The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.
The hoary head (is) a crown of glory, (if) it be found in the way of righteousness - rather, as the Proverbs generally consist of two parallel propositions, and there is no if in the Hebrew, "The hoary head is a crown of glory" (Proverbs 20:29) - namely, because age represents Him who is "The Ancient of days;" also, because of the mature experience which old men who have improved their opportunities possess. "It is found in the way of righteousness" (Proverbs 3:16; Proverbs 4:22). The wicked often do not live out half their days. Of course, it is presupposed that "the hoary head" here (as the first clause needs to be supplied from the second clause) is one "found in the way of righteousness:" otherwise it, would be the badge of inveterate shame, not "a crown of glory."