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Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:13

The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips; rather, in the transgression of the lips is an evil snare ( Proverbs 18:7 ). A man by speaking unadvisedly or intemperately brings trouble upon himself, involves himself in difficulties which he did not foresee. Often when he has spoken in order to injure others, the slander or the censure has redounded on himself (comp. Psalms 7:15 , Psalms 7:16 ; Psalms 9:16 ). The just; the man who does not offend with his lips, avoids these... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:14

A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth ( Proverbs 13:2 ; Proverbs 14:14 ; Proverbs 18:20 ). A man's words are like seeds, and if they are wise and pure and kindly, they will bring forth the fruit of love and favour and respect. Christian commentaters see here a reference to the day of judgment, wherein great stress is laid on the words ( Matthew 12:37 ). Of a man's hands. That which a man has done, his kindly actions, shall meet with full reward (comp. Isaiah... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:15

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes; i.e. in his own judgment ( Proverbs 3:7 : Proverbs 16:2 ). The second clause is best translated, as in the Revised Version, "But he that is wise hearkeneth unto counsel," distrusting his own unaided judgment, which might lead him astray ( Proverbs 13:10 ; Proverbs 14:12 ; Proverbs 16:25 ; Proverbs 21:2 ; comp. Ec 35:19; Tobit 4:18). Theognis, 221, etc.— ὅς τις τοι δοκέει τὸν πλησίον ἴδμεναι οὐδὲν ἀλλ αὐτὸς μοῦνος... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:16

A fool's wrath is presently ("in the day," αὐθημερόν ) known. A foolish man, if he is vexed, insulted, or slighted, has no idea of controlling himself or checking the expression of his aroused feelings; he at once, in the same day on which he has been incensed, makes his vexation known. A prudent man covereth— concealeth— shame ; takes no notice of an affront at the moment, knowing that by resenting it he will only make matters worse, and that it is best to let passions cool before... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:17

He that speaketh —breatheth out fearlessly ( Proverbs 6:19 )— truth showeth forth righteousness. The truth always conduces to justice and right, not only in a matter of law, but generally and in all cases. Vulgate, "He who speaks that which he knows is a discoverer of justice;" Septuagint, "A just man announces well proved assurance [or, 'the open truth'] ( ἐπιδεικνυμένην πίστιν )." A false witness showeth forth deceit ( Proverbs 14:5 , Proverbs 14:25 ); exhibits his true... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:17

Truth and righteousness We have here a suggestion of the close connection between truth and righteousness. This connection is based on a reciprocal relation. Truthfulness is a trait of righteousness, and righteousness is advanced by truthfulness. I. TRUTHFULNESS IS A TRAIT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS . The truth here referred to is that which is most often mentioned in the Bible, viz. subjective truth, the agreement between our convictions and our utterances. We cannot attain to perfect... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:18

There is that speaketh. The word implies speaking thoughtlessly, rashly; hence we may render, "a babbler," "prater." Such a one inflicts wounds with his senseless tattle. Like the piercings of a sword. The point of the simile is seen when we remember that the edge of the sword is called its "mouth" in the Hebrew ( Genesis 34:26 ; Exodus 17:13 , etc.; comp. Psalms 59:7 ; Psalms 64:3 ). The Greek gnome says— ἀλλ οὐδὲν ἕρπει ψεῦδος εἰς γῆρας χρόνου "A sword the body... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:19

The lip of truth shall be established forever. Truth is consistent, invincible, enduring; and the fact belongs not only to Divine truth ( Psalms 117:2 ; Matthew 24:35 ), but to human, in its measure. Septuagint, "True lips establish testimony," pointing the last word ad as ed . Is but for a moment; literally, while I wink the eye ( Jeremiah 49:19 ; Jeremiah 50:44 ). Lying never answers in the end; it is soon found out and punished ( Proverbs 19:9 ; Psalms 52:5 ).... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Proverbs 12:20

Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil; i.e. that give evil advice; such are treacherous counsellors, and their advice can only work mischief, not joy and comfort (see on Proverbs 3:29 ). But to the counsellors of peace (health and prosperity) is joy. They who give wholesome advice diffuse joy around. Vulgate, "Joy attends them;" Septuagint, "They shall be glad;" but the original signifies rather to cause joy than to feel it. read more

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