Proverbs 21:18-28

18 The wicked is a ransom for the righteous; The treacherous for the upright.

19 It is better to dwell in a desert land, Than with a contentious and fretful woman.

20 There is precious treasure and oil in the dwelling of the wise; But a foolish man swallows it up.

21 He who follows after righteousness and kindness Finds life, righteousness, and honor.

22 A wise man scales the city of the mighty, And brings down the strength of its confidence.

23 Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue Keeps his soul from troubles.

24 The proud and haughty man, "scoffer" is his name; He works in the arrogance of pride.

25 The desire of the sluggard kills him, For his hands refuse to labor.

26 There are those who covet greedily all the day long; But the righteous gives and doesn't withhold.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination: How much more, when he brings it with a wicked mind!

28 A false witness will perish, And a man who listens speaks to eternity.

Proverbs 21:18-28 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 9

This chapter relates a second vision Solomon had at Gibeon, in which he received an answer to his prayer in the preceding chapter, 1Ki 9:1-9 that passed between him and Hiram king of Tyre, 1Ki 9:10-14, the places that Solomon built or repaired, 1Ki 9:15-19, the Canaanitish people that became bondmen to him, and the officers he had among the children of Israel, 1Ki 9:20-23 the removal of Pharaoh's daughter to the house built for her, 1Ki 9:24. Solomon's attention to religious services, 1Ki 9:25 and the navy of ships he employed, which brought him in great riches, 1Ki 9:26-28.