Proverbs 14:3-13

3 In the fool's mouth is a rod of pride; but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

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

5 A faithful witness will not lie; but a false witness uttereth lies.

6 A scorner seeketh wisdom, and there is none [for him]; but knowledge is easy unto the intelligent.

7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, in whom thou perceivest not the lips of knowledge.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way; but the folly of the foolish is deceit.

9 Fools make a mock at trespass; but for the upright there is favour.

10 The heart knoweth its own bitterness, and a stranger doth not intermeddle with its joy.

11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown; but the tent of the upright shall flourish.

12 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof is the ways of death.

13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful, and the end of mirth is sadness.

Proverbs 14:3-13 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]. As ch. 6.19; so ver. 25; ch. 19.5,9.
• [b]. Lit. 'among.'
• [c]. Or 'good-will.'