Category: Proverbs

A Foolish Son

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Proverbs 17:25 A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him. 

This short but deeply emotional proverb reflects a timeless truth about the pain parents endure when a child chooses the path of folly. It captures not only the sorrow that foolishness brings into a family, but also the specific way it wounds both father and mother differently. The phrase “a foolish son” refers to more than someone who lacks intelligence; it points to a son who has rejected wisdom, discipline, moral responsibility, and reverence for God. He is characterised by careless behaviour, poor decisions, disrespect, irresponsibility, and often, outright rebellion. This kind of person is not simply immature, but willfully foolish, ignoring correction and disregarding the values he was taught.

Such a son is described as “a grief to his father.” A father often sees himself as a guide and protector, one who sets the direction and provides correction and discipline. When his son rejects his guidance and chooses a path of ruin, it brings deep disappointment, emotional pain, and often public shame. The father’s grief is not just about disobedience; it is the sorrow of watching a child squander their potential and lose out on eternity with a loving God.

The second part – “and bitterness to her that bare him” – shifts the focus to the mother. Her connection to the child is deeply personal, tender, and sacrificial. The phrase “that bare him” reminds us of the labour, nurturing, and emotional investment she gave from the very beginning. For such a mother, the son’s foolishness doesn’t just cause sadness; it causes bitterness, a deeper kind of suffering. It’s the heartbreak of seeing her love rejected and her child choose a path of self-destruction. It is a wound that strikes at the core of her identity as a mother.

Together, the proverb shows that foolishness has relational consequences. It doesn’t only harm the fool, it wounds those who love him most. A child who refuses wisdom brings not only personal failure but also emotional devastation to his parents.

Ultimately, the proverb is a call to cherish wisdom, to live responsibly, and to honour the loving guidance of those who have poured their lives into us.

Him that has Understanding

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Proverbs 17:24 Wisdom is before him that has understanding; but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth. 

This proverb presents a striking contrast between two types of people: the wise and the foolish. The difference is not in access to wisdom, but in attitude, focus, and direction.

The first line – “Wisdom is before him that has understanding” – describes the truly wise person. To “have understanding” in this context means to possess discernment, humility, and a heart inclined toward truth. For such a person, wisdom is right in front of them, readily available, practical, and accessible. They are focused, grounded, and attentive to what truly matters in life: moral responsibility, daily choices, relationships, and reverence for God.

The wise person doesn’t need to chase after exotic theories, distant dreams, or unattainable ideals. He sees the value of wisdom in the present moment and the present place. It is “before him” because he is looking in the right direction, with a teachable spirit and a steady heart.

In contrast, the second line – “but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth” – depicts someone whose mind is always elsewhere. The fool does not see the value of wisdom right in front of him. Instead, he chases illusions, fantasies, or get-rich-quick schemes. His eyes are constantly wandering to distant things, both physically and metaphorically. He is distracted, restless, and deluded by the belief that fulfilment lies somewhere far away.

The “ends of the earth” symbolise unrealistic goals, escapism, and discontentment. Rather than living in the moment and seeking truth where he is, the fool is always imagining that something better exists beyond his reach, if only he could get there. But because he refuses to learn, listen, or grow, he never arrives anywhere meaningful. He spends his life in pursuit of things that have no value, while neglecting the wisdom that was always within reach.

This proverb teaches a vital lesson: Wisdom is not hidden from us. It is near, available in God’s Word, in wise counsel, in life experience, and quiet reflection. But to gain it, we must be present, attentive, and willing to walk in the path of understanding. The fool, however, is blind to this, not because wisdom is inaccessible, but because his heart is undisciplined and his eyes are set on illusions.

In summary, the wise person finds wisdom right in front of him because he is willing to see, learn, and act. The fool, by contrast, wastes his life chasing shadows across the horizon, never grounded, never satisfied, and never wise.

Pervert the Ways

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Proverbs 17:23 A wicked man takes a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment. 

This proverb offers a sobering picture of corruption and injustice, especially in legal or leadership contexts. It exposes how the moral decay of a wicked person expresses itself through secret dealings and a willingness to undermine truth and justice for personal gain.

The phrase “takes a gift out of the bosom” refers to the practice of secretly accepting a bribe. In ancient Eastern cultures, people commonly carried small personal items, such as money or documents, in the folds of their garments or pouches tucked inside their robes, close to the chest or bosom. This concealed method made it easier to exchange bribes quietly and without public notice.

Here, the “gift” is not a token of honour or generosity, but a bribe, a payment made to influence a person’s decisions unjustly. The wicked man accepts this gift covertly, and the purpose is clear: “to pervert the ways of judgment.” That is, he twists what is right, suppresses the truth, and manipulates outcomes, whether in a courtroom, a leadership role, or any position of influence.

Such actions are utterly opposed to God’s standards of righteousness and justice. Bribery corrupts both the giver and the receiver. It distorts fairness, undermines trust in institutions, and causes the innocent to suffer while the guilty go free. It replaces truth with favouritism and makes justice something to be bought rather than upheld.

The wicked man in this proverb does not just fall into sin; he intentionally accepts bribes and knowingly perverts judgment. His heart is not only dishonest but actively opposed to justice. This is why Scripture elsewhere repeatedly condemns bribes and warns that God detests such practices (see Ex.  23:8, Deut.  16:19, Isa. 5:23).

The verse also serves as a warning to those in authority or decision-making roles: justice must be impartial, transparent, and based on truth, not influenced by hidden gifts, relationships, or fear of man. A society that tolerates bribery erodes its moral foundations and invites chaos.

In summary, this proverb highlights how deeply rooted and destructive corruption can be. It teaches us that true righteousness cannot be bought, and that leaders must act with integrity, even in secret, for God sees all and holds all accountable. The pursuit of justice demands upright hearts and clean hands, free from hidden gifts and impure motives.

A Merry Heart vs A Broken Spirit

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Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart does good like a medicine: but a broken spirit dries the bones. 

This proverb draws a powerful connection between our emotional and spiritual well-being and our physical health. It affirms what modern medicine is only beginning to fully understand, that the condition of the heart and mind has a profound effect on the body.

The first half – “A merry heart does good like a medicine” – describes the healing power of joy, gratitude, and a cheerful spirit. A “merry heart” is not shallow giddiness or empty laughter, but a deep-seated joy rooted in peace, contentment, and trust in God. This kind of joyful heart brings renewal, strengthens the immune system, and fosters resilience in the face of hardship. Just as medicine promotes healing and recovery, so a glad heart restores vitality to the whole person. This ancient wisdom is affirmed by contemporary research, which shows that laughter, optimism, and emotional stability are linked to lower blood pressure, stronger immunity, reduced pain, and even longer life expectancy. Joy does not just feel good, it does good, physically and spiritually.

In contrast, the second half – “a broken spirit dries the bones” – warns of the deadly effects of prolonged sorrow, despair, and inner anguish. A “broken spirit” is one weighed down by grief, crushed by disappointment, or paralysed by guilt and hopelessness. This kind of inner collapse doesn’t stay inside; it seeps into the body, draining energy, dulling vitality, and even contributing to disease. When the spirit is broken, the “bones” – a symbol of the body’s strength and life – become dry and brittle. This imagery speaks not only of emotional exhaustion but of the literal toll that mental and emotional suffering can take on health: chronic stress, depression, anxiety, bitterness, and resentment can all weaken the body and shorten life. Nothing ruins health more deeply than grief that lingers, worry that never rests, hatred that festers, and fear that chokes hope.

The message is clear: we must guard our hearts and minds diligently. We are not powerless in the face of sorrow or stress. While suffering is inevitable in life, we are called to respond with trust in God, the cultivation of thankfulness, and a refusal to let destructive emotions take root. Forgiveness, prayer, worship, friendship, and humour are among God’s recipes to renew the heart and restore the soul.

In short, Proverbs 17:22 recognises that inner joy is healing, while prolonged sorrow and bitterness bring decay. Therefore, we should actively pursue joy, peace, and emotional wholeness, not just for spiritual benefit, but for the health of our whole being.

A Fool

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Proverbs 17:21 He that begetted a fool does it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool has no joy. 

This proverb speaks to the profound pain and disappointment that a parent may experience when a child grows up to be irresponsible. In biblical wisdom literature, a fool is not simply someone lacking intelligence, but someone who rejects wisdom, moral discipline, and the fear of God. The consequences of such a life, marked by rebellion, impulsiveness, pride, and immorality, bring grief to those closest to them, especially their parents.

The phrase “He that begetted a fool does it to his sorrow” emphasises the heartache of a father or mother who sees their child grow into a disgrace. The Hebrew word used for “fool” here is keciyl (כְּסִיל, H3684), which often refers to someone who is morally dull, arrogant, and resistant to correction, someone who mocks at sin and persists in destructive behaviour despite warnings.

The keciyl (fool) is not just thoughtless but willfully ignorant and often vulgar in conduct. To “beget” such a person, to have raised or given birth to them, is to invite deep sorrow. The sorrow is not only personal but also social and spiritual. The parent suffers shame and concern for their child’s well-being. This is especially true in a cultural context like ancient Israel’s, where family honour and obedience to God were tightly interwoven.

The second half – “the father of a fool has no joy” – reinforces this emotional weight. A child is generally expected to be a source of pride and comfort to his parents, especially in later years. But when the child is a fool, disrespectful, lawless, or morally bankrupt, the father finds himself robbed of that joy. Instead of rejoicing in his son’s growth, he bears the burden of shame and heartache.

This proverb, then, serves both as a lament and a warning: It is a lament for parents whose children bring them grief through foolish choices. It is a warning to children and young people: the way you live your life affects not only you, but those who love you most.

It also underscores the importance of early moral training, godly parenting, and the shaping of character. Wisdom in the heart of a child brings gladness to the home, but foolishness leads to sorrow that words cannot fully express.

A Froward Heart and A Perverse Tongue

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Proverbs 17:20 He that has a froward heart finds no good: and he that has a perverse tongue falls into mischief. 

This proverb highlights the intimate connection between inner character and outward consequences, between the heart, the tongue, and the outcomes of life.

The first clause – “He that has a froward heart finds no good”- refers to a person with a twisted, stubborn, or rebellious disposition. A “froward heart” resists truth, correction, and moral uprightness. Such a heart is not merely passive in its error but actively turns away from wisdom and refuses to be guided. Because of this inward bent toward stubbornness or distortion, the person is unable to perceive or receive good. Opportunities for blessing, peace, or improvement may be all around, but he either overlooks them, rejects them, or sabotages them due to his own internal disorder.

In essence, this person is cut off from good, not because good is unavailable, but because his own heart keeps him from embracing it.

The second clause – “He that has a perverse tongue falls into mischief” – focuses on speech. A “perverse tongue” refers to someone who speaks dishonestly, manipulatively, or destructively, using words to deceive, insult, stir up trouble, or control others. Such speech is not neutral; it carries real consequences. Eventually, this person will “fall into mischief,” meaning they will suffer harm, disorder, or judgment because of the very words they speak. Lies catch up with the liar, and hurtful speech brings backlash, broken relationships, and often public disgrace.

Together, the verse paints a sobering picture: a corrupt heart blinds a person to the good they might experience, while a corrupt tongue drags them into harm. What begins as an inward disposition becomes outward action and, ultimately, a destructive consequence. This proverb warns us to guard both our hearts and our words. The inner life (our attitudes, beliefs, and desires) must be submitted to wisdom and truth. Likewise, our speech must be disciplined and honest, guided by integrity and love, lest it become the very cause of our downfall.

Strife and Pridefulness

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Proverbs 17:19 He loves transgression that loves strife: and he that exalts his gate seeks destruction. 

This verse highlights two kinds of destructive behaviour and links them to deeper issues of the heart. The first part – “He loves transgression that loves strife”- teaches that a person who thrives on conflict is, at heart, a lover of sin. Strife and sin are closely connected, as contention often stems from pride, anger, and selfishness, all forms of moral failure. Someone who frequently engages in arguments, stirs up division, or seeks out conflict is not merely being quarrelsome but is demonstrating a deeper love for wrongdoing. Strife is not neutral; it is rooted in rebellion against peace and godliness.

The second part – “He that exalts his gate seeks destruction” – addresses the dangers of pride and ostentation. To “exalt one’s gate” refers to building an impressively large or grand entrance to one’s home, a symbol of wealth and status. In the ancient world, especially in Palestine, this could invite ruin. Large, elaborate gates served as visible declarations of prosperity, making a household an obvious target for thieves, invaders, and jealous rivals.

Historically, some Palestinian homes were designed with gates only about a meter high, modest in appearance but practical. These low gates gave no outward sign of wealth and served a defensive purpose. Since Arab raiders typically remained on horseback, such gates prevented them from riding straight into homes and plundering them. By contrast, a tall, ornate gate could not only invite envy but also signal an easy and worthwhile target.

Thus, the proverb warns that pride and a desire to show off, whether through conflict or material display, lead ultimately to one’s downfall. The lover of strife opens the door to spiritual and relational ruin; the builder of prideful symbols courts destruction from others.

Surety

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Proverbs 17:18 A man void of understanding strikes hands, and becomes surety in the presence of his friend. 

‘A man void of understanding strikes hands, and becomes surety in the presence of his friend.’ This means: A man who lacks wisdom and discernment is quick to shake hands on a deal, that is, to seal an agreement or contract, without carefully considering the consequences. By becoming surety, he pledges himself as a guarantor for another person’s debt or obligation, often doing so impulsively and in the presence of a friend.

Such a person exposes his lack of understanding by committing himself financially or legally on behalf of someone else without proper thought. Even if the friend is trustworthy, the act of hastily entering into such a risky obligation without due diligence is foolish.

In essence, this verse warns against rash promises and unwise financial entanglements. It teaches that true understanding involves prudence, restraint, and a careful weighing of consequences, especially when it comes to matters of trust and liability.

A Friend

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Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. 

‘A friend loves at all times.’ True friendship endures through every season of life, both joy and sorrow, prosperity and hardship. Such friendship is steadfast and unwavering, a rare and precious gift from God.

Ten examples of lasting friendship: Abraham, his faithful rescue of Lot shows a heart devoted to kin and friend alike (Gen. 14:14). Joseph forgave and cared for his brothers, demonstrating enduring love despite past betrayal (Gen. 45:5; 50:2). Moses interceded fervently for Israel, pleading on their behalf with God, embodying a friend who stands in the gap (Ex. 32:11-13; Deut. 9:18-29). Jonathan, his loyal love and covenant with David endured even through danger and death (1Sam. 20:33). Barzillai provided steadfast support to King David in his time of need (2Sam. 19:32). Ahikam stood as a protector and advocate for Jeremiah, preserving the prophet’s life (Jer. 26:24). Ebed-Melech risked his own life to rescue Jeremiah from the pit, a true friend in adversity (Jer. 38:7). Paul considered a brother and friend to many, expressing deep affection and care (Phil. 1:12, 20). Barnabas was known as the “son of encouragement” he supported and vouched for the early believers (Acts 9:27). Epaphroditus was a trusted companion who ministered alongside Paul, showing sacrificial friendship (Php. 2:26).

‘A brother is born for adversity.’ A friend loves in adversity or prosperity, and a brother is born to support and comfort a brother in distress.

He Has No Heart

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Proverbs 17:16 Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he has no heart to it? 

‘Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom…’ Why should a fool be entrusted with the means to acquire wisdom when he neither values it nor understands its worth? For though he holds treasure in his hand, his soul is void of understanding. He may possess silver and gold, access to teachers, and even the Scriptures themselves, yet if his heart is closed, wisdom cannot enter. He seeks knowledge in name, but not in truth; for his heart is not set to obey, nor does he desire the fear of the Lord. Wisdom cries aloud, yet he regards her not, and her reproofs are counted as nothing in his sight. Without reverence for truth or a willingness to change, all instruction is wasted.

‘Fool to get wisdom.’ Seven examples of lack of wisdom: Israel (2Chr. 30:10) – When invited to return to the Lord through the Passover, the northern tribes mocked and scorned the messengers of God, refusing the path of wisdom and mercy. The Jews in Nazareth (Luke 4:28) – Upon hearing the truth from Jesus in the synagogue, they were filled with wrath rather than repentance, rejecting the wisdom of God spoken in their midst. Herod Antipas (Luke 23:11) – Though he long desired to see Jesus and witness a miracle, he mocked the Saviour instead of humbling himself before divine wisdom. The Jews (John 5:40; 8:45) – They refused to come to Christ for life and rejected His words because He spoke the truth, proving they had no heart for true wisdom. The Athenians (Acts 17:32-33) – When Paul preached the resurrection, many mocked and turned away, valuing human philosophy over divine revelation. Felix the Governor (Acts 24:25-27) – Though convicted by Paul’s preaching on righteousness and judgment, he delayed repentance, preferring greed and power over godly fear. Herod Agrippa (Acts 26:28) – He was almost persuaded to become a Christian, yet he withheld his heart and remained in darkness, loving the praise of men more than the truth of God.