Proverbs 25
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1These also are proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out. 2It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter. 3As the heavens for height, and the earth for depth, so the hearts of kings are unsearchable. 4Take away the dross from the silver, and material comes out for the refiner; 5Take away the wicked from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established in righteousness. 6Don’t exalt yourself in the presence of the king, or claim a place among great men; 7for it is better that it be said to you, “Come up here,” than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, whom your eyes have seen. 8Don’t be hasty in bringing charges to court. What will you do in the end when your neighbor shames you? 9Debate your case with your neighbor, and don’t betray the confidence of another; 10lest one who hears it put you to shame, and your bad reputation never depart. 11A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. 12As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover to an obedient ear. 13As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to those who send him; for he refreshes the soul of his masters. 14As clouds and wind without rain, so is he who boasts of gifts deceptively. 15By patience a ruler is persuaded. A soft tongue breaks the bone. 16Have you found honey? Eat as much as is sufficient for you, lest you eat too much, and vomit it. 17Let your foot be seldom in your neighbor’s house, lest he be weary of you, and hate you. 18A man who gives false testimony against his neighbor is like a club, a sword, or a sharp arrow. 19Confidence in someone unfaithful in time of trouble is like a bad tooth, or a lame foot. 20As one who takes away a garment in cold weather, or vinegar on soda, so is one who sings songs to a heavy heart. 21If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat. If he is thirsty, give him water to drink: 22for you will heap coals of fire on his head, and Yahweh will reward you. 23The north wind produces rain; so a backbiting tongue brings an angry face. 24It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than to share a house with a contentious woman. 25Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country. 26Like a muddied spring, and a polluted well, so is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked. 27It is not good to eat much honey; nor is it honorable to seek one’s own honor. 28Like a city that is broken down and without walls is a man whose spirit is without restraint.
World English Bible (public domain)
“"It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out."”
Proverbs 25:2
Summary
Proverbs Chapter 25 marks a collection of Solomon's proverbs, compiled during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. This chapter emphasizes wisdom in social conduct, particularly concerning relationships with leaders and neighbors. It begins by articulating the glory of God in concealing matters and the honor of kings to search them out, highlighting a theme of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Central to the text is the prudence required in dealings with authority, portraying the nuanced nature of leadership. Critical is the guidance on how to handle disputes and the importance of restraint in speech, underscoring the value of humility and discernment. Relational wisdom is further explored through proverbs about enemy interactions and the impact of kindness in overcoming hostilities. The chapter echoes the transformative power of patience and foresight, advocating for gentle responses that can quell potential conflicts. There is a significant emphasis on the power of words and the importance of not boasting about oneself, reflecting the virtue of humility and the danger of pride. The theological significance of this chapter lies in its exploration of wisdom as both a divine gift and human pursuit. It intertwines everyday ethics with spiritual principles, presenting wisdom as a source of stability and peace in personal and communal life. Ultimately, the teachings encourage living in harmony with others, showcasing how godly wisdom can influence societal structures positively.
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