Bible Commentaries
JFB Critical & Explanatory on the Whole Bible
Proverbs 27
heavy — The literal sense of “heavy,” applied to material subjects, illustrates its figurative, “grievous,” applied to moral.
a fool‘s wrath — is unreasonable and excessive.
envy — or, “jealousy” (compare Margin; Proverbs 6:34), is more unappeasable than the simpler bad passions.
secret love — not manifested in acts is useless; and even, if its exhibition by rebukes wounds us, such love is preferable to the frequent (compare Margin), and hence deceitful, kisses of an enemy.
rejoice the heart — the organ of perceiving what pleases the senses.
sweetness counsel — or, “wise counsel is also pleasing.”
Adhere to tried friends. The ties of blood may be less reliable than those of genuine friendship.
The wisdom of children both reflects credit on parents and contributes to their aid in difficulties.
hideth — or, “restrains” (that is, tries to do it); is as fruitless an effort, as that of holding the wind.
the ointment of his right hand — the organ of power (Psalm 17:7; Psalm 18:35). His right hand endeavors to repress perfume, but vainly. Some prefer: “His right hand comes on oil,” that is, “cannot take hold.” Such a woman cannot be tamed.
a man sharpeneth friend — that is, conversation promotes intelligence, which the face exhibits.
Praise tests character.
a man to his praise — according to his praise, as he bears it. Thus vain men seek it, weak men are inflated by it, wise men disregard it, etc.
flocks — constituted the staple of wealth. It is only by care and diligence that the most solid possessions can be perpetuated (Proverbs 23:5).
The fact that providential arrangements furnish the means of competence to those who properly use them is another motive to diligence (compare Psalm 65:9-13).
The hay appeareth — literally, “Grass appeareth” (Job 40:15; Psalm 104:14).
household — literally, “house,” the family (Acts 16:15; 1 Corinthians 1:16).
Comments