It has no commander, overseer, or ruler,

Do not crave that ruler’s delicacies, for that food is deceptive.

If a ruler listens to lies, all his ministers will be wicked.

When you sit down to eat with a ruler, consider carefully what is before you,

Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a soft tongue can break a bone.

Excessive speech is not becoming for a fool; how much less are lies for a ruler!

Like a roaring lion or a roving bear, so is a wicked ruler over a poor people.

Many people seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the Lord that one receives justice.

It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to crave strong drink,

A king’s glory is the abundance of people, but the lack of subjects is the ruin of a ruler.

Kings reign by means of me, and potentates decree righteousness;

The prince who is a great oppressor lacks wisdom, but the one who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.

When a country is rebellious it has many princes, but by someone who is discerning and knowledgeable order is maintained.

by me princes rule, as well as nobles and all righteous judges.

Many people entreat the favor of a generous person, and everyone is the friend of the person who gives gifts.

A poor person who oppresses the weak is like a driving rain without food.

Doing wickedness is an abomination to kings, because a throne is established in righteousness.

Luxury is not appropriate for a fool; how much less for a servant to rule over princes!

Wisdom is unattainable for a fool; in court he does not open his mouth.

When the righteous become numerous, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.