Proverbs 14:21-31

21 He who despises his neighbor sins, But blessed is he who has pity on the poor.

22 Don't they go astray who plot evil? But love and faithfulness belong to those who plan good.

23 In all hard work there is profit, But the talk of the lips leads only to poverty.

24 The crown of the wise is their riches, But the folly of fools crowns them with folly.

25 A truthful witness saves souls, But a false witness is deceitful.

26 In the fear of Yahweh is a secure fortress, And he will be a refuge for his children.

27 The fear of Yahweh is a fountain of life, Turning people from the snares of death.

28 In the multitude of people is the king's glory, But in the lack of people is the destruction of the prince.

29 He who is slow to anger has great understanding, But he who has a quick temper displays folly.

30 The life of the body is a heart at peace, But envy rots the bones.

31 He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for his Maker, But he who is kind to the needy honors him.

Proverbs 14:21-31 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.