Proverbs 14:5-15

5 A faithful witness does not lie; but an unjust witness kindles falsehoods.

6 Thou shalt seek wisdom with bad men, and shalt not find it; but discretion is easily available with the prudent.

7 All things are adverse to a foolish man; but wise lips are the weapons of discretion.

8 The wisdom of the prudent will understand their ways; but the folly of fools leads astray.

9 The houses of transgressors will need purification; but the houses of the just are acceptable.

10 a man's mind is intelligent, his soul is sorrowful; and when he rejoices, he has no fellowship with pride.

11 The houses of ungodly men shall be utterly destroyed; but the tabernacles of them that walk uprightly shall stand.

12 There is a way which seems to be right with men, but the ends of it reach to the depths of hell.

13 Grief mingles not with mirth; and joy in the end comes to grief.

14 A stout-hearted shall be filled with his own ways; and a good man with his own thoughts.

15 The simple believes every word: but the prudent man betakes himself to after-thought.

Proverbs 14:5-15 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]. Gr. shall owe. See Job 6.21.
• [b]. Or, heart be sensitive.
• [c]. Gr. come.
• [d]. Lit. bold-hearted.