Proverbs 12
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15. The way . . . eyes--The fool is self-conceited (compare Proverbs 12:1 , 1:32 , 10:17 , 3:17 ).
16. prudent . . . shame--He is slow to denounce his insulters ( James 1:19 ).
18. speaketh--literally, "speaketh hastily," or indiscreetly ( Psalms 106:33 ), as an angry man retorts harsh and provoking invectives.
tongue . . . health--by soothing and gentle language.
19. Words of truth are consistent, and stand all tests, while lies are soon discovered and exposed.
20. that imagine--or, "plan" ( Proverbs 3:29 ). They design a deceitful course, to which, with all its evils and dangers to others and themselves, the happiness of peace-makers is opposed (compare Matthew 5:9 , Romans 12:18 ).
21. no evil--(as in Psalms 91:10 ), under God's wise limitations ( Romans 8:28 ).
mischief--as penal evil.
22. deal truly--or, "faithfully," that is, according to promises (compare John 3:21 ).
23. concealeth--by his modesty ( Proverbs 10:14 , 11:13 ).
heart . . . proclaimeth--as his lips speak his thoughts (compare Ecclesiastes 10:3 ).
24. slothful--(Compare Margin), so called because he fails to meet his promises.
under tribute--not denoting legal taxes, but the obligation of dependence.
25. a good word--one of comfort.
26. more excellent--(Compare Margin); or, "more successful," while the wicked fail; or, we may read it: "The righteous guides his friend, but," &c., that is, The ability of the righteous to aid others is contrasted with the ruin to which the way of the wicked leads themselves.
27. (Compare Proverbs 12:24 ).
took in hunting--or, "his venison." He does not improve his advantages.
the substance . . . precious--or, "the wealth of a man of honor is being diligent," or "diligence."
precious--literally, "honor" ( Ecclesiastes 10:1 ).
28. (Compare Proverbs 8:8 Proverbs 8:20 , &c.). A sentiment often stated; here first affirmatively, then negatively.