291 He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck Shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.
2 When the righteous are increased, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man beareth rule, the people sigh.
3 Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father; But he that keepeth company with harlots wasteth [his] substance.
4 The king by justice establisheth the land; But he that exacteth gifts overthroweth it.
5 A man that flattereth his neighbor Spreadeth a net for his steps.
6 In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare; But the righteous doth sing and rejoice.
7 The righteous taketh knowledge of the cause of the poor; The wicked hath not understanding to know [it].
8 Scoffers set a city in a flame; But wise men turn away wrath.
9 If a wise man hath a controversy with a foolish man, Whether he be angry or laugh, there will be no rest.
10 The bloodthirsty hate him that is perfect; And as for the upright, they seek his life.
11 A fool uttereth all his anger; But a wise man keepeth it back and stilleth it.
12 If a ruler hearkeneth to falsehood, All his servants are wicked.
13 The poor man and the oppressor meet together; Jehovah lighteneth the eyes of them both.
14 The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, His throne shall be established for ever.
15 The rod and reproof give wisdom; But a child left to himself causeth shame to his mother.
16 When the wicked are increased, transgression increaseth; But the righteous shall look upon their fall.
17 Correct thy son, and he will give thee rest; Yea, he will give delight unto thy soul.
18 Where there is no vision, the people cast off restraint; But he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 29:1-18
Commentary on Proverbs 29:1
(Read Proverbs 29:1)
If God wounds, who can heal? The word of God warns all to flee from the wrath to come, to the hope set before us in Jesus Christ.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:2
(Read Proverbs 29:2)
The people have cause to rejoice or mourn, as their rulers are righteous or wicked.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:3
(Read Proverbs 29:3)
Divine wisdom best keeps us from ruinous lusts.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:4
(Read Proverbs 29:4)
The Lord Jesus is the King who will minister true judgment to the people.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:5
(Read Proverbs 29:5)
Flatterers put men off their guard, which betrays them into foolish conduct.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:6
(Read Proverbs 29:6)
Transgressions always end in vexations. Righteous men walk at liberty, and walk in safety.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:7
(Read Proverbs 29:7)
This verse is applicable to compassion for the distress of the poor, and the unfeeling disregard shown by the wicked.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:8
(Read Proverbs 29:8)
The scornful mock at things sacred and serious. Men who promote religion, which is true wisdom, turn away the wrath of God.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:9
(Read Proverbs 29:9)
If a wise man dispute with a conceited wrangler, he will be treated with anger or ridicule; and no good is done.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:10
(Read Proverbs 29:10)
Christ told his disciples that they should be hated of all men. The just, whom the blood-thirsty hate, gladly do any thing for their salvation.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:11
(Read Proverbs 29:11)
He is a fool who tells every thing he knows, and can keep no counsel.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:12
(Read Proverbs 29:12)
One who loves flatterers, and hearkens to slanderers, causes his servants to become liars and false accusers.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:13
(Read Proverbs 29:13)
Some are poor, others have a great deal of deceitful riches. They meet in the business of this world; the Lord gives to both the comforts of this life. To some of both sorts he gives his grace.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:14
(Read Proverbs 29:14)
The rich will look to themselves, but the poor and needy the prince must defend and plead for.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:15
(Read Proverbs 29:15)
Parents must consider the benefit of due correction, and the mischief of undue indulgence.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:16
(Read Proverbs 29:16)
Let not the righteous have their faith and hope shocked by the increase of sin and sinners, but let them wait with patience.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:17
(Read Proverbs 29:17)
Children must not be suffered to go without rebuke when they do amiss.
Commentary on Proverbs 29:18
(Read Proverbs 29:18)
How bare does a place look without Bibles and ministers! and what an easy prey is it to the enemy of souls! That gospel is an open vision, which holds forth Christ, which humbles the sinner and exalts the Saviour, which promotes holiness in the life and conversation: and these are precious truths to keep the soul alive, and prevent it from perishing.