Proverbs 18:16

16 A gift opens the way for the one who gives it. It helps him meet important people.

Proverbs 18:16 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 18:16

A man's gift maketh room for him
Or "enlarges him" ^F25; brings him out of prison, or, or out of straits and difficulties with which he, has, been pressed; or it makes way for him to a judge, and for a favourable hearing of his cause; or it enlarges his acquaintance, and gains him respect among men; and bringeth him before great men;
it opens a way for him into the presence and company of great men, being a fee to their servants; or with it he procures a place to wait on them. It is not necessary to understand it of a gift by way of bribe; but to introduce a person to another, and render him acceptable, and appease anger; as in the cases of Jacob and Abigail, ( Genesis 32:20 ) ( 43:11 ) ( 1 Samuel 25:27 ) .

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FOOTNOTES:

F25 (byxry) .

Proverbs 18:16 In-Context

14 A man's cheerful heart gives him strength when he is sick. You can't keep going if you have a broken spirit.

15 Those whose hearts understand what is right get knowledge. The ears of those who are wise listen for it.

16 A gift opens the way for the one who gives it. It helps him meet important people.

17 The first one to tell his case seems right. Then someone else comes forward and questions him.

18 Casting lots will put a stop to arguing. It will keep the strongest enemies apart.