Proverbs 21:17-27

17 He that loveth mirth shall be a poor man; he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.

18 The wicked is a ransom for the righteous, and a treacherous [man] in the stead of the upright.

19 It is better to dwell in a desert land. than with a contentious and irritable woman.

20 There is costly store and oil in the dwelling of a wise [man]; but a foolish man swalloweth it up.

21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.

22 A wise [man] scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.

23 Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

24 Proud, arrogant, scorner is his name who dealeth in proud wrath.

25 The desire of the sluggard killeth him; for his hands refuse to work:

26 He coveteth greedily all the day long; but the righteous giveth and spareth not.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more when they bring it with a wicked purpose!

Proverbs 21:17-27 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.