1 Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.

He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the Lord: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.

In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.

A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.

A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.

Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.

The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.

Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

10 The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.

11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.

12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.

14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.

16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.

17 He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

21 He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

22 Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

23 In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

24 The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.

25 A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.

26 In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

28 In the multitude of people is the king's honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.

29 He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

31 He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.

32 The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.

33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.

34 Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

35 The king's favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.

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.
A woman who has no fear of God, who is wilful and wasteful, and indulges her ease, will as certainly ruin her family, as if she plucked her house down.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Buildeth - Maintains and improves her family and estate. Her hands - By her idleness or sin.
McArther Bible Commentary
builds her house. Cf. the wise woman building her house (Pro 31:10-31) with lady wisdom building her house (Pro 9:1-6).
Bible Cross References
Ruth 4:11 Proverbs 24:3 Proverbs 31:10

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.
Here are grace and sin in their true colours. Those that despise God's precepts and promises, despise God and all his power and mercy.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:15 Proverbs 19:1 Proverbs 28:6

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.
Pride grows from that root of bitterness which is in the heart. The root must be plucked up, or we cannot conquer this branch. The prudent words of wise men get them out of difficulties.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A rod - His insolent speeches as they are like a rod, offensive to others, so, they make a rod for their own backs.
McArther Bible Commentary
rod. A rare Hebrew word that refers to a small shoot (see Isa 11:1). Here, it is used metaphorically for the proud, inflicting tongue in a fool's mouth, which destroys the fool and others (cf. Pro 11:2; Pro 16:18; Pro 29:23).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:6 Proverbs 14:4

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.
There can be no advantage without something which, though of little moment, will affright the indolent.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The crib - The stable is empty of food for cattle, and much more for man. In the same sense cleanness of teeth is put for famine, (Amos 4:6) . The strength - By their labours, or by diligence in husbandry, which then was principally managed by oxen.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 144:14 Proverbs 14:3 Proverbs 14:5

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.
A conscientious witness will not dare to represent anything otherwise than according to his knowledge.
Bible Cross References
Revelation 1:5 Revelation 3:14 Exodus 23:1 Deuteronomy 19:16 Proverbs 6:19 Proverbs 12:17 Proverbs 14:4 Proverbs 14:6 Proverbs 14:25 Proverbs 19:5

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.
A scorner treats Divine things with contempt. He that feels his ignorance and unworthiness will search the Scriptures in a humble spirit.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Findeth it not - Because he doth not seek it aright. That understandeth - That is honest and pious.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 1:5 Proverbs 8:9 Proverbs 14:5 Proverbs 14:7 Proverbs 24:7

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.
We discover a wicked man if there is no savour of piety in his discourse.
McArther Bible Commentary
Go. Avoid association with all who cannot teach you wisdom. Cf. 1Ti 4:6-7; 1Ti 6:3-5. Key Word Wisdom: Pro 1:2; Pro 4:5; Pro 9:10; Pro 14:6; Pro 16:16; Pro 18:4; Pro 23:23; Pro 31:26-can also mean "skill" but is most commonly used to describe daily application of practical wisdom. Proverbs teaches that true wisdom reaches beyond mere knowledge of truth to living a life of moral integrity (Pro 8:7-9). Whereas the sinful life leads ultimately to self-destruction, abundant life is found within the wisdom of God (Pro 2:6; Job 11:6).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:6 Proverbs 23:9

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.
We are travellers, whose concern is, not to spy out wonders, but to get to their journey's end; to understand the rules we are to walk by, also the ends we are to walk toward. The bad man cheats himself, and goes on in his mistake.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
His way - Consists not in vain speculations, but in a diligent study of his duty, and of the way to eternal happiness. The folly - The wit of ungodly men, which is really their folly, is employed only in finding out ways of deceiving.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 3:19 Proverbs 15:21

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.
Foolish and profane men consider sin a mere trifle, to be made light of rather than mourned over. Fools mock at the sin-offering; but those that make light of sin, make light of Christ.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Favour - They find favour both with God and men.
McArther Bible Commentary
Fools mock at sin. While fools ridicule their impending judgment (cf. Pro 1:26), the wise are promised favor with God (cf. Isa 1:11-20) and man (cf. Pro 10:32; Pro 11:27). Cf. 1Sa 2:26; Luk 2:40, Luk 2:52.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 5:7 Proverbs 3:34 Proverbs 11:20

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.
We do not know what stings of conscience, or consuming passions, torment the prosperous sinner. Nor does the world know the peace of mind a serious Christian enjoys, even in poverty and sickness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Bitterness - The inward griefs and joys of mens hearts, are not known to any but a man's self.
McArther Bible Commentary
At its depth, suffering and rejoicing are personal and private. No one is able to communicate them fully (1Sa 1:10; 1Ki 8:38; Mat 2:18; Mat 26:39-42, Mat 26:75).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 1:10 Job 21:25

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.
Sin ruins many great families; whilst righteousness often raises and strengthens even mean families.
Bible Cross References
Job 8:15 Proverbs 15:25 Proverbs 21:12

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.
The ways of carelessness, of worldliness, and of sensuality, seem right to those that walk in them; but self-deceivers prove self-destroyers. See the vanity of carnal mirth.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Right - There are some evil courses which men may think to be lawful and good. The end - The event shews that they were sinful and destructive.
McArther Bible Commentary
way of death. See notes on Mat 7:13-14.
Bible Cross References
Romans 6:21 Proverbs 12:15 Proverbs 16:25

Verse 13

John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In laughter - The outward signs of joy are often mixed with real sorrow.
Bible Cross References
James 4:9 Ecclesiastes 2:1 Ecclesiastes 2:2

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.
Of all sinners backsliders will have the most terror when they reflect on their own ways.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In heart - He who departs from God inwardly. Filled - With the fruit of his ways, the punishment of his sins. Satisfied - From the pious temper of his own heart, which cleaves to the Lord, he shall receive unspeakable comfort.
McArther Bible Commentary
backslider in heart. This term, so often used by the prophets (Isa 57:17; Jer 3:6, Jer 3:8, Jer 3:11-12, Jer 3:14, Jer 3:22; Jer 8:5; Jer 31:22; Jer 49:4; Hos 11:7; Hos 14:4), is used here in such a way as to clarify who is a backslider. He belongs in the category of the fool, the wicked, and the disobedient and he is contrasted with the godly wise. It is a word that the prophets used of apostate unbelievers.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 109:17 Proverbs 1:31 Proverbs 9:12 Proverbs 12:14 Proverbs 12:21 Proverbs 14:15 Proverbs 18:20

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.
Eager readiness to believe what others say, has ever proved mischievous. The whole world was thus ruined at first. The man who is spiritually wise, depends on the Saviour alone for acceptance. He is watchful against the enemies of his salvation, by taking heed to God's word.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The simple - A foolish man. Looketh - He orders his dealings in the world with due circumspection, not considering so much what other men say as what he ought to do.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:14 Proverbs 14:16 Proverbs 17:4

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.
Holy fear guards against every thing unholy.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Feareth - Trembles at God's judgments when they are either inflicted or threatened. Rageth - Frets against God; or is enraged against his messengers. Confident - Secure and insensible of his danger.
Bible Cross References
Job 28:28 Psalm 34:14 Proverbs 3:7 Proverbs 14:15 Proverbs 14:17 Proverbs 16:6 Proverbs 22:3

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.
An angry man is to be pitied as well as blamed; but the revengeful is more hateful.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Foolishly - His passion hurries him into foolish speeches and actions. Wicked devices - One who suppresses his passion, but meditates revenge. Hated - Both by God and men.
McArther Bible Commentary
quick-tempered … wicked intentions. The contrast is between the hasty anger that is labeled as folly and the deliberate malice that produces hatred (Psa 37:7).
Bible Cross References
2 Kings 5:12 Proverbs 14:16 Proverbs 14:18 Ecclesiastes 7:9

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.
Sin is the shame of sinners; but wisdom is the honour of the wise.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Inherit - They possess it as their inheritance, holding it fast, and glorying in it. Knowledge - The saving knowledge of God and of their own duty.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:17 Proverbs 14:19

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.
Even bad men acknowledge the excellency of God's people.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The evil - Good men shall have the pre - eminency over the wicked.
McArther Bible Commentary
evil will bow. The ancient custom was for the inferior to prostrate himself before the superior or wait humbly before the great one's gate, seeking favor. Good will ultimately humble evil.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 2:36 Proverbs 11:29 Proverbs 14:18

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.
Friendship in the world is governed by self-interest. It is good to have God our Friend; he will not desert us.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hated - Despised and abandoned.
McArther Bible Commentary
This sad-but-true picture of human nature is not given approvingly, but only as a fact.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 19:4 Proverbs 19:7

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.
To despise a man for his employment or appearance is a sin.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Despiseth - That does not pity and relieve the poor.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 41:1 Proverbs 11:12 Proverbs 19:17 Proverbs 21:10 Proverbs 28:8

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.
How wisely those consult their own interest, who not only do good, but devise it!
Bible Cross References
Psalm 36:4 Proverbs 3:3 Proverbs 3:29 Proverbs 12:2 Proverbs 14:23 Proverbs 24:8 Micah 2:1

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.
Labour of the head, or of the hand, will turn to some good account. But if men's religion runs all out in talk and noise, they will come to nothing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The talk - Idle talking will bring a man to poverty.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:22 Proverbs 14:24

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.
The riches of men of wisdom and piety enlarge their usefulness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Riches - They are a singular advantage and ornament to them. But - As for rich fools, their folly is not cured, but made worse and more manifest by their riches.
McArther Bible Commentary
foolishness of fools is folly. This is emphatic language, playing on the word fool and showing that the only reward for fools is more folly.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:22 Proverbs 13:8 Proverbs 14:23 Proverbs 21:20

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.
An upright man will venture the displeasure of the greatest, to bring truth to light.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Souls - Such as are innocent, from false accusations.
McArther Bible Commentary
The truth produces justice, on which the lives of people may depend.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:30 Proverbs 14:5

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.
Those who fear the Lord so as to obey and serve him, have a strong ground of confidence, and will be preserved. Let us seek to this Fountain of life, that we may escape the snares of death.
McArther Bible Commentary
fear of the Lord. See note on Pro 1:7.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:27 Proverbs 18:10 Proverbs 19:23 Isaiah 33:6

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.
Those who fear the Lord so as to obey and serve him, have a strong ground of confidence, and will be preserved. Let us seek to this Fountain of life, that we may escape the snares of death.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To depart - To preserve men from destructive courses.
McArther Bible Commentary
fountain of life. See note on Pro 10:11.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:27 Proverbs 13:14 Proverbs 14:26 Proverbs 14:28 Proverbs 19:23

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.
Let all that wish well to the kingdom of Christ, do what they can, that many may be added to his church.
McArther Bible Commentary
multitude of people. This is a truism stating that a king's honor comes from the support of his people as they increase and prosper (cf. Pro 30:29-31).
Bible Cross References
2 Samuel 19:7 Proverbs 14:27 Proverbs 14:29

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.
A mild, patient man is one that learns of Christ, who is Wisdom itself. Unbridled passion is folly made known.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Exalteth - Heb. lifteth up, like a banner, makes it known and visible to all men.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 14:17.
Bible Cross References
James 1:19 Proverbs 14:28 Proverbs 15:18 Proverbs 16:32 Proverbs 17:27 Proverbs 19:11 Ecclesiastes 7:8 Ecclesiastes 7:9

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.
An upright, contented, and benevolent mind, tends to health.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(ch. 27:4). A Despicable Trait of Satanic Character
—Envy is one of the most despicable traits of Satanic character. It is constantly seeking the lifting up of self, by casting slurs upon others. A man who is envious will belittle his neighbor, thinking to exalt himself. The sound of praise is grateful to him who has approbativeness highly developed, and he hates to hear the praises of another. Oh, what untold mischief has this evil trait of character worked in our world! The same enmity existed in the heart of Saul that stirred the heart of Cain against his brother Abel, because Abel's works were righteous, and God honored him, and his own works were evil, and the Lord could not bless him.Envy is the offspring of pride, and, if it is entertained in the heart, it will lead to cruel deeds, to hatred, revenge, and murder. The great controversy between Christ and the prince of darkness, is carried on in everyday, practical life (The Signs of the Times, August 17, 1888).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A sound heart - Free from envy and inordinate passions. Is life - Procures and maintains the health and vigour of the body.
McArther Bible Commentary
sound heart … body. A healthy mind filled with wisdom is associated with a healthy body (cf. Pro 3:5-8; Pro 17:22). rottenness to the bones. See note on Pro 12:4.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:4 Proverbs 15:13 Habakkuk 3:16

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.
To oppress the poor is to reproach our Creator.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
His maker - Whose image the poor man bears, by whose providence he is made poor, and who hath declared himself to be their protector and avenger.
McArther Bible Commentary
oppresses the poor … Maker. It offends the Creator when a person neglects the poor, who are part of His creation (cf. Pro 14:21; Pro 17:5; Pro 19:17; Pro 21:13; Pro 22:2, Pro 22:7; Pro 28:8; Pro 29:13).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 25:40 1 John 3:17 Leviticus 25:17 Deuteronomy 24:14 Job 24:4 Job 31:15 Proverbs 17:5 Proverbs 19:17 Proverbs 22:2 Proverbs 28:8

Verse 32

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 man has his soul forced from him; he dies in his sins, under the guilt and power of them. But godly men, though they have pain and some dread of death, have the blessed hope, which God, who cannot lie, has given them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Driven away - In his death, from God's favour and presence. Death - In his greatest dangers and distresses, yea even in death itself.
McArther Bible Commentary
righteous … death. Cf. Pro 23:18. Hope in death for the righteous is a central OT theme (cf. Job 19:25-26; Psa 31:5; Psa 49:14-15; Psa 73:24; Ecc 11:9; Isa 26:19; Dan 12:1-2).
Bible Cross References
2 Corinthians 1:9 2 Corinthians 5:8 2 Timothy 4:18 Genesis 49:18 Psalm 16:11 Psalm 17:15 Psalm 37:37 Psalm 73:24 Proverbs 6:15 Proverbs 14:33 Proverbs 24:16

Verse 33

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.
Wisdom possesses the heart, and thus regulates the affections and tempers.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Resteth - Is laid up and hid there. In the midst - In the heart. Made known - They will publish in all times and companies.
McArther Bible Commentary
is made known. Wisdom is quietly preserved in the heart of the wise for the time of proper use, while fools are eager to blurt out their folly (cf. Pro 12:23; Pro 13:16; Pro 15:2, Pro 15:14).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:10 Proverbs 12:16 Proverbs 14:32 Proverbs 14:34 Proverbs 29:11

Verse 34

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.
Piety and holiness always promote industry, sobriety, and honesty.
McArther Bible Commentary
exalts. While just principles and actions preserve and even exalt a society, their absence shames a society (cf. Pro 11:11).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:33 Proverbs 14:35

Verse 35

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 great King who reigns over heaven and earth, will reward faithful servants who honour his gospel by the proper discharge of the duties of their stations: he despises not the services of the lowest.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Shame - Both to himself, by his foolish management of the king's affairs, and to the king who made so foolish a choice of a servant.
McArther Bible Commentary
causes shame. Cf. Pro 10:5; Pro 12:4.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 24:45 Matthew 24:47 Matthew 25:21 Matthew 25:23 Proverbs 14:34 Proverbs 22:11