Proverbs 23:9-19

9 Don't speak in the ears of fools, for they will scorn your insightful words.

10 Don't remove an ancient boundary marker; don't invade the fields of orphans,

11 for their redeemer is strong. He will bring charges against you.

12 Bring your mind to instruction, your ear to knowledgeable sayings.

13 Don't withhold instruction from children; if you strike them with a rod, they won't die.

14 Strike them with a rod, and you will save their lives from the grave.

15 My child, if your heart is wise, then my heart too will be happy.

16 My inner being will rejoice when your lips speak with integrity.

17 Don't let your heart envy sinners, but fear the LORD constantly;

18 then you will have a future, and your hope won't be cut off.

19 Listen, my child, and be wise! Keep your mind straight on the path

Proverbs 23:9-19 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 11

This chapter relates the false steps Solomon took, notwithstanding all his wisdom, in marrying strange wives, and worshipping other gods, 1Ki 11:1-8 upon which the Lord threatens him to rend the kingdom in his son's time, 1Ki 11:9-13 and he raised up adversaries against him, Hadad, Rezon, and Jeroboam, 1Ki 11:14-26 of which last an account is given, and of his being assured by Ahijah the prophet of his having ten of the tribes of Israel given to him; which Solomon having notice of sought to slay him, 1Ki 11:27-40 and the chapter is concluded with an account of Solomon's death and burial, 1Ki 11:41-43.

Footnotes

• [a]. Heb Sheol