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Proverbs 27

27 verses

TL;DR

This chapter warns against pride and foolishness while extolling humility, wisdom, and true friendship.

Summary

The opening verses advise against boasting about tomorrow and praise external, sincere commendation over self-glorification. They warn that a fool’s wrath outweighs stone and sand and that envy is nearly impossible to confront. Open rebuke is valued more than secret affection, and the wounds of a friend are described as trustworthy compared to the deceit of an enemy’s kisses. The text extols the benefits of honest counsel and the strength of genuine companionship, while cautioning against the folly of pride and rashness. Themes of humility, wisdom, and prudence recur, highlighting the necessity of listening to wise counsel and protecting one’s self from folly. The chapter then reflects on the transient nature of wealth, the value of stewardship of flocks, and the fleeting nature of riches and crowns. Overall, the lesson emphasizes that true wisdom is found in humility, preparedness, and genuine companionship.

Outline
  1. Humility and the dangers of pride
  2. Wisdom in relationships and counsel
  3. Prudence, prosperity, and stewardship
Themes
humilitywisdomfriendship
Keywords
humilityfriendshipwisdomprudencefoolenvyrebukeprosperitystewardship
People
my sonfriendenemyfatherbrotherstranger
Places
neighbour's housebrother's house
Things
stonesandfool's wrathenvyrebukefriend's kissesenemy's kisseshoneycombbitter thingbirdnestointmentperfumefriend's counselfriendshipfriend's wordsprudent man's foresightgarmentpledgewindright hand ointmentironfig treewaterfining potsilvergoldfurnacepestleflocksherdsrichescrownhaytender grassherbslambsgoatsmilk
Key Verses
  • Proverbs 27:2: Emphasizes humility by discouraging self-praise.
  • Proverbs 27:3: Highlights the destructive weight of a fool’s wrath.
  • Proverbs 27:5: Advocates open rebuke over hidden affection.
  • Proverbs 27:6: Contrasts the trustworthiness of a friend with the deceit of an enemy.
  • Proverbs 27:12: Illustrates prudence: foresight protects from harm.
  • Proverbs 27:17: Shows mutual sharpening: iron sharpens iron.
  • Proverbs 27:18: Illustrates the rewards of diligence: fig tree yields fruit.
Questions
  • How does the chapter define the value of humility?
  • What lessons can be drawn about the role of friends versus enemies?
  • In what ways does the text link prudent foresight to safety?
  • How does the passage portray the fleeting nature of wealth?
  • What practical actions are suggested for stewardship of resources?
Sentiment

mixed
Contains warnings, caution, and encouraging guidance.