Proverbs Chapter 25

Proverbs Chapter 25 (ESV)

1. These also are proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied.
2. It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out.
3. As the heavens for height, and the earth for depth, so the heart of kings is unsearchable.
4. Take away the dross from the silver, and the smith has material for a vessel;
5. take away the wicked from the presence of the king, and his throne will be established in righteousness.
6. Do not put yourself forward in the king's presence or stand in the place of the great,
7. for it is better to be told, "Come up here," than to be put lower in the presence of a noble. What your eyes have seen
8. do not hastily bring into court, for what will you do in the end, when your neighbor puts you to shame?
9. Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and do not reveal another's secret,
10. lest he who hears you bring shame upon you, and your ill repute have no end.
11. A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
12. Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.
13. Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest is a faithful messenger to those who send him; he refreshes the soul of his masters.
14. Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of a gift he does not give.
15. With patience a ruler may be persuaded, and a soft tongue will break a bone.
16. If you have found honey, eat only enough for you, lest you be sated with it and vomit it.
17. Let your foot be seldom in your neighbor's house, lest he have his fill of you and hate you.
18. A man who bears false witness against his neighbor is like a war club, or a sword, or a sharp arrow.
19. Trusting in a treacherous man in time of trouble is like a bad tooth or a foot that slips.
20. Whoever sings songs to a heavy heart is like one who takes off a garment on a cold day, and like vinegar on soda.
21. If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink,
22. for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.
23. The north wind brings forth rain, and a backbiting tongue, angry looks.
24. It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife.
25. Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.
26. Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.
27. It is not good to eat much honey, nor is it glorious to seek one's own glory.
28. A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.

Christian Theologians Thoughts about this/these verse(s):
Matthew Henry:

• Background: An English Presbyterian minister and commentator whose work is noted for its practical wisdom.
• Year: 1706
• Quote: "The great God has in his word many things which he has concealed; but it is our honour to search out his mind and will, and to understand his word."
• Source: "Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible"

Charles Spurgeon:

• Background: Known as the "Prince of Preachers," a significant figure in the Reformed Baptist tradition.
• Year: 1869
• Quote: "The glory of our King is to search out the deep things of God, to understand His will, and to do it."
• Source: Sermon on Proverbs 25:2 at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, London

Derek Kidner:

• Background: Anglican scholar and theologian, noted for his concise commentaries on the wisdom literature of the Old Testament.
• Year: 1964
• Quote: "The contrast between God's concealment and the king's search for truth suggests the divine wisdom in limiting human knowledge, yet encouraging the pursuit of it."
• Source: "The Proverbs: An Introduction and Commentary"

Historical Setting and Author Background:
Proverbs Chapter 25 is part of a collection attributed to Solomon but was compiled by the scribes of King Hezekiah of Judah around 715-686 B.C. This collection reflects wisdom literature's broad influence across the ancient Near East. Hezekiah's reign was marked by religious reforms and a return to the worship of Yahweh, which likely influenced the selection and preservation of these proverbs. The purpose behind these proverbs was to educate the young and the wise in the ways of righteousness, justice, and integrity, providing practical guidance for daily living under the rule of kings or in positions of leadership.

Hebrew Word Origins and Pronunciations, Meanings of Significant Terms:

• מִשְׁלֵי (Mishlei) - Pronounced "mish-lay," meaning "proverbs" or "parables," signifying wise sayings or teachings.
• שְׁלֹמֹה (Sh'lomo) - Pronounced "shlo-mo," Solomon's name meaning "peace."
• חִזְקִיָּה (Chizkiyahu) - Pronounced "khiz-kee-yah-hoo," meaning "strengthened by Yah," referring to King Hezekiah.
• כֶּסֶף (Kesef) - Pronounced "keh-sef," meaning "silver," symbolizing purity and value.

These terms reflect the cultural and linguistic context of ancient Israel, emphasizing wisdom, leadership, and moral purity. Understanding these words allows us to appreciate the depth of wisdom literature, where the choice of words was deliberate to convey moral and spiritual lessons.

Greek Word Origins and Pronunciations, Meanings of Significant Terms:

• Παροιμίαι (Paroimiai) - Pronounced "par-o-ee-mee-ah," translating to "proverbs" in Greek, used in the Septuagint for the book title.
• Βασιλεύς (Basileus) - Pronounced "bah-sil-yoos," meaning "king," used in Greek contexts to denote authority and leadership.

The Greek translations of these Hebrew terms help bridge the gap between different cultures, showing how wisdom was valued not only in Jewish culture but also in the Hellenistic world. This cross-cultural continuity underscores the universal appeal of the wisdom contained in Proverbs.

Major and Minor Themes:
Major Themes:

• Wisdom and Humility: The chapter underscores the importance of seeking wisdom and acting with humility.
• Justice and Righteousness: Emphasizing the removal of wickedness for the establishment of just rule.

Minor Themes:

• Patience and Discretion: Advising on how to handle conflicts and interpersonal relations with care.
• Self-Control: The last verse highlights the necessity of self-discipline.

These themes are crucial for modern men, particularly in leadership roles within the home and workplace, where wisdom in decision-making, humility in leadership, and the pursuit of justice can lead to a harmonious and righteous life.

Modern-Day Example of Applying This Verse and Takeaways for Modern Times:
In contemporary settings, Proverbs 25 teaches men to be seekers of truth, not just in spiritual but in practical life. For instance, in family life, a father should be patient and wise in communication, much like the soft answer that turns away wrath (v.15). In marriage, one should avoid the pitfalls of pride or excessive familiarity, fostering a relationship where mutual respect and understanding are paramount (v.17). At work, a leader can apply these principles by encouraging open, honest dialogue (v.11-12) and by promoting integrity over self-aggrandizement (v.27).

This chapter's wisdom is timeless; it encourages introspection on how one handles criticism, the power of words, and the importance of discretion in personal dealings. A godly man would reflect on how his actions can either mirror Christ's humility and service or fall into the traps of selfishness and pride.

Connections to Other Biblical Passages:
Old Testament Connections:

• Proverbs 15:1 - Reflects on the power of gentle words, similar to Proverbs 25:15.
• 1 Kings 4:32 - Mentions Solomon's three thousand proverbs, linking to his wisdom in Proverbs.

New Testament Connections:

• Romans 12:20 - Echoes Proverbs 25:21-22 about loving your enemies.
• Matthew 5:39-41 - Jesus' teaching on non-retaliation aligns with the wisdom of handling adversaries in Proverbs.

These connections highlight a continuity of moral teaching from the Old to the New Testament, urging men to live in a way that reflects God's character through practical wisdom, love, and justice in all aspects of life.

Summary:
Proverbs 25 offers a treasure trove of wisdom for men navigating life's complexities, from leadership and humility to interpersonal relationships and self-control. It teaches that true glory is in the pursuit of God's hidden wisdom, not in self-exaltation. For modern men, this chapter is a guide to living with integrity, patience, and love, fostering environments where justice, peace, and wisdom thrive.

Questions for Deeper Thought:
How can seeking wisdom rather than accolades change your approach to leadership at home or work?

• This question prompts reflection on humility and the pursuit of understanding over personal glory, encouraging men to lead by example, much like Christ who served rather than sought to be served.

In what ways can discretion in speech, as advised in Proverbs 25, improve your relationships with family and friends?

• This leads to considering how words can heal or harm, urging men to use speech to uplift and guide, fostering deeper, more meaningful connections.

A Short Prayer:
Lord,