Proverbs 14:1-9

1 The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.
2 Whoever fears the LORD walks uprightly, but those who despise him are devious in their ways.
3 A fool’s mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them.
4 Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests.
5 An honest witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.
6 The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.
7 Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.
8 The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.
9 Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright.

Proverbs 14:1-9 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.

Cross References 8

  • 1. S Ruth 3:11; Proverbs 24:3
  • 2. S Proverbs 10:14; Ecclesiastes 10:12
  • 3. S Proverbs 10:13; S Proverbs 12:6
  • 4. Psalms 144:14
  • 5. S Psalms 12:2; S Proverbs 6:19; Proverbs 12:17
  • 6. S Proverbs 9:9
  • 7. ver 15; Proverbs 15:28; Proverbs 21:29
  • 8. ver 24
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