1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is his delight.

2 When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.

4 Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.

5 The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.

6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.

7 When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth.

8 The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.

9 An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.

10 When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.

11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

12 He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.

13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.

14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

15 He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.

16 A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.

17 The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

18 The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.

19 As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.

20 They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the Lord: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.

21 Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.

22 As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.

24 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.

25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

26 He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.

27 He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.

28 He that trusteth in his riches shall fall; but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

29 He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

31 Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
However men may make light of giving short weight or measure, and however common such crimes may be, they are an abomination to the Lord.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
All Business on Square Principles
—In all business transactions, we are to let the light shine decidedly. There is to be no sharp practice. Everything is to be done with the strictest integrity. Better consent to lose something financially than to gain a few shillings by sharp practice. We shall lose nothing in the end by fair dealing. We are to live the law of God in our world, and perfect a character after the divine similitude. All business, with those in the faith and those not in the faith, is to be transacted on square, righteous principles. Everything is to be seen in the light of God's law, everything done without fraud, without duplicity, without one tinge of guile (Manuscript 47, 1898).God Honors Honesty, Curses Injustice—“A false balance is abomination to the Lord.” A false balance is a symbol of all unfair dealing, all devices to conceal selfishness and injustice under an appearance of fairness and equity. God will not in the slightest degree favor such practices. He hates every false way. He abhors all selfishness and covetousness. Unmerciful dealing He will not tolerate, but will repay in kind. God can give prosperity to the working men whose means are acquired honestly. But His curse rests upon all that is gained by selfish practices.When one indulges in selfishness or sharp dealing, he shows that he does not fear the Lord or reverence His name. Those who are connected with God will not only shun all injustice, but will manifest His mercy and goodness toward all with whom they have to do. The Lord will sanction no respect of person; but He will not approve the course of those who make no difference in favor of the poor, the widow, and the orphan (Letter 20a, 1893).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A false balance - The use of all false weights and measures in commerce.
McArther Bible Commentary
Dishonest scales. Cf. Pro 16:11; Pro 20:10, Pro 20:23. As indicated in Lev 19:35-36; Deu 25:13-16; Eze 45:10; Amo 8:5; Mic 6:10, God detests dishonesty.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 19:35 Leviticus 19:36 Deuteronomy 25:13 Deuteronomy 25:16 Proverbs 16:11 Proverbs 20:10 Proverbs 20:23 Hosea 12:7 Micah 6:11

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Considering how safe, and quiet, and easy the humble are, we see that with the lowly is wisdom.
McArther Bible Commentary
pride. From a root meaning "to boil," or "to run over," indicating an overwhelmingly arrogant attitude or behavior. It is used of ordinary men (Deu 17:12-13); kings (Neh 9:10); Israel (Neh 9:16, Neh 9:29); false prophets (Deu 18:20); and murderers (Exo 21:14). the humble. A rare word, which appears in Mic 6:8: "Walk humbly with your God." This humble and teachable spirit is first of all directed toward God (cf. Pro 15:33; Pro 16:18-19; Pro 18:12; Pro 22:4).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 16:18 Proverbs 18:12 Proverbs 29:23

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
An honest man's principles are fixed, therefore his way is plain.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:22 Proverbs 13:6 Proverbs 19:3 Proverbs 22:12

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Riches will stand men in no stead in the day of death.
McArther Bible Commentary
day of wrath. Money buys no escape from death in the day of final accounting to God, the divine Judge (cf. Isa 10:3; Eze 7:19; Zep 1:18; Luk 12:16-21).
Bible Cross References
Genesis 7:1 Proverbs 6:34 Proverbs 10:2 Ezekiel 7:19 Zephaniah 1:18

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The ways of wickedness are dangerous. And sin will be its own punishment.
Bible Cross References
Judges 20:41 Proverbs 3:6 Proverbs 5:22 Proverbs 12:3 Proverbs 21:29

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The ways of wickedness are dangerous. And sin will be its own punishment.
Bible Cross References
Judges 20:41 Psalm 7:15 Psalm 7:16 Psalm 9:15 Proverbs 11:9 Ecclesiastes 10:8

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
When a godly man dies, all his fears vanish; but when a wicked man dies, his hopes vanish.
Bible Cross References
Job 8:13 Job 8:14 Psalm 112:10 Proverbs 10:28 Proverbs 11:8

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The righteous are often wonderfully kept from going into dangerous situations, and the ungodly go in their stead.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Cometh - Into trouble.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:7 Proverbs 11:9 Proverbs 12:13 Proverbs 21:18

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Hypocrites delude men into error and sin by artful objections against the truths of God's word.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Delivered - From the infection of the hypocrite's evil counsel.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:6 Proverbs 11:8 Proverbs 16:29

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Nations prosper when wicked men are cast down.
Bible Cross References
2 Kings 11:20 Proverbs 11:11 Proverbs 28:12 Proverbs 29:2

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Nations prosper when wicked men are cast down.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The blessing - Wherewith they bless the city, by their sincere prayers, and wise and wholesome counsels. The mouth - By their curses, and oaths, and blasphemies, and wicked counsels.
McArther Bible Commentary
Social influence for good or bad is in view.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:10 Proverbs 11:12 Proverbs 28:2 Proverbs 29:8

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
A man of understanding does not judge of others by their success.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Despiseth - Which he shews by contemptuous or reproachful expressions. Holdeth peace - Forbears all such expressions, and silently and patiently bears those reproaches.
McArther Bible Commentary
despises. Lit. one who gossips, slanders, or destroys with words, in contrast to the silence of the wise. See notes on Pro 10:14, Pro 10:18.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:32 Proverbs 11:11 Proverbs 11:13 Proverbs 14:21

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
A faithful man will not disclose what he is trusted with, unless the honour of God and the real good of society require it.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Secrets - Such things as were committed to his trust with a charge of secrecy.
McArther Bible Commentary
talebearer. This depicts someone who is a peddler in scandal, who speaks words deliberately intended to harm rather than merely unguarded speech (cf. Lev 19:16).
Bible Cross References
1 Timothy 5:13 Leviticus 19:16 Proverbs 11:12 Proverbs 12:23 Proverbs 19:11 Proverbs 20:19 Proverbs 25:9

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
We shall often find it to our advantage to advise with others.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on 1 Chronicles 27:32-34.
McArther Bible Commentary
multitude of counselors. As in Pro 15:22; Pro 20:18; Pro 24:6, a good decision is made with multiple, wise advisers. The more crucial the decision, the more appropriate is corporate wisdom. Note the example of David (2Sa. 15:30-17:23).
Bible Cross References
2 Chronicles 22:4 Proverbs 15:22 Proverbs 20:18 Proverbs 24:6

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The welfare of our families, our own peace, and our ability to pay just debts, must not be brought into danger. But here especially let us consider the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ in becoming Surety even for enemies.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 6:1.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:1 Proverbs 17:18 Proverbs 27:13

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
A pious and discreet woman will keep esteem and respect, as strong men keep possession of wealth.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Gracious woman - A woman endued with the grace of God. Retaineth - Or, holdeth fast her honour, or reputation.
McArther Bible Commentary
gracious woman … ruthless men. While evil people may grasp at wealth, they will never attain the honor due a gracious woman (cf. Pro 31:30).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 31:28 Proverbs 31:30

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
A cruel, froward, ill-natured man, is vexatious to those that are, and should be to him as his own flesh, and punishes himself.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:7 Matthew 25:34

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
He that makes it his business to do good, shall have a reward, as sure to him as eternal truth can make it.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Worketh - A work which will deceive his expectation. Soweth - That worketh it with constancy, and diligence.
McArther Bible Commentary
deceptive work. The efforts of the wicked deceiver do not yield the riches his deception seeks, but the righteous receive a reward from God.
Bible Cross References
John 4:36 Galatians 6:8 Galatians 6:9 James 3:18 Exodus 1:20 Proverbs 10:16 Hosea 10:12

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
True holiness is true happiness. The more violent a man is in sinful pursuits, the more he hastens his own destruction.
Bible Cross References
Romans 6:23 James 1:15 Proverbs 1:18 Proverbs 10:16 Proverbs 12:28 Proverbs 19:23 Proverbs 21:16

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Nothing is more hateful to God, than hypocrisy and double dealing, which are here signified. God delights in such as aim and act with uprightness.
McArther Bible Commentary
abomination. Defined throughout Scripture as attitudes, this involves words and behaviors which God hates (see Pro 6:16).
Bible Cross References
1 Chronicles 29:17 Psalm 101:4 Psalm 119:1 Proverbs 3:32 Proverbs 11:21 Proverbs 13:6 Proverbs 14:9

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Joining together in sin shall not protect the sinners.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Though hand join - Though they are fortified against God's judgments by a numerous issue and kindred, and friends, and by mutual and strong combinations. The seed - Not only their persons, but their children.
McArther Bible Commentary
Though they join forces. The combined power of the wicked cannot free them from just punishment; while, the unaided children of the righteous find deliverance by reason of their relationship with God.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:20 Proverbs 11:22 Jeremiah 44:15

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Beauty is abused by those who have not discretion or modesty with it. This is true of all bodily endowments.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
So is a fair woman without discretion - "Of beauty vain, of virtue void, What art thou in the sight of God? A slave to every base desire, A creature wallowing in the mire. Go, gaudy pageant of a day, Thy folly, with thy face display: Set all thy charms and graces out, And shew - the Jewel in thy snout!"
McArther Bible Commentary
ring of gold. A nose ring was an ornament intended to beautify a woman in OT times (cf. Gen 24:47; Isa 3:21; Eze 16:12). It was as out of place in a pig's nose as the lack of discretion was in a lovely lady.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 24:47 Proverbs 11:21

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The wicked desire mischief to others, but it shall return upon themselves.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The desire - The desires and expectations of the righteous shall end in their happiness, but the desires and expectations of the wicked men shall be disappointed, and end in the wrath of God.
McArther Bible Commentary
desire … expectation. These terms refer to outcomes from God's perspective.
Bible Cross References
Romans 2:8 Romans 2:9 Proverbs 10:28 Proverbs 11:24

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
A man may grow poor by not paying just debts, not relieving the poor, not allowing needful expenses. Let men be ever so saving of what they have, if God appoints, it comes to nothing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Scattereth - That gives liberally. Increaseth - Through God's blessing upon his estate. Poverty - By God's providence secretly blasting his estate.
McArther Bible Commentary
scatters, yet increases. The principle here is that generosity, by God's blessing, secures increase, while stinginess leads to poverty instead of expected gain. The person who gives receives far more in return (Psa 112:9; Ecc 11:1; Joh 12:24-25; Act 20:35; 2Co 9:6-9).
Bible Cross References
2 Corinthians 9:6 Proverbs 11:23 Proverbs 11:25 Proverbs 13:7 Proverbs 28:27

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Both in temporal and spiritual things, God commonly deals with his people according to the measure by which they deal with their brethren.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Fat - Shall be enriched both with temporal and spiritual blessings.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:7 2 Corinthians 9:6 2 Corinthians 9:7 2 Samuel 17:28 Proverbs 3:9 Proverbs 3:10 Proverbs 11:24 Proverbs 28:25 Isaiah 32:8

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
We must not hoard up the gifts of God's bounty, merely for our own advantage.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
With - holdeth corn - In a time of scarcity. Selleth - Upon reasonable terms.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 42:6 Job 29:13 Proverbs 24:24

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Seeking mischief is here set against seeking good; for those that are not doing good are doing hurt, even to themselves.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Seeketh - To do good to all men. Favour - With God and men.
Bible Cross References
Esther 7:10 Psalm 7:15 Psalm 7:16 Psalm 57:6

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The true believer is a branch of the living Vine. When those that take root in the world wither, those who are grafted into Christ shall be fruitful.
McArther Bible Commentary
trusts in his riches. Cf. Pro 23:4-5; see notes on 1Ti 6:17, 1Ti 6:19.
Bible Cross References
Mark 10:25 1 Timothy 6:17 Psalm 1:3 Psalm 49:6 Psalm 92:12 Jeremiah 17:8

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
He that brings trouble upon himself and his family, by carelessness, or by wickedness, shall be unable to keep and enjoy what he gets, as a man is unable to hold the wind, or to satisfy himself with it.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Troubleth - He who brings trouble upon himself and children, either by prodigality, or by restless endeavours to heap up riches. Wind - Shall be as unable to keep what he gets as a man is to hold the wind in his hand.
McArther Bible Commentary
inherit the wind. The person who mismanages his house will see all his possessions blown away, and he will have nothing left in the end. He will serve the one who manages well (Pro 15:27).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:19 Proverbs 15:27 Ecclesiastes 5:16

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The righteous are as trees of life; and their influence upon earth, like the fruits of that tree, support and nourish the spiritual life in many.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The fruit - His discourses and his whole conversation, is like the fruit of the tree of life. Winneth - That gains souls to God.
McArther Bible Commentary
tree of life. See note on Pro 3:18. wins souls. Lit. "to take lives," in the sense of doing them good or influencing them with wisdom's ways (cf. Luk 5:10). The word is also used for capturing people for evil purposes as in Pro 6:25; Psa 31:13; Eze 13:18.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 9:19 James 5:20 Revelation 2:7 Psalm 92:14 Proverbs 3:18 Proverbs 12:12 Proverbs 14:25 Daniel 12:3

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Even the righteous, when they offend on earth, shall meet with sharp corrections; much more will the wicked meet the due reward of their sins. Let us then seek those blessings which our Surety purchased by his sufferings and death; let us seek to copy his example, and to keep his commandments.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Recompensed - Punished for his sins.
McArther Bible Commentary
recompensed. God's final blessing and reward to the righteous, and His judgment and punishment of the ungodly and sinners come after life on this earth has ended. But there are foretastes of both during life on the earth, as the righteous experience God's personal care and goodness, while the wicked are void of it. Cf. 1Pe 4:18.
Bible Cross References
1 Peter 4:18 2 Samuel 22:21 2 Samuel 22:25 Proverbs 12:1 Proverbs 13:21 Jeremiah 25:29