Bible Commentary

Proverbs 17:4

The Pulpit Commentary on Proverbs 17:4

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

A wicked doer giveth heed to false (evil) lips. A bad man delights in and hearkens to evil words; he takes pleasure in those who counsel wickedness, because they are after his own heart. Like mates with like.

And a liar giveth ear to a naughty (mischievous) tongue. One who is himself mendacious listens with avidity to any tale that may injure a neighbour. however monstrous and improbable it may be. Septuagint, "A wicked man listens to the tongue of transgressors; but a just man heedeth not false lips."

The Greek adds here, or in some manuscripts, after , a paragraph which is not found in the Hebrew, Syriac, or Latin: "To him who is faithful the whole world wealth belongs; but the unfaithful is not worth an obole."

On this the Fathers have frequently commented (see Corn. a Lapide, in loc.).

Recommended reading

More for Proverbs 17:4

Continue with other commentaries and DiscipleDeck content connected to this verse, chapter, or topic.