1These are the proverbs of Solomon, the son of David and king of Israel.
2They will help you learn to be wise, to accept correction, and to understand wise sayings.
3They will teach you to develop your mind in the right way. You will learn to do what is right and to be honest and fair.
4These proverbs will make even those without education smart. They will teach young people what they need to know and how to use what they have learned.
5Even the wise could become wiser by listening to these proverbs. They will gain understanding and learn to solve difficult problems.
6These sayings will help you understand proverbs, stories with hidden meanings, words of the wise, and other difficult sayings.
7Knowledge begins with fear and respect for the LORD, but stubborn fools hate wisdom and refuse to learn.
8My son,[1] listen to your father when he corrects you, and don’t ignore what your mother teaches you.
9What you learn from your parents will bring you honor and respect, like a crown or a gold medal.[2]
10My son, those who love to do wrong will try to trick you. Don’t listen to them.
11They will say, “Come with us. Let’s hide and beat to death anyone who happens to walk by.
12We will swallow them whole, as the grave swallows the dying.
13We will take everything they have and fill our houses with stolen goods.
14So join us, and you can share everything we get.”
