Bible Commentaries
Proverbs 22

Verses 1-29

Verse Proverbs 22:2. The question that naturally arises on reading this is, Where do they meet together? This proverb is often used as having reference to the sanctuary or house of prayer; but a very superficial examination of the actual condition of affairs will show that this use of the proverb is hardly warranted. The answer to the question is that in the sight of God, and in His dealing with them, they meet together. If one is looking for locality, let him look to the day of final judgment.

Verse Proverbs 22:6. In this oft-quoted proverb the true sense most certainly is found in the adoption of the marginal readings. It is a declaration of the true philosophy of education. That which is in a child naturally is to be discovered and trained in order that the purpose of its life may be realized.

Verse Proverbs 22:11. Again, in this proverb the marginal reading, "that hath grace in his lips," should be adopted. The meaning is that the two qualifications which will ensure the friendship of the king are, first, pureness of heart, and, second, wisdom of expression.

Verse Proverbs 22:14. This does not mean that if a man is abhorred of Jehovah he will necessarily fall into this particular pit, but rather that he who does fall therein becomes abhorred of Jehovah. It is a graphic way of setting forth the abomination of unchastity.