Bible CommentariesCommentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole BibleProverbs 26
Verse 1
The incongruities of nature illustrate also those of the moral world. The fool‘s unworthiness is also implied (Proverbs 17:7; Proverbs 19:10).
Verse 2
Though not obvious to us, the bird — literally, “sparrow” - and swallow — have an object in their motions, so penal evil falls on none without a reason.
Verse 3
The rod is as much needed by fools and as well suited to them, as whips and bridles are for beasts.
Verse 6
A fool fails by folly as surely as if he were maimed. drinketh damage — that is, gets it abundantly (Job 15:16; Job 34:7).
Verse 7
equal — or, “take away the legs,” or “the legs are weak.” In any case the idea is that they are the occasion of an awkwardness, such as the fool shows in using a parable or proverb (see on Introduction; Proverbs 17:7).
Verse 9
As vexatious and unmanageable as a thorn in a drunkard‘s hand is a parable to a fool. He will be as apt to misuse is as to use it rightly.
Verse 10
Various versions of this are proposed (compare Margin). Better perhaps - “Much He injures (or literally, “wounds”) all who reward,” etc., that is, society is injured by encouraging evil men. transgressors — may be rendered “vagrants.” The word “God” is improperly supplied.
Verse 17
meddleth — as in Proverbs 20:19; Proverbs 24:21; as either holding a dog by the ears or letting him go involves danger, so success in another man‘s strife or failure involves a useless risk of reputation, does no good, and may do us harm.
Verse 23
Warm professions can no more give value to insincerity than silver coating to rude earthenware.
Verse 24
dissembleth — though an unusual sense of the word (compare Margin), is allowable, and better suits the context, which sets forth hypocrisy.
Verse 25
Sentiment of Proverbs 26:24 carried out. seven abominations in his heart — that is, very many (compare Proverbs 24:16).
Verse 26-27
Deceit will at last be exposed, and the wicked by their own arts often bring on retribution (compare Proverbs 12:13; Psalm 7:16; Psalm 9:17, etc.).
Verse 28
Men hate those they injure. A lying tongue — “lips” for the persons (compare Proverbs 4:24; Psalm 12:3).
Copyright Statement Bibliography Information |
Commentary Navigator
Search This Commentary
|