Proverbs 10:17-27

17 The way of life, to him that observeth correction: but he that forsaketh reproofs, goeth astray.
18 Lying lips hide hatred: he that uttereth reproach, is foolish.
19 In the multitude of words there shall not want sin: but he that refraineth his lips, is most wise.
20 The tongue of the just is as choice silver: but the heart of the wicked is nothing worth.
21 The lips of the just teach many: but they that are ignorant, shall die in the want of understanding.
22 The blessing of the Lord maketh men rich: neither shall affliction be joined to them.
23 A fool worketh mischief as it were for sport: but wisdom is prudence to a man.
24 That which the wicked feareth, shall come upon him: to the just their desire shall be given.
25 As a tempest that passeth, so the wicked shall be no more: but the just is as an everlasting foundation.
26 As vinegar to the teeth, and smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that sent him.
27 The fear of the Lord shall prolong days: and the years of the wicked shall be shortened.

Proverbs 10:17-27 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PROVERBS 10

From this chapter to the "twenty fifth" are various proverbial sentences, without any very apparent connection or coherence with each other; describing righteous and wicked men; setting forth their different temper, conduct, and actions, and the fruits and effects of them. It should be observed, that frequently in the preceding chapters two persons are represented as women; one goes by the name of "Wisdom", the other is called the "foolish" woman and a "harlot"; the former is clearly to be understood of Christ; and the latter, being opposed to him, must be antichrist, the whore of Rome, and mother of harlots: now in the following part of this book two sorts of persons are spoken of; the one as wise, righteous, good and the other as foolish, wicked, &c. who are no other than the followers of Christ and antichrist; which observation is a key to the whole book.

The Douay-Rheims Bible is in the public domain.