By the blessing of the upright man the town is made great, but it is overturned by the mouth of the evil-doer.

By righteousness a nation is lifted up, but sin is a cause of shame to the peoples.

Evil-doing is disgusting to kings: for the seat of the ruler is based on righteousness.

Take away evil-doers from before the king, and the seat of his power will be made strong in righteousness.

Because of the sin of the land, its troubles are increased; but by a man of wisdom and knowledge they will be put out like a fire.

A king, by right rule, makes the land safe; but one full of desires makes it a waste.

The king who is a true judge in the cause of the poor, will be safe for ever on the seat of his power.

Then a king's seat will be based on mercy, and one will be seated on it in the tent of David for ever; judging uprightly, and quick to do righteousness.

Then in the waste land there will be an upright rule, and righteousness will have its place in the fertile field.

The Lord is lifted up; his place is on high: he has made Zion full of righteousness and true religion.

All your rights will be made certain to you: have no fear of evil, and destruction will not come near you.

You are to make judges and overseers in all your towns which the Lord your God gives you, for every tribe: and they are to be upright men, judging the people in righteousness.

When the upright have power, the people are glad; when an evil man is ruler, grief comes on the people.