The wonderfull loue of God toward his Church is declared in this booke: forasmuch as the summe and effect of the whole Scriptures is here set foorth in these briefe sentences, which partly contayne doctrine, and partly maners, and also exhortations to both. Whereof the nine first Chapters are as a preface full of graue sentences, and deepe mysteries, to allure the hearts of men to the diligent reading of the parables that followe: which are left as a most precious iewell to the Church, of those three thousand parables mentioned 1.King.4.32. and were gathered & committed to writing by Salomons seruants and indited by him.

1 The power and vse of the word of God. 7 Of the feare of God and knowledge of his worde. 10 We may not consent to the entising of sinners. 20 Wisdome complaineth that she is contemned. 24 The punishment of them that contemne her.

¹ The Parables of Salomon the sonne of Dauid King of Israel,

² To knowe wisdome, [Note: [a] That is, what we ought to know and folowe, and what we ought to refuse. ] and instruction, to vnderstand ye wordes [Note: [b] Meaning, the worde of God wherein is the onely true knowledge. ] of knowledge,

³ To receiue [Note: [c] To learne to submit our selues to the correction of those that are wise. ] instruction to do wisely, by [Note: [d] By liuing iustly, and rendring to euery man that which appertayneth vnto him. ] iustice and iudgement and equitie,

⁴ To giue vnto the [Note: [e] To such as haue not discretion to rule themselues. ] simple, sharpenesse of wit, and to the childe knowledge and discretion.

⁵ A wise man shall heare and increase in learning, and a man of [Note: [f] As he sheweth that these parables conteyning the effect of religion as touching maners and doctrine doe appertaine to the simple people: so doeth he declare that the same is also necessarie for them that are wise and learned. ] vnderstanding shall attayne vnto wise counsels,

⁶ To vnderstand a parable, & the interpretation, the wordes of ye wise, and their darke sayings.

⁷ ¶ [Note: Psal.111.10. ecclus.1.16. ] The feare of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fooles despise wisedome and instruction.

⁸ My sonne, heare thy [Note: [g] He speaketh this in the Name of God, which is the vniuersall Father of all creatures, or in the name of the pastor of the Church, who is as a father. ] fathers instruction, and forsake not thy [Note: [h] That is, of the Church, wherein the faithfull are begotten by the incorruptible seede of Gods worde. ] mothers teaching.

⁹ For they shalbe [Note: Ebr. increase of grace. ] a comely ornament vnto thine head, and as chaines for thy necke.

¹⁰ ¶ My sonne, [Note: [i] To wit, the wicked which haue not the feare of God. ] if sinners doe intise thee, consent thou not.

¹¹ If they say, Come with vs, we will lay waite for [Note: [k] He speaketh not onely of the shedding of blood with hand, but of all craftie practises which tende to the detriment of our neighbour. ] blood, and lie priuilie for the innocent without a cause:

¹² We wil swallow them vp aliue like a [Note: [l] As the graue is neuer satiat, so the auarice of the wicked and their crueltie hath none end. ] graue euen whole, as those that goe downe into the pit:

¹³ We shall finde all precious riches, and fill our houses with spoyle:

¹⁴ Cast in thy lot among vs: we will all haue one [Note: [m] He sheweth whereby the wicked are allured to ioyne together, because they haue euery one part of the spoyle of the innocent. ] purse:

¹⁵ My sonne, walke not thou in the way with them: refraine thy foote from their [Note: [n] That is, haue nothing at all to doe with them. ] path.

¹⁶ For their feete runne to euill, & make haste to shed blood.

¹⁷ Certainely as without cause the net is spred before the eyes of all that hath wing:

¹⁸ So they lay waite for blood and lie priuily for [Note: [o] He sheweth that there is no cause to moue these wicked to spoile the innocent, but their auarice and crueltie. ] their liues.

¹⁹ Such are the wayes of euery one that is greedy of gaine: he would take away the [Note: [p] Whereby hee concludeth that the couetous man is a murtherer. ] life of the owners thereof.

²⁰ ¶ [Note: [q] This wisedome is the eternall worde of God. ] Wisdome cryeth without: she vttereth her voyce in the [Note: [r] So that none can pretend ignorance. ] streetes.

²¹ She calleth in the hye streete, among the prease in the entrings of the gates, and vttereth her wordes in the citie, saying,

²² O ye [Note: [s] Wisdome reproueth three kinds of men: the foolish or simple, which erre of ignorance, and the mockers that cannot suffer to be taught, and the fooles which are drowned in worldly lustes, and hate the knowledge of godlinesse. ] foolish, howe long will ye loue foolishnes? and the scornefull take their pleasure in scorning, and the fooles hate knowledge?

²³ (Turne you at my correction: loe, I will powre out my mind vnto you, and make you vnderstand my wordes)

²⁴ Because I haue called, & ye refused: I haue stretched out mine hand, & none woulde regarde.

²⁵ But ye haue despised all my counsell, and would none of my correction.

²⁶ I will also [Note: [t] This is spoken according to our capacitie, signifying that the wicked, which mocke and iest at Gods word, shall haue the iust rewarde of their mocking. ] laugh at your destruction, and mocke, when your feare commeth.

²⁷ Whe [Note: [u] That is, your destruction, which thing you feared. ] your feare cometh like sudden desolation, & your destruction shall come like a whirle wind: whe affliction & anguish shal come vpo you,

²⁸ Then shall they call vpon me, but I will not answere: they shall seeke me early, but they shall not [Note: [x] Because they sought not with an affection to God, but for ease of their owne griefe. ] finde me,

²⁹ Because they hated knowledge, and did not chuse the feare of the Lord.

³⁰ They would none of my counsell, but [Note: [y] Shewing that without faith and obedience we can not call vpon God aright. ] despised all my correction.

³¹ Therefore shal they eate of ye [Note: [z] They shall feele what commoditie their wicked life shall giue them. ] fruite of their owne way, and be filled with their owne deuises.

³² For [Note: [a] That is the prosperitie, and sensualitie, wherein they delite. ] ease slaieth the foolish, and the prosperitie of fooles destroyeth them.

³³ But he that obeyeth me, shall dwell safely, and be quiet from feare of euill.

1 Wisedome exhorteth to obey her. 5 She teacheth the feare of God. 6 She is giuen of God. 10 She preserueth from wickednes.


[Page 30]

¹ My sonne, if thou wilt receiue my wordes, and [Note: [a] That is, keepe them in thine heart. ] hide my commandements within thee,

² And cause thine eares to hearken vnto wisdome, and encline [Note: [b] If thou giue thy selfe to the true knowledge of God without hypocrisie. ] thine heart to vnderstanding,

³ (For if thou callest after knowledge, [Note: [c] Meaning, that we must seeke the knowledge of God with care and diligence. ] and cryest for vnderstanding:

⁴ If thou seekest her as siluer, & searchest for her as for [Note: [d] Shewing that no labour must be spared. ] treasures,

⁵ Then shalt thou vnderstand the feare of the Lord, and finde the [Note: [e] This (sayth he) is the true wisedome, to knowe and feare God. ] knowledge of God.

⁶ For the Lorde giueth wisdome, out of his mouth commeth knowledge and vnderstanding.

⁷ He [Note: Or, hideth the saluation. ] preserueth the state of the righteous: he is a shielde to them that walke vprightly,

⁸ That they may keepe the wayes of iudgement: and he preserueth the way of his Saintes)

⁹ Then shalt thou vnderstand righteousnes, and iudgement, and equitie, and euery good path.

¹⁰ ¶ When wisdome entreth into thine heart, and knowledge deliteth thy soule,

¹¹ Then shall [Note: [f] The worde of God shall teache thee and counsell thee howe to gouerne thy selfe. ] counsell preserue thee, and vnderstanding shall keepe thee,

¹² And deliuer thee from the euill way, and from the man that speaketh froward things,

¹³ And from them that leaue the [Note: [g] That is, the worde of God, which is the onely light, to followe their owne fantasies which are darkenesse. ] wayes of righteousnes to walke in the wayes of darkenes:

¹⁴ Which reioyce in doing euill, and delite [Note: [h] When they see any giuen to euill as they are. ] in the frowardnesse of the wicked,

¹⁵ Whose wayes are crooked and they are lewde in their paths.

¹⁶ And it shall deliuer thee from the strange [Note: [i] Meaning, that wisdome, which is the word of God, shall preserue vs from all vices: naming this vice of whordome whereunto man is most prone. ] woman, euen from the stranger, which flattereth with her wordes.

¹⁷ Which forsaketh the [Note: [k] That is, her husband, which is her head and guide to gouerne her, from whom she ought not to depart, but remaine in his subiection. ] guide of her youth, and forgetteth the [Note: [l] Which is ye promes made in marriage. ] couenant of her God.

¹⁸ Surely her [Note: [m] Her acquaintance with her familiars and them that hant her. ] house tendeth to death, and her paths vnto [Note: [n] To them that are dead in body and soule. ] the dead.

¹⁹ All they that goe vnto her, returne not againe, neither take they holde of the wayes of life.

²⁰ Therefore walke thou in the way of good men, and keepe the wayes of the righteous.

²¹ For the iust shal dwell in the [Note: [o] They shall enioy the temporall and spirituall promises of God, as the wicked shalbe voyde of them. ] land, and the vpright men shall remaine in it.

²² But the wicked shalbe cut off from ye earth, and the transgressours shalbe rooted out of it.

1 The word of God giueth life. 5 Trust in God. 7 Feare him. 9 Honour him. 11 Suffer his correction. 22 To them that followe the worde of God, all things shall succeede well.

¹ My sonne, forget not thou my Lawe, but let thine heart [Note: Deu.8.1. & 30.16. ] keepe my commandements.

² For they shall increase the length of thy [Note: [a] Long life is the blessing of God which he giueth to his, so farre forth as it is expedient for them. ] dayes and the yeeres of life, and thy prosperitie.

³ Let not [Note: [b] By mercie and trueth, he meaneth the comandements of the first and second table: or els the mercy & faithfulnes yt we ought to vse toward our neighbours. ] mercie and trueth forsake thee: binde them on thy [Note: [c] Keepe them as a most precious iewel. ] necke, and write them vpon the table of thine [Note: [d] Haue them euer in remembrance. ] heart.

⁴ So shalt thou finde fauour and good vnderstanding in the sight of God and man.

⁵ ¶ Trust in the Lorde with all thine heart, and leane not vnto thine owne wisdome.

⁶ In all thy wayes acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy wayes.

⁷ ¶ Be not wise in thine owne eyes: but feare the Lord, and depart from euill.

⁸ So health shalbe vnto thy [Note: [e] By this part he comprehendeth the whole body, and by health he meaneth all the benefites promised in the Lawe both corporall and spirituall. ] nauel, and marowe vnto thy bones.

⁹ [Note: [f] As was commaunded in the Lawe, Exod.23.19. Deut.26.2. and by this they acknowledged that God was the giuer of all things, and that they were ready to bestowe all at his commandement. ] Honour the Lorde with thy riches, and [Note: [f] As was commaunded in the Lawe, Exod.23.19. Deut.26.2. and by this they acknowledged that God was the giuer of all things, and that they were ready to bestowe all at his commandement. ] with the first fruites of all thine increase.

¹⁰ So shall thy barnes be filled with abundance, and thy presses shall [Note: [g] For to the faithful distributer God giueth in greater abundance. ] burst with newe wine.

¹¹ ¶ My sonne, refuse not the chastening of the Lord, neither be grieued with his correction.

¹² [Note: Hebr.12.5. reu.3.19. ] For the Lord correcteth him, whome he loueth, euen as the father doeth the childe in whom he deliteth.

¹³ Blessed is the man that findeth wisedome, and the man that getteth vnderstanding.

¹⁴ For the marchandise thereof is better then the marchandise of siluer, and the gaine thereof is better then golde.

¹⁵ It is more precious then pearles: and all things that thou canst desire, are not to be compared vnto her.

¹⁶ Length of dayes is in her right hand, [Note: [h] Meaning, that he that seeketh wisdome, that is, suffereth himselfe to be gouerned by the word of God, shall haue all prosperitie both corporal and spirituall. ] and in her left hand riches and glory.

¹⁷ Her wayes are wayes of pleasure, and all her pathes prosperitie.

¹⁸ She is a tree [Note: [i] Which bringeth foorth such fruite that they that eate thereof, haue life: and he alludeth to the tree of life in paradise. ] of life to them that lay holde on her, and blessed is he that retaineth her.

¹⁹ The Lorde by wisdome hath layde the [Note: [k] Hereby hee sheweth that this wisdome, whereof he speaketh, is euerlasting, because it was before all creatures, and that all things, euen the whole world were made by it. ] foundation of the earth, and hath stablished the heauens through vnderstanding.

²⁰ By his knowledge the depthes are broken vp, and the cloudes droppe downe the dewe.

²¹ My sonne, let not these things depart from thine eyes, but obserue wisdome, and counsell.

²² So they shalbe life to thy soule, and grace vnto thy [Note: Or, throate, reade Chap.1.9. ] necke.

²³ Then shalt thou walke safely by thy way: and thy foote shall not stumble.

²⁴ If thou sleepest, thou shalt not bee afraide, and when thou sleepest, thy sleepe shalbe sweete.

²⁵ Thou shalt not feare for any sudden feare, neither for the [Note: [l] For when God destroyeth tho wicked, he will saue his, as he did Lot in Sodom. ] destruction of the wicked, when it commeth.

²⁶ For the Lorde shall be for thine assurance, and shall preserue thy foote from taking.

²⁷ ¶ Withhold not the good from [Note: [m] Not onely from them to whom the possession belongeth, but also thou shalt not keepe it from them, which haue neede of the vse thereof. ] the owners thereof, though there be power in thine hand to doe it.

²⁸ Say not vnto thy neighbour, Go and come againe, and to morow wil I giue thee, if thou now haue it.

²⁹ ¶ Intend none hurt against thy neighbour, seeing he doeth dwell [Note: [n] That is, putteth his trust in thee. ] without feare by thee.

³⁰ ¶ Striue not with a man causelesse, when he hath done thee no harme.

³¹ ¶ Bee not [Note: [o] Desire not to be like vnto him. ] enuious for the wicked man, neither chuse any of his wayes.

³² For the frowarde is abomination vnto the Lord: but his [Note: [p] That is his couenant and fatherly affection which is hid and secret from the world. ] secret is with the righteous.

³³ The curse of the Lorde is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the righteous.

³⁴ With the scornefull [Note: [q] He will shewe by his plagues that their scornes shall turne to their owne destruction, as Chap.1.26. ] he scorneth, but hee giueth grace vnto the humble.

³⁵ The wise shall inherite glorie: but fooles dishonour, though they be exalted.

1 Wisdome and her fruites ought to bee searched. 14 The way of the wicked must bee refused. 20 By the word of God the heart, eyes and course of life must be guided.

¹ Heare, O ye children, the instruction of a [Note: [a] He speaketh this in the person of a preacher and minister which is as a father vnto the people, reade Chapter 1.8. ] father, and giue eare to learne vnderstanding.
[Page]

² For I doe giue you a good doctrine: therefore forsake yee not my lawe.

³ For I was my fathers sonne, tender and deare in the sight of my mother,

⁴ When he [Note: [b] Meaning, Dauid his father. ] taught me, and sayde vnto me, Let thine heart holde fast my woordes: keepe my commandements, and thou shalt liue.

⁵ Get wisedom: get vnderstading: forget not, neither decline from the woordes of my mouth.

⁶ Forsake her not, and shee shall keepe thee: loue her and shee shall preserue thee.

⁷ [Note: [c] He sheweth that we must first begin at Gods woorde, if so be we will that other things prosper with vs, contrary to the iudgement of ye worlde, which make it their last studie, or els, care not for it at all. ] Wisedome is the beginning: get wisedome therefore: and aboue all thy possession get vnderstanding.

⁸ Exalt her, and she shall exalt thee: she shall bring thee to honour, if thou embrace her.

⁹ She shal giue a comely ornamet vnto thine head, yea, she shal giue thee a crowne of glorie.

¹⁰ ¶ Heare, my sonne, & receiue my wordes, and the yeeres of thy life shalbe many.

¹¹ I haue [Note: [d] Salomon declareth what care his father had to bring him vp in the true feare of God: for this was Dauids protestation. ] taught thee in ye way of wisedom, and led thee in the pathes of righteousnesse.

¹² Whe thou goest, thy gate shal not be [Note: [e] Thou shalt walke at liberty without offence. ] strait, and when thou runnest, thou shalt not fall.

¹³ Take holde of instruction, and leaue not: keepe her, for shee is thy life.

¹⁴ ¶ Enter not into the way of the wicked, and walke not in the way of euill men.

¹⁵ Auoide it, and goe not by it: turne from it, and passe by.

¹⁶ For they can not [Note: [f] Meaning, that to doe euill is more proper and natural to the wicked, then to sleepe, eate or drinke. ] sleepe, except they haue done euill, and their sleepe departeth except they cause some to fall.

¹⁷ For they eate the breade of [Note: [g] Gotten by wicked meanes & cruell oppression. ] wickednesse, and drinke the wine of violence.

¹⁸ But the way of the righteous shineth as the light, that [Note: [h] Signifying, that the godly increase daily in knowledge and perfection, till they come to full perfection, which is, when they shall be ioyned to their head in the heauens. ] shineth more and more vnto the perfite day.

¹⁹ The way of the wicked is as the darkenes: they knowe not wherein they shall fall.

²⁰ ¶ My sonne, hearken vnto my wordes, incline thine eare vnto my sayings.

²¹ Let them not depart from thine eyes, but keepe them in the middes of thine heart.

²² For they are life vnto those that find them, and health vnto all their [Note: [i] That is, they shall haue health of bodie: vnder the which al other blessings promised in the law are conteined. ] flesh.

²³ Keepe thine heart with all diligence: for thereout commeth [Note: [k] For as the heart is either pure or corrupt, so is the whole course, of mans life. ] life.

²⁴ Put away from thee a froward mouth, and put wicked lippes farre from thee.

²⁵ Let thine eyes beholde the right, and let thine eyeliddes direct thy way before thee.

²⁶ [Note: [l] Keepe a measure in all thy doings. ] Ponder the path of thy feete, and let all thy waies be ordred aright.

²⁷ Turne not to the right hande, nor to the left, but remooue thy foote from euill.

3 Whoredome forbidden, 9 And prodigalitie. 15 He willeth a man to liue on his labours and to helpe others, 18 To loue his wife. 22 The wicked taken in their owne wickednes.

¹ My sonne, hearken vnto my wisedome, & incline thine eare vnto my [Note: Or, vnderstanding. ] knowledge.

² That thou maiest regarde counsell, and thy lippes obserue knowledge.

³ For the lippes [Note: [a] That is, an harlot which giueth her selfe to another then to her husbande. ] of a strange woman drop as an honie combe, and her mouth is more soft then [Note: [b] By oyle and honie hee meaneth flattering & craftie intisements. ] oyle.

⁴ But the end of her is bitter as wormewood, and sharpe as a two edged sworde.

⁵ Her [Note: [c] All her doings leade to destructio. ] feete goe downe to death, and her

steps take holde on hell.

⁶ She weigheth not the way of life: her paths are [Note: [d] Shee hath euer new meanes to allure to wickednes. ] moueable: thou canst not knowe them.

⁷ Heare yee me nowe therefore, O children, and depart not from the wordes of my mouth.

⁸ Keepe thy way farre from her, and come not neere the doore of her house,

⁹ Least thou giue thine [Note: [e] That is, thy strength & goods to her that will haue no pitie vpon thee: as is red of Samson, and the prodigall sonne. ] honor vnto others, and thy yeeres to the cruell:

¹⁰ Least the stranger should be silled with thy strength, and thy [Note: [f] The goods gotten by thy trauell. ] labours bee in the house of a stranger,

¹¹ And thou mourne at thine end, (when thou hast consumed thy flesh and thy bodie)

¹² And say, How haue I hated instruction, and mine heart despised correction!

¹³ And haue not obeied the voyce of them that taught mee, nor enclined mine eare to them that instructed me!

¹⁴ I was almost brought into all euil in ye mids of the Congregation and [Note: [g] Although I was faithfully instructed in ye truth, yet had I almost fallen to vtter shame and destruction, notwithstading my good bringing vp in the assemblie of the godly. ] assemblie.

¹⁵ ¶ Drinke the water of [Note: [h] He teacheth vs sobrietie, exhorting vs to liue of our owne labours and to be beneficiall to the godly that want. ] thy cisterne, and of the riuers out of the middes of thine owne well.

¹⁶ Let thy fountaines flow foorth, and the riuers of waters in the streetes.

¹⁷ But let them bee thine, euen [Note: [i] Distribute them not to the wicked and infidels, but reserue them for thy selfe, thy familie and them that are of ye housholde of faith. ] thine onely, and not the strangers with thee.

¹⁸ Let thy [Note: [k] Thy children which shall come of thee in great abundance, shewing that God blesseth marriage, and curseth whoredome. ] fountaine be blessed, and reioyce with the wife of thy [Note: [l] Which thou diddest marrie in thy youth. ] youth.

¹⁹ Let her be as the louing hinde and pleasant roe: let her brests satisfie thee at all times, and delite in her loue continually.

²⁰ For why shouldest thou [Note: Or, goe astray with a stranger? ] delite, my sonne, in a strange woman, or embrace the bosome of a stranger?

²¹ For the waies of man are before the [Note: [m] Hee declareth that except man doe ioyne to his wife both in heart and in outwarde conuersation, that hee shall not escape the iudgements of God. ] eyes of the Lord, and he pondereth all his pathes.

²² His owne iniquities shall take the wicked himselfe, and he shall be holden with the cordes of his owne sinne.

²³ Hee shall [Note: [n] Because he wil not giue eare to Gods woorde and be admonished. ] die for faute of instruction, and shall goe astraie through his great follie.

1 Instruction for sureties. 6 The slouthfull and sluggish is stirred to woorke. 12 Hee describeth the nature of the wicked. 16 The things that God hateth. 20 To obserue the woorde of God. 24 To flee adulterie.

¹ My sonne, if thou be surety for thy neighbour, and hast striken hands with the stranger,

² Thou art [Note: [a] He forbiddeth vs not to become suretie one for another, according to the rule of charitie, but that we consider for whom and after what sort, so that the creditour may not be defrauded. ] snared with the wordes of thy mouth: thou art euen taken with the woordes of thine owne mouth.

³ Doe this nowe, my sonne, and deliuer thy selfe: seeing thou art come into the hande of thy neighbour, goe, and humble thy selfe, and sollicite thy friends.

⁴ Giue no sleepe to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids.

⁵ Deliuer thy selfe as a doe from the hande of the hunter, and as a birde from the hande of the fouler.

⁶ ¶ Goe to [Note: [b] If the word of God cannot instruct thee, yet learne at the litle pismire to labour for thy selfe and not to burden others. ] the pismire, O sluggarde: beholde her waies, and be wise.

⁷ For shee hauing no guide, gouernour, nor ruler,

⁸ Prepareth her meat in the sommer, & gathereth her foode in haruest.

⁹ Howe long wilt thou sleepe, O sluggarde?

[Page 31]

when wilt thou arise out of thy sleepe?
¹⁰ [Note: Chap.24.33. ] Yet a litle sleepe, a litle slumber, [Note: [c] He expresseth liuely the nature of the sluggards, which though they sleepe neuer so long, yet haue neuer ynough, but euer seeke occasions thereunto. ] a litle folding of the hands to sleepe.

¹¹ Therefore thy pouertie commeth as one that [Note: [d] That is, suddenly, and when thou lookest not for it. ] trauaileth by the way, and thy necessitie like [Note: [e] It shall come in such sort as thou art not able to resist it. ] an armed man.

¹² The vnthriftie man [Note: [f] He sheweth to what inconuenience the idle persons and sluggards come, by calling them vnthriftie or the men of Belial, and slaunderous. ] and the wicked man walketh with a froward mouth.

¹³ He maketh a signe with his eyes: he [Note: Ebr. speaketh. ] signifieth with his feete: he [Note: [g] Thus all his gesture tendeth to wickednesse. ] instructeth wt his fingers.

¹⁴ Lewde things are in his heart: he imagineth euill at all times, and raiseth vp contentions.

¹⁵ Therefore shall his destruction come speedily: hee shall be destroyed suddenly without recouerie.

¹⁶ ¶ These sixe things doeth the Lorde hate: yea, his soule abhorreth seuen:

¹⁷ The hautie eyes, a lying tongue, and the hands that shed innocent blood,

¹⁸ An heart that imagineth wicked enterprises, [Note: [h] Meaning, the raging affections, which cary a man away in such sort that he cannot tell what he doeth. ] feete that be swift in running to mischiefe,

¹⁹ A false witnesse that speaketh lyes, and him that rayseth vp contentions among [Note: Or, neighbours. ] brethren.

²⁰ ¶ My sonne, keepe thy fathers commandement, and forsake not thy mothers instruction.

²¹ Binde them alway vpon thine [Note: [i] Reade Chap.3.3. ] heart, and tye them about thy necke.

²² It shall leade thee, when thou walkest: it shall watch for thee, when thou sleepest, and when thou wakest, it shall talke with thee.

²³ For the [Note: [k] By the commandement he meaneth the worde of God: and by the instruction, the preaching and declaration of the same, which is committed to the Church. ] commandement is a lanterne, and instruction a light: and [Note: [l] And reprehensions when the worde is preached bring vs to life. ] corrections for instruction are the way of life,

²⁴ To keepe thee from the wicked woman, & from ye flatterie of ye tongue of a strange woman.

²⁵ Desire not her beautie in thine heart, neither let her take thee with her [Note: [m] With her wanton lookes and gesture. ] eye lids.

²⁶ For because of the whorish woman a man is brought to a morsell of bread, and a woman wil hunt for the precious life of a man.

²⁷ [Note: [n] Meaning, that shee will neuer cease, till she haue brought thee to beggerie, and then seeke thy destruction. ] Can a man take fire in his bosome, and his clothes not be burnt?

²⁸ Or can a man go vpon coales, and his feete not be burnt?

²⁹ So he that goeth in to his neighbours wife, shall not be innocent, whosoeuer toucheth her.

³⁰ Men do not [Note: [o] He approueth not theft, but sheweth that it is not so abominable as whoredome, forasmuch as theft might be redeemed: but adulterie was a perpetuall infamie, and death by the lawe of God. ] despise a thiefe, when he stealeth, to satisfie his [Note: [p] Meaning, for very necessitie. ] soule, because he is hungrie.

³¹ But if he be founde, he shall restore seuen folde, or he shall giue all the substance of his house.

³² But he that committeth adulterie with a woman, he [Note: Ebr. faileth in heart. ] is destitute of vnderstanding: he that doeth it, destroyeth his owne soule.

³³ He shall finde [Note: [q] That is, death appointed by the Lawe. ] a wounde and dishonour, and his reproch shall neuer be put away.

³⁴ For ielousie is the rage of a man: therefore he will not [Note: [r] He sheweth that man by nature seeketh his death that hath abused his wife, and so concludeth yt neither Gods Law nor ye law of nature admitteth any raunsome for ye adulterie. ] spare in the day of vengeance.

³⁵ He cannot beare the sight of any raunsome: neither will he consent, though thou augment the giftes.

1 An exhortation to wisedome and to the worde of God, 5 Which will preserue vs from the harlot, 6 Whose maners are described.

¹ My sonne, keepe my wordes, & hide my commandements with thee.

² Keepe my commandements, and thou shalt

liue, and mine instruction as the [Note: [a] By this diuersitie of wordes he meaneth that no thing ought to be so deare vnto vs, as the worde of God, nor that we looke on any thing more, nor minde any thing so much. ] apple of thine eyes.

³ Binde them vpon thy fingers, and write them vpon the table of thine heart.

⁴ Say vnto wisedome, Thou art my sister: and call vnderstanding thy kinswoman,

⁵ That they may keepe thee from the strange woman, euen from the stranger that is smoothe in her wordes.

⁶ ¶ [Note: [b] Salomon vseth this parable to declare their foly, that suffer themselues to be abused by harlots. ] As I was in the window of mine house, I looked through my windowe,

⁷ And I sawe among the fooles, and considered among the children a yong man destitute of vnderstanding,

⁸ Who passed through the streete by her corner, and went toward her house,

⁹ In the twilight in the euening, when the night began to be [Note: [c] He sheweth that there was almost none so impudent, but they were afraide to be seene, & also their owne consciences did accuse them, which caused them to seeke the night to couer their filthinesse. ] blacke and darke.

¹⁰ And beholde, there met him a woman with an harlots [Note: Or, garment. ] behauiour, and [Note: Or, hid. ] subtill in heart.

¹¹ (She [Note: [d] He describeth certaine conditions, which are peculiar to harlots. ] is babling and loud: whose feete can not abide in her house.

¹² Nowe she is without, nowe in the streetes, and lyeth in waite at euery corner)

¹³ So she caught him & kissed him and [Note: Ebr. she strengthened her face. ] with an impudent face said vnto him,

¹⁴ I haue [Note: [e] Because that in peace offerings a portion returned to them that offered, she sheweth him that she hath meate at home to make good cheere with: or els shee woulde vse some cloke of holinesse till she had gotten him in her snares. ] peace offerings: this [Note: [f] Which declareth that harlots outwardly will seeme holy and religious: both because they may the better deceiue others, and also thinking by obseruing of ceremonies and offerings to make satisfaction for their sinnes. ] day haue I payed my vowes.

¹⁵ Therefore came I forth to meete thee, that I might seeke thy face: and I haue found thee.

¹⁶ I haue deckt my bed with ornaments, [Note: Or, carued worke. ] carpets and laces of Egypt.

¹⁷ I haue perfumed my bedde with myrrhe, aloes, and cynamom.

¹⁸ Come, let vs take our fill of loue vntill the morning: let vs take our pleasure in daliance.

¹⁹ For mine husbande is not at home: he is gone a iourney farre off.

²⁰ He hath taken [Note: Ebr. in his hand. ] with him a bagge of siluer, and will come home at the day appointed.

²¹ Thus with her great craft she caused him to yeelde, and with her flattering lips she entised him.

²² And he followed her straight wayes, as an [Note: [g] Which thinking he goeth to the pasture, goeth willingly to his owne destruction. ] oxe that goeth to the slaughter, and [Note: [h] Which goeth cheerefully, not knowing that he shalbe chasticed. ] as a foole to the stockes for correction,

²³ Till a dart strike through his liuer, as a bird hasteth to the snare, not knowing that [Note: Ebr. it is for his life. ] he is in danger.

²⁴ ¶ Heare me now therefore, O children, and hearken to the wordes of my mouth.

²⁵ Let not thine heart decline to her wayes: wander thou not in her paths.

²⁶ For shee hath caused many to fall downe wounded, & the [Note: [i] Neither wit nor strength can deliuer them that fall into the handes of the harlot. ] strong men are all slaine by her.

²⁷ Her house is the way [Note: Chap.2.18. ] vnto ye graue, which goeth downe to the chambers of death.

1 Wisedome declareth her excellencie, 11 Riches, 15 Power, 22 Eternitie. 32 She exhorteth all to loue and followe her.

¹ Doeth [Note: Chap.1.20. ] not [Note: [a] Salomon declareth that man is cause of his owne perdition, and that he can pretend no ignorance, forasmuch as God calleth to all men by his worde, and by his workes to folowe vertue and to flee from vice. ] wisedome crie? and vnderstanding vtter her voyce?

² She standeth in the top of the high places by the way in the place of the paths.

³ She cryeth besides [Note: [b] Where the people did most resort, and which was the place of iustice. ] the gates before the citie at the entrie of the doores,

⁴ O men, I call vnto you, and vtter my voyce to the children of men.
[Page]

⁵ O ye foolish men, vnderstand wisedome, and ye, O fooles, be wise in heart.

⁶ Giue eare, for I will speake of excellent things, and the opening of my lippes, shall teache things that be right.

⁷ For my mouth shall speake the trueth, and my lippes abhorre wickednesse.

⁸ All the wordes of my mouth are righteous: there is no lewdenes, nor frowardnesse in them.

⁹ They are all [Note: [c] Meaning, that the worde of God is easie vnto all, that haue a desire vnto it, and which are not blinded by the prince of this worlde. ] plaine to him that will vnderstande, and streight to them that woulde finde knowledge.

¹⁰ Receiue mine instruction, and not siluer, and knowledge rather then fine golde.

¹¹ For wisdome is better then precious stones: and all pleasures are not to be compared vnto her.

¹² I wisdome dwell with [Note: [d] That is, except a man haue wisedome, which is the true knowledge of God, he can neither be prudent nor good counseller. ] prudence, and I find foorth knowledge and counsels.

¹³ The feare of the Lord is to hate [Note: [e] So that he that doeth not hate euill, feareth not God. ] euill as pride, and arrogancie, and the euill way: and a mouth that speaketh lewde things, I doe hate.

¹⁴ I haue counsell and wisedome: I am vnderstanding, and I haue strength.

¹⁵ By me, Kings [Note: [f] Whereby he declareth that honors, dignitie or riches come not of mans wisedome or industrie, but by the prouidence of God. ] reigne, and princes decree iustice.

¹⁶ By me princes rule and the nobles, and all the iudges of the earth.

¹⁷ I loue them that loue me: and they that seeke me [Note: [g] That is, studie the worde of God diligently, and with a desire to profite. ] earely, shall finde me.

¹⁸ Riches and honour are with me: [Note: [h] Signifying, that he chiefely meaneth the spirituall treasures and heauenly riches. ] euen durable riches and righteousnesse.

¹⁹ My fruite is better then golde, euen then fine golde, and my reuenues better then fine siluer.

²⁰ I cause to walke in the way of righteousnes, and in the middes of the paths of [Note: [i] For there can be no true iustice or iudgement, which is not directed by this wisedome. ] iudgement,

²¹ That I may cause them that loue me, to inherite substance, and I will fill their treasures.

²² The Lord hath possessed me in the beginning of his way: I was [Note: [k] He declareth hereby the diuinitie and eternitie of this wisedome, which he magnifieth and prayseth through this booke: meaning thereby the eternall sonne of God Iesus Christ our Sauiour, whom Saint Iohn calleth the worde that was in the beginning, Iohn 1.1. ] before his workes of olde.

²³ I was set vp from euerlasting, from the beginning and before the earth.

²⁴ When there were no depths, was I begotten, when there were no fountaines abounding with water.

²⁵ Before the mountaines were setled: and before the hilles, was I begotten.

²⁶ He had not yet made the earth, nor the open places, nor the height of the dust in the worlde.

²⁷ When hee prepared the heauens, I was [Note: [l] He declareth the eternitie of the Sonne of God, which is meant by this worde Wisedome, who was before all time, and euer present with the Father. ] there, when he set the compasse vpon the deepe.

²⁸ When he established the cloudes aboue, when he confirmed the fountaines of the deepe,

²⁹ When he gaue his decree to the Sea, that the waters shoulde not passe his commaundement: when he appointed the foundations of the earth,

³⁰ Then [Note: [m] Some reade a chiefe worker: signifying that this Wisedome, euen Christ Iesus, was equall with God his father, and created, preserued and still worketh with him, as Iohn 5.17. ] was I with him as a nourisher, and I was dayly his delight reioycing alway before him,

³¹ And tooke my [Note: [n] Whereby is declared that the worke of the creation was no paine, but a solace vnto the wisedome of God. ] solace in the compasse of [Note: [o] By earth he meaneth man, which is the worke of God in whom wisedome tooke pleasure: in so much as for mans sake the Diuine Wisdome tooke mans nature, and dwelt among vs, and filled vs with vnspeakeable treasures: and this is that solace and pastime whereof is here spoken. ] his earth: and my delite is with the children of men.

³² Therefore nowe hearken, O children, vnto me: for blessed are they that keepe my wayes.

³³ Heare instruction, and be ye wise, and refuse

it not: blessed is the man that heareth mee, watching dayly at my gates, & giuing attendance at the postes of my doores.

³⁴ For he that findeth me, findeth life, and shal obteine fauour of the Lord.

³⁵ But he that sinneth against me, hurteth his owne soule: and all that hate me, loue death.

2 Wisedome calleth all to her feast. 7 The scorner will not be corrected. 10 The feare of God. 13 The conditions of the harlot.

¹ Wisedome hath built her [Note: [a] Christ hath prepared him a Church. ] house, and hewen out her [Note: [b] That is, many chiefe staies and principall partes of his Church, as were the Patriarkes, Prophets, Apostles, Pastors, and Doctors. ] seuen pillars.

² She hath killed her vitailes, drawen her wine, and [Note: [c] He compareth wisedome with great princes that keepe open house for all that come. ] prepared her table.

³ She hath sent forth her [Note: [d] Meaning true preachers, which are not infected with mans wisedome. ] maydens and cryeth vpon the highest places of the citie, saying,

⁴ Who so is [Note: [e] He that knoweth his owne ignorance, and is voyde of malice. ] simple, let him come hither, and to him that is destitute of wisedome, she sayth,

⁵ Come, and eate of my [Note: [f] By the meate and drinke, is meant the worde of God and the ministration of the sacraments, whereby God nourisheth his seruants in his house, which is the Church. ] meate, and drinke of the wine that I haue drawen.

⁶ Forsake your way, ye foolish, and ye shall liue: and walke in the way of vnderstanding.

⁷ He that reproueth a scorner, purchaseth to himselfe shame: and he that rebuketh the wicked, getteth himselfe [Note: [g] For the wicked will contemne him and labour to defame him. ] a blot.

⁸ Rebuke not a [Note: [h] Meaning, them that are incorrigible, which Christ calleth dogges and swine: or he speaketh this in comparison, not that the wicked should not be rebuked, but he sheweth their malice, and the small hope of profite. ] scorner, least he hate thee: but rebuke a wise man, and he will loue thee.

⁹ Giue admonition to the wise, and he will be the wiser: teache a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.

¹⁰ The beginning of wisedome is the feare of the Lorde, and the knowledge of holy things, is [Note: [i] Hee sheweth what true vnderstanding is, to knowe the will of God in his worde, which is meant by holy things. ] vnderstanding.

¹¹ For thy dayes shalbe multiplied by me, and the yeeres of thy life shalbe augmented.

¹² If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for [Note: [k] Thou shalt haue the chiefe profite and commoditie thereof. ] thy selfe, and if thou be a scorner, thou alone shalt suffer.

¹³ ¶ A [Note: [l] By the foolish woman, some vnderstand, the wicked preachers, who counterfaite the worde of God as appeareth verse 16, which were the wordes of the true preachers, as verse 4: but their doctrine is but as stollen waters: meaning that they are but mens traditions, which are more pleasant to the flesh then the worde of God: and therefore they themselues boast thereof. ] foolish woman is troublesome: she is ignorant, and knoweth nothing.

¹⁴ But she sitteth at the doore of her house on a seate in the hie places of the citie,

¹⁵ To call them that passe by the way, that go right on their way, saying,

¹⁶ Who so is simple, let him come hither, and to him that is destitute of wisedome, shee sayth also,

¹⁷ Stollen waters are sweete, and hid bread is pleasant.

¹⁸ But he knoweth not, that ye dead are there, and that her ghestes are in the depth of hell.

In this Chapter and all that folowe vnto the thirtieth, the wise man exhorteth by diuers sentences, which he calleth Parables, to followe vertue, and flee vice: and sheweth also what profite commeth of wisedome, and what hinderance proceedeth of folishnes.

¹ A wise [Note: Chap.15.20. ] sonne maketh a glad father: but a foolish sonne is an heauines to his mother.

² The treasures of wickednesse [Note: [a] That is, wickedly gotten. ] profite nothing: but righteousnesse deliuereth from death.


[Page 32]

³ The Lord will [Note: [b] Though he suffer the iust to want for a time, yet he will send him comfort in due season. ] not famish the soule of the righteous: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.

⁴ A [Note: Or, deceitfull. ] slouthfull hand maketh poore: but the hand of the diligent maketh riche.

⁵ He that gathereth in sommer, is the sonne of wisdome: but he that sleepeth in haruest, is the sonne of confusion.

⁶ Blessings are vpon the head of the righteous: but iniquitie shall couer the mouth of [Note: [c] When their wickednesse shall be discouered, they shalbe as dumme, and not know what to say. ] the wicked.

⁷ The memoriall of the iust shalbe blessed: but the name of the wicked shall [Note: [d] Shalbe vile and abhorred both of God and man, contrary to their owne expectation, which thinke to make their name immortall. ] rotte.

⁸ The wise in heart will receiue commandements: but the foolish in [Note: Ebr. lippes. ] talke shalbe beaten.

⁹ He that walketh vprightly, walketh [Note: Or, surely. ] boldely: but he yt peruerteth his wayes, shalbe knowen.

¹⁰ He that [Note: [e] He that beareth a faire countenace, and imagineth mischiefe in his heart, as Chap.6.13. ] winketh with the eye, worketh sorowe, & he yt is [Note: [f] For the corruption of his heart is knowen by his talke. ] foolish in talke, shalbe beaten.

¹¹ The mouth of a righteous man is a welspring of life: but iniquitie couereth the mouth of the wicked.

¹² Hatred stirreth vp contentions: [Note: 1.Cor.13.4. 1.pet.4.8. ] but loue couereth all trespasses.

¹³ In the lippes of him that hath vnderstanding wisdome is founde, and [Note: [g] That is, God wil finde him out to punish him. ] a rod shalbe for the backe of him that is destitute of wisedome.

¹⁴ Wise men lay vp knowledge: but ye mouth of the foole is a present destruction.

¹⁵ The riche mans goodes are his [Note: [h] And so maketh him bolde to doe euill, whereas pouertie bridleth the poore from many euill things. ] strong citie: but the feare of the needie is their pouertie.

¹⁶ The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: but the reuenues of the wicked to sinne.

¹⁷ He that regardeth instruction, is in the way of life: but he that refuseth correction, goeth out of the way.

¹⁸ He that dissembleth hatred with lying lips, and he that inuenteth slaunder, is a foole.

¹⁹ In many wordes there cannot want iniquitie: but he that refrayneth his lippes, is wise.

²⁰ The tongue of the iust man is as fined siluer: but the heart of the wicked is litle worth.

²¹ The lippes of the righteous doe [Note: [i] For they speake trueth and edifie many by exhortations, admonition and counsell. ] feede many: but fooles shall die for want of wisedome.

²² The blessing of the Lorde, it maketh riche, and he doeth adde [Note: [k] Meaning that al worldly things bring care, and sorowe, whereas they that feele the blessings of God, haue none. ] no sorowes with it.

²³ It is as a pastime to a foole to doe wickedly: but wisedome is vnderstanding to a man.

²⁴ That which the wicked feareth, shal come vpon him: but God wil graunt the desire of the righteous.

²⁵ As the whirlewinde passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is as an euerlasting foundation.

²⁶ As vineger is to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the slouthful to them that [Note: [l] He is but a trouble, and griefe to him that setteth him about any busines. ] send him.

²⁷ The feare of the Lord increaseth the dayes: but the yeeres of the wicked [Note: [m] The time of their prosperitie shalbe short, because of their great fall, though they seeme to liue long. ] shalbe diminished.

²⁸ The patient abiding of the righteous shal be gladnesse: but the hope of the wicked shall perish.

²⁹ The way of the Lord is strength to the vpright man: but feare shall be for the workers of iniquitie.

³⁰ The righteous shall [Note: [n] They enioy in this life by fayth and hope, their euerlasting life. ] neuer be remooued: but the wicked shall not dwell in the land.

³¹ The mouth of the iust shall be fruitfull in wisdome: but the tongue of the froward shall be cut out.

³² The lips of the righteous knowe what is

acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh froward things.

¹ False [Note: [a] Vnder this word he condemneth all false weights, measures and deceite. ] balances are an abomination vnto the Lord: but a perfite [Note: Ebr. stone. ] weight pleaseth him.

² When pride commeth, then commeth [Note: [b] When man forgetteth him selfe, and thinketh to be exalted aboue his vocation, then God bringeth him to confusion. ] shame: but with the lowly is wisdome.

³ The vprightnes of the iust shal guide them: but the frowardnes of the transgressers shall destroy them.

⁴ [Note: Ezek.7.19. ecclus.5.1. ] Riches auaile not in the day of wrath: but righteousnes deliuereth from death.

⁵ The righteousnes of the vpright shal direct his way: but the wicked shall fall in his owne wickednes.

⁶ The righteousnesse of the iust shall deliuer them: but the transgressers shall be taken in their owne wickednes.

⁷ [Note: Wisd.5.15. ] When a wicked man dieth, his hope perisheth, and the hope of the vniust shall perish.

⁸ The righteous escapeth out of trouble, and the wicked shall come in his [Note: [c] That is, shall enter into trouble. ] steade.

⁹ An [Note: [d] A dissembler that pretendeth friendship, but is a priuie enemie. ] hypocrite with his mouth hurteth his neighbour: but the righteous shall be deliuered by knowledge.

¹⁰ In the prosperitie of the righteous the citie [Note: [e] The countrey is blessed, where there is godly men, & they ought to reioyce when the wicked are taken away. ] reioyceth, and when the wicked perish, there is ioye.

¹¹ By the [Note: Or, prosperitie. ] blessing of the righteous, the citie is exalted: but it is subuerted by the mouth of the wicked.

¹² He that despiseth his neighbour, is destitute of wisedome: but a man of vnderstanding will [Note: [f] Will not make light report of others. ] keepe silence.

¹³ Hee that goeth about as a slanderer, discouereth a secret: but hee that is of a faithfull heart concealeth a matter.

¹⁴ Where no counsell is, the people fall: but where many [Note: [g] Where God giueth store of men of wisdome, and counsell. ] counsellers are, there is health.

¹⁵ Hee shall be sore vexed, that is suretie for a [Note: [h] Whose conuersation he knoweth not. ] stranger, and he [Note: [i] He that doeth not without iudgment, and consideration of the circumstances put himselfe in danger, as Chap.6.1. ] that hateth suretiship, is sure.

¹⁶ A [Note: Or, modest. ] gracious woman atteineth honour, and the strong men atteine riches.

¹⁷ Hee that is mercifull, [Note: [k] Is both good to himselfe, and to others. ] rewardeth his owne soule: but he that troubleth his own [Note: Or, neighbour. ] flesh, is cruel.

¹⁸ The wicked worketh a deceitful worke: but hee that soweth righteousnes, shall receiue a sure rewarde.

¹⁹ As righteousnes leadeth to life: so hee that followeth euill, seeketh his owne death.

²⁰ They that are of a froward heart, are abomination to the Lord: but they that are vpright in their way, are his delite.

²¹ [Note: [l] Though they make neuer so many friendes, or thinke themselues neuer so sure, yet they shall not escape. ] Though hande ioyne in hande, the wicked shall not be vnpunished: but the seede of the righteous shall escape.

²² As a iewell of golde in a swines snoute: so is a faire woman, which [Note: Or, is of vncomely behauiour. ] lacketh discretion.

²³ The desire of the righteous is onely good: but the hope of the wicked [Note: [m] They can looke for nothing but Gods vengeance. ] is indignation.

²⁴ There is that scattereth, [Note: [n] Meaning them that giue liberally, whom God blesseth. ] and is more increased: but hee that spareth more [Note: [o] That is, the niggarde. ] then is right, surely commeth to pouertie.

²⁵ The [Note: Ebr. the soule of bleßing shalbe made fat. ] liberall person shall haue plentie: and he that watereth, shall also haue raine.

²⁶ He that withdraweth the corne, the people will curse him: but blessing shalbe vpon the head of him that [Note: [p] That prouideth for the vse of them that are in necessitie. ] selleth corne.

²⁷ He that seeketh good things, getteth fauour: but he that seeketh euill, it shall come to him.
[Page]

²⁸ He that trusteth in his riches, shall fall: but the righteous shall florish as a leafe.

²⁹ He that troubleth his owne [Note: [q] The couetous men that spare their riches to the hinderance of their families, shalbe depriued thereof miserably. ] house, shall inherite the winde, and the foole shalbe [Note: [r] For though the wicked be riche, yet are they but slaues to the godly, which are the true possessours of the giftes of God. ] seruant to the wise in heart.

³⁰ The fruite of the righteous is as a tree of life, and he that [Note: [s] That is, bringeth them to the knowledge of God. ] winneth soules, is wise.

³¹ Beholde, the righteous shalbe [Note: [t] Shalbe punished as he deserueth, 1.Peter 4.18. ] recompensed in the earth: howe much more the wicked and the sinner?

¹ He that loueth instruction, loueth knowledge: but he that hateth correction, is a foole.

² A good man getteth fauour of the Lorde: but the man of wicked immaginations will hee condemne.

³ A man cannot be established by wickednesse: but the [Note: [a] They are so grounded in the fauour of God, that their roote shall prosper continually. ] roote of the righteous shall not be mooued.

⁴ A [Note: Ebr strong, or painefull. ] vertuous woman is the crowne of her husband: but she that maketh him ashamed, is as corruption in his bones.

⁵ The thoughtes of the iust are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceitfull.

⁶ The talking of the wicked is to lye in waite for blood: but the mouth of the righteous will [Note: [b] As their conscience is vpright, so shall they be able to speake for them selues against their accusers. ] deliuer them.

⁷ God ouerthroweth the wicked, and they are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.

⁸ A man shall be commended for his wisedome: but the froward of heart shalbe despised.

⁹ He that is despised, [Note: [c] The poore man that is contemned and yet liueth of his owne trauaile. ] & is his owne seruant, is better then he that boasteth himselfe and lacketh bread.

¹⁰ A righteous man [Note: [d] Is mercifull, euen to the very beast that doeth him seruice. ] regardeth the life of his beast: but the mercies of the wicked are cruell.

¹¹ [Note: Chap.28.19. ecclus.20.27. ] He that tilleth his lande, shalbe satisfied with bread: but he that followeth the idle, is destitute of [Note: Or, defence. ] vnderstanding.

¹² The wicked desireth the [Note: [e] Continually imagineth meanes howe to do harme to others. ] net of euils: but the [Note: [f] Meaning, their heart within, which is vpright and doeth good to all. ] roote of the righteous giueth fruite.

¹³ The euill man is snared by the wickednesse of his lips, but the iust shall come out of aduersitie.

¹⁴ A man shalbe satiate with good things by the fruite of his mouth, and the recompence of a mans hands shall God giue vnto him.

¹⁵ The way of a foole is [Note: [g] He standeth in his owne conceie, and condemneth al others in respect of himselfe. ] right in his owne eyes: but he that heareth counsell, is wise.

¹⁶ A foole in a day shall be knowen by his anger: but he [Note: [h] Which bridleth his affections. ] that couereth shame, is wise.

¹⁷ He that speaketh trueth, will shewe righteousnes: but a false witnes vseth deceite.

¹⁸ [Note: Chap.14.5. ] There is that speaketh wordes like the prickings of [Note: [i] Which seeke nothing more then to prouoke others to anger. ] a sworde: but the tongue of wise men is health.

¹⁹ The lip of trueth shall be stable for euer: but a lying tongue varieth incontinently.

²⁰ Deceite is in the heart of them that imagine euill: but to the counsellers of peace shall be ioye.

²¹ There shal none iniquitie come to the iust: but the wicked are full of euill.

²² The lying lips are an abomination to the Lord: but they that deale truely are his delite.

²³ A wise man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of the fooles publisheth foolishnes.

²⁴ [Note: Chap.10.4. ] The hand of the diligent shall beare rule: but the idle shalbe vnder tribute.

²⁵ Heauines in the heart of man doeth bring it downe: but a [Note: [k] That is, words of comfort, or a chearefull minde, which is declared by his words, reioyceth a man, as a couetous minde killeth him. ] good worde reioyceth it.

²⁶ The righteous [Note: [l] That is more liberall in giuing. ] is more excellent then his neighbour: but the way of the wicked will deceiue them.

²⁷ The deceitfull man rosteth not, that hee [Note: [m] Although he get much by vnlawful meanes, yet wil he not spend it vpon himselfe. ] tooke in hunting: but the riches of the diligent man are precious.

²⁸ Life is in the way of righteousnesse, and in that path way there is no death.

¹ A wise sonne will obey the instruction of his father: but a scorner will heare no rebuke.

² A man shall eate good things by the fruite [Note: [a] If hee vse his tongue to Gods glory, and the profite of his neighbour, God shall blesse him. ] of his mouth: but the soule of the trespassers shall suffer violence.

³ Hee that keepeth his mouth, keepeth his life: but he that openeth his lips, destruction shal be to him.

⁴ The sluggard [Note: [b] He euer desireth, but taketh no paynes to get any thing. ] lusteth, but his soule hath nought: but the soule of the diligent shall haue plentie.

⁵ A righteous man hateth lying wordes: but the wicked causeth slander and shame.

⁶ Righteousnesse preserueth the vpright of [Note: Ebr. way. ] life: but wickednes ouerthroweth the sinner.

⁷ There is that maketh himselfe riche, and hath nothing, and that maketh himselfe poore, hauing great riches.

⁸ A man will giue his riches for the ransome of his life: but the poore [Note: [c] For his pouertie, he is not able to escape the threatnings, which the cruel oppressers vse against him. ] cannot heare ye reproch.

⁹ The light of the righteous reioyceth: but the candle of the wicked shall be put out.

¹⁰ Onely by pride [Note: [d] When as euery man contendeth to haue the preeminence, and will not giue place to another. ] doeth man make contention: but with the well aduised is wisdome.

¹¹ The [Note: [e] That is, goods euill gotten. ] riches of vanitie shal diminish: but he that gathereth with [Note: [f] That is, with his owne labour. ] the hand, shall increase them.

¹² The hope that is deferred, is the fainting of the heart: but when the desire commeth, it is as a tree of life.

¹³ He that despiseth [Note: [g] Meaning, the worde of God, whereby he is admonished of his duetie. ] the worde, hee shall be destroyed: but hee that feareth the commaundement he shalbe rewarded.

¹⁴ The instruction of a wise man is as the welspring of life, to turne away from the snares of death.

¹⁵ Good vnderstanding maketh acceptable: but the way of the disobedient is hated.

¹⁶ Euery wise man will worke by knowledge: but a foole will spread abroade folly.

¹⁷ [Note: Chap.25.13. ] A wicked messenger falleth [Note: [h] Bringeth many Inconueniences both to himselfe and to others. ] into euill: but a faithfull ambassadour is preseruation.

¹⁸ Pouertie and shame is to him that refuseth instruction: but hee that regardeth correction, shalbe honoured.

¹⁹ A desire accomplished deliteth ye soule: but it is an abomination to fooles to depart from euil.

²⁰ He that walketh with the wise, shalbe wise: but a companion of fooles shalbe [Note: [i] As he is partaker of their wickednes and beareth with their vices, so shall he be punished alike as they are. ] afflicted.

²¹ Affliction followeth sinners: but vnto the righteous God will recompense good.

²² The good man shall giue inheritance vnto his childrens children: and the [Note: [k] Reade Iob 27. 16,17. ] riches of the sinner is layde vp for the iust.

²³ Much foode is in the fielde of the [Note: [l] God blesseth the labour of the poore, and consumeth their goods, which are negligent, because they thinke they haue ynough. ] poore: but the fielde is destroyed without discretion.

²⁴ [Note: Chap.23.13. ecclus.30.1. ] He that spareth his rodde, hateth his sonne: but he that loueth him, chasteneth him betime.

²⁵ The righteous eateth to the contentation of his minde: but the belly of the wicked shall want.


[Page 33]

¹ A wise woman [Note: [a] That is, taketh paine to profit her familie and to doe that which concerneth her duetie in her house. ] buildeth her house: but the foolish destroyeth it with her owne handes.

² [Note: Iob 12.4. ] He that walketh in his [Note: [b] That is, in vprightnesse of heart and without hypocrisie. ] righteousnes, feareth the Lord: but he that is lewde in his wayes, despiseth him.

³ In the mouth of the foolish is the [Note: [c] His proude tongue shall cause him to be punished. ] rod of pride: but the lippes of the wise preserue them.

⁴ Where none [Note: [d] By the oxe is ment labour, and by the crib the barne: meaning, without labour there is no profite. ] oxen are, there the cribbe is emptie: but much increase cometh by the strength of the oxe.

⁵ A faithfull witnes will not lye: but a false record will speake lyes.

⁶ A scorner [Note: [e] For the maintenance of his owne ambition and not for Gods glory, as Simon Magus. ] seeketh wisdome, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easie to him that will vnderstande.

⁷ Depart from the foolish man, when thou perceiuest not in him the lippes of knowledge.

⁸ The wisdome of ye prudent is to vnderstand his way: but the foolishnes of the fooles is deceite.

⁹ The foole maketh a mocke [Note: [f] Doth not know the grieuousnesse thereof, nor Gods iudgemets against the same. ] of sinne: but among the righteous there is fauour.

¹⁰ The heart knoweth the [Note: [g] As a mans conscience is witnes of his owne griefe: so another cannot feele the ioye and comfort, which a man feeleth in himselfe. ] bitternes of his soule, & the stranger shall not medle with his ioy.

¹¹ The house of the wicked shalbe destroyed: but the tabernacle of the righteous shall florish.

¹² [Note: Chap.16.25. ] There is a way that seemeth right to a man: but the issues thereof are the wayes of death.

¹³ Euen in laughing the heart is sorowful, [Note: [h] He sheweth that the allurement vnto sinne seemeth sweete, but the end thereof is destruction. ] and the ende of that mirth is heauinesse.

¹⁴ The heart that declineth, [Note: [i] He that forsaketh God, shall be punished, and made weary of his sinnes wherein he delited. ] shall be saciate with his owne wayes: but a good man shall depart from him.

¹⁵ The foolish will beleeue euery thing: but the prudent will consider his steppes.

¹⁶ A wise man feareth, and departeth from euill: but a foole rageth, and is carelesse.

¹⁷ He that is hastie to anger, committeth follie, and a [Note: Ebr. the man of imaginations. ] busie body is hated.

¹⁸ The foolish do inherite follie: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

¹⁹ The euill shall bowe before the good, and the wicked [Note: [k] If this come not dayly to passe, we must consider that it is because of our sinnes, which let Gods working. ] at the gates of the righteous.

²⁰ The poore is hated euen of his own neighbour: but the friendes of the rich are many.

²¹ The sinner despiseth his neighbour: but he that hath mercie on the poore, is blessed.

²² Doe not they erre that imagine euill? but to them that thinke on good things, shalbe mercie and trueth.

²³ In all labour there is abundance: but the talke of the lippes bringeth onely want.

²⁴ The crowne of the wise is their riches, and the follie of fooles is foolishnes.

²⁵ A faithfull witnes deliuereth soules: but a deceiuer speaketh lyes.

²⁶ In the feare of the Lorde is an assured strength, and his children shall haue hope.

²⁷ The feare of the Lorde is as a welspring of life, to auoyde the snares of death.

²⁸ In the multitude of the [Note: [l] That is, the strength of a King standeth in many people. ] people is the honour of a King, and for the want of people commeth the destruction of the Prince.

²⁹ He yt is slowe to wrath, is of great wisdome: but he that is of an hastie minde, exalteth follie.

³⁰ A sounde heart is the life of the [Note: Or, bodie. ] flesh: but enuie is the rotting of the bones.

³¹ [Note: Chap.17.5. ] He that oppresseth the poore, reprooueth him that made him: but hee honoureth him, that hath mercie on the poore.

³² The wicked shall be cast away for his malice: but the righteous hath hope in his death.

³³ Wisedome resteth in the heart of him that hath vnderstanding, and is knowen [Note: [m] For as much as they are conuict thereby, and put to silence. ] in the mids of fooles.

³⁴ Iustice exalteth a nation, [Note: Or, and the mercie of the people is a sacrifice for sinne. ] but sinne is a shame to the people.

³⁵ The pleasure of a King is in a wise seruant: but his wrath shalbe toward him that is lewde.

¹ [Note: Chap.25.15. ] A soft answere putteth away wrath: but grieuous wordes stirre vp anger.

² The tongue of the wise vseth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fooles [Note: Verse 28. ] babbleth out foolishnesse.

³ The eyes of the Lorde in euery place beholde the euill and the good.

⁴ A wholesome tongue is as a tree of life: but the frowardnes therof is the breaking of ye minde.

⁵ A foole despiseth his fathers instruction: but he that regardeth correction, is prudent.

⁶ The house of the righteous hath much treasure: but in the reuenues of the wicked is [Note: [a] For though they haue much, yet it is full of trouble and care. ] trouble.

⁷ The lippes of the wise doe spread abroade knowledge: but ye heart of the foolish doth not so.

⁸ The [Note: [b] That thing is abominable before God, which the wicked thinke to be most excellent, and whereby they thinke most to be accepted. ] sacrifice of the wicked is abomination to the Lord: but the prayer of the righteous is acceptable vnto him.

⁹ The way of the wicked is an abomination vnto the Lord: but he loueth him that followeth righteousnes.

¹⁰ Instruction is euill to him that [Note: [c] He that swarueth from the word of God, cannot abide to be admonished. ] forsaketh the way, and he that hateth correction, shall die.

¹¹ [Note: [d] There is nothing so deepe, or secret that can be hidde from the eyes of God, much lesse mens thoughts. ] Hell and destruction are before the Lord: how much more the hearts of the sonnes of men?

¹² A scorner loueth not him that rebuketh him, neither will he goe vnto the wise.

¹³ [Note: Chap.17.22. ] A ioyfull heart maketh a chearefull countenance: but by the sorow of the heart the minde is heauie.

¹⁴ The heart of him that hath vnderstanding, seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of the foole is fedde with foolishnes.

¹⁵ All the dayes of the afflicted are euill: but a good [Note: Ebr. heart. ] conscience is a continuall feast.

¹⁶ [Note: Psalme 37.16. ] Better is a litle with the feare of the Lord, then great treasure, and trouble therewith.

¹⁷ Better is a dinner of greene herbes where loue is, then a stalled oxe and hatred therewith.

¹⁸ [Note: Chap.29.22. ] An angrie man stirreth vp strife: but hee that is slowe to wrath, appeaseth strife.

¹⁹ The way of a slouthfull man is as an hedge of [Note: [e] That is, he euer findeth some let or stay, and dare not goe forward. ] thornes: but the way of the righteous is plaine.

²⁰ [Note: Chap.10.1. ] A wise sonne reioyceth the father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.

²¹ Foolishnes is ioy to him that is destitute of vnderstanding: but a man of vnderstanding walketh vprightly.

²² Without cousel thoughts come to nought: but [Note: [f] Reade Chap. 11.14. ] in the multitude of counsellers there is stedfastnesse.

²³ A ioy commeth to a man by the answere of his mouth: and how good is a word [Note: [g] If we will that our talke be comfortable, we must waite for time and season. ] in due seaso?

²⁴ The way of life is on high to the prudent, to auoyde from hell beneath.

²⁵ The Lorde will destroye the house of the proude men: but hee will stablish the borders of the widowe.

²⁶ The thoughts of ye wicked are abomination to the Lord: but the pure haue [Note: [h] That is, holsome and profitable to the hearers. ] pleasant wordes.
[Page]

²⁷ He that is greedie of gaine, troubleth his owne house: but he that hateth giftes, shall liue.

²⁸ The heart of the righteous studieth to answere: but the wicked mans mouth babbleth euil thinges.

²⁹ The Lord is farre off from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

³⁰ The light of the eyes reioyceth the heart, and a good name maketh the bones fat.

³¹ The eare that hearkeneth to the [Note: [i] That suffereth himselfe to be admonished by Gods word, which bringeth life: and so amendeth. ] correction of life, shall lodge among the wise.

³² Hee that refuseth instruction, despiseth his owne soule: but he that obeyeth correction, getteth vnderstanding.

³³ The feare of the Lord is the instruction of wisdome: and before honour, goeth [Note: [k] Meaning, that God exalteth none, but them that are truely humbled. ] humilitie.

¹ The [Note: [a] He derideth the presumption of man, who dare attribute to himselfe any thing, as to prepare his heart or such like, seeing that he is not able to speake a word, except God giue it him. ] preparations of the heart are in man: but the answere of the tongue is of the Lord.

² All the wayes of a man are [Note: [b] He sheweth hereby, that man flattereth himselfe in his doings: calling that vertue which God termeth vice. ] cleane in his owne eyes: but the Lord pondereth the spirits.

³ [Note: Ebr. role. ] Commit thy workes vnto the Lorde, and thy thoughts shalbe directed.

⁴ The Lord hath made all things for his owne sake: yea, euen the wicked for the day of [Note: [c] So that iustice of God shall appeare to his glorie, euen in the destruction of the wicked. ] euill.

⁵ All that are proude in heart, are an abomination to the Lord: though [Note: Chap.11.21. ] hand ioyne in hand, he shall not be vnpunished.

⁶ By [Note: [d] Their vpright and repenting life shalbe a token that their sinnes are forgiuen. ] mercy and trueth iniquitie shalbe forgiuen, and by the feare of the Lorde they depart from euill.

⁷ When the wayes of a man please the Lord, he will make also his enemies at peace with him.

⁸ [Note: Chap.15.16. Psal.37.16. ] Better is a litle with righteousnesse, then great reuenues without equitie.

⁹ The heart of man [Note: [e] He sheweth the folly of man which thinketh that his wayes are in his owne hand, and yet is not able to remoue one foote except God giue force. ] purposeth his way: but the Lord doeth direct his steppes.

¹⁰ A diuine sentence shalbe in the lips of the King: his mouth shall not trasgresse in iudgement.

¹¹ [Note: Chap 11.1. ] A true weight & balance are of the Lord: all the weightes of the bagge are his [Note: [f] If they be true and iust, they are Gods worke, and he deliteth therein, but otherwise if they be false, they are the worke of the deuil, and to their condemnation that vse them. ] worke.

¹² It is an abomination to Kings to commit wickednes: for the throne is stablished [Note: [g] They are appointed by God to rule according to equitie and iustice. ] by iustice.

¹³ Righteous lips are the delite of Kings, and the King loueth him that speaketh right things.

¹⁴ The wrath of a King is as [Note: [h] That is, he findeth out many meanes to execute his wrath. ] messengers of death: but a wise man will pacifie it.

¹⁵ In the light of the Kings coutenance is life: and his fauour is [Note: [i] Which is most comfortable to the dry grounde, Deuter.11.14. ] as a cloude of the latter raine.

¹⁶ [Note: Chap.8.10. ] Howe much better is it to get wisedome then golde? and to get vnderstanding, is more to be desired then siluer.

¹⁷ The pathe of the righteous is to decline from euil, and hee keepeth his soule, that keepeth his way.

¹⁸ Pride goeth before destruction, and an high minde before the fall.

¹⁹ Better it is to be of humble minde with the lowly, then to deuide the spoyles with the proude.

²⁰ He yt is wise in his busines, shall finde good: and [Note: Psalme 125.1. ] he that trusteth in the Lord, he is blessed.

²¹ The wise in heart shall bee called prudent: and [Note: [k] The sweete wordes of consolation, which come foorth of a godly heart. ] the sweetenesse of the lippes shall increase doctrine.

²² Vnderstading is welspring of life vnto them that haue it: and the [Note: [l] Either that which the wicked teache others, or els it is folly to teache them that are malicious. ] instruction of fooles is folly.

²³ The heart of the wise guideth his mouth

wisely, and addeth doctrine to his lippes.

²⁴ Faire wordes are as an hony combe, sweetenesse to the soule, and health to the bones.

²⁵ [Note: Chap.14.12. ] There is a way that seemeth right vnto man: but the issue thereof are the wayes of death.

²⁶ The person that traueileth, traueileth for himselfe: for his mouth [Note: Ebr. boweth vpon him. ] craueth it of him.

²⁷ A wicked man diggeth vp euill, and in his lippes is like [Note: [m] For he consumeth himselfe and others. ] burning fire.

²⁸ A frowarde person soweth strife: and a tale teller maketh diuision among princes.

²⁹ A wicked man deceiueth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.

³⁰ [Note: [n] With his whole indeuour he laboureth to bring his wickednes to passe. ] He shutteth his eyes to deuise wickednes: he moueth his lippes, and bringeth euil to passe.

³¹ Age is a crowne of glory, when it is founde in the way of [Note: [o] That is, when it is ioyned with vertue: or els the elder that the wicked are, the more they are to be abhorred. ] righteousnes.

³² He that is slowe vnto anger, is better then the mightie man: and hee that ruleth his owne minde, is better then he that winneth a citie.

³³ The lot is cast into the lappe: but the whole disposition thereof is [Note: [p] So that there is nothing that ought to be attributed to fortune: for all things are determined in the counsel of God, which shal come to passe. ] of the Lord.

¹ Better is a dry morsell, if peace be with it, then an house full of [Note: [a] For where as were many sacrifices, there were many portions giuen to the people, wherewith they feasted. ] sacrifices with strife.

² [Note: Ecclus.10.26. ] A discrete seruant shall haue rule ouer a lewde sonne, and hee shall deuide the [Note: [b] That is, shalbe made gouernour ouer the children. ] heritage among the brethren.

³ As is the fining pot for siluer, and the fornace for golde, so the Lord trieth the heartes.

⁴ The wicked giueth heed to false lippes, and a lyer hearkeneth to the naughtie tongue.

⁵ [Note: Chap.14.31. ] Hee that mocketh the poore, reprocheth him, that made him: and he that reioyceth at destruction, shall not be vnpunished.

⁶ Childres children are the crowne of the elders: and the glory of ye children are their fathers.

⁷ [Note: Ebr. the lippe of excellencie. ] Hie talke becommeth not a foole, much lesse a lying talke a prince.

⁸ A rewarde is as a stone pleasant in the eyes of them that haue it: it prospereth, whithersoeuer it [Note: [c] The reward hath great force to gaine the heartes of men. ] turneth.

⁹ Hee that couereth a transgression, seeketh loue: but hee that repeateth a matter, separateth the [Note: [d] He that admonisheth the prince of his faute, maketh him his enemie. ] prince.

¹⁰ A reproofe entereth more into him that hath vnderstanding, then an hundreth stripes into a foole.

¹¹ A sedicious person seeketh onely euill, and a cruel [Note: [e] By the messenger is ment such meanes, as God vseth to punish the rebels. ] messenger shall be sent against him.

¹² It is better for a man to meete a beare robbed of her whelpes, then a [Note: [f] Whereby hee meaneth the wicked in his rage, who hath no feare of God. ] foole in his follie.

¹³ [Note: Rom.12.17. 1.theß.5.15. 1.peter 3.9. ] He that rewardeth euil for good, euil shall not depart from his house.

¹⁴ The beginning of strife is as one that openeth the waters: therefore or the contention be medled with, leaue off.

¹⁵ [Note: Isa.5.23. chap.24.24. ] He that iustifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the iust, euen they both are abomination to the Lord.

¹⁶ Wherefore is there a [Note: [g] What auaileth it the wicked to be riche, seeing he setteth not his minde to wisdome? ] price in the hand of the foole to get wisdome, and he hath none heart?

¹⁷ A friende loueth at all times: and [Note: [h] So that he is more then a friend, euen a brother that helpeth in time of aduersitie. ] a brother is borne for aduersitie.

¹⁸ A man destitute of vnderstanding, [Note: [i] Reade Chap.6.1. ] toucheth the hande, and becommeth suretie for his neighbour.

¹⁹ He loueth transgression, that loueth strife: and he that exalteth his [Note: [k] Lifteth vp himselfe aboue his degree. ] gate, seeketh destruction.

²⁰ The froward heart findeth no good: and he

[Page 34]

that hath a naughtie tongue, shall fall into euill.
²¹ He that begetteth a foole, getteth himselfe sorow, and the father of a foole can haue no ioy.

²² [Note: Chap.15.13. ] A ioyfull heart causeth good health: but a sorowfull minde dryeth the bones.

²³ A wicked man taketh a gift out of the [Note: [l] That is, secretly and out of the bosome of the riche. ] bosome to wrest the wayes of iudgement.

²⁴ [Note: Eccle.2.14. and 8.1. ] Wisdome is in the face of him that hath vnderstanding: but the eyes of a foole are in the [Note: [m] That is, wander to and fro & seeke not after wisdome. ] corners of the world.

²⁵ A foolish sonne is a griefe vnto his father, and a [Note: Chap.20.1. ] heauines to her that bare him.

²⁶ Surely it is not good to condemne the iust, nor that ye princes should smite such [Note: [n] For their weldoing. ] for equitie.

²⁷ Hee that hath knowledge, spareth his wordes, and a man of vnderstanding is of an excellent spirit.

²⁸ Euen a foole (when he holdeth his peace) is counted wise, and hee that stoppeth his lips, prudent.

¹ For the desire thereof hee will [Note: [a] He that loueth wisdome, will separate himselfe from all impediments, and giue himselfe wholy to seeke it. ] separate himselfe to seeke it, and occupie himselfe in all wisdome.

² A foole hath no delite in vnderstanding: but that his heart may be [Note: [b] That is, that he may talke licentiously of whatsoeuer commeth to minde. ] discouered.

³ When the wicked commeth, then commeth [Note: [c] Meaning, such one as contemneth all others. ] contempt, and with the vile man reproch.

⁴ The words of a mans mouth are like deepe [Note: [d] Which can neuer be drawen emptie, but bring euer profite. ] waters, and the welspring of wisdome is like a flowing riuer.

⁵ It is not good to [Note: [e] That is, to fauour him and support him. ] accept the person of the wicked, to cause ye righteous to fall in iudgement.

⁶ A fooles lips come with strife, & his mouth calleth for stripes.

⁷ A fooles mouth is his owne destruction, and his lips are a snare for his soule.

⁸ The wordes of a tale bearer are as flatterings, and they goe downe into the [Note: [f] They are soone beleeued and enter most deepely. ] bowels of the belly.

⁹ He also that is slouthfull in his worke, is euen the brother of him that is a great waster.

¹⁰ The Name of the Lorde is a strong tower: the righteous runneth [Note: [g] Hee sheweth what is the refuge of the godly against all troubles. ] vnto it, and is exalted.

¹¹ [Note: Chap.10.15. ] The rich mans riches are his strong citie: and as an hie wall in his imagination.

¹² [Note: Chap.16.18. ] Before destruction the heart of a man is hautie, and before glory goeth lowlines.

¹³ [Note: Ecclus.11.8. ] He that answereth a matter before hee heare it, it is folly and shame vnto him.

¹⁴ The spirit of a man will susteine his infirmitie: but [Note: [h] The minde can well beare the infirmitie of the body, but when the spirit is wounded, it is a thing most hard to susteine. ] a wounded spirit who can beare it?

¹⁵ A wise heart getteth knowledge, and the eare of the wise seeketh learning.

¹⁶ A mans gift [Note: [i] Getteth him libertie to speake, and fauour of them that are most in estimation. ] enlargeth him, and leadeth him before great men.

¹⁷ [Note: [k] He that speaketh first, is best heard of the wicked iudge, but when his aduersarie inquireth out the matter, it turneth to his shame. ] He that is first in his owne cause, is iust: then commeth his neighbour, and maketh inquirie of him.

¹⁸ The lot [Note: [l] If a controuersie cannot otherwise be decided, it is best to cast lottes to know whose the thing shalbe. ] causeth contentions to cease, and [Note: [m] Appeaseth their controuersie, which are so stoute that can not otherwise be pacified. ] maketh a partition among the mightie.

¹⁹ A brother offended is harder to winne then a strong citie, and their contentions are like the [Note: [n] Which for the strength thereof will not bow nor yeelde. ] barre of a palace.

²⁰ With the fruite of a mans mouth shall his belly be satisfied, and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.

²¹ Death & life are in the power of ye tongue,

and they that [Note: [o] By the vsing of the tongue wel or euill commeth the fruit therof either good or bad. ] loue it, shal eate the fruite thereof.

²² He that findeth [Note: [p] He that is ioyned with a vertuous woman in mariage, is blessed of the Lorde, as Chap.19.14. ] a wife, findeth a good thing, and receiueth fauour of the Lord.

²³ The poore speaketh with prayers: but the rich answereth roughly.

²⁴ A man that hath friends, ought to shew him selfe friendly: for a friend is neerer [Note: [q] That is, oft times such are found which are more ready to doe pleasure then he that is more bound by duetie. ] then a brother.

¹ Better [Note: Chap.28.6. ] is ye poore that walketh in his vprightnes, then he that abuseth his lips, & is a foole.

² For without knowledge the minde is not good, and he that hasteth with his feete, sinneth.

³ The foolishnesse of a man peruerteth his way, and his heart freateth against the Lord.

⁴ Riches gather many friends: but the poore is separated from his neighbour.

⁵ [Note: Deut.19.19. dan.13.62. ] A false witnes shall not be vnpunished: and he that speaketh lyes, shall not escape.

⁶ Many reuerence the face of the prince, and euery man is friend to him that giueth giftes.

⁷ All the brethren of the poore doe hate him: howe much more will his friends depart farre from him? though hee be instant [Note: [a] To haue comfort of them. ] with wordes, yet they will not.

⁸ He that possesseth vnderstanding, [Note: [b] He that is vpright in iudgment, findeth fauour of God. ] loueth his owne soule, and keepeth wisdome to finde goodnesse.

⁹ A false witnes shall not be vnpunished: and he that speaketh lyes, shall perish.

¹⁰ [Note: [c] The free vse of things are not to be permitted to him that cannot vse them aright. ] Pleasure is not comely for a foole, much lesse for a seruant to haue rule ouer princes.

¹¹ The discretion of man deferreth his anger: and his glory is [Note: [d] That is, to couer it by charitie and to doe therein as may most serue to Gods glory. ] to passe by an offence.

¹² [Note: Chap.20.2. ] The Kings wrath is like the roaring of a lyon: but his fauour is like the dewe vpon ye grasse.

¹³ [Note: Chap.17.21. ] A foolish sonne is the calamitie of his father, [Note: Chap.21.9. ] and the contentions of a wife are like a continuall [Note: [e] As raine that droppeth and rotteth the house. ] dropping.

¹⁴ House & riches are the inheritance of the fathers: but [Note: Chap.18.22. ] a prudent wife commeth of the Lord.

¹⁵ Slouthfulnes causeth to fall asleepe, and a deceitfull person shall be affamished.

¹⁶ He that keepeth the commandement, keepeth his owne soule: but hee that despiseth his wayes, shall dye.

¹⁷ He that hath mercy vpon the poore, lendeth vnto the Lorde: and the Lorde will recompense him that which he hath giuen.

¹⁸ Chasten thy sonne while there is hope, and let not thy soule spare for his murmuring.

¹⁹ A man of much anger shall suffer punishment: and though thou [Note: [f] Though for a time he giue place to counsell, yet soone after will he giue place to his raging affections. ] deliuer him, yet wil his anger come againe.

²⁰ Heare counsell and receiue instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter ende.

²¹ Many deuises are in a [Note: [g] Mans deuise shall not haue successe, except God gouerne it, whose purpose is vnchangeable. ] mans heart: but the counsell of the Lord shall stand.

²² That that is to be desired of a man, is his [Note: [h] That is, that he be honest: for the poore man that is honest, is to be esteemed aboue the riche which is not vertuous. ] goodnes, and a poore man is better then a lyer.

²³ The feare of the Lord leadeth to life: and he that is filled therewith, shall continue, and shall not be visited with euill.

²⁴ [Note: Chap.26.15. ] The slouthfull hideth his hand in his bosome, and wil not put it to his mouth againe.

²⁵ [Note: Chap.21.11. ] Smite a scorner, and [Note: [i] That is, the simple and ignorant men learne, when they see the wicked punished. ] the foolish wil beware: and reproue the prudent, and he wil vnderstand knowledge.

²⁶ He that destroyeth his father, or chaseth [Page]

away his mother, is a lewde and shamefull childe.

²⁷ My sonne, heare no more the instruction, that causeth to erre from ye words of knowledge.

²⁸ A wicked witnes mocketh at iudgement, & the mouth of ye wicked [Note: [k] Taketh a pleasure and delite therein, as gluttons & drunkards in delicate meates and drinkes. ] swalloweth vp iniquitie.

²⁹ But iudgements are prepared for the scorners, and stripes for the backe of the fooles.

¹ Wine [Note: [a] By wine here is meant him that is giuen to wine, and so by strog drinke. ] is a mocker and strong drinke is raging: and whosoeuer is deceiued thereby, is not wise.

² [Note: Chap.19.12. ] The feare of the King is like the roaring of a lyon: hee that prouoketh him vnto anger, [Note: [b] Putteth his life in danger. ] sinneth against his owne soule.

³ It is a mans honour to cease from strife: but euery foole will be medling.

⁴ The slouthfull will not plowe, because of winter: therefore shal he beg in sommer, but haue nothing.

⁵ The counsell in the heart of [Note: [c] It is hard to finde out: for it is as deepe waters, whose bottome cannot be found: yet the wise man will knowe a man either by his wordes or maners. ] man is like deepe waters: but a man that hath vnderstanding, will drawe it out.

⁶ Many men wil boast, euery one of his owne goodnes: but who can finde a faithfull man?

⁷ He that walketh in his integritie, is iust: and blessed shall his children be after him.

⁸ A King that sitteth in the throne of iudgement, [Note: [d] Where righteous iudgement is executed, there sinne ceaseth, and vice dare not appeare. ] chaseth away all euill with his eyes.

⁹ [Note: 1.King.8.46. 2.chro.6.36. eccles. 7.21. ] [Note: 1.Iohn 1.8. ] Who can say, I haue made mine heart cleane, I am cleane from my sinne?

¹⁰ Diuers [Note: Ebr. stone and stone, ephah and ephah. ] weightes, & diuers measures, both [Note: [e] Reade Chap. 16.11. ] these are euen abomination vnto the Lord.

¹¹ A childe also is knowen by his doings, whether his worke be pure and right.

¹² The Lord hath made both these, euen the eare to heare, and the eye to see.

¹³ Loue not sleepe least thou come vnto pouertie: open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.

¹⁴ It is naught, it is naught, sayth the buyer: but when he is gone apart, he boasteth.

¹⁵ There is golde, and a multitude of precious stones: but the lips of knowledge are a precious iewel.

¹⁶ [Note: Chap.27.13. ] Take his [Note: [f] Teach him wit, that he cast not himselfe rashly into danger. ] garment, that is suretie for a stranger, and a pledge of him for the stranger.

¹⁷ The bread of deceit is sweete to a man: but afterward his mouth shalbe filled with grauel.

¹⁸ Establish the thoughtes by counsell: and by counsell make warre.

¹⁹ He that goeth about as a slanderer, discouereth [Note: Chap.11.13. ] secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.

²⁰ [Note: Exod.21.17. leuit.20.9. matt.15.4. ] He that curseth his father or his mother, his light shalbe put out in obscure darkenes.

²¹ An heritage is hastely gotten at the beginning, but the end thereof shall not be blessed.

²² Say not thou, [Note: Deut.32.35. chap.17.13. & 24. 29. rom.12.17. 1.theß.5.15. 1.pet. 3.9. ] I wil recompense euill: but waite vpon the Lord, and he shall saue thee.

²³ [Note: Chap.11.1. and verse 10. ] Diuers weightes are an abomination vnto the Lord, and deceitful balances are not good.

²⁴ [Note: Iere.10.23. ] The steps of man are ruled by the Lord: how can a man then vnderstand his owne way?

²⁵ It is a destruction for a man to [Note: [g] That is, to applie it, or take it to his owne vse, which was appointed to gods, and then inquire howe they may be exempted from the fault. ] deuoure that which is sanctified, and after the vowes to inquire.

²⁶ A wise King scattereth the wicked, & causeth the [Note: [h] Which was a kinde of punishment then vsed. ] wheele to turne ouer them.

²⁷ The [Note: [i] The worde of God giueth life vnto man, and causeth vs to see and trie the secret of our darke hearts, Hebr.4.12. ] light of the Lorde is the breath of man, and searcheth all the bowels of the belly.

²⁸ [Note: Chap.29.14. ] Mercie and trueth preserue the King: for his throne shall be established with mercie.

²⁹ The beautie of yong men is their strength, and the glory of the aged is the gray head.

³⁰ [Note: [k] Sharpe punishment, that perceth euen to the inward parts, is profitable for the wicked, to bring them to amendement. ] The blewnes of the wound serueth to purge the euill, and the stripes within the bowels of the belly.

¹ The [Note: [a] Though Kings seeme to haue all things at commandement, yet are they not able to bring their owne purposes to passe any otherwise then God hath appointed: much lesse are the inferiours able. ] Kings heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the riuers of waters: he turneth it whithersoeuer it pleaseth him.

² Euery [Note: Chap.16.2. ] way of a man is right in his owne eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.

³ [Note: Miche.6.8. ] To doe iustice and iudgement is more acceptable to the Lord then sacrifice.

⁴ A hautie looke, and a proude heart, which is the [Note: Or, plowing. ] [Note: [b] That is, the thing whereby he is guided, or which he bringeth forth as the fruite of his worke. ] light of the wicked, is sinne.

⁵ The thoughtes of the diligent doe surely bring abundance: but [Note: [c] He that goeth rashly about his busines and without counsell. ] whosoeuer is hastie, commeth surely to pouertie.

⁶ [Note: Chap.13.11. ] The gathering of treasures by a deceitfull tongue is vanitie tossed to and fro of them that seeke death.

⁷ The [Note: [d] Hee meaneth this chiefly of Iudges and Princes which leaue that vocation whereunto God hath called them, and powle their subiects to mainteine their lustes. ] robberie of the wicked shall destroy them: for they haue refused to execute iudgement.

⁸ The way of some is peruerted and strange: but of the pure man, his worke is right.

⁹ [Note: Chap.19.13. and 25.24. ] It is better to dwell in a corner of the house top, then with a contentious woman in a [Note: Or, in a great familie. ] wide house.

¹⁰ The soule of the wicked wisheth euill: and his neighbour hath no fauour in his eyes.

¹¹ [Note: [e] Reade Chap. 19.25. ] When the scorner is punished, the foolish is wise: and when one instructeth the wise, he wil receiue knowledge.

¹² The righteous [Note: [f] Though the godly admonish them both by wordes and example of life, yet the wicked will not amend, till God destroy them. ] teacheth the house of the wicked: but God ouerthroweth the wicked for their euill.

¹³ He that stoppeth his eare at the crying of the poore, he shall also cry and not be heard.

¹⁴ A [Note: [g] To doe a pleasure to the angry man pacifieth him. ] gift in secret pacifieth anger, and a gift in the bosome great wrath.

¹⁵ It is ioye to the iust to doe iudgement: but destruction shalbe to the workers of iniquitie.

¹⁶ A man that wandreth out of the way of wisdome, shall remaine in the congregation of the dead.

¹⁷ Hee that loueth pastime, shalbe a poore man: and he that loueth wine and oyle, shall not be riche.

¹⁸ The [Note: [h] God shal cause that to fal on their owne heads, which they intended against the iust, by deliuering the iust, and putting the wicked in their places. ] wicked shalbe a ransome for the iust, and the transgressour for the righteous.

¹⁹ [Note: Ecclus.25.18. ] It is better to dwell in the wildernesse, then with a contentious and angry woman.

²⁰ In the house of the wise is a pleasant treasure and [Note: [i] Meaning, abundance of al things. ] oyle: but a foolish man deuoureth it.

²¹ He that followeth after righteousnes and mercy, shal finde life, righteousnes, and glory.

²² A [Note: [k] Wisdome ouercommeth strength and confidence in worldly things. ] wise man goeth vp into the citie of the mightie, and casteth downe the strength of the confidence thereof.

²³ He that keepeth his mouth and his tongue, keepeth his soule from afflictions.

²⁴ Proude, hautie and scornefull is his name that worketh in his arrogancie wrath.

²⁵ The desire of the slouthfull [Note: [l] He thinketh to liue by wishing and desiring all things, but will take no paine to get ought. ] slayeth him: for his hands refuse to worke.

²⁶ He coueteth euermore greedily, but the righteous giueth and spareth not.


[Page 35]

²⁷ The [Note: Chap.15.8. isa.1.13. ecclus.34.21. ] sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination: how much more when he bringeth it with a wicked minde?

²⁸ [Note: Chap.19.5. ] A false witnes shall perish: but hee that heareth, [Note: [m] He may boldly testifie the trueth that he hath heard. ] speaketh continually.

²⁹ A wicked man hardeneth his face: but the iust, he will direct his way.

³⁰ There is no wisedome, neither vnderstanding, nor counsell against the Lord.

³¹ The horse is prepared against the day of battell: but saluation is of the Lord.

¹ [Note: Eccles.7.3. ] A good name is to be chosen aboue great riches, and [Note: [a] Which cometh by well doing. ] louing fauour is aboue siluer and aboue golde.

² [Note: Chap.29.13. ] The rich and poore [Note: [b] Liue together and haue need the one of the other. ] meete together: the Lord is the maker of them all.

³ [Note: Chap.27.12. ] A prudent man seeth the [Note: [c] That is, the punishment, which is prepared for the wicked, and fleeth to God for succour. ] plague, and hideth himselfe: but the foolish goe on still, and are punished.

⁴ The rewarde of humilitie, and the feare of God is riches, and glory, and life.

⁵ Thornes and snares are in the way of the frowarde: but he that regardeth his soule, will depart farre from them.

⁶ Teache a childe [Note: [d] Bring him vp vertuously, and he shall so continue. ] in the trade of his way, and when he is olde, he shall not depart from it.

⁷ The rich ruleth the poore, and the borower is seruant to the man that lendeth.

⁸ He that soweth iniquitie, shall reape affliction, and the [Note: [e] His authoritie, whereby he did oppresse others, shalbe taken from him. ] rodde of his anger shall faile.

⁹ [Note: Ecclus 31.23. ] He that hath a good [Note: [f] He that is mercifull and liberall. ] eye, he shalbe blessed: for he giueth of his bread vnto the poore.

¹⁰ Cast out the scorner, and strife shal go out: so contention and reproche shall cease.

¹¹ Hee that loueth purenesse of heart for the grace of his lippes, the [Note: [g] Hee sheweth that princes should vse their familiaritie, whose conscience is good, and their talke wise and godly. ] King shalbe his friend.

¹² The eyes of the Lorde [Note: [h] Fauoure them that loue knowledge. ] preserue knowledge: but hee ouerthroweth the wordes of the transgressour.

¹³ The slouthfull man saith, [Note: [i] Hee derideth them that inuent vaine excuses, because they would not do their dutie. ] A lyon is without, I shall be slaine in the streete.

¹⁴ The mouth of strage women is as a deepe pit: he with whom the Lord is angry, [Note: [k] So God punisheth one sinne by another, when he suffereth the wicked to fall into the acquaintance of an harlot. ] shall fall therein.

¹⁵ Foolishnesse is bounde [Note: [l] He is naturally giuen vnto it. ] in the heart of a childe: but the rodde of correction shall driue it away from him.

¹⁶ Hee that oppresseth the poore to increase him selfe, and giueth vnto the riche, shall surely come to pouertie.

¹⁷ ¶ Incline thine eare, and heare the wordes of the wise, and apply thine heart vnto my knowledge.

¹⁸ For it shalbe pleasant, if thou keepe them in thy bellie, and if they be directed together in thy lippes.

¹⁹ That thy confidence may be in [Note: [m] He sheweth what the ende of wisdome is: to wit, to direct vs to the Lord. ] the Lord, I haue shewed thee this day: thou therefore take heede.

²⁰ Haue not I written vnto thee [Note: [n] That is, sundry times. ] three times in counsels and knowledge,

²¹ That I might shewe thee the assurance of the wordes of trueth to answere the wordes of trueth to them that sende to thee?

²² Robbe not the poore, because hee is poore, neither oppresse the afflicted [Note: Ebr. in the gates. ] in iudgement.

²³ For the Lord [Note: Chap.23.11. ] will defende their cause, and spoyle the soule of those that spoyle them.

²⁴ Make [Note: [o] Haue not to do with him that is not able to rule his affections: for he would hurt thee by his euill conuersation. ] no friendship with an angrie man,

neither goe with the furious man,

²⁵ Least thou learne his wayes, and receiue destruction to thy soule.

²⁶ Be not thou of them that [Note: [p] Which rashly put themselues in danger for others, as Chap.6 1. ] touch the hand, nor among them that are suretie for debts.

²⁷ If thou hast nothing to paye, why causest thou that he should take thy bed from vnder thee?

²⁸ Thou shalt not [Note: Deut.27.17. chap.23.10. ] remooue the ancient bounds which thy fathers haue made.

²⁹ Thou seest that a diligent man in his businesse standeth before Kings, and standeth not before the base sort.

¹ When thou sittest to eate with a ruler, [Note: [a] Eate with sobrietie. ] consider diligently what is before thee,

² [Note: [b] Bridle thine appetite, as it were by force and violence. ] And put the knife to thy throte, if thou be a man giuen to the appetite.

³ Be not desirous of his deintie meates: [Note: [c] For oft times the riche, when they bid their inferiours to their tables, it is not for the loue they bare them, but for their owne secret purposes. ] for it is a deceiuable meate.

⁴ Trauaile not too much to be rich: but cease from thy [Note: [d] Bestowe not the giftes that God hath giuen thee, to get worldly riches. ] wisdome.

⁵ Wilt thou cast thine eyes vpon it, which is nothing? for riches taketh her to her wings, as an eagle, and flyeth into the heauen.

⁶ Eate thou not the bread of him that hath an [Note: [e] That is, couetous, as contrary a good eye is taken for liberall, as Chap.22.9. ] euil eye, neither desire his deintie meates.

⁷ For as though he thought it in his heart, so will hee say vnto thee, Eate and drinke: but his heart is not with thee.

⁸ Thou shalt vomit thy [Note: [f] He wil not cease, till he hath done thee some harme, and his flattering wordes shall come to no vse. ] morsels that thou hast eaten, and thou shalt lose thy sweete wordes.

⁹ Speake not in the eares of a foole: for hee will despise the wisdome of thy wordes.

¹⁰ [Note: Deut.27.17. chap.22.28. ] Remooue not the ancient boundes, and enter not into the fieldes of the fatherlesse.

¹¹ For he that redeemeth them, is mightie: he will [Note: Chap.22.23. ] defend their cause against thee.

¹² Apply thine heart to instruction, and thine eares to the wordes of knowledge.

¹³ [Note: Chap.13.24. and 19.18. ecclus.30.1. ] Withhold not correction from the childe: if thou smite him with the rodde, he shall not die.

¹⁴ Thou shalt smite him with the rodde, and shalt deliuer his soule from [Note: [g] That is, from destruction. ] hell.

¹⁵ My sonne, if thine heart be wise, mine heart shall reioyce, and I also.

¹⁶ And my reynes shall reioyce, when thy lips speake righteous things.

¹⁷ [Note: Psalme 37.1. chap.24.1. ] Let not thine heart bee enuious against sinners: but let it bee in the feare of the Lorde continually.

¹⁸ For surely there is an ende, [Note: [h] The prosperitie of the wicked shall not continue. ] and thy hope shall not be cut off.

¹⁹ O thou my sonne, heare, and bee wise, and guide thine heart in the [Note: [i] In the obseruation of Gods commandements. ] way.

²⁰ Keepe not company with [Note: Ebr. wine bibbers. ] drunkards, nor with [Note: Ebr. deuourers of flesh. ] gluttons.

²¹ For the drunkard and the glutton shall bee poore, and the sleeper shalbe clothed with ragges.

²² Obey thy father that hath begotten thee, and despise not thy mother when she is olde.

²³ Bye [Note: [k] Spare no cost for trueths sake, neither depart from it for any gaine. ] the trueth, but sell it not: likewise wisdome, and instruction, and vnderstanding.

²⁴ The father of the righteous shal greatly reioyce, and hee that begetteth a wise childe, shall haue ioy of him.

²⁵ Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall reioyce.

²⁶ My sonne, giue mee [Note: [l] Giue thy selfe wholy to wisedome. ] thine heart, and let thine eyes delite in my wayes.

²⁷ [Note: Chap.22.14. ] For a whore is as a deepe ditche, and a [Page]

strange woman is as a narrowe pitte.

²⁸ [Note: Chap.7.12. ] Also she lyeth in wait as for a praye, [Note: [m] She seduceth many, and causeth them to offend God. ] and she increaseth the transgressers among men.

²⁹ To whome is woe? to whome is sorowe? to whom is strife? to whom is murmuring? to whom are woundes without cause? and to whome is the rednesse of the eyes?

³⁰ Euen to them that tarie long at the wine, to them that goe, [Note: [n] Which by arte make wine stronger, and more pleasant. ] and seeke mixt wine.

³¹ Looke not thou vpon the wine, when it is red, and when it sheweth his colour in the cup, or goeth downe pleasantly.

³² In the ende thereof it will bite like a serpent, and hurt like a cockatrise.

³³ Thine [Note: [o] That is, drunkennes shall bring thee to whoredome. ] eyes shall looke vpon strange women, and thine heart shall speake lewde things.

³⁴ And thou shalt bee as one that sleepeth in the middes of the [Note: [p] In such great danger shalt thou bee. ] sea, and as hee that sleepeth in the toppe of the maste.

³⁵ They haue stricken mee, shalt thou say, but I was not sicke: they haue beaten mee, but I knew not, when I awoke: therefore will I [Note: [q] Though drunkennes make them more insensible then beastes, yet can they not refraine. ] seeke it yet still.

¹ Bee [Note: Psal.37.1. chap.23.17. ] not thou enuious against euill men, neither desire to be with them.

² For their heart imagineth destruction, and their lippes speake mischiefe.

³ Through wisdome is an house builded, and with vnderstanding it is established.

⁴ And by knowledge shall the chambers bee filled with all precious, and pleasant riches.

⁵ A wise man is strong: for a man of vnderstanding encreaseth his strength.

⁶ [Note: Chap.20.18. ] For with counsel thou shalt enterprise thy warre, and in the multitude of them that can giue counsell, is health.

⁷ Wisdome is hie to a foole: therefore he can not open his mouth in the [Note: [a] In the place where wisdome should be shewed. ] gate.

⁸ Hee that imagineth to doe euill, men shall call him an autour of wickednes.

⁹ The wicked thought of a foole is sinne, and the scorner is an abomination vnto men.

¹⁰ If thou bee [Note: [b] Man hath no triall of his strength till he be in troubles. ] faint in the day of aduersitie, thy strength is small.

¹¹ Deliuer them that are drawen [Note: [c] None can be excused, if he helpe not the innocent when hee is in danger. ] to death: wilt thou not preserue them yt are led to be slaine?

¹² If thou say, Beholde, we knew not of it: he that pondereth the heartes, doeth not hee vnderstand it? and hee that keepeth thy soule, knoweth he it not? will not he also recompense euery man according to his workes?

¹³ My sonne, eate [Note: [d] As hony is sweet and pleasant to the taste, so wisdome is to the soule. ] hony, for it is good, and the hony combe, for it is sweete vnto thy mouth.

¹⁴ So shall the knowledge of wisdome be vnto thy soule, if thou finde it, and there shall be an [Note: Or, rewarde. ] ende, and thine hope shall not be cut off.

¹⁵ Laye no waite, O wicked man, against the house of the righteous, and spoyle not his resting place.

¹⁶ For a iust man [Note: [e] He is subiect to many perils: but God deliuereth him. ] falleth seuen times, and riseth againe: but the wicked fall into mischiefe.

¹⁷ Bee thou not glad when thine enemie falleth, and let not thine heart reioyce when hee stumbleth,

¹⁸ Least the Lorde see it, and it displease him, and he turne his wrath [Note: [f] To be auenged on thee. ] from him.

¹⁹ [Note: Psalme 37.1. chap.23.17. ] Fret not thy selfe because of the malicious, neither be enuious at the wicked.

²⁰ For there shall bee none ende of plagues to

the euill man: [Note: Chap.13.9. ] the light of the wicked shall bee put out.

²¹ My sonne feare the Lord, and the King, and meddle not with them that are sedicious.

²² For their destruction shal rise suddenly, and who knoweth the ruine of them [Note: [g] Meaning, either of the wicked, and sedicious, as verse 19. and 21, or of them that feare not God nor obey their King. ] both?

²³ Also these things perteine to the vvise, It is not good [Note: Ebr. to knowe the face. ] to haue respect of any person in iudgement.

²⁴ He that saith to the wicked, [Note: Chap.17.15. isa.5.23. ] Thou art righteous, him shall the people curse, and the multitude shall abhorre him.

²⁵ But to them that rebuke him, shall be pleasure, and vpon them shall come the blessing of goodnesse.

²⁶ They shall kisse the lippes of him that answereth vpright wordes.

²⁷ Prepare thy worke without, and make readie thy thinges in the fielde, [Note: [h] Be sure of the meanes howe to compasse it before thou take any enterprise in hand. ] and after, builde thine house.

²⁸ Be not a witnes against thy neighbour without cause: for wilt thou deceiue with thy lippes?

²⁹ [Note: Chap.20.22. ] Say not, I wil doe to him, as he hath done to mee, I [Note: [i] Hee sheweth what is the nature of the wicked, to reuenge wrong for wrong. ] will recompence euery man according to his worke.

³⁰ I passed by the fielde of the slouthfull, and by the vineyarde of the man destitute of vnderstanding.

³¹ And lo, it was al growen ouer with thornes, and nettles had couered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken downe.

³² Then I behelde, and I considered it well: I looked vpon it, and [Note: [k] That I might learne by another mans fault. ] receiued instruction.

³³ Yet a litle sleepe, [Note: [l] Reade Chap.6.10. ] a litle slumber, a litle folding of the handes to sleepe.

³⁴ So thy pouertie commeth as one that traueileth by the way, and thy necessitie like an armed man.

¹ These are also Parables of Salomon, which the [Note: [a] Whome Hezekiah appointed for this purpose. ] men of Hezekiah King of Iudah [Note: [b] That is, gathered out of diuers bookes of Salomo. ] copied out.

² The glorie of God is to [Note: [c] God doeth not reueile the cause of his iudgements to man. ] conceale a thing secret: but the [Note: [d] Because the King ruleth by the reueiled worde of God, the cause of his doings must appeare, and therefore he must vse diligence in trying ont of causes. ] Kings honour is to search out a thing.

³ The heaues in height, & the earth in deepenes, and the [Note: [e] Hee sheweth that it is too hard for man to attaine to the reason of all the secret doings of the King, euen when he is vpright, and doeth his duetie. ] Kings heart can no man search out.

⁴ Take the [Note: [f] When vice is remooued from a King, he is a meete vessell for the Lordes vse. ] drosse from the siluer, and there shall proceede a vessell for the finer.

⁵ Take [Note: [g] It is not ynough that he be pure himselfe, but that he put away others that be corrupted. ] away the wicked from the King, and his throne shall be stablished in righteousnes.

⁶ Boast not thy selfe before the King, and stand not in the place of great men.

⁷ [Note: Luke 14.10. ] For it is better, that it be saide vnto thee, Come vp hither, then thou to be put lower in the presece of the prince whom thine eyes haue seene.

⁸ Goe not foorth hastily to strife, least thou know not what to doe in the ende thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.

⁹ Debate thy matter with thy neighbour, and discouer not the secret to another,

¹⁰ Least he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamie doe not [Note: [h] Least whereas thou thinkest by this meaues to haue an ende of the matter, it put thee to farther trouble. ] cease.

¹¹ A word spoken in his place, is like apples of golde with pictures of siluer.

¹² He that reprooueth the wise, and the obedient eare, is as a golden earering and an ornament of fine golde.


[Page 36]

¹³ As the [Note: [i] In the time of great heate when men desire colde. ] colde of the snowe in the time of haruest, so is a faithfull messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soule of his masters.

¹⁴ A man that boasteth of false liberalitie, is like [Note: [k] Which haue an outward appearance, and are nothing within. ] cloudes and winde without raine.

¹⁵ A Prince is pacified by staying [Note: [l] By not ministring occasion to prouoke him farther. ] of anger, and a soft tongue breaketh the [Note: [m] That is, the heart that is bent to anger, as Chap. 15.1. ] bones.

¹⁶ If thou haue found hony, eate that is [Note: [n] Vse moderately the pleasures of this world. ] sufficient for thee, least thou be ouerfull, & vomit it.

¹⁷ Withdrawe thy foote from thy neighbours house, least he be weary of thee, and hate thee.

¹⁸ A man that beareth false witnes against his neighbour, is like an hammer and a sword, and a sharpe arrowe.

¹⁹ Confidence in an vnfaythfull man in time of trouble, is like a broken tooth and a sliding foote.

²⁰ Hee that taketh away the garment in the colde season, is like vineger powred vpon [Note: [o] Which melteth it, & consumeth it. ] [Note: Or, alume. ] nitre, or like him that singeth songs to an heauy heart.

²¹ [Note: Rom.12.20. ] If hee that hateth thee be hungry, giue him bread to eate, and if he be thirstie, giue him water to drinke.

²² For thou shalt lay [Note: [p] Thou shalt as it were by force ouercome him, in so much that his owne conscience shall moue him to acknowledge the benefites, and his heart shalbe inflamed. ] coles vpon his head, and the Lord shall recompense thee.

²³ As the Northwinde driueth away the raine, so doeth an angry countenance the slandering tongue.

²⁴ [Note: Chap.21.9. ] It is better to dwell in a corner of the house top, then with a contentious woman in a wide house.

²⁵ As are the colde waters to a weary soule, so is good newes from a farre countery.

²⁶ A righteous man falling downe before the wicked, is like a troubled well, & a corrupt spring.

²⁷ It is not good to eate much hony: [Note: Ecclus.3.22. ] so to search their owne glory is not glory.

²⁸ A man that refraineth not his appetite, is like a citie which is [Note: [q] And so is in extreme danger. ] broken downe and without walles.

¹ As the snowe in the sommer, and as the raine in the haruest are not meete, so is honour vnseemely for a foole.

² As the sparowe by flying, and the swallow by flying escape, so the curse that is causeles, shall not come.

³ Vnto the horse belongeth a whip, to the asse a bridle, and a rod to the fooles backe.

⁴ Answer not a foole [Note: [a] Consent not vnto him in his doings. ] according to his foolishnes, least thou also be like him.

⁵ Answere a foole [Note: [b] Reproue him as the matter requireth. ] according to his foolishnes, least he be wise in his owne [Note: Ebr. eyes. ] conceite.

⁶ He that sendeth a message by the hand of a foole, is as he that cutteth off [Note: [c] To wit, of the messenger whome he sendeth. ] the feete, [Note: [d] That is, receiueth domage thereby. ] and drinketh iniquitie.

⁷ As they that lift vp the legs of the lame, so is a parable in a fooles mouth.

⁸ As the closing vp of a precious stone in an heape of stones, so is he yt giueth glory to a foole.

⁹ As a thorne standing [Note: [e] Whereby hee both hurteth himselfe and others. ] vp in the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fooles.

¹⁰ [Note: [f] Meaning, God. ] The excellent that formed all things, both rewardeth the foole & rewardeth the transgressers.

¹¹ [Note: 2.Pet.2.22. ] As a dog turneth againe to his owne vomit, so a foole turneth to his foolishnes.

¹² Seest thou a man wise in his owne conceite? [Note: [g] For the foole will rather be counselled then he: also the foole sinneth of ignorance, and the other of malice. ] more hope is of a foole then of him.

¹³ The slouthfull man sayth, [Note: [h] Reade Chap. 22.13. ] A lyon is in the way: a lyon is in the streetes.

¹⁴ As the doore turneth vpon his hinges, so doeth the slouthfull man vpon his bed.

¹⁵ [Note: Chap.19.24. ] The slouthfull hideth his hand in his bosome, and it grieueth him to put it againe to his mouth.

¹⁶ The sluggard is wiser in his owne conceite, then seuen men that can render a reason.

¹⁷ He that passeth by and medleth with the strife that belongeth not vnto him, is as one that taketh a dog by the eares.

¹⁸ As he that faineth himselfe mad, casteth fire brands, arrowes, and mortall things,

¹⁹ So dealeth the deceitfull man [Note: [i] Which dissembleth himselfe to be that he is not. ] with his friend and sayth, Am not I in sport?

²⁰ Without wood the fire is quenched, and without a talebearer strife ceaseth.

²¹ [Note: Ecclus.28.10. ] As ye cole maketh burning coles, & wood a fire, so the contentious man is apt to kindle strife.

²² [Note: Chap.18.8. ] The wordes of a tale bearer are as flatterings, and they goe downe into the bowels of the belly.

²³ As siluer drosse ouerlayde vpon a potsheard, so are burning lips, and [Note: [k] They will soone breake out and vtter themselues. ] an euill heart.

²⁴ He that hateth, will counterfaite with his lips, but in his heart he layeth vp deceite.

²⁵ Though he speake fauourably, beleeue him not: for there are [Note: [l] Meaning many: he vseth the nomber certaine for the vncertaine. ] seuen abominations in his heart.

²⁶ Hatred may be couered by deceite: but the malice thereof shall be discouered in the [Note: [m] In the assembly of the godly. ] congregation.

²⁷ [Note: Eccles.10.8. ecclus.27.26. ] He that diggeth a pit shal fall therein, and he that rolleth a stone, it shall returne vnto him.

²⁸ A false tongue hateth the afflicted, and a flattering mouth causeth ruine.

¹ Boast not thy selfe of to [Note: [a] Delay not the time, but take occasion when it is offered. ] morowe: for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.

² Let another man prayse thee, and not thine owne mouth: a stranger, and not thine owne lips.

³ [Note: Ecclus.22.15. ] A stone is heauie, and the sand weightie: but a fooles wrath is heauier then them both.

⁴ Anger is cruell, and wrath is raging: but who can stand before [Note: [b] For the enuious are obstinate and cannot be reconciled. ] enuie?

⁵ Open rebuke is better then secret loue.

⁶ The wounds of a louer are faithful, and the kisses of an enemie are [Note: [c] They are flattering, and seeme friendfull. ] pleasant.

⁷ [Note: Iob 6.6. ] The person that is full, despiseth an hony combe: but vnto the hungry soule euery bitter thing is sweete.

⁸ As a bird that wandreth from her nest, so is a man that wandreth from his owne place.

⁹ As oyntment and perfume reioyce the heart, so doeth the sweetenes of a mans friend by hearty counsell.

¹⁰ Thine owne friend and thy fathers friend forsake thou not: neither enter into thy brothers [Note: [d] Trust not to any wordly helpe in the day of thy trouble. ] house in the day of thy calamitie: for better is a neighbour that is neere, then a brother farre off.

¹¹ My sonne, be wise, and reioyce mine heart, that I may answere him that reprocheth me.

¹² [Note: [e] Reade Chap. 22.3. ] A prudent man seeth the plague, and hideth himselfe: but the foolish goe on still, and are punished.

¹³ [Note: Chap.20.16. ] Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and a pledge of him for the stranger.

¹⁴ He that [Note: Ebr. bleßeth. ] prayseth his friend with a loude voyce, rising [Note: [f] Hastily & without cause. ] earely in the morning, it shall be counted to him as a curse.

¹⁵ [Note: Chap.19.13. and 21.9. ] A continual dropping in the day of raine, [Page]

and a contentious woman are alike.

¹⁶ He that hideth her, hideth the winde, & she is as ye oyle in his right hand, that vttereth it selfe.

¹⁷ Yron sharpeneth yron, so doeth [Note: [g] One hastie man prouoketh another to anger. ] man sharpen the face of his friend.

¹⁸ He that keepeth the fig tree, shall eate the fruite thereof: so he that waiteth vpon his master, shall come to honour.

¹⁹ As in water face answereth to face, [Note: [h] There is no difference betweene man and man by nature, but onely the grace of God maketh the difference. ] so the heart of man to man.

²⁰ The graue and destruction can neuer be full, so [Note: Ecclus.14.9. ] the eyes of man can neuer be satisfied.

²¹ [Note: Chap.17.3. ] As is the fining pot for siluer and the fornace for golde, so is euery man according to his [Note: [i] That is, he is either knowen to be ambitious and glorious, or humble and modest. ] dignitie.

²² Though thou shouldest bray a foole in a morter among wheate brayed with a pestell, yet will not his foolishnes depart from him.

²³ Be diligent to know ye state of thy flocke, and take heede to the heardes.

²⁴ For riches remaine not alway, nor the crowne from generation to generation.

²⁵ The hey discouereth it selfe, and the grasse appeareth, and the herbes of the mountaines are gathered.

²⁶ The [Note: [k] This declareth the great goodnesse of God towards man, and the diligence that he requireth of him for the preseruation of his gifts. ] lambes are for thy clothing, and the goates are the price of the fielde.

²⁷ And let the milke of the goates be sufficient for thy foode, for the foode of thy familie, and for the sustenance of thy maydes.

¹ The wicked [Note: [a] Because their owne conscience accuseth them. ] flee when none pursueth: but the righteous are bolde as a lyon.

² For the transgression of the land [Note: [b] The state of the common weale is often times changed. ] there are many princes thereof: but by a man of vnderstanding and knowledge a realme likewise endureth long.

³ A poore man, if he oppresse the poore, is like a raging raine, that leaueth no foode.

⁴ They that forsake the Law, prayse the wicked: but they that keepe the Law, set themselues against them.

⁵ Wicked men vnderstand not iudgemnt: but they that seeke the Lord vnderstand all things.

⁶ [Note: Chap.19.1. ] Better is the poore that walketh in his vprightnesse, then hee that peruerteth his wayes, though he be riche.

⁷ He that keepeth the Law, is a childe of vnderstanding: but hee that feedeth the gluttons, shameth his father.

⁸ He that increaseth his riches by vsurie and interest, gathereth [Note: [c] For God will take away the wicked vsurer, & giue his goods to him that shall bestowe them well. ] them for him that will be mercifull vnto the poore.

⁹ He that turneth away his eare fro hearing the Law, euen his prayer shalbe [Note: [d] Because it is not of fayth, which is grounded of Gods worde, or Lawe, which the wicked contemne. ] abominable.

¹⁰ He that causeth the righteous to go astray by an euill way, shal fall into his owne pit, and the vpright shall inherite good things.

¹¹ The riche man is wise in his owne conceite: but the poore that hath vnderstanding, can trie [Note: [e] And iudge that he is not wise. ] him.

¹² [Note: Chap.29 2. ] When righteous men reioyce, there is great glory: but when the wicked come vp, the man [Note: [f] He is knowen by his doings to be wicked. ] is tried.

¹³ He that hideth his sinnes, shall not prosper: but he that confesseth, and forsaketh them, shall haue mercy.

¹⁴ Blessed is the man that [Note: [g] Which standeth in awe of God and is afrayd to offend him. ] feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart, shal fall into euill.

¹⁵ As a roaring lyon, and an hungry beare,

so is [Note: [h] For he can neuer be satisfied, but euer oppresseth & spoyleth. ] a wicked ruler ouer the poore people.

¹⁶ A prince destitute of vnderstanding, is also a great oppressour: but hee that hateth couetousnes, shall prolong his dayes.

¹⁷ A man that doeth violence against the blood of a person, shall flee vnto the graue, and they shall not [Note: [i] None shalbe able to deliuer him. ] stay him.

¹⁸ He yt walketh vprightly, shalbe saued: but he that is froward in his wayes, shall once fall.

¹⁹ [Note: Chap.12.11. ecclus.20.27. ] He that tilleth his land, shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth the idle, shall be filled with pouertie.

²⁰ A faythfull man shall abound in blessings, and [Note: Chap.13.11. and 20.21. ] he that maketh haste to be riche, shall not be innocent.

²¹ To haue respect of persons is not good: for that man will transgresse for a piece of [Note: [k] He wil be abused for nothing. ] bread.

²² A man with a wicked [Note: [l] Meaning him that is couetous. ] eye hasteth to riches, and knoweth not, that pouertie shall come vpon him.

²³ He that rebuketh a man, shall finde more fauour at length, then he that flattereth with his tongue.

²⁴ Hee that robbeth his father and mother, and sayth, It is no transgression, is the companion of a man that destroyeth.

²⁵ He that is of a proude heart, stirreth vp strife: but he that trusteth in the Lorde, shall be [Note: [m] Shall haue all things in abundance. ] fatte.

²⁶ Hee that trusteth in his owne heart, is a foole: but he that walketh in wisdome, shall be deliuered.

²⁷ He that giueth vnto the poore, shall not lacke: but he that hideth his eyes, shall haue many curses.

²⁸ [Note: Chap.29.2. ] When the wicked rise vp, men hide them selues: but when they perish, ye righteous increase.

¹ A man that hardeneth his necke when he is rebuked, shall suddenly be destroyed and can not be cured.

² [Note: Chap.28.12. & 28. ] When the righteous [Note: Or, are increased. ] are in authoritie, the people reioyce: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people sigh.

³ A man that loueth wisdome, reioyceth his father: but [Note: Luke 15.13. ] he that feedeth harlots, wasteth his substance.

⁴ A King by iudgement mainteineth ye countrey: but a man receiuing giftes, destroyeth it.

⁵ A man that flattereth his neighbour, [Note: [a] He that giueth care to the flatterer, is in danger as the bird is before the fouler. ] spreadeth a net for his steps.

⁶ In the transgression of an euill man is his [Note: [b] He is euer ready to fall into the snare that he layeth for others. ] snare: but the righteous doeth sing and reioyce.

⁷ The righteous knoweth the cause of the poore: but the wicked regardeth not knowledge.

⁸ Scornefull men bring a citie into a snare: but wise men turne away wrath.

⁹ If a wise man contend with [Note: [c] He can beare no admonition, in what sort soeuer it is spoken. ] a foolish man, whether he be angry or laugh, there is no rest.

¹⁰ Bloodie men hate him that is vpright: but the iust haue care of his soule.

¹¹ A foole powreth out all his minde: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterward.

¹² Of a prince that hearkeneth to lyes, all his seruants are wicked.

¹³ [Note: Chap.22.2. ] The poore and the vsurer meete together, and the Lord lighteneth both their eyes.

¹⁴ [Note: Chap.20.28. ] A King that iudgeth the poore in trueth, his throne shalbe established for euer.

¹⁵ The rodde and correction giue wisdome:

[Page 37]

but a childe set a libertie, maketh his mother ashamed.
¹⁶ When the wicked are increased, transgression increaseth: but ye righteous shall see their fall.

¹⁷ Correct thy sonne & he will giue thee rest, and will giue pleasures to thy soule.

¹⁸ [Note: [d] Where there are not faithfull ministers of the worde of God. ] Where there is no vision, the people decay: but he that keepeth the Lawe, is blessed.

¹⁹ A [Note: [e] He that is of a seruile and rebellious nature. ] seruant will not be chastised with words: though he vnderstand, yet he will not [Note: Or, regarde. ] answere.

²⁰ Seest thou a man hastie in his matters? there is more hope of a foole, then of him.

²¹ He that delicately bringeth vp his seruant from youth, at length he will be euen as his sone.

²² [Note: Chap.15.18. ] An angrie man stirreth vp strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.

²³ [Note: Iob 22.29. ] The pride of a man shall bring him lowe: but the humble in spirit shall enioy glory.

²⁴ He that is partner with a thiefe, hateth his owne soule: he heareth cursing, & declareth it not.

²⁵ The feare of man bringeth a [Note: [f] He that feareth man more then God, falleth into a snare and is destroyed. ] snare: but he that trusteth in the Lord, shalbe exalted.

²⁶ Many doe seeke the face of the ruler: but euery mans [Note: [g] He needeth not to flatter the ruler: for what God hath appointed, that shall come to him. ] iudgement commeth from the Lord.

²⁷ A wicked man is abomination to the iust, and he that is vpright in his way, is abomination to the wicked.

2 To humble our selues in consideration of Gods workes. 5 The worde of God is perfite. 11 Of the wicked and hypocrites. 15 Of thinges that are neuer saciate. 18 Of others that are wonderfull.

¹ The prophecie which ye man spake vnto Ithiel, euen to [Note: [b] Which were Agurs schollers or friendes. ] Ithiel, and Vcal.

² Surely I am more [Note: [c] Herein he declareth his great humilitie who would not attribute any wisdome to himselfe, but al vnto God. ] foolish then any man, and haue not the vnderstanding of a man in me.

³ For I haue not learned wisedome, nor atteined to the knowledge of holy things.

⁴ Who hath ascended vp to [Note: [d] Meaning, to knowe the secrets of God, as though he woulde say, None. ] heauen, and descended? Who hath gathered the winde in his fist? Who hath bound the waters in a garment? Who hath established all the endes of the world? What is his name, and what is his sonnes name, if thou canst tell?

⁵ [Note: Psalm.19.8. ] Euery worde of God is pure: he is a shield to those, that trust in him.

⁶ [Note: Deut.4.2. and 12.32. ] Put nothing vnto his wordes, least he reproue thee, and thou be found a lyar.

⁷ Two [Note: [e] He maketh this request to God. ] things haue I required of thee: denie me them not before I die.

⁸ Remooue farre from me vanitie and lyes: giue me not pouertie, nor riches: feede me with foode conuenient for me,

⁹ Least I be full, & denie thee, and say, [Note: [f] Meaning, that they that put their trust in their riches, forget God, and that by too much wealth men haue an occasion to the same. ] Who is the Lorde? or least I be poore and steale, and take the Name of my God in vaine.

¹⁰ Accuse not a seruant vnto his master, lest he curse thee, [Note: [g] In accusing him without cause. ] when thou hast offended.

¹¹ There is a generation that curseth their father, and doeth not blesse their mother.

¹² There is a generation that are pure in their owne conceite, and yet are not washed from their filthinesse.

¹³ There is a generation, whose eies are hautie, and their eye liddes are lifted vp.

¹⁴ There is a generation, whose teeth are as swordes, and their chawes as kniues to eate vp the afflicted out of the earth, and the poore from among men.

¹⁵ The horse leache hath two [Note: [h] The leache hath two forkes in her tongue, which here he calleth her two daughters, whereby she sucketh the blood, and is neuer saciate: euen so are the couetous extortioners insaciable. ] daughters which crye, Giue, giue. There be three things that will not be satisfied: yea, foure that say not, It is ynough.

¹⁶ The graue, and the barren wombe, the earth that cannot be satisfied with water, and the fire that sayeth not, It is ynough.

¹⁷ The eye that mocketh his father and despiseth the instruction of his mother, let ye rauens [Note: [i] Which hante in the valley for carions. ] of the valley picke it out, and the yong eagles eate it.

¹⁸ There be three thinges hid from me: yea, foure that I knowe not,

¹⁹ The way of an eagle in the aire, the way of a serpent vpon a stone, ye way of a ship in ye middes of the sea, and the way of a man with a maide.

²⁰ Such is ye way also of an adulterous woman: she eateth and [Note: [k] She hath her desires, and after counterfaiteth as though she were an honest woman. ] wipeth her mouth, and sayth, I haue not committed iniquitie.

²¹ For three things the earth is moued: yea, for foure it cannot susteine it selfe:

²² For [Note: [l] These commonly abuse the state whereunto they are called. ] a seruant when he reigneth, & a foole when he is filled with meate,

²³ For the hatefull woman, when she is married, & for a handmaid that is [Note: [m] Which is married to her master after the death of her mistres. ] heire to her mistres.

²⁴ These be foure small things in the earth, yet they are [Note: [n] They conteyne great doctrine and wisedome. ] wise and full of wisedome:

²⁵ The pismires a people not strong, yet prepare they their meate in sommer:

²⁶ The conies a people not mightie, yet make their houses in the rocke:

²⁷ The grashopper hath no King, yet goe they forth all by bandes:

²⁸ The spider taketh holde [Note: [o] If man be not able to compasse these common things by his wisedome, we cannot attribute wisdome to man but follie. ] with her handes, and is in Kings palaces.

²⁹ There be three thinges that order well their going: yea, foure are comely in going,

³⁰ A lyon which is strong among beastes, and turneth not at the sight of any:

³¹ A lusty grayhound, and a goate, and a King against whom there is no rising vp.

³² If thou hast bene foolish in lifting thy selfe vp, and if thou hast thought wickedly, lay thine hand [Note: [p] Make a stay and continue not in doing euill. ] vpon thy mouth.

³³ When one churneth milke, he bringeth foorth butter: and he that wringeth his nose, causeth blood to come out: so he that forceth wrath, bringeth foorth strife.

2 He exhorteth to chastitie and iustice, 10 And sheweth the conditions of a wise and worthie woman.

¹ The vvords of king [Note: [a] That is, of Salomon, who was called Lemuel, that is of God, because God had ordeined him to be King ouer Israel. ] Lemuel: The [Note: [b] The doctrine which his mother Bath-sheba taught him. ] prophecie which his mother taught him.

² What my sonne! and what ye sonne of [Note: [c] By this often repetition of one thing she declareth her motherly affection. ] my wombe! and what, O sonne of my desires!

³ Giue not thy strength vnto women, [Note: [d] Meaning, that women are the destruction of Kings, if they hante them. ] nor thy wayes, which is to destroy Kings.

⁴ It is not for Kings, O Lemuel, it is not for Kings to drink wine nor for princes [Note: [e] That is, the King must not giue himselfe to wantonnesse and neglect his office which is to execute iudgement. ] strog drinke,

⁵ Lest he drinke and forget the decree, and change the iudgement of all the children of affliction.

⁶ Giue ye strong drinke vnto him that is readie to perish, and wine vnto them that haue griefe of heart.

⁷ Let him drinke, that he may forget [Note: [f] For wine doeth comfort the heart, as Psalme 104.15. ] his pouertie, and remember his miserie no more.

⁸ Open thy mouth for the [Note: [g] Defende their cause that are not able to helpe themselues. ] domme in the [Page]

cause of all the children of destruction.

⁹ Open thy mouth: iudge righteously, and iudge the afflicted, and the poore.

¹⁰ ¶ Who shall finde a vertuous woman? for her price is farre aboue the pearles.

¹¹ The heart of her husbande trusteth in her, and he shall haue no neede of [Note: [h] He shall not neede to vse any vnlawfull meanes to gaine his liuing. ] spoyle.

¹² She will doe him good, and not euill all the dayes of her life.

¹³ She seeketh wooll and flaxe, and laboureth cheerefully with her handes.

¹⁴ She is like the shippes of marchants: shee bringeth her foode from afarre.

¹⁵ And she riseth, whiles it is yet night: and giueth [Note: Or, meate, as Psal. 111.5. ] the portion to her houshold, and the [Note: [i] She prepareth their meate betime. ] ordinarie to her maides.

¹⁶ She considereth a field, and [Note: [k] Shee purchaseth it with the gaines of her trauaile. ] getteth it: and with the fruite of her handes she planteth a vineyarde.

¹⁷ She girdeth her loynes with strength, and strengtheneth her armes.

¹⁸ She feeleth that her marchandise is good: her candle is not put out by night.

¹⁹ She putteth her handes to the wherue, and her handes handle the spindle.

²⁰ She stretcheth out her hand to the poore, and putteth foorth her hands to the needie.

²¹ She feareth not the snowe for her familie: for all her familie is clothed with [Note: Or, with double. ] skarlet.

²² She maketh her selfe carpets: fine linen and purple is her garment.

²³ Her husband is knowen in the [Note: [l] In the assemblies and places of iudgement. ] gates, when he sitteth with the Elders of the land.

²⁴ She maketh [Note: Or, linnen cloth. ] sheetes, and selleth them, and giueth girdels vnto the marchant.

²⁵ [Note: [m] After that he had spoken of the apparell of the bodie, he nowe declareth the apparell of the spirit. ] Strength and honour is her clothing, and in the latter day she shall reioyce.

²⁶ She openeth her mouth with wisdome, and the [Note: [n] Her tongue is as a booke whereby one might learne many good things: for she deliteth to talke of the worde of God. ] lawe of grace is in her tongue.

²⁷ She ouerseeth the wayes of her housholde, and eateth not the bread of ydlenes.

²⁸ Her children rise vp, and [Note: [o] That is, doe her reuerence. ] call her blessed: her husband also shall prayse her, saying,

²⁹ Many daughters haue done vertuously: but thou surmountest them all.

³⁰ Fauour is deceitfull, and beautie is vanitie: but a woman that feareth the Lorde, she shall be praysed.

³¹ Giue [Note: [p] Confesse her diligent labours and commend her therefore. ] her of the fruite of her hands, and let her owne workes prayse her in the [Note: [q] For as much as the most honourable are clad in the apparell that she made. ] gates.