Proverbs 14:2-12

2 He who walks in his uprightness fears the LORD, But he who is perverse in his ways despises him.

3 The fool's talk brings a rod to his back, But the lips of the wise protect them.

4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean, But much increase is by the strength of the ox.

5 A truthful witness will not lie, But a false witness pours out lies.

6 A scoffer seeks wisdom, and doesn't find it, But knowledge comes easily to a discerning person.

7 Stay away from a foolish man, For you won't find knowledge on his lips.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to think about his way, But the folly of fools is deceit.

9 Fools mock at making atonement for sins, But among the upright there is good will.

10 The heart knows its own bitterness and joy; He will not share these with a stranger.

11 The house of the wicked will be overthrown, But the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There is a way which seems right to a man, But in the end it leads to death.

Proverbs 14:2-12 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.