Proverbs 27:14 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice— "He who spends all his time in nothing else but in extravagant praises of his benefactor, rather disparages than commends him." Or, it may be, "He that is hasty to commend his friend, does him rather a disservice than a kindness." Moderate and seasonable praises, says the great Lord Bacon, uttered upon occasion, conduce both to men's fame and prosperity. But, when immoderate, streperous, and unseasonably poured out, they profit nothing; nay rather, according to the sense of this parable, they do much prejudice. For, first, they manifestly betray themselves either to proceed from too much affection, or from studious affectation; whereby they may rather ingratiate themselves with him whom they praise by false commendations, than adorn his person by just and deserved attributes. Secondly, sparing and modest praises commonly invite such as are present to add something of their own to the commendation; contrarywise, profuse and immoderate praises invite the hearers to detract and take away something which belongs to them. Thirdly, which is the principal point—too much magnifying a man stirs up envy towards him; seeing all immoderate praises look like a reproach to others, who think they merit no less.