1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom.

2 that you may maintain discretion,

3 For the lips of an adulteress drip honey.

4 but in the end she is as bitter as wormwood,

5 Her feet go down to death.

6 She gives no thought to the way of life.

7 Now therefore, my sons, listen to me.

8 Remove your way far from her.

9 lest you give your honor to others,

10 lest strangers feast on your wealth,

11 You will groan at your latter end,

12 and say, “How I have hated instruction,

13 I haven’t obeyed the voice of my teachers,

14 I have come to the brink of utter ruin,

15 Drink water out of your own cistern,

16 Should your springs overflow in the streets,

17 Let them be for yourself alone,

18 Let your spring be blessed.

19 A loving doe and a graceful deer—

20 For why should you, my son, be captivated with an adulteress?

21 For the ways of man are before the LORD’s eyes.

22 The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare him.

23 He will die for lack of instruction.