Study Desk

Fury is cruel and anger overwhelming, but who can stand up to jealousy?

Wounds from a friend are received as well-meant, but an enemy's kisses are insincere.

A person who is full loathes a honeycomb; but to the hungry, any bitter thing is sweet.

The crucible [tests] silver, and the furnace [tests] gold, but a person [is tested] by [his reaction to] praise.

The wicked flee when no one pursues them; but the righteous, like lions, feel sure of themselves.

A land which transgresses [is punished by] having many rulers; but with a man of understanding and knowledge, stability is prolonged.

Those who abandon Torah praise the wicked, but those who keep Torah fight them.

Evil people don't understand justice, but those who seek Adonai understand everything.

A wise son observes Torah, but a friend of those lacking restraint shames his father.

Whoever causes the honest to pursue evil ways will himself fall into his own pit, but the pure-hearted will inherit good.

The rich man is wise in his own view, but the poor who has discernment sees through him.

When the just are triumphant, there is great rejoicing, but when the wicked rise up, people hide.

Happy the person who is never without fear, but he who hardens his heart will fall into misfortune.

A prince without discernment is a cruel oppressor, but one who hates greed will prolong his life.

Whoever lives blamelessly will be saved, but he whose ways are crooked will fall in one [of those ways].

He who farms his land will have plenty of food, but he who follows futilities will have plenty of poverty.

A trustworthy person will receive many blessings, but one rushing to get rich will not go unpunished.

A grasping disposition stirs up strife, but he who trusts in Adonai will prosper.

He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who lives by wisdom will escape.

He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who hides his eyes will get curses in plenty.