Proverbs 21:18-28

18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.

19 It is better to dwell in the wilderness than with a contentious and angry woman.

20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man spendeth it up.

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

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

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

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

25 The desire of the slothful killeth him, for his hands refuse to labor;

26 he coveteth greedily all the day long, but the righteous giveth and spareth not.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more so when he bringeth it with a wicked mind!

28 A false witness shall perish, but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.

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.