Proverbs 25

These “Proverbs of Solomon” form the Third Part of the Book. The “men of Hezekiah” were undoubtedly scribes appointed by that monarch, who copied out the proverbs which follow, probably selecting them from others with which they had been connected in oral tradition. Hezekiah, in addition to his other reforms, appears to have aimed to complete and preserve as much of God’s Word as had then been written (see 2 Chron. xxxi. 21), probably availing himself of the aid of the prophets of his time.

2. It is the glory of God, etc. It is the prerogative of Him who is Supreme and Infinite to conceal the reasons of His conduct. An earthly king may have his state secrets (3); but his judicial decisions should be pronounced only after full and public inquiry.

3 unsearchable. That is, they are all alike unsearchable.

4 the finer. Rather, “the founder,” as in Judges xvii. 4; or “the silversmith.” As silver cannot be made into vessels fit for use or ornament unless the dross be removed; so a king cannot be a blessing to his people unless all bad counsellors are removed from his presence (5).

6. Put not forth thyself, etc. “Put not thyself forward,” etc. “Ne fais point le magnifique devant le roi” (“Do not swagger before the king”) (French version).

8. Lest [thou know not] what to do. Or “what will you do in the end thereof?” Hasty litigation involves men in unexpected difficulties; and in the heat of contention they will sometimes betray confidence (9); which is sure to prejudice their cause with the cool and impartial (10). Compare with ver. 9 our Lord’s words in Matt. xviii. 15.

11 pictures of silver. Or, “picture-work of silver”; referring to silver filigree basket.

13 the cold of snow in the time of harvest. Snow from Lebanon was used for cooling drinks in hot weather like iced water.

14 a false gift. That is, one who promises much, and performs nothing.

15. By long forbearing, etc. The power of patience and gentleness.

16 so much. That is, only so much. This teaches moderation in things which are agreeable.

18 a maul. A club, a sledge-hammer.

20 taketh away. Rather, “taketh off,” as R.V.

22 thou shalt heap coals of fire, etc. The reference is to the melting of metals by covering them with charcoal, and means that kindness will melt the hard heart in self-accusing penitence: cp. Matt. v. 43, 44; Rom. xii. 20.

23. The north wind driveth away rain, etc. Rather, “The north (i.e., north-west) wind bringeth forth rain”; see R.V. So Plumptre, Moffatt, and others.

26 falling down before the wicked. This perhaps means “cringing” or “vacillating” in his conduct through fear (cp. R.V.). He is as unfit to be useful to others as a fountain, at which the traveller hoped to quench his thirst, when it is trampled upon and polluted.

27. So [for men] to search, etc. The words “is not” are supplied by our translators. Perhaps the best rendering is, “But the pursuit of what is honourable (or, “difficult”) to one is an honour.”