Proverbs 31

The Sayings of King Lemuel

1The sayings of King Lemuel contain this message,*31:1 Or of Lemuel, king of Massa; or of King Lemuel, an oracle. which his mother taught him.

2O my son, O son of my womb,

O son of my vows,

3do not waste your strength on women,

on those who ruin kings.

4It is not for kings, O Lemuel, to guzzle wine.

Rulers should not crave alcohol.

5For if they drink, they may forget the law

and not give justice to the oppressed.

6Alcohol is for the dying,

and wine for those in bitter distress.

7Let them drink to forget their poverty

and remember their troubles no more.

8Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves;

ensure justice for those being crushed.

9Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless,

and see that they get justice.