Proverbs 3:28 - Exposition

The precept of this and that of the preceding verse are very closely related. The former precept enjoined the general principle of benevolence when we have the means; this carries on the idea, and is directed against the postponement of giving when we are in a position to give. In effect it says, "Do not defer till tomorrow what you can do today." This "putting off" may arise from avarice, from indolence, or from insolence and contempt. These underlying faults, which are incompatible with neighbourly good wilt, are condenmed by implication. Unto thy neighbour; l'reayka, "to thy friends," the word being evidently used distributively. Reeh is "a companion" or "friend" (cf. Vulgate, amico tuo ; Syriac, sodali tuo ) , and generally any other person, equivalent to the Greek ὁ πλησίον , "neighbour." The Authorized Version correctly renders "come again," as shav is not merely "to return," but to return again to something (so Delitzsch); cf. Vulgate, revertere ; and as the words, "tomorrow I will give thee," show. The LXX . adds, "For thou knowest not what the morrow may bring forth," probably from Proverbs 17:1 . If viewed in respect of the specific claims which servants have for work done, the precept is a re-echo of Le Proverbs 29:13 and Deuteronomy 24:15 . In illustration of the general scope of the passage, Grotius quotes, "A slow-footed favour is a favour without favour." Seneca says in the same spirit, "Ingratum est beneficium quod diu inter manus dantis haesit," "The benefit is thankless which sticks long between the hands of the giver" (Seneca, 'Benef.,' Deuteronomy 1:2 ); cf. also Bis dat qui cito dat.