1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

2 For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged.

3 A poor man that oppresseth the poor is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.

4 They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them.

5 Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the Lord understand all things.

6 Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.

7 Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.

8 He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.

9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.

10 Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself into his own pit: but the upright shall have good things in possession.

11 The rich man is wise in his own conceit; but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out.

12 When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.

13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

14 Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

15 As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.

16 The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.

17 A man that doeth violence to the blood of any person shall flee to the pit; let no man stay him.

18 Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved: but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.

19 He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.

20 A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

21 To have respect of persons is not good: for for a piece of bread that man will transgress.

22 He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

23 He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

24 Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer.

25 He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat.

26 He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.

27 He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.

28 When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase.

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.
Sin makes men cowards. Whatever difficulties the righteous meet in the way of duty, they are not daunted.
McArther Bible Commentary
A guilty conscience imagines accusers everywhere (cf. Num 32:23; Psa 53:5), while a clear conscience has boldness to face everyone.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 26:17 Leviticus 26:36 2 Kings 7:7 Nehemiah 6:11 Psalm 53:5 Proverbs 27:27 Isaiah 30:17

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.
National sins disturb the public repose.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
But - By a wise and good prince.
McArther Bible Commentary
many are its princes. Unrighteousness in a nation produces political instability with many vying for power; thus, the tenure of each leader is shortened. Wisdom promotes social order and long rule.
Bible Cross References
1 Kings 16:8 2 Kings 15:8 Proverbs 11:11

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.
If needy persons get opportunities of oppressing, their extortion will be more severe than that of the more wealthy.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
It like - Is like a violent rain or flood, which washes away the very seeds in the earth. He is the worst of all oppressors.
McArther Bible Commentary
oppresses the poor. When the poor come to power and oppress their own, it is as bad as a violent storm flooding the fields instead of watering the crop.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 18:28 Numbers 10:9

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.
Wicked people strengthen one another in wicked ways.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Contend - Are so far from praising them, that they severely reprove them.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 3:7 Matthew 14:4 Romans 1:32 Ephesians 5:11 1 Kings 18:18 Nehemiah 13:11 Nehemiah 13:15 Psalm 49:18

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.
If a man seeks the Lord, it is a good sign that he understands much, and it is a good means of understanding more.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Judgment - What is just and right. All things - Which are necessary to be known by them.
Bible Cross References
John 7:17 1 Corinthians 2:15 1 John 2:20 1 John 2:27 Psalm 92:6 Psalm 119:100 Proverbs 2:9 Isaiah 6:9 Isaiah 44:18

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.
An honest, godly, poor man, is better than a wicked, ungodly, rich man; has more comfort in himself, and is a greater blessing to the world.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Better - In a much happier condition.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:2 Proverbs 19:1

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.
Companions of riotous men not only grieve their parents, but shame them.
McArther Bible Commentary
The son who obeyed God's law would not be a glutton and shame his father. Cf. Pro 23:19-25.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 23:20 Proverbs 29:3

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.
That which is ill got, though it may increase much, will not last long. Thus the poor are repaid, and God is glorified.
McArther Bible Commentary
usury and extortion. The law forbade the charging of interest to fellow Jews (see Deu 23:19-20), but this was often violated (cf. Neh 5:7, Neh 5:11; Eze 22:12). gathers it for him. In the providence and justice of God, such wealth will be forfeited to someone who treats the poor fairly. See notes on Pro 13:22; Pro 14:31.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 22:25 Leviticus 25:36 Job 27:17 Psalm 72:13 Proverbs 13:22 Proverbs 14:21 Proverbs 14:31

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.
The sinner at whose prayers God is angry, is one who obstinately refuses to obey God's commands.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 15:8.
Bible Cross References
John 9:31 Psalm 66:18 Psalm 109:7 Proverbs 10:3 Proverbs 15:8 Proverbs 21:27 Isaiah 41:24

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 success of ungodly men is their own misery.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Causeth - That by evil counsel, or example, or artifice, draws them into evil.
McArther Bible Commentary
The attempted corruption of the righteous is a wicked sin (Mat 5:19; Pro 18:6; Pro 23:15). fall into his own pit. See note on Pro 26:27.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 6:33 Hebrews 6:12 1 Peter 3:9 Psalm 7:15 Psalm 57:6 Psalm 139:24 Proverbs 2:21 Proverbs 26:27

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.
Rich men are so flattered, that they think themselves superior to others.
McArther Bible Commentary
rich man is wise in his own eyes. This contrasts the discerning poor with the rich man, who is deceived by his self-confidence. Riches are not always possessed by the unrighteous and wisdom by the poor, but more often than not, this is the case due to the blinding nature of wealth (cf. Pro 11:28; Pro 18:23; Mat 19:23-24).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 3:7 Proverbs 26:5 Proverbs 26:12

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.
There is glory in the land when the righteous have liberty.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Rejoice - Are promoted. Glory - In that common - wealth. Rise - Are advanced to authority. Hidden - Wise and good men, who only are worthy of the name of men, withdraw themselves into obscure places.
McArther Bible Commentary
When wicked people come into power, the righteous shout (Pro 11:10), groan (Pro 29:2), and hide (Pro 28:28).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:10 Proverbs 28:28 Proverbs 29:2 Ecclesiastes 10:5 Ecclesiastes 10:6

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.
It is folly to indulge sin, and excuse it. He who covers his sins, shall not have any true peace. He who humbly confesses his sins, with true repentance and faith, shall find mercy from God. The Son of God is our great atonement. Under a deep sense of our guilt and danger, we may claim salvation from that mercy which reigns through righteousness unto eternal life, by Jesus Christ our Lord.
McArther Bible Commentary
covers … confesses. Sin must not be covered but confessed. See notes on Psa 32:1-9; 1Jn 1:6-9.
Bible Cross References
1 John 1:9 Genesis 3:12 Leviticus 5:5 2 Samuel 12:13 2 Samuel 14:32 Ezra 10:11 Nehemiah 9:2 Job 31:33 Psalm 32:3 Psalm 32:5 Jeremiah 2:35 Daniel 4:27

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.
There is a fear which causes happiness. Faith and love will deliver from the fear of eternal misery; but we should always fear offending God, and fear sinning against him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Alway - In all times, companies, and conditions.
McArther Bible Commentary
hardens his heart. Cf. Exo 7:13; Exo 17:7; Psa 95:8; Rom 2:5.
Bible Cross References
Romans 2:5 Psalm 95:8 Proverbs 23:17

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.
A wicked ruler, whatever we may call him, this scripture calls a roaring lion, and a ranging bear.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 2:16 1 Peter 5:8 Exodus 1:14 Proverbs 19:12 Proverbs 29:2

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.
Oppressors want understanding; they do not consult their own honour, ease, and safety.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Oppressor - The tyranny of a prince, is a manifest sign of folly. Prolong - By God's favour, the peace and satisfaction of his own mind, and the hearty love of his people.
McArther Bible Commentary
great oppressor. The tyrannical leader who is covetous is foolish and short-lived.
Bible Cross References
Ecclesiastes 10:16 Isaiah 3:12

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.
The murderer shall be haunted with terrors. None shall desire to save him from deserved punishment, nor pity him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Violence - That sheddeth any man's blood. Shall flee - Shall speedily be destroyed. Shall slay - None should desire or endeavour to save him from his deserved punishment.
McArther Bible Commentary
Whoever is inwardly tormented by the murder of someone takes to ceaseless flight to escape the avenger of blood and the punishment of his crime. He flees and finds no rest until the grave receives him. The exhortation is to avoid helping a murderer with any support, refuge, or security against the vengeance which pursues him from the arm of justice.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 9:6 Exodus 21:14 Proverbs 6:17 Jeremiah 41:15

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.
Uprightness will give men holy security in the worst times; but the false and dishonest are never safe.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
At once - Once for all; so he shall never rise more.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:9 Proverbs 10:27

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.
Those who are diligent, take the way to live comfortably.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:11 Proverbs 20:13

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 true way to be happy, is to be holy and honest; not to raise an estate suddenly, without regard to right or wrong.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Faithful - Who deals truly and justly in all his transactions.
McArther Bible Commentary
abound with blessings. Blessings are the product of honest labor. See notes on Pro 10:22; Pro 11:24-26; cf. Gen 49:25; Mal 3:10. hastens to be rich. See note on Pro 20:21; cf. 1Ti 6:9.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 24:45 Matthew 25:21 1 Timothy 6:9 Proverbs 10:6 Proverbs 19:2 Proverbs 20:21 Proverbs 23:4 Proverbs 28:22

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.
Judgment is perverted, when any thing but pure right is considered.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For - When a man hath once accustomed himself to take bribes, a very small advantage will make him sell justice.
McArther Bible Commentary
piece of bread. A small bribe. Cf. Pro 15:27; Pro 18:5; Pro 24:23.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 18:5 Proverbs 24:23 Ezekiel 13:19

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 hastens to be rich, never seriously thinks how quickly God may take his wealth from him, and leave him in poverty.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Evil eye - Is uncharitable to persons in want, and envious to those who get any thing besides him. Poverty - And consequently that he shall need the pity and help of others.
McArther Bible Commentary
man with an evil eye. A miser is motivated by greed. See notes on Pro 21:5-7.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 21:5 Proverbs 22:16 Proverbs 23:6 Proverbs 28:20

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.
Upon reflection, most will have a better opinion of a faithful reprover than of a soothing flatterer.
McArther Bible Commentary
Flattery has no value but reproof does; so, it leads to gratitude. Cf. Pro 16:13; Pro 27:5-6.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 24:25 Proverbs 27:5 Proverbs 27:6 Proverbs 29:5

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.
Here is the wickedness of those who think it no sin to rob their parents, by wheedling them or threatening them, or by wasting what they have, and running into debt.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The same - Is a thief and robber.
McArther Bible Commentary
robs his father … mother. See note on Pro 19:26. To plunder one's own family is an unthinkable crime, but it is worse yet when denied.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 35:10 Proverbs 18:9 Proverbs 19:26

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.
Those make themselves always easy, that live in continual dependence upon God and his grace, and live by faith.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Fat - Shall live happily and comfortably.
McArther Bible Commentary
proud heart … strife. This is arrogance that satisfies itself at the expense of conflict with others and never knows the prosperity of humble trust in God.
Bible Cross References
1 Timothy 6:6 Proverbs 10:3 Proverbs 11:25 Proverbs 15:18 Proverbs 15:27 Proverbs 29:25

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.
A fool trusts to his own strength, merit, and righteousness. And trusts to his own heart, which is not only deceitful above all things, but which has often deceived him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Wisely - Distrusting his own judgment, and seeking the advice of others, and especially of God.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:12 Proverbs 3:5

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.
A selfish man not only will not look out for objects of compassion, but will look off from those that call for his attention.
McArther Bible Commentary
hides his eyes. This refers to a person who does not respond to the needs of the poor. See note on Pro 14:31; cf. 1Jn 3:16-18.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:24 Proverbs 19:17 Proverbs 28:28

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.
When power is put into the hands of the wicked, wise men decline public business. If the reader will go diligently over this and the other chapters, in many places where at first he may suppose there is least of Christ, still he will find what will lead to him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Men - Righteous men are afraid to appear publickly.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on verse Pro 28:12.
Bible Cross References
Job 24:4 Proverbs 28:12 Proverbs 28:27 Proverbs 29:1