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Ask a QuestionFrom the folly of the sluggard learn wisdom (Pr 6:10, 11).
heir...mistress--that is, takes her place as a wife (Ge 16:4).
The character of these proverbs sustains the title (see Introduction). also--refers to the former part of the book. copied out--literally, "transferred," that is, from some other book to this; not...
Wisdom personified as bringing the best blessings (compare Mt6:33; 1Ti 4:8).
Not only accept but love wisdom, who will keep thee from evil, and evil from thee.
(Compare Ps 1:1). Avoid all temptations to the beginning of evil.
Let...before thee--that is, pursue a sincere and direct purpose, avoiding temptations.
The improvident sluggards usually want sureties. Hence, such are advised to industry by the ant's example.
reproofs--(Pr 1:23) the convictions of error produced by instruction.
lacketh understanding--or, "heart"; destitute of moral principle and prudence.
straightway--quickly, either as ignorant of danger, or incapable of resistance.
The publicity and universality of the call contrast with the secrecy and intrigues of the wicked (Pr 7:8, &c.).
on a seat--literally, "throne," takes a prominent place, impudently and haughtily.
seven times--often, or many (Pr 6:16, 31; 9:1).
Ye wisely keeping state secrets, which to common men are as inaccessible heights and depths.
Adhere to tried friends. The ties of blood may be less reliable than those of genuine friendship.
understand--or, "perceive intelligently." find--obtain.
paths of uprightness--or, "plainness." walk--habitually act;
presses--or wine fats (Joe 2:24; 3:13).
(Compare Pr 3:18). The figure of laying hold with the hand suggests earnest effort.
health...flesh--by preserving from vices destructive of health.
regard--or, "observe." keep--preserve constantly.
apple...eye--pupil of eye, a custody (Pr 4:23) of special value.
not silver--preferable to it, so last clause implies comparison.
direct--or, "make plain"; wicked ways are not plain (Pr 13:17).
put a knife--an Eastern figure for putting restraint on the appetite.
of which an example is justifying the wicked, to which is opposed, rebuking him, which has a blessing.
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.
household--literally, "house," the family (Ac 16:15; 1Co 1:16).
assign reasons in their value for happiness and ornament, guidance and support in dangers, both when waking and sleeping.