Proverbs 14:11-21

11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will stand.^{[a] [b]}

12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way^[c] to death.^[d]

13 Even in laughter a heart may be sad, and joy may end in grief.

14 The disloyal will get what their conduct deserves, and a good man, what his [deeds deserve.]^[e]

15 The inexperienced believe anything, but the sensible watch^[f] their steps.^[g]

16 A wise man is cautious and turns from evil, but a fool is easily angered and is careless.^[h]

17 A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, and a man who schemes is hated.^[i]

18 The gullible inherit foolishness, but the sensible are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow before those who are good, the wicked, at the gates of the righteous.

20 A poor man is hated even by his neighbor, but there are many who love the rich.^[j]

21 The one who despises his neighbor sins,^[k] but whoever shows kindness to the poor will be happy.

Proverbs 14:11-21 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KINGS 4

As in the preceding chapter we have a proof of the wisdom and understanding which the Lord gave to Solomon, as promised, so in this an account is given of the riches and honour he was possessed of; of him, as king over all Israel, and of his princes, 1Ki 4:1-6; of the providers of food for his household in the several parts of the land, 1Ki 4:7-19; of the largeness and extent of his dominions, and of the peace and prosperity thereof, 1Ki 4:20,21,24,25; of his daily provisions for his household and for his cattle, 1Ki 4:22,23,26-28; and of his superior wisdom and knowledge to all others in all nations, which brought some out of all to hear it, 1Ki 4:29-34.

Footnotes

• [a]. Lit flourish
• [b]. Pr 10:25; 11:28; 12:7; Mt 7:24-27
• [c]. Lit ways
• [d]. Pr 5:4; 16:25
• [e]. Pr 1:31; 12:14; 18:20; 28:19
• [f]. Lit the prudent understand
• [g]. Jms 1:5-8
• [h]. Or and falls
• [i]. Pr 12:2; 24:8
• [j]. Pr 19:4,6
• [k]. Pr 11:12