1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

2 The rich and poor meet together: the Lord is the maker of them all.

3 A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.

4 By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.

5 Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.

6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

8 He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.

9 He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

10 Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.

11 He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.

12 The eyes of the Lord preserve knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor.

13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.

14 The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the Lord shall fall therein.

15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

16 He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.

17 Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.

18 For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.

19 That thy trust may be in the Lord, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee.

20 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,

21 That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?

22 Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate:

23 For the Lord will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

24 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:

25 Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.

26 Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.

27 If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee?

28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.

29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.

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.
We should be more careful to do that by which we may get and keep a good name, than to raise or add unto a great estate.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Favour - A good report among men, especially good men, and that hearty kindness which attends it.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:7 Ecclesiastes 7:1

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.
Divine Providence has so ordered it, that some are rich, and others poor, but all are guilty before God; and at the throne of God's grace the poor are as welcome as the rich.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Meet - They live together, and need one another. The maker - Not only as they are men, but as they are poor or rich, which difference comes from God's providence. They have one common creator, and Lord, and judge, and the one cannot despise nor grudge at the other without reflecting upon God.
Bible Cross References
Job 31:15 Proverbs 14:31 Proverbs 29:13

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.
Faith foresees the evil coming upon sinners, and looks to Jesus Christ as the sure refuge from the storm.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The evil - The judgment of God threatened, and approaching. Hideth - Retires to his strong tower, by prayer and repentance, puts himself under the protection of the almighty. Pass on - Carefully and securely.
McArther Bible Commentary
Wise people see the approach of sin and remove themselves from it, while naive people walk right into it and suffer the consequences.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 1:22 Proverbs 14:16 Proverbs 22:4 Proverbs 27:12 Isaiah 26:20

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.
Where the fear of God is, there will be humility. And much is to be enjoyed by it; spiritual riches, and eternal life at last.
McArther Bible Commentary
fear of the Lord. See note on Pro 1:7.
Bible Cross References
1 Timothy 4:8 Proverbs 3:16 Proverbs 21:20 Proverbs 22:3 Proverbs 22:5 Proverbs 29:23 Proverbs 31:30 Daniel 4:36

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 way of sin is vexatious and dangerous. But the way of duty is safe and easy.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 15:19 Proverbs 22:4 Proverbs 29:6

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.
Train children, not in the way they would go, that of their corrupt hearts, but in the way they should go; in which, if you love them, you would have them go. As soon as possible every child should be led to the knowledge of the Saviour.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Depart - Not easily and ordinarily.
McArther Bible Commentary
way he should go. There is only one right way, God's way, the way of life. That way is specified in great detail in Proverbs. Since it is axiomatic that early training secures lifelong habits, parents must insist on this way, teaching God's Word and enforcing it with loving discipline consistently throughout the child's upbringing. See note on Pro 13:24. Cf. Deu 4:9; Deu 6:6-8; Deu 11:18-21; Jos 24:15; Eph 6:4.
Bible Cross References
Ephesians 6:4 Deuteronomy 4:9 Deuteronomy 11:19

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.
This shows how important it is for every man to keep out of debt. As to the things of this life, there is a difference between the rich and the poor; but let the poor remember, it is the Lord that made the difference.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Is servant - Is at his mercy, and forced to comply with his pleasure.
McArther Bible Commentary
rich rules. While this is naturally true, the law and the prophets condemned those who were oppressive (cf. Pro 22:22-23; Deu 24:14-18; Isa 5:8; Jer 34:13, Jer 34:17; Mic 2:2).
Bible Cross References
James 2:6 Proverbs 18:23

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 power which many abuse, will soon fail them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The rod - That power which he used with fury shall be taken from him.
McArther Bible Commentary
generous eye. A reference to generosity in that he looks with a desire to give. The principle of sowing and reaping is emphasized. Cf. Job 4:8; Hos 8:7; Hos 10:13; 2Co 9:6; Gal 6:7-9.
Bible Cross References
Job 4:8 Psalm 125:3 Proverbs 1:31 Hosea 8:7 Hosea 10:13

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 seeks to relieve the wants and miseries of others shall be blessed.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
He - Who looks upon the wants and miseries of others with compassion.
Bible Cross References
Luke 14:13 2 Corinthians 9:6 Deuteronomy 15:10 Proverbs 19:17 Proverbs 31:20

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.
Profane scoffers and revilers disturb the peace.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 21:9 Genesis 21:10 Proverbs 18:6 Proverbs 26:20

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.
God will be the Friend of a man in whose spirit there is no guile; this honour have all the saints.
McArther Bible Commentary
Even the most powerful people are drawn to the wise (cf. Ecc 10:12).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:8 Psalm 24:4 Proverbs 14:35 Proverbs 16:13 Proverbs 22:12 Ecclesiastes 10:12

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.
God turns the counsels and designs of treacherous men to their own confusion.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Preserve - God by the watchful eye of his providence maintains and defends. Knowledge - Men of knowledge, knowing and good men. The matters - All his hopes, enterprizes, and concerns.
McArther Bible Commentary
The eyes of the Lord. See note on Pro 15:3; cf. Pro 5:21-22. God's sovereign omniscience protects the principles and possessors of divine knowledge.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:3 Proverbs 22:11 Proverbs 22:13

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.
The slothful man talks of a lion without, but considers not his real danger from the devil, that roaring lion within, and from his own slothfulness, which kills him.
McArther Bible Commentary
a lion outside. Cf. Pro 26:13. The lazy give lame excuses for not leaving the house to work. See notes on Pro 6:6, Pro 6:11.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 22:12 Proverbs 26:13

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.
The vile sin of licentiousness commonly besots the mind beyond recovery.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The mouth - Her fair and flattering speeches.
McArther Bible Commentary
The flattering seductions of such a woman lure men into a pit as God makes their sin its own punishment. See note on Pro 2:16; cf. Pro 5:3; Pro 7:5.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:16 Proverbs 5:3 Proverbs 7:5 Proverbs 23:27 Ecclesiastes 7:26

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.
Sin is foolishness, it is in the heart, there is an inward inclination to sin: children bring it into the world with them; and it cleaves close to the soul. We all need to be corrected by our heavenly Father.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Bound - Is fixed and settled there, as being born with him, and rooted in his very nature.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 13:24.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 13:24 Proverbs 20:30 Proverbs 23:14 Proverbs 29:15

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.
We are but stewards, and must distribute what God intrusts to our care, according to his will.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
That giveth - That prodigally casts away his estate upon those who do not need it.
McArther Bible Commentary
These two vices reflect the same selfish attitude: withholding from the poor to keep what a person has, and giving to the rich to induce them to give a person more. Both are unacceptable to God and incur punishment.
Bible Cross References
James 2:13 Proverbs 22:22 Proverbs 28:22 Ecclesiastes 5:8

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.
To these words, to this knowledge, the ear must be bowed down, and the heart applied by faith and love. To live a life of delight in God and dependence on him, is the foundation of all practical religion. The way to know the certainty of the word of truth, is to make conscience of our duty.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
My knowledge - The knowledge of God, which I am here delivering.
McArther Bible Commentary
Solomon did not write, but did compile, this collection containing seventy-seven proverbs which were most likely spoken by godly men prior to or during Solomon's reign. The section begins with an introduction (Pro 22:17-21), followed by a collection of proverbs in random order, one, two or three verses each (as opposed to the one verse, two-line proverbs in the previous section). This is followed by two collections of additional proverbs (Pro. 22:22-24:22 and Pro 24:23-34), which continue and enlarge upon the wisdom themes of this book.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:2 Proverbs 5:1 Proverbs 24:23 Ecclesiastes 12:11

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.
To these words, to this knowledge, the ear must be bowed down, and the heart applied by faith and love. To live a life of delight in God and dependence on him, is the foundation of all practical religion. The way to know the certainty of the word of truth, is to make conscience of our duty.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Fitted - Fitly expressed: thou wilt be able to discourse profitably of them.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:10 Proverbs 22:19

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.
To these words, to this knowledge, the ear must be bowed down, and the heart applied by faith and love. To live a life of delight in God and dependence on him, is the foundation of all practical religion. The way to know the certainty of the word of truth, is to make conscience of our duty.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 3:5 Proverbs 22:20

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.
To these words, to this knowledge, the ear must be bowed down, and the heart applied by faith and love. To live a life of delight in God and dependence on him, is the foundation of all practical religion. The way to know the certainty of the word of truth, is to make conscience of our duty.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In counsels and knowledge - In counsels which proceed from found knowledge.
McArther Bible Commentary
excellent things. This term is literally "chief proverbs" (cf. Pro 8:6).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 8:6 Ecclesiastes 12:10

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 these words, to this knowledge, the ear must be bowed down, and the heart applied by faith and love. To live a life of delight in God and dependence on him, is the foundation of all practical religion. The way to know the certainty of the word of truth, is to make conscience of our duty.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Answer - That thou mayst be able to give solid, and satisfactory answers.
McArther Bible Commentary
certainty. Solomon is especially concerned about accuracy so that his readers can teach others.
Bible Cross References
Luke 1:3 Luke 1:4 1 Peter 3:15 Proverbs 25:13 Ecclesiastes 12:10

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.
He that robs and oppresses the poor, does so at his peril. And if men will not appear for them, God will.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In the gate - Under pretence of justice.
McArther Bible Commentary
The first collection of words for wise people is recorded.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 23:6 Leviticus 25:17 Deuteronomy 23:16 Job 31:16 Proverbs 22:16 Zechariah 7:10 Malachi 3:5

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.
He that robs and oppresses the poor, does so at his peril. And if men will not appear for them, God will.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Spoil the soul - Take away not only their goods but their lives too.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 25:39 Psalm 12:5 Psalm 35:10 Psalm 140:12 Proverbs 23:11 Jeremiah 51:36

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.
Our corrupt hearts have so much tinder in them, that it is dangerous to have to do with those that throw about the sparks of their passion.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 12:26.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 15:18 Proverbs 29:22

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.
Our corrupt hearts have so much tinder in them, that it is dangerous to have to do with those that throw about the sparks of their passion.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 15:33 Deuteronomy 7:25

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.
Every man ought to be just to himself, and his family; those are not so, who, by folly or other carelessness, waste what they have.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 6:1.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:1 Proverbs 17:18

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.
Every man ought to be just to himself, and his family; those are not so, who, by folly or other carelessness, waste what they have.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 22:26 Proverbs 20:16

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.
We are taught not to trespass on another man's right. And it is hard to find a truly industrious man. Such a man will rise. Seest thou a man diligent in the business of religion? He is likely to excel. Let us then be diligent in God's work.
McArther Bible Commentary
landmark. This refers to stealing land by moving the boundaries. See note on Pro 15:25; cf. Lev 25:23; Deu 19:14.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 19:14 Deuteronomy 27:17 Job 24:2 Proverbs 23:10

Verse 29

EGW SDA Bible Commentary
God Demands Vigorous and Earnest Efforts
—Put your highest powers into your effort. Call to your aid the most powerful motives. You are learning. Endeavor to go to the bottom of everything you set your hand to. Never aim lower than to become competent in the matters which occupy you. Do not allow yourself to fall into the habit of being superficial and neglectful in your duties and studies; for your habits will strengthen and you will become incapable of anything better. The mind naturally learns to be satisfied with that which requires little care and effort, and to be content with something cheap and inferior. There are, young men and young women, depths of knowledge which you have never fathomed, and you are satisfied and proud of your superficial attainments. If you knew much more than you do now, you would be convinced that you know very little.God demands of you vigorous and earnest intellectual efforts, and with every determined effort, your powers will strengthen. Your work will then always be agreeable, because you will know that you are progressing. You can either become accustomed to slow, uncertain, irresolute movements, so much so that the work of your life will not be one-half what it could be; or, your eyes fixed upon God, and your soul strengthened by prayer, you can overcome a disgraceful slowness and a dislike for work, and train your mind to think rapidly and to put forth strong efforts at the proper time. If your highest motive is to labor for wages, you will never, in any position, be qualified to carry high responsibilities, never be fit to teach (Manuscript 24, 1887).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Before kings - He is fit to be employed in the affairs of princes.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 41:46 Genesis 47:6 1 Samuel 16:21 1 Kings 10:8 1 Kings 11:28 Proverbs 23:1