Proverbs 21:18-28

18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, And the unfaithful for the upright.

19 Better to dwell in the wilderness, Than with a contentious and angry woman.

20 There is desirable treasure, And oil in the dwelling of the wise, But a foolish man squanders it.

21 He who follows righteousness and mercy Finds life, righteousness and honor.

22 A wise man scales the city of the mighty, And brings down the trusted stronghold.

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

24 A proud and haughty man--"Scoffer" is his name; He acts with arrogant pride.

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

26 He covets greedily all day long, But the righteous gives and does not spare.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; How much more when he brings it with wicked intent!

28 A false witness shall perish, But the man who hears him will speak endlessly.

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.