Proverbs 31:1-9 ▼

1 The words of King Lemuel, an oracle that his mother taught him:

2 What should I say, my son? What, son of my womb? What, son of my vows?

3 Don’t spend your energy on women or your efforts on those who destroy kings.

4 It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine or for rulers to desire beer.

5 Otherwise, they will drink, forget what is decreed, and pervert justice for all the oppressed.

6 Give beer to one who is dying and wine to one whose life is bitter.

7 Let him drink so that he can forget his poverty and remember his trouble no more.

8 Speak up for those who have no voice, for the justice of all who are dispossessed.

9 Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the oppressed and needy.