1 Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.

2 Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.

3 A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.

4 Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?

5 Open rebuke is better than secret love.

6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

7 The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.

8 As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.

9 Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.

10 Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off.

11 My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.

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

13 Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

14 He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him.

15 A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.

16 Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

18 Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.

19 As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.

20 Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

21 As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.

22 Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him.

23 Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.

24 For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?

25 The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered.

26 The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field.

27 And thou shalt have goats' milk enough for thy food, for the food of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens.

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 know not what a day may bring forth. This does not forbid preparing for to-morrow, but presuming upon to-morrow. We must not put off the great work of conversion, that one thing needful.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Boast not - Of any good thing which thou purposeth to do, or hopest to receive tomorrow, or hereafter. Knowest not - What may happen in the space of one day. The day is said to bring forth, what God by his almighty power either causes or suffers to be brought forth or done in it.
McArther Bible Commentary
boast … tomorrow. Fools think they know the future or can affect its outcome, but the future rests with sovereign God. See notes on Pro 16:1, Pro 16:9; cf. Psalm 37; Jas 4:13-16.
Bible Cross References
Luke 12:19 Luke 12:20 James 4:13 James 4:14 1 Kings 20:11

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.
There may be occasion for us to justify ourselves, but not to praise ourselves.
Bible Cross References
2 Corinthians 10:12 2 Corinthians 10:18 2 Corinthians 12:11 Proverbs 25:27 Proverbs 27:3

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.
Those who have no command of their passions, sink under the load.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Heavier - More grievous, being without cause, without measure, and without end.
Bible Cross References
Job 5:2 Proverbs 12:16 Proverbs 27:2 Proverbs 27:4

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.
Those who have no command of their passions, sink under the load.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(ch. 14:30; Song of Solomon 8:6). Envy Is a Hellish Shadow
—Envy, jealousy, and evil surmising is a hellish shadow by which Satan seeks to intercept your views of the character of Christ, so that by beholding the evil you may be fully changed into its likeness (Letter 9, 1892).
McArther Bible Commentary
jealousy. Cf. Pro 6:34; Son 8:6. The most uncontrollable sin.
Bible Cross References
1 John 3:12 Proverbs 6:34 Proverbs 27:3

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.
Plain and faithful rebukes are better, not only than secret hatred, but than love which compliments in sin, to the hurt of the soul.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Open - When it is needful, in which case, though it put a man to some shame yet it doth him good. Better - More desirable and beneficial. Secret love - Which does not shew itself by friendly actions, and particularly by free and faithful reproof.
McArther Bible Commentary
Open rebuke. To genuinely love is to manifest the truth, even if it means to rebuke (cf. Pro 28:23; Psa 141:5; Gal 4:16).
Bible Cross References
Galatians 2:14 Proverbs 28:23

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.
Plain and faithful rebukes are better, not only than secret hatred, but than love which compliments in sin, to the hurt of the soul.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Wounds - The sharpest reproofs. Kisses - All the outward profession of friendship.
McArther Bible Commentary
the kisses of an enemy. Cf. Pro 5:3-5; Pro 26:23-24.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:49 Psalm 141:5 Proverbs 20:30 Proverbs 27:7 Proverbs 28:23

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.
The poor have a better relish of their enjoyments, and are often more thankful for them, than the rich. In like manner the proud and self-sufficient disdain the gospel; but those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, find comfort from the meanest book or sermon that testifies of Christ Jesus.
McArther Bible Commentary
The luxury and indolence of wealth make the best things tasteless, while the hard-working person who hungers finds every bitter thing sweet. This proverb extends beyond food to things in general, which means so much more to those who have little.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 21:5 Proverbs 24:13 Proverbs 27:6 Proverbs 27:8

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.
Every man has his proper place in society, where he may be safe and comfortable.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Wandereth - That flies from place to place, whereby she is exposed to all the arts of fowlers, and to birds of prey. So - So is he who through vanity or lightness changes his abode, or his calling.
McArther Bible Commentary
man who wanders. Such are not only out of place, but off duty and in danger. Stay close to home.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 21:14 Proverbs 26:2 Proverbs 27:7 Isaiah 16:2

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.
Depend not for relief upon a kinsman, merely for kindred's sake; apply to those who are at hand, and will help in need. But there is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother, and let us place entire confidence in him.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
The Value of a Friend
—Things will go wrong with every one; sadness and discouragement press every soul; then a personal presence, a friend who will comfort and impart strength, will turn back the darts of the enemy that are aimed to destroy. Christian friends are not half as plentiful as they should be. In hours of temptation, in a crisis, what a value is a true friend! Satan at such times sends along his agents to cause the trembling limbs to stumble; but the true friends who will counsel, who will impart magnetic hopefulness, the calming faith that uplifts the soul,—oh, such help is worth more than precious pearls (Letter 7, 1883)!
Bible Cross References
Psalm 23:5 Psalm 141:5

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.
Depend not for relief upon a kinsman, merely for kindred's sake; apply to those who are at hand, and will help in need. But there is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother, and let us place entire confidence in him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Neither go - For comfort and relief, so as to forsake thy friend for him. A neighbour - The friend, who hath shewed himself to be a good neighbour. Near - In affection.
McArther Bible Commentary
Adhere to tried and true friends. The ties of blood may be less reliable than those of genuine friendship. See notes on Pro 17:17; Pro 18:24.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 22:1 1 Kings 12:6 2 Chronicles 10:6 Proverbs 18:24

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.
An affectionate parent urges his son to prudent conduct that should gladden his heart. The good conduct of Christians is the best answer to all who find fault with the gospel.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Reproacheth - For being the father of a wicked son.
McArther Bible Commentary
A wise son accredits his father and also helps him in difficulty with appropriate answers (cf. Pro 10:1; Pro 15:20). This proverb is true in reverse as well (cf. Pro 17:25; Pro 19:13; Pro 22:21; Pro 23:15).
Bible Cross References
Psalm 2:10 Psalm 119:42 Psalm 127:5 Proverbs 10:1 Proverbs 23:15 Proverbs 23:25 Proverbs 26:16 Proverbs 27:12 Proverbs 29:3

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.
Where there is temptation, if we thrust ourselves into it, there will be sin, and punishment will follow.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 22:3.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 22:3 Proverbs 27:11 Proverbs 27:13

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.
An honest man may be made a beggar, but he is not honest that makes himself one.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 20:16.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:1 Proverbs 11:15 Proverbs 20:16 Proverbs 27:12

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.
It is folly to be fond of being praised; it is a temptation to pride.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Blesseth - That praises him to his face. A loud voice - That both he, and others, may be sure to take notice of it. Rising early - To shew his great forwardness. A curse - His friend will value this kind of blessing no more than a curse.
McArther Bible Commentary
blesses his friend. Excessive flattery raises suspicion of selfishness.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 12:2 Proverbs 27:15

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.
The contentions of a neighbour may be like a sharp shower, troublesome for a time; the contentions of a wife are like constant rain.
McArther Bible Commentary
See notes on Pro 19:13; Pro 21:9. This kind of woman is impossible to restrain or tame.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 19:13 Proverbs 27:16

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.
The contentions of a neighbour may be like a sharp shower, troublesome for a time; the contentions of a wife are like constant rain.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hideth - Attempts to smother her passion. Right - hand - Which being the great instrument of action, by its much stirring, diffuses the savour of it.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 27:15 Proverbs 27:17

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 are cautioned to take heed whom we converse with. And directed to have in view, in conversation, to make one another wiser and better.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Iron - Iron tools are made sharp and fit for use, by rubbing them against the file, or some other iron. The countenance - The company or conversation of his friend.
McArther Bible Commentary
iron sharpens iron. The benefits of intellectual discussion encourage joy through a keener mind and the improvement of good character which the face will reveal.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 27:16 Proverbs 27:18

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.
Though a calling be laborious and despised, yet those who keep to it, will find there is something to be got by it. God is a Master who has engaged to honour those who serve him faithfully.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
So he - That serves him faithfully, prudently, and diligently.
Bible Cross References
Luke 12:42 Luke 19:17 1 Corinthians 3:8 1 Corinthians 9:7 2 Timothy 2:6 2 Kings 18:31 Psalm 123:2 Proverbs 27:17 Proverbs 27:19 Song of Solomon 8:12 Isaiah 36:16

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.
One corrupt heart is like another; so are sanctified hearts: the former bear the same image of the earthly, the latter the same image of the heavenly. Let us carefully watch our own hearts, comparing them with the word of God.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
So - So one man resembles another in the corruption of his nature.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 27:18 Proverbs 27:20

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.
Two things are here said to be never satisfied, death and sin. The appetites of the carnal mind for profit or pleasure are always desiring more. Those whose eyes are ever toward the Lord, are satisfied in him, and shall for ever be so.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hell - The grave devours all the bodies which are put into it, and is always ready to receive and devour more. The eyes - The desires, which discover themselves by the eyes.
McArther Bible Commentary
Hell and Destruction. Man's desires are never filled up. They are as insatiable as the place of eternal punishment which never overfills (cf. Pro 30:15-16).
Bible Cross References
1 John 2:16 Job 26:6 Proverbs 15:11 Proverbs 27:19 Proverbs 30:15 Proverbs 30:16 Ecclesiastes 1:8 Ecclesiastes 4:8 Habakkuk 2:5 Haggai 1:9

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.
Silver and gold are tried by putting them into the furnace and fining-pot; so is a man tried by praising him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To his praise - Or, according to his praise. So a man is tried by praise.
McArther Bible Commentary
refining pot … what others say. "Value" is not the best understanding. Popularity and praise "test" rather than "value" personal character in the crucible. See note on Pro 17:3.
Bible Cross References
Luke 6:26 Proverbs 17:3

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.
Some are so bad, that even severe methods do not answer the end; what remains but that they should be rejected? The new-creating power of God's grace alone is able to make a change.
McArther Bible Commentary
mortar … pestle. A bowl and rod of stone which were used to crush solid grain into powder.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 23:35 Proverbs 26:11 Jeremiah 5:3 Jeremiah 13:23

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.
We ought to have some business to do in this world, and not to live in idleness, and not to meddle with what we do not understand. We must be diligent and take pains. Let us do what we can, still the world cannot be secured to us, therefore we must choose a more lasting portion; but by the blessing of God upon our honest labours, we may expect to enjoy as much of earthly blessings as is good for us.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Flock - Flocks and herds are here put for all possessions, because anciently they were the chief part of a man's riches.
McArther Bible Commentary
This portion contrasts the common shepherd's labor and God's provision with the fleeting nature of uncertain riches and power (Pro 27:24). Since all lands reverted to the original owners every fifty years, flocks were the staple wealth. Only by care and diligence could they be perpetuated and profitable. God's providence aids this effort (cf. Psa 65:9-13) to use the blessings of the land properly (Pro 27:25-27).
Bible Cross References
John 10:3 Proverbs 24:27 Jeremiah 31:10 Ezekiel 34:12

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.
We ought to have some business to do in this world, and not to live in idleness, and not to meddle with what we do not understand. We must be diligent and take pains. Let us do what we can, still the world cannot be secured to us, therefore we must choose a more lasting portion; but by the blessing of God upon our honest labours, we may expect to enjoy as much of earthly blessings as is good for us.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For - What thou dost now possess, will not last always. If a man had the wealth of a kingdom, without care and diligence it would be brought to nothing.
Bible Cross References
Job 19:9 Psalm 89:39 Proverbs 23:5 Jeremiah 13:18 Lamentations 5:16 Ezekiel 21:26

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.
We ought to have some business to do in this world, and not to live in idleness, and not to meddle with what we do not understand. We must be diligent and take pains. Let us do what we can, still the world cannot be secured to us, therefore we must choose a more lasting portion; but by the blessing of God upon our honest labours, we may expect to enjoy as much of earthly blessings as is good for us.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The hay - Another encouragement to diligence; God invites thee to it by the plentiful provisions wherewith he has enriched the earth for thy sake. The mountains - Even the most barren parts afford thee their help.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 27:26 Isaiah 17:5 Jeremiah 40:10 Jeremiah 40:12

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.
We ought to have some business to do in this world, and not to live in idleness, and not to meddle with what we do not understand. We must be diligent and take pains. Let us do what we can, still the world cannot be secured to us, therefore we must choose a more lasting portion; but by the blessing of God upon our honest labours, we may expect to enjoy as much of earthly blessings as is good for us.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The price - By the sale whereof thou mayest either pay the rent of the field which thou hirest, or purchase fields or lands. Goats might better be spared and sold than sheep, which brought a more constant profit to the owner.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 27:25 Proverbs 27:27

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 ought to have some business to do in this world, and not to live in idleness, and not to meddle with what we do not understand. We must be diligent and take pains. Let us do what we can, still the world cannot be secured to us, therefore we must choose a more lasting portion; but by the blessing of God upon our honest labours, we may expect to enjoy as much of earthly blessings as is good for us.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Goat's milk - Or, if thou chusest rather to keep thy goats, the milk will serve thee for food to thyself and family. In ancient times men used a plain and simple diet.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 27:26 Proverbs 28:1