Proverbs 12:15-25

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes; but he that is wise hearkeneth unto counsel.

16 The vexation of the fool is presently known; but a prudent [man] covereth shame.

17 He that uttereth truth sheweth forth righteousness; but a false witness deceit.

18 There is that babbleth like the piercings of a sword; but the tongue of the wise is health.

19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever; but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of them that devise evil; but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

21 There shall no evil happen to a righteous [man]; but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.

22 Lying lips are an abomination to Jehovah; but they that deal truly are his delight.

23 A prudent man concealeth knowledge; but the heart of the foolish proclaimeth folly.

24 The hand of the diligent shall bear rule; but the slothful [hand] shall be under tribute.

25 Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop; but a good word maketh it glad.

Proverbs 12:15-25 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KING 2

This chapter gives an account of the charge David gave to his son Solomon, a little before his death, to walk in the ways of the Lord, 1Ki 2:1-4; and of some instructions delivered to him concerning some particular persons he should either show favour to, or execute justice on, 1Ki 2:5-9; and the next account in it is concerning his death and burial, and the years of his reign, 1Ki 2:10,11; after which it relates an address of Bathsheba to Solomon in favour of Adonijah, which was refused, and the issue of it was his death, 1Ki 2:12-25; and the deposition of Abiathar from the priesthood, 1Ki 2:26,27; and the putting of Joab to death for his treason and murders, 1Ki 2:28-34; in whose post Benaiah was put, as Zadok was in the place of Abiathar, 1Ki 2:35; and lastly the confinement of Shimei in Jerusalem, who had cursed David, 1Ki 2:36-38; who upon transgressing the orders given him was put to death, 1Ki 2:39-46.

Footnotes

• [a] Lit. 'in the day.'
• [b] As ch. 6.19.