Proverbs 27:16

16. Hideth her… bewrayeth itself This verse is obscure and variously rendered. The difficulty is chiefly in determining the root of the verb יקרא , ( yikra,) translated “bewrayeth.” One root would give us call, call out, declare, etc.; the other, happen, befall, encounter, etc. Different interpreters render according to their idea on this subject. A few specimens may be given: “He that refraineth her refraineth the wind, and holdeth oil fast in his right hand.” Coverdale. “Ointment which discovers itself.” Boothroyd. “Conceal the fragrant oil which is upon his right hand.” Trench. “Cometh upon oil.” Stuart. “Encounters oil.” Conant. “It is altogether as impossible for him to keep the wind from blowing, or to inclose a fragrant oil in his right hand so that its perfume shall not be perceived, as to make her hold her tongue, or to conceal her bawling humour.” Patrick. “He that hideth her, hideth the winde, and she is as ye oyle in his sight that vttereth itself.” Geneva Bible. The proverb is understood to be a sequel to the one preceding.