and fools require firm discipline because they do not respond to reason.

Proverbs 26:4–6

Modern Language: Do not argue with a fool according to their foolishness, or you will become just like them. However, do answer a fool according to their foolishness, or they will think they are wise. Trusting a fool to deliver a message is like cutting off your own feet and inviting disaster. Main Point: Handling fools requires wisdom; you must decide whether to ignore them to maintain your dignity or rebuke them to correct their delusions.

Proverbs 26:7–9

Modern Language: A proverb in the mouth of a fool is as useless as a paralyzed leg. Honoring a fool is like putting a precious stone in a pile of garbage. A proverb quoted by a fool is as dangerous and clumsy as a thorn bush waved around by a drunkard. Main Point: True wisdom is misplaced and rendered useless when it comes from someone who does not understand or live by it.

Proverbs 26:10–12

Modern Language: An employer who hires a fool or just any passerby is risking trouble for everyone. As a dog returns to its vomit, a fool repeats their foolish mistakes. Do you see someone who thinks they are wiser than they are? There is more hope for a fool than for them. Main Point: Laziness and arrogance are dangerous, and persistent foolishness is incredibly hard to correct.

Proverbs 26:13–16

Modern Language: The lazy person excuses themselves by saying, "There is a lion in the road!" Just as a door swings on its hinges, a lazy person stays in bed. The lazy person is too lazy to even bring their hand from their dish to their mouth. Yet, a lazy person thinks they are wiser than seven people who give sensible answers. Main Point: Laziness breeds delusional excuses and arrogance, causing the lazy person to feel superior while achieving nothing.

Proverbs 26:17–19

Modern Language: Getting involved in a fight that isn't your business is like grabbing a dog by the ears. Just as a madman shoots deadly firebrands and arrows, so is the person who deceives their neighbor and says, "I was only joking!" Main Point: It is dangerous to interfere in other people's quarrels, and lying—even as a joke—causes real harm.

Proverbs 26:20–22

Modern Language: Without wood, a fire goes out; without gossip, quarreling stops. Just as charcoal is needed for hot coals and wood for fire, a quarrelsome person keeps arguments going. Gossip tastes good to people, going deep into their innermost being. Main Point: Gossip is the fuel for conflict, and those who share it are responsible for the resulting strife.

Proverbs 26:23–25

Modern Language: Smooth words covering a wicked heart are like a cheap clay pot plated with silver. A person who hates covers it with their lips, but keeps deceit in their heart. When they speak graciously, do not believe them, for their heart is filled with abominations. Main Point: False flattery often hides evil intentions, so do not trust pleasant words from a dishonest person.

Proverbs 26:26–28

Modern Language: Though someone may hide their hatred with deception, their wickedness will be exposed in public. If you dig a pit for others, you will fall into it yourself; if you roll a stone onto someone, it will roll back on you. A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and flattering words lead to ruin. Main Point: Deception eventually fails, and malicious actions ultimately cause more harm to the perpetrator than the intended victim.

Proverbs 27:1–2

Modern Language: Do not brag about tomorrow, because you do not know what a day will bring. Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth; let a stranger do it, not your own lips. Main Point: Be humble regarding the future and let your actions, rather than your words, earn you recognition.

Proverbs 27:3–4

Modern Language: A stone is heavy and sand is weighty, but a fool’s anger is heavier than both. Fury is cruel and anger is overwhelming, but who can stand up to jealousy? Main Point: Uncontrolled emotions, particularly anger and jealousy, are more destructive and harder to handle than physical burdens.

Proverbs 27:5–6

Modern Language: Open rebuke is better than hidden love. Wounds from a friend are faithful, but the kisses of an enemy are excessive. Main Point: True friendship involves honest correction, even when it hurts, rather than false flattery that leads you astray.

Proverbs 27:7–9

Modern Language: A full stomach tramples on a honeycomb, but to a hungry person, even bitter things taste sweet. A person who wanders from home is like a bird that wanders from its nest. Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the sweetness of a friend comes from their earnest counsel. Main Point: True friendship provides comforting, honest advice that brings joy, just as being securely rooted brings satisfaction.

Proverbs 27:10–12

Modern Language: Do not abandon your friend or your father’s friend, and do not go to your brother’s house in a crisis; a neighbor nearby is better than a brother far away. Be wise, my son, and make my heart glad, so I can answer whoever reproaches me. The prudent see danger and take cover, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty. Main Point: Depend on trusted friends in times of crisis, and use wisdom to foresee and avoid trouble.

Proverbs 27:13–14

Modern Language: Take the garment of someone who puts up security for a stranger; hold it as collateral for a woman of loose morals. If you loudly bless your neighbor early in the morning, it will be considered a curse. Main Point: Be cautious in financial dealings, and remember that over-the-top, insincere praise is annoying rather than helpful.

Proverbs 27:15–16

Modern Language: A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy day; trying to restrain her is like trying to stop the wind or grab oil with your hand. Main Point: Constant conflict in a household is impossible to manage and wears everyone down.

Proverbs 27:17–19

Modern Language: As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Whoever tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and whoever protects their master will be honored. As water reflects a face, a person’s heart reflects their character. Main Point: Friendships should challenge us to grow, diligence brings rewards, and our inner character is inevitably revealed by our actions.

Proverbs 27:20–22

Modern Language: Death and destruction are never satisfied, and neither are human eyes. The crucible is for silver and the furnace for gold, but a person is tested by the praise they receive. Even if you crush a fool in a mortar with a pestle, their foolishness will not leave them. Main Point: Human desire is insatiable, character is revealed by how one handles praise, and stubborn foolishness is nearly impossible to fix.

Proverbs 27:23–27

Modern Language: Be diligent in knowing the state of your flocks and herds, for wealth does not last forever, nor does a crown last for all generations. When the hay is removed and new growth appears, you will have lambs for clothing, goats for the price of a field, and enough goat’s milk for you and your household. Main Point: Financial stability requires hard work, careful management of resources, and foresight, not just luck or inheritance.

Proverbs 28:1–2

Modern Language: The wicked run away even when no one is chasing them, but the righteous are as bold as a lion. When a land is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a leader with understanding and knowledge brings stability. Main Point: Integrity brings courage and stability, while wickedness brings fear and chaotic leadership.

Proverbs 28:3–5

Modern Language: A poor person who oppresses the helpless is like a driving rain that destroys all the crops. Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law fight against them. Evil people do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it completely. Main Point: Justice and understanding come from following God's laws, while wickedness leads to oppression and ignorance of what is right.

Proverbs 28:6–8

Modern Language: Better to be poor and walk in integrity than rich and crooked in one’s ways. A son who understands the law is wise, but a friend of gluttons brings shame to his father. Whoever increases their wealth by taking high interest gathers it for someone who is kind to the poor. Main Point: Integrity is more valuable than wealth, and dishonest gain will eventually be redistributed to those who are generous.

Proverbs 28:9–11

Modern Language: If anyone turns their ear from listening to the law, even their prayer is detestable. Whoever leads the upright into an evil path will fall into their own pit, but the blameless will inherit good. A rich person is wise in their own eyes, but a poor person with understanding sees through them. Main Point: Disregarding God’s law makes one’s worship meaningless, and true wisdom is found in understanding, not in wealth.

Proverbs 28:12–14

Modern Language: When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, people hide. Whoever covers their sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and abandons them will find mercy. Blessed is the person who always fears the Lord, but whoever hardens their heart will fall into trouble. Main Point: Honesty about one's faults brings mercy, while arrogance and rebellion lead to destruction.

Proverbs 28:15–16

Modern Language: A wicked ruler over a helpless people is like a roaring lion or a charging bear. A leader without understanding is a cruel oppressor, but one who hates dishonest gain will enjoy a long life. Main Point: Power without integrity is destructive, and honest leadership is essential for a peaceful society.

Proverbs 28:17–19

Modern Language: A person guilty of murder will flee to the grave; do not help them. Whoever walks in integrity will be saved, but whoever is crooked will suddenly fall. Whoever works their land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have plenty of poverty. Main Point: Following a straight path of integrity is the safest way to live, and hard work brings more security than chasing unrealistic dreams.

Proverbs 28:20–22

Modern Language: A faithful person will have many blessings, but whoever hurries to get rich will not go unpunished. Showing partiality is not good, yet a person will do wrong for a piece of bread. A stingy person is eager to get rich and does not know that poverty is coming for them. Main Point: Patience and honesty bring true prosperity, while greed and dishonesty lead to ruin.

Proverbs 28:23–25

Modern Language: Whoever rebukes someone will eventually gain more favor than someone with a flattering tongue. Whoever robs their father and mother and says, "It’s not wrong," is partner to a destroyer. A greedy person stirs up conflict, but whoever trusts in the Lord will prosper. Main Point: Honesty is better than flattery, respecting parents is essential, and trusting in God brings true satisfaction.

Proverbs 28:26–28

Modern Language: Whoever trusts in their own heart is a fool, but whoever walks in wisdom will be delivered. Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but whoever closes their eyes to them will receive many curses. When the wicked rise, people hide; but when they perish, the righteous increase. Main Point: Self-reliance is foolishness, while generosity and wisdom lead to security and a righteous society.

Proverbs 29:1–3

Modern Language: Whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed without remedy. When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan. A person who loves wisdom brings joy to their father, but a companion of prostitutes wastes their wealth. Main Point: Persistence in wrongdoing leads to sudden ruin, while wise living brings happiness and prosperity to the community.

Proverbs 29:4–6

Modern Language: A king gives stability to the land through justice, but a king who takes bribes tears it down. Whoever flatters their neighbor is spreading a net for their feet. An evil person is trapped by their own sin, but the righteous can sing and rejoice. Main Point: Honest leadership brings stability, while flattery and sin create traps for oneself.

Proverbs 29:7–9

Modern Language: The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern. Mockers stir up a city, but the wise turn away anger. If a wise person goes to court with a fool, the fool rages and laughs, and there is no peace. Main Point: True righteousness involves caring for the vulnerable, and arguing with fools is futile and chaotic.

Proverbs 29:10–12

Modern Language: Bloodthirsty people hate the blameless, but the upright seek to protect them. A fool gives full vent to their anger, but a wise person keeps it under control. If a ruler listens to lies, all their officials will be wicked. Main Point: Fools cannot control their emotions, and a leader’s integrity sets the tone for their entire administration.

Proverbs 29:13–15

Modern Language: The poor and the oppressor have this in common: the Lord gives sight to the eyes of both. If a king judges the poor with fairness, his throne will be established forever. A rod and a rebuke give wisdom, but a child left to themselves brings shame to their mother. Main Point: God is the creator of all people, justice brings lasting stability, and proper discipline is crucial for raising wise children.

Proverbs 29:16–18

Modern Language: When the wicked thrive, sin increases, but the righteous will see their downfall. Discipline your child, and they will give you peace; they will bring you delight. Where there is no vision, the people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who keeps the law. Main Point: Discipline leads to a peaceful family life, and following God's laws brings true freedom and blessing.

Proverbs 29:19–21

Modern Language: A servant cannot be corrected by words alone; they understand but will not respond. Do you see someone who speaks too quickly? There is more hope for a fool than for them. If a servant is pampered from youth, they will turn out to be arrogant. Main Point: Hasty words are foolish, and improper training of servants or children leads to arrogance and disobedience.

Proverbs 29:22–24

Modern Language: An angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins. Pride brings a person low, but the humble in spirit gain honor. Whoever is partner to a thief hates their own soul; they hear the curse but tell no one. Main Point: Uncontrolled anger and pride lead to ruin, while honesty and humility bring honor.

Proverbs 29:25–27

Modern Language: Fear of human opinion is a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. Many seek the ruler’s favor, but justice comes from the Lord. The righteous detest the dishonest, and the wicked detest the upright. Main Point: True safety is found in trusting God rather than people, and there is a natural conflict between righteousness and wickedness.

Proverbs 30:1–4

Modern Language: The sayings of Agur: I am more stupid than any man, and I do not have human understanding. I have not learned wisdom, nor do I have knowledge of the Holy One. Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of their hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in a cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is their name, and what is the name of their son? Surely you know! Main Point: Humility is recognizing the vastness of God’s power and the limitations of human knowledge.

Proverbs 30:5–6

Modern Language: Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar. Main Point: God’s word is perfect and sufficient; humans should not distort it.

Proverbs 30:7–9

Modern Language: Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, "Who is the Lord?" Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God. Main Point: A balanced life of contentment, free from excessive wealth or poverty, is best for maintaining integrity and dependence on God.

Proverbs 30:10–14

Modern Language: Do not slander a servant to their master, or they will curse you, and you will pay for it. There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers; those who are pure in their own eyes but are not washed of their filth; those whose eyes are so haughty; and those whose teeth are swords to devour the poor and needy. Main Point: Dishonor, arrogance, and oppression of the poor are characteristics of a wicked generation.

Proverbs 30:15–16

Modern Language: The leech has two daughters: "Give!" and "Give!" There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, "Enough!": the grave, the barren womb, land that is never satisfied with water, and fire that never says, "Enough!" Main Point: Greed and desire are insatiable, just like the grave and other natural forces that can never be filled.

Proverbs 30:17

Modern Language: The eye that mocks a father, that scorns an aged mother, will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley, will be eaten by the vultures. Main Point: Disrespecting parents brings severe judgment and dishonor.

Proverbs 30:18–20

Modern Language: There are three things that are too amazing for me, four that I do not understand: the way of an eagle in the sky, the way of a snake on a rock, the way of a ship on the high seas, and the way of a man with a young woman. This is the way of an adulterous woman: she eats and wipes her mouth and says, "I have done nothing wrong." Main Point: Adultery is a hidden, destructive sin that fools try to rationalize, but its impact is profound and unnatural.

Proverbs 30:21–23

Modern Language: Under three things the earth trembles, under four it cannot bear up: a servant who becomes king, a fool who has too much food, a hated woman who gets married, and a servant girl who replaces her mistress. Main Point: Things are out of order when people who lack character or maturity are suddenly placed in positions of power or luxury.

Proverbs 30:24–28

Modern Language: Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise: Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer. Hyraxes are feeble creatures, yet they make their homes in the crags. Locusts have no king, yet they advance together in ranks. A lizard can be caught with the hand, yet it is found in kings’ palaces. Main Point: Wisdom, preparation, and teamwork can overcome physical weakness and small stature.

Proverbs 30:29–33

Modern Language: There are three things that are stately in their stride, four that move with dignity: a lion, mighty among beasts, who retreats before nothing; a strutting rooster, a goat, and a king secure against revolt. If you have played the fool and exalted yourself, or if you have planned evil, clap your hand over your mouth! For as churning cream produces butter, and as twisting the nose produces blood, so stirring up anger produces strife. Main Point: Strength and dignity are recognized by leadership and courage, but acting arrogantly or stirring up anger brings conflict.

Proverbs 31:1–3

Modern Language: The sayings of King Lemuel—an oracle his mother taught him: "Listen, my son! Listen, son of my womb, listen, son of my vows. Do not spend your strength on women, your vigor on those who destroy kings." Main Point: A leader must discipline their desires and not allow destructive relationships to drain their strength.

Proverbs 31:4–7

Modern Language: It is not for kings, Lemuel—it is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights. Let beer be for those who are perishing, wine for those who are in anguish; let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more. Main Point: Leaders must remain sober to ensure justice, while alcohol should be reserved for those seeking relief from severe pain or misery.

Proverbs 31:8–9

Modern Language: Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. Main Point: True justice requires advocating for the vulnerable and defending the rights of those unable to protect themselves.

Proverbs 31:10–12

Modern Language: A wife of noble character—who can find her? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. Main Point: A virtuous spouse is invaluable, bringing trust, prosperity, and lifelong benefit to a marriage.

Proverbs 31:13–15

Modern Language: She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. Main Point: Diligence, preparation, and care for one’s household are hallmarks of a hardworking person.

Proverbs 31:16–18

Modern Language: She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. Main Point: Wise financial management, physical strength, and dedicated work lead to prosperity.

Proverbs 31:19–20

Modern Language: In her hands she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. Main Point: Hard work allows for generosity towards those less fortunate.

Proverbs 31:21–23

Modern Language: When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in double garments. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. Main Point: Preparation ensures security, and a virtuous person brings honor to their entire family.

Proverbs 31:24–26

Modern Language: She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. Main Point: Productivity, inner strength, and wise speech allow a person to face the future without fear.

Proverbs 31:27–29

Modern Language: She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Main Point: Responsible management of home life is rewarded with family love and admiration.

Proverbs 31:30–31

Modern Language: Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Main Point: Inner character and reverence for God are more important than physical appearance, and one’s actions should determine their reputation.