¹If they have appointed you

as the banquet leader,

don’t think too much of yourself;

behave toward them

as if you were one of them.

Take care of their needs

and then sit down.

²When you have done

everything necessary, recline,

so that you can have fun with them,

and because of your excellent behavior

you will receive a wreath.

³Speak, you who are older,

for it’s your privilege.

But know what you’re talking about,

and don’t interrupt the music.

⁴Where there’s a performance,

don’t talk too much,

and don’t be clever at the wrong time.

⁵A musical performance at a wine party

is like a ruby seal on a gold ornament.

⁶Melodic music accompanying sweet wine

is like an emerald seal

in a setting of gold.

⁷Speak, you who are young,

if it’s necessary,

but only twice,

and only if you are asked.

⁸Sum up what you have to say;

much can be said in few words.

Be like one who knows

but who can keep silent.

⁹When you are among the more influential, don’t presume authority;

and where elders are present,

don’t talk idly about many things.

¹⁰Lightning comes before thunder,

and good favor walks

in front of a modest person.

¹¹Rise up to leave in time,

and don’t be the last person out;

go back to your own home,

and don’t miss your work

the next day.

¹²Enjoy yourself there,

and do what you please,

but don’t sin with arrogant words.

¹³More than this,

bless the one who made you

and who lets you drink freely

from his good bounty.

On divine providence

¹⁴Whoever fears the Lord

will accept instruction;

those who rise early

will find approval.

¹⁵Whoever seeks the Law

will be filled with it,

but the hypocrite will stumble over it.

¹⁶Those who fear the Lord

will discover his decree,

and they will kindle righteous deeds

like a lamp.

¹⁷Sinful people turn away from correction;

they will look for a judgment

that suits them.

¹⁸A well-advised person

won’t overlook an intelligent thought;

the stranger and the arrogant

won’t cower out of fear.

¹⁹Do nothing without deliberation,

and when you have acted,

don’t feel regret.

²⁰Don’t walk on a hazardous path,

and don’t stumble on stony ground.

²¹Don’t trust an unexplored road,

²²and be on guard

concerning your children.

²³Trust yourself in every action,[#32.23 Heb be careful of yourself]

because this also means

keeping the commandments.

²⁴Whoever has faith in the Law

pays attention to the commandments;

whoever trusts the Lord

won’t suffer loss.