9 Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart, And the sweetness of one's friend—from counsel of the soul. 10 Thine own friend, and the friend of thy father, forsake not, And the house of thy brother enter not In a day of thy calamity, Better 'is' a near neighbour than a brother afar off.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 27:9-10
Commentary on Proverbs 27:9-10
(Read Proverbs 27:9-10)
Depend not for relief upon a kinsman, merely for kindred's sake; apply to those who are at hand, and will help in need. But there is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother, and let us place entire confidence in him.