Proverbs 3

2 long life. See note on ii. 21. The double expression, “length of days,” and “long life” (lit., “years of life,” as R.V.), may intimate not merely prolonged duration, but life, really so named, in its energy and joy; while “peace,” the characteristic Bible blessing, crowns the series.

4 good understanding. Some render “good reputation” (see R.V. marg.); others, “good success”; see Josh. i. 8; 1 Sam. xviii. 5.

5 unto. Rather, “upon,” as one leans upon a staff.

8. It shall be health, etc. “Health for your body and fresh life to your frame” (Moffatt).

9 thy substance . . . thine increase. Thy property and thine income. Obeying the law of tithes and first-fruits: see Exod. xxiii. 19; Mal. iii. 8-10.

10 presses. Rather, “vats” (see R.V.).

11 chastening. The same word as “instruction,” i. 2.

13 getteth. Lit., “draweth forth” (as R.V. marg.), i.e., from the Divine store.

14 merchandise. Cp. the imagery in ii. 4—the search as in the mine or the field: here, the quest by means of commerce.

17 ways . . . paths. Alike the broad open roads and the sequestered by-ways.

18 a tree of life. This no doubt alludes to the tree of life in Paradise (Gen. ii. 9; iii. 22), as an emblem of constant and durable happiness, which has been forfeited by sin, but may still be regained by heavenly wisdom.

20 the depths are broken up. Or, “By His knowledge were the abysses cleft”; probably referring to the preparation of the ocean-depths for the reception of the waters: see Gen. i. 9, 10; vii. 11; Job xxxviii. 8-11.

21. Let not them depart from thine eyes. i.e., wisdom and discretion.

25. Be not afraid. Or, “Thou needest not be afraid.”

the desolation of the wicked. The sudden and overwhelming judgement in which the wicked shall be taken.

27 them to whom it is due. Lit., “its owners.” Kindness is due from one man to another, and cannot be withheld without violating the law of God.

29 securely. Or, “trustingly”; not expecting harm from you.

31. Envy thou not, etc. Even when his wrongdoing appears to succeed, for God abhors him (32).

32. His secret. That is, “His confidential friendship.”

34. He scorneth the scorners. Or, “Scorners He treats scornfully”; i.e., He will make their punishment correspond with their sin: see i. 24-31. The Greek version of this verse is quoted in James iv. 6; 1 Pet. v. 5.