1 These are also proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out.

2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.

3 The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unsearchable.

4 Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.

5 Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.

6 Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:

7 For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.

8 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.

9 Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:

10 Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.

11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.

12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

13 As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.

14 Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift is like clouds and wind without rain.

15 By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.

16 Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.

17 Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour's house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee.

18 A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.

19 Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.

20 As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.

21 If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

22 For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the Lord shall reward thee.

23 The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.

24 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

25 As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.

26 A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.

27 It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory.

28 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

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.
God needs not search into any thing; nothing can be hid from him. But it is the honour of rulers to search out matters, to bring to light hidden works of darkness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
These - Which are contained in this and the following chapters. The men - Certain persons appointed by Hezekiah for that work. Many of them are political precepts, and such as in a special manner concerned Hezekiah, and other princes, for the conduct of their house and kingdom. Copied - Out of the historical records which were then extant.
McArther Bible Commentary
Hezekiah's collection of Solomon's proverbs.
Bible Cross References
1 Kings 4:32 Proverbs 1:1 Proverbs 24:34

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.
God needs not search into any thing; nothing can be hid from him. But it is the honour of rulers to search out matters, to bring to light hidden works of darkness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The glory - It is agreeable to the nature of God; it is a testimony of his infinite wisdom, and of his absolute power and sovereignty. To conceal - To keep his counsels, and the reasons of his actions in his own breast. Search out - To communicate their counsels to others, that so they may search and find out the right way.
McArther Bible Commentary
God … kings. The roles of God and the king are compared. God, whose knowledge is above all human knowledge (cf. Psa 92:5; Ecc 3:11; Isa 46:10; Act 15:18; Heb 4:13), and whose ways are unsearchable (cf. Job 5:9; Psa 145:3; Isa 40:28), keeps things to Himself because He needs no counsel (see Rom 11:34). On the contrary, kings should seek to know what they must know in order to rule righteously.
Bible Cross References
Romans 11:33 Deuteronomy 29:29 Ezra 6:1 Proverbs 25:3

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.
God needs not search into any thing; nothing can be hid from him. But it is the honour of rulers to search out matters, to bring to light hidden works of darkness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The heart - Though wise kings will search out other men, yet their inward thoughts and purposes are hardly discoverable.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 25:2 Proverbs 25:4

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.
For a prince to suppress vice, and reform his people, is the best way to support his government.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Take away - Then, and not 'till then it is fit for that use.
McArther Bible Commentary
A nation is established as wisdom replaces and purifies wickedness (cf. Pro 14:34; Pro 16:12).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 25:3 Proverbs 26:23 Ezekiel 22:18 Malachi 3:2 Malachi 3:3

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.
For a prince to suppress vice, and reform his people, is the best way to support his government.
Bible Cross References
1 Kings 2:45 Proverbs 16:12 Proverbs 20:8 Proverbs 25:6 Proverbs 29:14

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.
Religion teaches us humility and self-denial. He who has seen the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus, will feel his own unworthiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Stand not - Do not affect frequent and familiar society with greater persons than thyself.
McArther Bible Commentary
In the royal court as in all of life, self-seeking and pride bring a person down. Do not intrude into such a place, for the elevating of the humble is honorable, but the humbling of the proud is disgraceful (cf. Luk 14:8-10; Jas 4:7-10).
Bible Cross References
Luke 14:8 Luke 14:10 Proverbs 25:5 Proverbs 25:7

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.
Religion teaches us humility and self-denial. He who has seen the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus, will feel his own unworthiness.
Bible Cross References
Luke 14:7 Luke 14:8 Luke 14:10 Proverbs 25:6

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.
To be hasty in beginning strife, will bring into difficulties. War must at length end, and might better be prevented. It is so in private quarrels; do all thou canst to settle the matter.
McArther Bible Commentary
go hastily to court. When conflict arises, the person with a contentious spirit is quick to go to court; but he is better off to talk it over with his neighbor than to expose himself to public shame in court where everything will be told.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:25 Proverbs 17:14

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.
To be hasty in beginning strife, will bring into difficulties. War must at length end, and might better be prevented. It is so in private quarrels; do all thou canst to settle the matter.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Debate - If thou hast any quarrel with him, first try to compose it by private discourse with him. Discover not - Let not heat of contention provoke thee to divulge any of his secrets committed to thy trust.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 18:15 Proverbs 11:13 Proverbs 25:10

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.
To be hasty in beginning strife, will bring into difficulties. War must at length end, and might better be prevented. It is so in private quarrels; do all thou canst to settle the matter.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Lest he - Reproach thee for thy gross violation of the laws of prudence, justice and friendship.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 25:9 Proverbs 25:11

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.
A word of counsel, or reproof, rightly spoken, is especially beautiful, as fine fruit becomes still more beautiful in silver baskets.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Of silver - Which it seems was usual in those times, and was grateful to the eye for the beauty and variety both of the colours and figures, the golden apples appearing through net - work of silver.
McArther Bible Commentary
The imagery of beauty describes well-chosen words, including words of rebuke. Cf. Pro 15:23; Pro 24:26.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 12:35 Proverbs 15:23 Proverbs 25:10

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
A word of counsel, or reproof, rightly spoken, is especially beautiful, as fine fruit becomes still more beautiful in silver baskets.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 12:35 Exodus 32:2 Exodus 35:22 2 Samuel 1:24 Job 28:17 Psalm 141:5 Proverbs 15:31 Proverbs 20:12 Ecclesiastes 7:5 Ezekiel 16:12

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.
See what ought to be the aim of him that is trusted with any business; to be faithful. A faithful minister, Christ's messenger, should be thus acceptable to us.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Cold of snow - As drink cooled with ice or snow, as is usual in hot countries.
McArther Bible Commentary
cold of snow. A faithful messenger (cf. Pro 25:25; Pro 26:6) was as refreshing as snow would be in the heat of the summer harvest.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 13:17 Proverbs 22:21

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.
He who pretends to have received or given that which he never had, is like the morning cloud, that disappoints those who look for rain.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Boasteth - Promising what he never intends to give. Is like - Like empty clouds carried about with wind, and not affording that rain which they promise.
Bible Cross References
Jude 1:12 Proverbs 20:6 Jeremiah 5:13 Micah 2:11

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.
Be patient to bear a present hurt. Be mild to speak without passion; for persuasive language is the most effectual to prevail over the hardened mind.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Forbearing - By patient submission and expectation. Breaketh - Softens the hardest heart.
McArther Bible Commentary
forbearance. Patience is a mighty weapon. See Pro 15:1; Pro 16:32.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 32:4 1 Samuel 25:24 Proverbs 15:1 Ecclesiastes 10:4

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.
God has given us leave to use grateful things, but we are cautioned against excess.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Honey - By honey he understands, not only all delicious meats, but all worldly delights, which we are here taught to use with moderation.
McArther Bible Commentary
This may be a parable that goes with verse Pro 25:17, instructing the wise not to overdo anything that may lead to disgust and rejection, including overstaying or being overbearing with a friend who may begin to resent him.
Bible Cross References
Judges 14:8 1 Samuel 14:25 Proverbs 23:8 Proverbs 24:13 Proverbs 25:17 Ecclesiastes 7:16

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.
We cannot be upon good terms with our neighbours, without discretion as well as sincerity. How much better a Friend is God than any other friend! The oftener we come to him, the more welcome.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Withdraw - Visit him not too frequently.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 25:16 Proverbs 25:18

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.
A false testimony is dangerous in every thing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A sword - Is as cruel and pernicious as any instrument of death.
McArther Bible Commentary
He is as destructive to reputation as those weapons are to the body.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 20:16 Psalm 57:4 Psalm 120:4 Proverbs 12:18 Proverbs 24:28 Proverbs 25:17 Jeremiah 9:8

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.
Confidence in an unfaithful man is painful and vexatious; when we put any stress on him, he not only fails, but makes us feel for it.
Bible Cross References
Job 6:15 Proverbs 25:20 Isaiah 36:6

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.
We take a wrong course if we think to relieve those in sorrow by endeavouring to make them merry.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
As vinegar - Which dissolves the nitre, and makes it useless and ineffectual.
McArther Bible Commentary
vinegar on soda. Pouring vinegar on an alkali (e.g., baking soda) produces a reaction like boiling or turning tranquility into agitation. So is the effect of singing joyful songs without sympathy to the sorrowful. Cf. Psa 137:3-4.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 25:19 Proverbs 25:21

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.
The precept to love even our enemies is an Old Testament commandment. Our Saviour has shown his own great example in loving us when we were enemies.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Bread - By bread and water he understands all things necessary for his subsistence.
McArther Bible Commentary
As metals are melted by placing fiery coals on them, so is the heart of an enemy softened by such kindness. Contrast the coals of judgment in Psa 140:10. Paul quotes this proverb in Rom 12:20. Cf. Mat 5:43-48.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:44 Romans 12:20 Exodus 23:4 Exodus 23:5 2 Kings 6:22 2 Chronicles 28:15 Proverbs 25:20

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.
The precept to love even our enemies is an Old Testament commandment. Our Saviour has shown his own great example in loving us when we were enemies.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For - In so doing, which words are expressed (Romans 12:20) , where this text is quoted. Thou shalt melt him into repentance, and love.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 6:4 Matthew 6:6 2 Samuel 16:12 2 Chronicles 28:15

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.
Slanders would not be so readily spoken, if they were not readily heard. Sin, if it receives any check, becomes cowardly.
McArther Bible Commentary
The theme is cause and effect; as surely as a rain cloud brings the rain, slander produces anger.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 35:16 Psalm 101:5

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.
It is better to be alone, than to be joined to one who is a hinderance to the comfort of life.
McArther Bible Commentary
See notes on Pro 19:13; Pro 21:9.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 21:9 Proverbs 25:25

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.
Heaven is a country afar off; how refreshing is good news from thence, in the everlasting gospel, which signifies glad tidings, and in the witness of the Spirit with our spirits that we are God's children!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
So - Because it comes more rarely and difficultly, after it hath been long expected.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on verse Pro 25:13.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 15:30 Proverbs 25:26

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.
When the righteous are led into sin, it is as hurtful as if the public fountains were poisoned.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Falling - When righteous men are oppressed by the wicked, the state of that common - wealth is as deplorable, as if the publick fountains were corrupted.
McArther Bible Commentary
murky spring. The righteous person who sins muddies the water for the wicked who see him and for whom he should serve as an example of righteousness (cf. Psa 17:5).
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 32:2 Ezekiel 34:18 Ezekiel 34:19

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.
We must be, through grace, dead to the pleasures of sense, and also to the praises of men.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Not good - For health. To search - Industriously to seek for applause. Is not - Is not only sinful, but shameful also.
McArther Bible Commentary
Eating honey is analogous to enjoying the sweetness of your own self-glory. See notes on verses Pro 25:6-7, Pro 25:16.
Bible Cross References
Luke 14:11 Proverbs 27:2

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 man who has no command over his anger, is easily robbed of peace. Let us give up ourselves to the Lord, and pray him to put his Spirit within us, and cause us to walk in his statutes.
McArther Bible Commentary
city broken down. Such are exposed and vulnerable to the incursion of evil thoughts and successful temptations. For the opposite, see note on Pro 16:32.
Bible Cross References
2 Chronicles 32:5 Nehemiah 1:3 Proverbs 16:32