Summary
This chapter presents paired sayings that juxtapose the consequences of wise versus foolish behavior. It highlights that the wise son brings joy to his parents, while a foolish son burdens his mother. Righteousness protects against hunger and death, whereas wickedness yields empty treasures and eventual ruin. Diligence yields prosperity; laziness leads to poverty. Good speech nourishes life, whereas violent or deceitful words destroy relationships. The chapter repeatedly stresses that fear of the LORD prolongs life, while fear of the wicked brings harm. It concludes by declaring that the righteous will endure, while the wicked will not remain in the world.