The Tanakh · JPS 1917 Translation

Proverbs 28

Jewish Publication Society 1917 · Ketuvim — the Writings

Proverbs chapter 28 — part of the Ketuvim — the Writings in the Jewish Bible. In the classic JPS 1917 translation it opens: “The wicked flee when no man pursueth; but the righteous are secure as a young lion.” — the complete text of all 28 verses is below, free to read online.

1The wicked flee when no man pursueth; but the righteous are secure as a young lion.

2For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof; but by a man of understanding and knowledge established order shall long continue.

3A poor man that oppresseth the weak is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.

4They that forsake the law praise the wicked; but such as keep the law contend with them.

5Evil men understand not justice; but they that seek HaShem understand all things.

6Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.

7A wise son observeth the teaching; but he that is a companion of gluttonous men shameth his father.

8He that augmenteth his substance by interest and increase, gathereth it for him that is gracious to the poor.

9He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.

10Whoso causeth the upright to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit; but the whole-hearted shall inherit good.

11The rich man is wise in his own eyes; but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him through.

12When the righteous exult, there is great glory; but when the wicked rise, men must be sought for.

13He that covereth his transgressions shall not prosper; but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall obtain mercy.

14Happy is the man that feareth alway; but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into evil.

15As a roaring lion, and a ravenous bear; so is a wicked ruler over a poor people.

16The prince that lacketh understanding is also a great oppressor; but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.

17A man that is laden with the blood of any person shall hasten his steps unto the pit; none will support him.

18Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved; but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.

19He that tilleth his ground shall have plenty of bread; but he that followeth after vain things shall have poverty enough.

20A faithful man shall abound with blessings; but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be unpunished.

21To have respect of persons is not good; for a man will transgress for a piece of bread.

22He that hath an evil eye hasteneth after riches, and knoweth not that want shall come upon him.

23He that rebuketh a man shall in the end find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

24Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith: 'It is no transgression', the same is the companion of a destroyer.

25He that is of a greedy spirit stirreth up strife; but he that putteth his trust in HaShem shall be abundantly gratified.

26He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool; but whoso walketh wisely, he shall escape.

27He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack; but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.

28When the wicked rise, men hide themselves; but when they perish, the righteous increase.

28 verses · JPS 1917 (public domain)

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