1 Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

2 A good man obtaineth favour of the Lord: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.

3 A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.

4 A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.

5 The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.

6 The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

7 The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.

8 A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

9 He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.

10 A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

11 He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

12 The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.

13 The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.

14 A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

16 A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.

17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.

18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.

19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

21 There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.

22 Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.

23 A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

24 The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.

25 Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.

26 The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.

27 The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.

28 In the way of righteousness is life: and in the pathway thereof there is no death.

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.
Those who have grace, will delight in the instructions given them. Those that stifle their convictions, are like brutes.
McArther Bible Commentary
stupid. From the Hebrew "to graze"; he is as stupid as the brute cattle (cf. Psa 49:20; Psa 73:22).
Bible Cross References
Psalm 50:17 Proverbs 5:12 Proverbs 8:36 Proverbs 11:31 Proverbs 12:2 Proverbs 30:2

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.
The man who covers selfish and vicious designs under a profession of religion or friendship, will be condemned.
Bible Cross References
2 Samuel 15:3 Proverbs 3:4 Proverbs 8:35 Proverbs 12:1 Proverbs 14:22

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.
Though men may advance themselves by sinful arts, they cannot settle and secure themselves. But those who by faith are rooted in Christ, are firmly fixed.
McArther Bible Commentary
root. The familiar image is of the righteous person being firm like a flourishing tree (Ps. 1; Jer 17:7-8).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:25 Proverbs 11:5

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.
A wife who is pious, prudent, and looks well to the ways of her household, who makes conscience of her duty, and can bear crosses; such a one is an honour and comfort to her husband. She that is the reverse of this, preys upon him, and consumes him.
McArther Bible Commentary
excellent wife. See notes on Pro 31:10; Rth 3:11. For the opposite, see Pro 19:13; Pro 21:9, Pro 21:19; Pro 25:24; Pro 27:15. rottenness in his bones. This speaks of suffering that is like a painful and incurable condition.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 11:7 Ruth 3:11 Proverbs 12:5 Proverbs 14:30 Proverbs 18:22 Proverbs 31:10 Proverbs 31:11 Habakkuk 3:16

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.
Thoughts are not free; they are under the Divine knowledge, therefore under the Divine command. It is a man's shame to act with deceit, with trick and design.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:4 Proverbs 12:6

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.
Wicked people speak mischief to their neighbours. A man may sometimes do a good work with one good word.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Lie in wait - Are designed to entrap others, and to destroy them. Deliver them - From those that lie in wait for them.
McArther Bible Commentary
Lie in wait. See notes on Pro 1:11-12.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 1:11 Proverbs 1:16 Proverbs 12:5 Proverbs 14:3

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.
God's blessing is often continued to the families of godly men, while the wicked are overthrown.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Are not - Both they and their families suddenly perish.
McArther Bible Commentary
house. The rewards of wise living are not only to individuals, but extend to one's household or family.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 7:24 Job 34:25 Proverbs 10:25 Proverbs 12:8 Proverbs 15:25

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 apostles showed wisdom by glorying in shame for the name of Christ.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:7 Proverbs 12:9 Proverbs 29:27 Isaiah 19:14

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.
He that lives in a humble state, who has no one to wait upon him, but gets bread by his own labour, is happier than he that glories in high birth or gay attire, and wants necessaries.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Despised - That lives in a mean condition. Honoureth - That glories in his high birth or gay attire.
McArther Bible Commentary
Better … than. This is one of several proverbs which makes a distinct comparison using "better … than" (cf. Pro 3:13-14; Pro 8:11, Pro 8:19; Pro 12:9; Pro 15:16-17; Pro 16:8, Pro 16:16, Pro 16:19, Pro 16:32; Pro 17:1; Pro 19:1, Pro 19:22; Pro 21:9, Pro 21:19; Pro 22:1; Pro 25:7, Pro 25:24; Pro 27:5, Pro 27:10; Pro 28:6). slighted … honors himself. The obscure person of lowly rank, who can at least afford to hire a servant because of his honest gain, is better than the person who boasts about his prominence but is actually poor.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 15:8 Proverbs 12:8 Proverbs 12:10

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.
A godly man would not put even an animal to needless pain. But the wicked often speak of others as well used, when they would not endure like treatment for a single day.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Regardeth - He will not destroy it either by labour beyond its strength, or by denying it necessary food or rest. Cruel - There is cruelty mixed even with their most merciful actions.
McArther Bible Commentary
regards … cruel. Lit. he has concern for the condition of his beast, while the wicked has no concern for people.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 9:9 Numbers 22:29 Deuteronomy 25:4 Proverbs 12:9

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.
It is men's wisdom to mind their business, and follow an honest calling. But it is folly to neglect business; and the grace of God teaches men to disdain nothing but sin.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Tilleth - That employs his time in an honest calling. Vain persons - In an idle course of living.
McArther Bible Commentary
frivolity. Energy expended in worthless pursuits and fantasies is as useless as outright laziness. See notes on Pro 6:6-11; Pro 20:4; Pro 24:30-34.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:32 Proverbs 13:23 Proverbs 28:19

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.
When the ungodly see others prosper by sin, they wish they could act in the same way. But the root of Divine grace, in the heart of the righteous, produces other desires and purposes.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Desireth - He approves those arts, which wicked men use like nets to ensnare other men. The root - That piety, which is the root of his actions, yields him sufficient fruit both for his own need, and to do good to others.
McArther Bible Commentary
covet the catch. This refers to the desire for booty gained by the schemes of the wicked, contrasted with a simple life of obedience that produces blessing.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:30 Proverbs 21:10

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.
Many a man has paid dear in this world for the transgression of his lips.
Bible Cross References
2 Peter 2:9 Psalm 59:12 Psalm 64:8 Proverbs 11:8 Proverbs 18:7 Proverbs 18:21 Proverbs 21:23

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.
When men use their tongues aright, to teach and comfort others, they enjoy acceptance through Christ Jesus; and the testimony of their conscience, that they in some measure answer the end of their being.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Mouth - By his pious and profitable discourses. Hands - Of his actions.
McArther Bible Commentary
fruit of his mouth. This deals with the power of words; the reward of wise words is like the reward for physical labor (cf. Pro 10:11; Pro 15:4; Pro 18:4).
Bible Cross References
Job 34:11 Proverbs 1:31 Proverbs 13:2 Proverbs 14:14 Proverbs 15:23 Proverbs 18:20 Proverbs 19:17 Proverbs 24:12 Isaiah 3:10 Isaiah 3:11 Hosea 4:9

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.
A fool, in the sense of Scripture, means a wicked man, one who acts contrary to the wisdom that is from above. His rule is, to do what is right in his own eyes.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hearkeneth - That distrusts his own judgments, and seeks counsel from others.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:12 Proverbs 16:2 Proverbs 16:25 Proverbs 19:20 Proverbs 21:2

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 foolish man is soon angry, and is hasty in expressing it; he is ever in trouble and running into mischief. It is kindness to ourselves to make light of injuries and affronts, instead of making the worst of them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Covereth - The shame, or injury done to him, which he conceals and bears with patience.
McArther Bible Commentary
covers shame. A model of self-control, the prudent man ignores an insult (cf. Pro 9:7; Pro 10:12).
Bible Cross References
Job 5:2 Proverbs 12:17 Proverbs 14:33 Proverbs 27:3 Proverbs 29:11

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.
It is good for all to dread and detest the sin of lying, and to be governed by honesty.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Deceit - He who uses himself to lying in his common talk, will use falsehood and deceit in judgment.
McArther Bible Commentary
speaks truth. In the court, the truthful witness promotes justice.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:19 Proverbs 12:16 Proverbs 12:18 Proverbs 14:5 Zechariah 8:16

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.
Whisperings and evil surmises, like a sword, separate those that have been dear to each other. The tongue of the wise is health, making all whole.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Words Mean Much
—The voice and tongue are gifts from God, and if rightly used, they are a power for God. Words mean very much. They may express love, devotion, praise, melody to God, or hatred and revenge. Words reveal the sentiments of the heart. They may be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The tongue is a world of blessing, or a world of iniquity (Manuscript 40, 1896).Desolating Hail or Seeds of Love?—Some are seen to come forth from their daily communion with God clothed with the meekness of Christ. Their words are not like a desolating hail, crushing everything before it; they come forth sweetly from their lips. They scatter seeds of love and kindness all along their path, and that all unconsciously, because Christ lives in their heart. Their influence is felt more than it is seen (Manuscript 24, 1887).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Health - Tends to the comfort and benefit of others.
McArther Bible Commentary
speaks … piercings. The contrast here is between cutting words that are "blurted out" (Psa 106:33) and thoughtful words that bring health. Cf. Eph 4:29-30.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 57:4 Psalm 59:7 Proverbs 4:22 Proverbs 12:17 Proverbs 15:4 Proverbs 25:18

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.
If truth be spoken, it will hold good; whoever may be disobliged, still it will keep its ground.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
The Honest Are His Jewels Forever
—Truthfulness and frankness should be ever cherished by all who claim to be followers of Christ. God and the right should be the motto. Deal honestly and righteously in this present evil world. Some will be honest when they see that honesty will not endanger their worldly interests; but all who act from this principle will have their names blotted out of the book of life.Strict honesty must be cultivated. We can go through the world but once; we cannot come back to rectify any mistakes; therefore every move made should be with godly fear and careful consideration. Honesty and policy will not harmonize; either policy will be subdued, and truth and honesty hold the lines of control, or policy will take the lines, and honesty cease to direct. Both cannot act together; they can never be in agreement. When God makes up His jewels, the true, the frank, the honest, will be His chosen ones, His treasures. Angels are preparing crowns for such; and light from the throne of God will be reflected in its splendor from these star-gemmed diadems (The Review and Herald, December 29, 1896).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A moment - Liars, though they may make a fair shew for a season, yet are quickly convicted.
Bible Cross References
1 Kings 13:18 Psalm 52:4 Psalm 52:5 Proverbs 12:20 Proverbs 19:9

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.
Deceit and falsehood bring terrors and perplexities. But those who consult the peace and happiness of others have joy in their own minds.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Deceit - They whose hearts devise mischief shall be deceived in their hopes, and bring trouble upon themselves: but they who by good counsels labour to promote peace, shall reap the comfort of it themselves.
McArther Bible Commentary
Deceit. The contrasting parallel is implied, not stated. Those who plan evil by deceit have no joy because of the risks and dangers in their plan, but the righteous who lead by peace fear nothing, and thus have joy.
Bible Cross References
2 Chronicles 22:4 Proverbs 12:19 Proverbs 12:21 Proverbs 26:24

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.
If men are sincerely righteous, the righteous God has engaged that no evil shall happen to them. But they that delight in mischief shall have enough of it.
Bible Cross References
1 Peter 3:13 Psalm 91:10 Psalm 121:7 Proverbs 1:33 Proverbs 12:20 Proverbs 14:14 Proverbs 19:23 Ecclesiastes 8:5

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.
Make conscience of truth, not only in words, but in actions.
Bible Cross References
Revelation 22:15 1 Kings 13:18 Psalm 120:2 Proverbs 6:17 Proverbs 17:7

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.
Foolish men proclaim to all the folly and emptiness of their minds.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Concealeth - He does not unseasonably utter what he knows. Foolishness - Betrays his ignorance and folly.
McArther Bible Commentary
conceals. Unlike the fool who makes everyone hear his folly, the wise person is a model of restraint and humility, speaking what he knows at an appropriate time (cf. Pro 29:11). See notes on Pro 1:4; Pro 10:14.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:14 Proverbs 11:13 Proverbs 13:16 Proverbs 15:2 Proverbs 18:2 Proverbs 29:11

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.
Those who will not take pains in an honest calling, living by tricks and dishonesty, are paltry and beggarly.
McArther Bible Commentary
forced labor. Unlike the hardworking people who have charge over their work, the lazy are eventually forced to go to work for the diligent to survive.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 49:15 Judges 1:28 1 Kings 9:21

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.
Care, fear, and sorrow, upon the spirits, deprive men of vigour in what is to be done, or courage in what is to be borne. A good word from God, applied by faith, makes the heart glad.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A good word - A compassionate or encouraging word.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:26 Proverbs 15:13 Isaiah 50:4

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.
The righteous is abundant; though not in this world's goods, yet in the graces and comforts of the Spirit, which are the true riches. Evil men vainly flatter themselves that their ways are not wrong.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Neighbour - Than any other men. Seduceth - Heb. maketh them to err, to lose that excellency or happiness which they had promised themselves.
McArther Bible Commentary
astray. Cf. 1Co 15:33. This verse could be understood as saying that the righteous person guides his friends carefully, unlike the wicked person who leads his companions astray.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:25 Proverbs 12:27 Proverbs 16:29

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.
The slothful man makes no good use of the advantages Providence puts in his way, and has no comfort in them. The substance of a diligent man, though not great, does good to him and his family. He sees that God gives it to him in answer to prayer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Resteth not - Does not enjoy the fruit of his labours. Precious - Yields him comfort and blessing with it.
McArther Bible Commentary
does not roast. The sluggard lacks commitment to make something of his opportunities (cf. Pro 12:11, Pro 12:25).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:4 Proverbs 12:26 Proverbs 13:4

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 way of religion is a straight, plain way; it is the way of righteousness. There is not only life at the end, but life in the way; all true comfort.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 30:15 Deuteronomy 32:46 Proverbs 11:19 Jeremiah 21:8