1 Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.
2 Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.
3 A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.
4 Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
5 Open rebuke is better than secret love.
6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
7 The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.
8 As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.
9 Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.
10 Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off.
11 My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.
12 A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished.
13 Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.
14 He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him.
15 A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.
16 Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.
17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.
18 Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.
19 As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.
20 Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.
21 As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.
22 Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him.
23 Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.
24 For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?
25 The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered.
26 The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field.
27 And thou shalt have goats' milk enough for thy food, for the food of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens.
The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings and teachings attributed to King Solomon, known for his great wisdom and knowledge. Chapter 27 of the book continues this tradition, providing practical and insightful advice on various topics such as friendship, humility, and diligence. This chapter is divided into three main sections, each with its own set of themes and lessons to be learned.
The first section of chapter 27 focuses on the importance of relationships, particularly friendships. It begins with a warning against boasting about tomorrow, as no one knows what the future holds. This is followed by a comparison between the destructive power of jealousy and the unquenchable nature of love. The message here is clear: relationships built on envy and competition will ultimately lead to destruction, while those built on love and support will endure.
The next few verses touch on the idea of accountability and the role of a friend in keeping us on the right path. It emphasizes the need for honest and trustworthy friends who can offer constructive criticism and help us grow. This is followed by a metaphor comparing the refining of silver to the refining of character through the trials and challenges of life.
Verse 13 and 14 focus on the importance of being a good neighbor and the value of a close friend. These verses remind us that having a strong support system and being a supportive friend ourselves is crucial for our well-being and success in life.
The second section of chapter 27 delves into the nature of humility and pride. It begins with a reminder of the destructive nature of anger and how it can lead to foolish decisions and harmful actions. This is followed by a comparison between wisdom and foolishness, highlighting the importance of humility in attaining wisdom.
The next verse talks about the importance of seeking advice and counsel from others, rather than relying solely on our own understanding. This is followed by a warning against pride and arrogance, which can lead to our downfall.
The following verses use various examples, such as a stone and a heavy load, to illustrate the weight and burden of pride. It also speaks of the importance of being humble and patient, as these qualities will ultimately lead to success and honor.
The section ends with a reminder to take care of our possessions and investments, as they are a reflection of our diligence and responsibility. This also highlights the importance of being content with what we have, rather than constantly striving for more.
The final section of chapter 27 focuses on the rewards of diligence and hard work. It begins with a reminder that wealth and success are not achieved overnight, but through consistent effort and diligence.
The next few verses use agricultural metaphors to illustrate the importance of cultivating and tending to our work and responsibilities. It also emphasizes the value of planning and preparation, as these are crucial for success.
Verse 23 and 24 speak of the importance of knowing the condition of our possessions and being responsible stewards of what we have. This is followed by a warning against greed and the desire for quick and easy wealth, as it will ultimately lead to poverty and disgrace.
The final verses of this chapter touch on the importance of building a strong and stable household, which is achieved through diligence and hard work. It also reminds us that ultimately, it is God who provides and sustains us, and we must always acknowledge and give thanks for his blessings.
Chapter 27 of Proverbs is a reminder of the importance of wisdom, humility, and diligence in our daily lives. It emphasizes the value of strong relationships, both with friends and with God, and the role they play in shaping our character and success. It also warns against destructive qualities such as pride, envy, and greed, and encourages us to cultivate virtues such as honesty, patience, and contentment.
The overarching message of this chapter is that true success and fulfillment in life can only be achieved through a combination of wisdom, humility, and diligence. These qualities not only benefit us in our personal lives but also have a positive impact on our relationships and the society we live in.
Furthermore, this chapter highlights the importance of seeking guidance and counsel from others, whether it be from friends or from God. It also reminds us of the value of hard work and responsibility, as well as the importance of being content with what we have rather than constantly striving for more.
Ultimately, the book of Proverbs, and specifically chapter 27, serves as a guide for living a wise, humble, and diligent life, one that is pleasing to both God and ourselves. It is a reminder that true success and happiness cannot be achieved through material possessions or selfish desires, but through the cultivation of virtuous qualities and the building of strong relationships.
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