Old Testament

Proverbs

Proverbs gives twenty-nine chapters' admonition
By the wisest man who e'er lived, King Solomon.
He's followed (chapter 30) by Agur as well,
Then (the next and last chapter) by King Lemuel.
There are words of counsel for both the young and old:
Get understanding, we're urged; wisdom is extolled.
We're told the fear of the Lord's the start of wisdom,
Warned re lying, excess wine and whorish women.
Guidance is giv'n on child-rearing (spare not the rod)
Slothfulness condemned, tale-bearing, not fearing God.
A friend's value is hailed; there's financial advice,
And the last chapter praises the virtuous wife.