-
Proverbs 18:1-24 open_in_new
1. Lit. 'One who separates himself seeks desire, quarrels with all wisdom.' This would mean that a solitary recluse follows his own wishes and opposes everything reasonable. But LXX suggests, 'The alienated friend seeks an occasion of quarrel, seeks by all means to stir up strife.'
-
Proverbs 18:2 open_in_new
He likes to talk about his own notions.
-
Proverbs 18:4 open_in_new
The second half of the v. shows that it is a wise man who is in view; his words are 'as deep waters,' i.e. are inexhaustible; he is ever ready to give helpful answers.
-
Proverbs 18:8 open_in_new
Wounds] RV 'dainty morsels.' Malicious gossip finds ready acceptance (Jeremiah 15:16).
-
Proverbs 18:10 open_in_new
The name of Jehovah is Jehovah Himself as revealed to men, His manifested character (Psalms 75:1). Orientals have always ascribed mysterious powers to the divine titles. Mohammedans repeat them one by one as they count the ninety-nine beads. One of the ancient Persian books declares that the recital of God's names is the best defence against all danger.
-
Proverbs 18:14 open_in_new
Bear] RM 'raise up.'
-
Proverbs 18:16 open_in_new
A superior cannot be approached in the East without a present.
-
Proverbs 18:17 open_in_new
'Hear the other side.'
-
Proverbs 18:20 open_in_new
A man's happiness depends on the way in which he governs and uses his tongue (Matthew 12:36; Matthew 15:11).
-
Proverbs 18:22 open_in_new
A good wife (Sir 17:28).
-
Proverbs 18:24 open_in_new
RV 'He that maketh many friends doeth it to his own destruction; but'
'The friend thou hast, and his adoption tried,
Grapple him to thy soul with hooks of steel.
But do not dull thy palm with entertainment
Of each new-hatched, unfledged comrade.'