11 A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.

12 If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.

13 The poor man and the oppressor meet together; the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.

14 If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.

15 The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

16 When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.

17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.

18 Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint,[1] but blessed is he who keeps the law.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 29:11-18

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.