Proverbs 30:11-14

11-14. The four classes here mentioned Agur assumes will at once be disapproved. To describe them is enough. They need no formal condemnation.

Generation Race, class.

Doth not bless Does not respect or speak well of. It is implied that they do the reverse.

Pure in their own eyes In their own estimation perfect without blemish or fault.

Not washed from their filthiness From that which goeth out from them, excrements. Of course the expression is figurative, and the figure is crude but very pungent. Matthew 15:11.

Eyelids are lifted up Comp. Proverbs 6:17; there are outward signs of inward pride. We would, perhaps, say eye-brows, to express the same idea. The mention of these classes of evil-minded and evil-doing persons is equivalent to a precept prohibiting the several vices pertaining to them; as if Agur had said, “I mention these that ye may avoid their ways.” It will be noted that the words “there is” in each of these verses, are supplied in italics. The passage would be more forcible without them; “A generation that curseth their father and blesseth not their mother,” etc. Comp. Proverbs 25:19; Psalms 52:2; Psalms 57:4.