Proverbs 14:24-34

24 The crown of the wise is their wealth, but the foolishness of fools produces foolishness.

25 A truthful witness rescues lives, but one who utters lies is deceitful.^[a]

26 In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence and his children have a refuge.^[b]

27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning people from the snares of death.^[c]

28 A large population is a king's splendor, but a shortage of people is a ruler's devastation.

29 A patient person [shows] great understanding, but a quick-tempered one promotes foolishness.

30 A tranquil heart is life to the body,^[d] but jealousy is rottenness to the bones.^[e]

31 The one who oppresses the poor insults their Maker,^[f] but one who is kind to the needy honors Him.^[g]

32 The wicked are thrown down by their own sin, but the righteous have a refuge when they die.^[h]

33 Wisdom resides in the heart of the discerning;^[i] she is known^[j] even among fools.

34 Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.^[k]

Proverbs 14:24-34 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.

Footnotes

• [a]. Pr 6:19; 12:17; 14:5
• [b]. Pr 29:25
• [c]. Pr 13:14; 16:22; 19:23
• [d]. Pr 3:8; 4:22; 16:24
• [e]. Pr 12:4; 27:4; Jms 3:16
• [f]. Pr 17:5; 21:13
• [g]. Pr 3:9; 14:21; 19:17
• [h]. Pr 10:25
• [i]. Pr 15:14; 18:15
• [j]. LXX reads unknown
• [k]. Pr 11:11