1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.

2 A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.

3 When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.

4 The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.

5 It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.

6 A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.

7 A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.

8 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

9 He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.

10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

11 The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.

12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.

14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

16 A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.

17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.

18 The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.

19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.

20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.

21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.

23 The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.

24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

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.
If we would get knowledge and grace, we must try all methods of improving ourselves.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Desire - Thro' desire of wisdom, a man having separated himself from the company, and noise, and business of the world, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom, uses all diligence, that he may search and find out all solid knowledge and true wisdom.
McArther Bible Commentary
isolates himself. This man seeks selfish gratification and accepts advice from no one.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 3:21 Proverbs 8:14

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.
Those make nothing to purpose, of learning or religion, whose only design is to have something to make a show with.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Understanding - In getting sound and saving, knowledge. The discovery - In uttering that folly and wickedness which is in his heart.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Ecc 10:12-14.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:23 Proverbs 13:16 Proverbs 18:3 Ecclesiastes 10:3

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.
As soon as sin entered, shame followed.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Cometh - Into any place or company. Contempt - He despiseth all instruction and reproof. Reproach - And he shews his contempt by ignominious and reproachful expressions.
McArther Bible Commentary
Sin and punishment are inseparably connected, as evil produces both the feeling of contempt in others and its manifestation, reproach.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 18:2 Proverbs 18:4

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.
The well-spring of wisdom in the heart of a believer, continually supplies words of wisdom.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A man's - A wise man's. As a brook - That wisdom which is in his heart is continually pouring forth wise and good counsels.
McArther Bible Commentary
words … deep waters. Wise speech is like a deep, inexhaustible stream of blessing.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:11 Proverbs 18:3 Proverbs 20:5

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.
The merits of a cause must be looked to, not the person.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 17:26; Pro 28:21.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 23:2 Exodus 23:6 Leviticus 19:15 Deuteronomy 1:17 Deuteronomy 16:19 Psalm 82:2 Proverbs 17:15 Proverbs 17:26 Proverbs 24:23 Proverbs 28:21 Proverbs 31:5 Micah 3:9

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.
What mischief bad men do to themselves by their ungoverned tongues!
McArther Bible Commentary
The fool self-destructs. Cf. Pro 12:13; Pro 17:14, Pro 17:19, Pro 17:28; Pro 19:29; Pro 20:3.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 19:29 Proverbs 22:10

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.
What mischief bad men do to themselves by their ungoverned tongues!
Bible Cross References
Psalm 64:8 Psalm 140:9 Proverbs 10:14 Proverbs 12:13 Proverbs 13:3 Proverbs 18:8 Ecclesiastes 10:12

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.
How base are those that sow contention! and what fatal effects may be expected from small beginnings of jealousy!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
They go - They wound mortally.
McArther Bible Commentary
tasty trifles. This comes from a Hebrew word meaning "to swallow greedily." The proverb is repeated in Pro 26:22.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 19:16 Proverbs 18:7 Proverbs 18:9 Proverbs 26:22

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.
Omissions of duty, and in duty, are fatal to the soul, as well as commissions of sin.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Is brother - Though they take several paths, yet both come to one end.
McArther Bible Commentary
slothful … destroyer. To leave a work half done or poorly done is to destroy it. See notes on Pro 6:1, Pro 6:11.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:4 Proverbs 18:8 Proverbs 28:24

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.
The Divine power, made known in and through our Lord Jesus Christ, forms a strong tower for the believer, who relies on the Lord. How deceitful the defence of the rich man, who has his portion and treasure in this world! It is a strong city and a high wall only in his own conceit; for it will fail when most in need. They will be exposed to the just wrath of that Judge whom they despised as a Saviour.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The name - The Lord, as he hath revealed himself in his works, and in his word by his promises.
McArther Bible Commentary
The name of the Lord. This expression, found only here in Proverbs, stands for the manifest perfections of God such as faithfulness, power, mercy, and wisdom, on which the righteous rely for security (cf. Exo 3:15; Exo 15:1-3; Psa 27:4-5)
Bible Cross References
Exodus 3:15 2 Samuel 22:2 2 Samuel 22:3 Psalm 18:2 Psalm 61:3 Psalm 91:2 Psalm 144:2 Proverbs 14:26 Proverbs 29:25

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.
The Divine power, made known in and through our Lord Jesus Christ, forms a strong tower for the believer, who relies on the Lord. How deceitful the defence of the rich man, who has his portion and treasure in this world! It is a strong city and a high wall only in his own conceit; for it will fail when most in need. They will be exposed to the just wrath of that Judge whom they despised as a Saviour.
McArther Bible Commentary
This proverb repeats Pro 10:15 and contrasts with verse Pro 18:10.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:15 Proverbs 18:12

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.
After the heart has been lifted up with pride, a fall comes. But honour shall be the reward of humility.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Judges 6:15.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 16:18.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:2 Proverbs 15:33 Proverbs 16:18 Proverbs 29:23 Ezekiel 29:9

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.
Eagerness, with self-conceit, will expose to shame.
Bible Cross References
John 7:51 Proverbs 20:25

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.
Firmness of mind supports under many pains and trials. But when the conscience is tortured with remorse, no human fortitude can bear the misery; what then will hell be?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Sustain - Will easily support him under any outward troubles. Wounded - Dejected with the sense of its own guilt and misery.
McArther Bible Commentary
broken spirit. Cf. Pro 12:25; Pro 15:13. When the spirit is broken, people lose hope.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 109:22 Proverbs 15:13 Proverbs 17:22

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.
We must get knowledge, not only into our heads, but into our hearts.
Bible Cross References
Ephesians 1:17 Proverbs 15:14 Proverbs 15:31 Proverbs 23:23

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.
Blessed be the Lord, who makes us welcome to come to his throne, without money and without price. May his gifts make room for him in our souls.
McArther Bible Commentary
man's gift. This is not the word for a bribe (cf. Pro 17:23), but rather the word for a present given to someone (cf. Jacob's gift, Gen 32:20-21; Joseph's gift, Gen 43:11; David's gift, 1Sa 17:17-18; and Abigail's gift, 1Sa 25:27).
Bible Cross References
Genesis 32:20 1 Samuel 16:20 1 Samuel 25:27 Proverbs 18:17 Proverbs 19:6 Proverbs 21:14

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 well to listen to our enemies, that we may form a better judgment of ourselves.
McArther Bible Commentary
See verse Pro 18:13. Cross-examination avoids hasty judgment.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 18:16 Proverbs 18:18

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.
It was customary sometimes to refer matters to God, by casting lots, with solemn prayer. The profaning the lot, by using it in matters of diversion, or coveting what belongs to others, forms an objection to this now.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Parteth - Gives to every one what is right or meet.
McArther Bible Commentary
lots. See note on Pro 16:33.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 16:33 Proverbs 18:17 Proverbs 18:19

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.
Great care must be taken to prevent quarrels among relations and those under obligations to each other. Wisdom and grace make it easy to forgive; but corruption makes it difficult.
McArther Bible Commentary
There are no feuds as difficult to resolve as those with relatives; no barriers are so hard to bring down. Hence, great care should be taken to avoid such conflicts. bars of a castle. Cf. Jdg 16:3; 1Ki 4:13; Neh 3:3; Isa 45:2.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 17:28 Proverbs 18:18 Proverbs 18:20

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.
The belly is here put for the heart, as elsewhere; and what that is filled with, our satisfaction will be accordingly, and our inward peace.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Satisfied - Wise discourses tend to the satisfaction of the speaker, as well as to the good of the hearers.
McArther Bible Commentary
the produce of his lips. See notes on Pro 12:14; Pro 13:2-3. The consequences of one's words should produce satisfaction and fulfillment.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:14 Proverbs 14:14 Proverbs 18:19

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.
Many a one has caused his own death, or the death of others, by a false or injurious tongue.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Devil May Use Christians’ Tongues to Ruin
—Do not allow the devil to use your tongue and your voice to ruin those weak in the faith; for at the day of final reckoning God will call upon you to give an account of your work (Manuscript 39, 1896).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Death and life - Are brought upon men by, the good or bad use of their tongues. Lovest - That love much talking.
McArther Bible Commentary
Death and life. The greatest good and the greatest harm are in the power of the tongue (cf. Jas 3:6-10).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 12:37 Proverbs 10:19 Proverbs 12:13 Proverbs 13:2 Proverbs 13:3 Proverbs 21:23 Isaiah 3:10 Hosea 10:13

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.
A good wife is a great blessing to a man, and it is a token of Divine favour.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A wise - A good wife; one that deserves the name, and performs the duty of that relation. Favour - Obtains her not by his own diligence, but by God's good providence.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 12:4; Pro 19:14; Pro 31:10-31.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 2:18 Proverbs 8:35 Proverbs 12:4 Proverbs 19:14 Proverbs 31:10

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.
Poverty tells men they must not order or demand. And at the throne of God's grace we are all poor, and must use entreaties.
McArther Bible Commentary
The rich do not need favors from others, so they do not care how they treat people.
Bible Cross References
James 2:3 James 2:6 1 Kings 12:13 2 Chronicles 10:13 Proverbs 19:7 Proverbs 22:7

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.
Christ Jesus never will forsake those who trust in and love him. May we be such friends to others, for our Master's sake. Having loved his own, which were in the world, he loved them unto the end; and we are his friends if we do whatever he commands us, (John 15:14).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A man - Heb. A man of friends; who desires the friendship of others.
McArther Bible Commentary
must himself be friendly. The best text (MT) says "may come to ruin" and warns that the person who makes friends too easily and indiscriminately does so to his own destruction. On the other hand, a friend chosen wisely is more loyal than a brother. friend. This is a strong word meaning "one who loves" and was used of Abraham, God's friend (2Ch 20:7; Isa 41:8; cf. 1Sa 18:1; 2Sa 1:26).
Bible Cross References
John 15:14 John 15:15 Proverbs 17:17 Proverbs 27:10