Navigating Life’s Path: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Proverbs 14’s Wisdom

Executive Summary ✨

Proverbs 14, a cornerstone of wisdom literature, presents a stark contrast between the ways of the wise and the foolish. This chapter, deeply resonant within the Coptic Orthodox tradition, underscores the importance of fear of the Lord, humility, and righteous living. It highlights how wisdom protects and guides, while folly leads to destruction and ultimately separation from God. We explore themes of discernment, prudence, justice, and the enduring consequences of our choices. Through the lens of Patristic teachings and biblical parallels, we glean practical insights for navigating the complexities of modern life, striving to embody Christ’s virtues, and seeking the Kingdom of God with unwavering faith. Cultivating inner wisdom is the key, according to Proverbs 14.

Proverbs 14 offers a panoramic view of life, contrasting the paths of wisdom and folly. From domestic tranquility to societal stability, the chapter demonstrates how choices rooted in righteousness yield blessings, while those stemming from wickedness lead to ruin. Let’s delve into this chapter, enriched by the wisdom of the Coptic Orthodox Church Fathers and the eternal truths of Scripture.

Commentary: Proverbs 14 Verse by Verse 📜

Proverbs 14:1

Original (Hebrew): חַכְמ֣וֹת נָ֭שִׁים בָּנְתָ֣ה בֵיתָ֑הּ וְ֝אִוֶּ֗לֶת בְּיָדֶ֥יהָ תֶֽהֶרְסֶֽנּוּ׃

KJV: Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.

NKJV: The wise woman builds her house, But the foolish pulls it down with her own hands.

This verse speaks to the power of wisdom in building a strong foundation, particularly within the home. The “house” represents not only the physical dwelling but also the family, relationships, and overall well-being. The “foolish woman,” on the other hand, destroys this foundation through her actions and choices. This connects directly to the concept of oikonomia (οἰκονομία) in Orthodox theology – the management and stewardship of the household, both literally and figuratively. St. John Chrysostom (τῇ γυναικὶ πίστις τὸ κάλλιστον κόσμημα. John Chrysostom, Homilies on Ephesians, VIII) says “Faith is a woman’s most beautiful ornament”.

Practical Application: Strive to cultivate wisdom in your daily interactions, building up your family and community through love, patience, and understanding. Consider the impact of your words and actions on those around you. Invest in developing healthy relationships that reflect Christ’s love.

Proverbs 14:2

Original (Hebrew): הוֹלֵ֣ךְ בְּ֭יָשְׁרוֹ יְרֵ֣א יְהוָ֑ה וְנִלְזֶ֖ה דְּרָכָ֣יו בּוֹזֵֽהוּ׃

KJV: He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.

NKJV: He who walks in his uprightness fears the LORD, But he who is perverse in his ways despises Him.

Here, the connection between righteousness and the fear of the Lord is emphasized. “Uprightness” (יָשְׁרוֹ – yashrow) implies integrity and moral rectitude. To “fear the LORD” is not merely to be afraid but to have a deep reverence and respect for God, which leads to obedience and a desire to please Him. The perverse individual, conversely, demonstrates a contempt for God through their actions. This resonates with the Deuterocanonical book of Wisdom, where it states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Wisdom 1:7). We see a clear linkage to the moral framework of Orthodox Christianity.

Practical Application: Examine your life for areas where you may be compromising your integrity or failing to honor God. Cultivate a deep reverence for Him through prayer, Scripture reading, and participation in the Sacraments. Embrace the path of righteousness, knowing that it leads to true fulfillment. Remember to find services with scheduling software that will facilitate your spiritual journey.

Proverbs 14:3

Original (Hebrew): בְּפִֽי־אֱ֭וִיל חֹ֣טֶר גַּאֲוָ֑ה וְשִׂפְתֵ֖י חֲכָמִ֣ים תִּשְׁמוּרֵֽם׃

KJV: In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

NKJV: In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them.

This verse highlights the dangers of pride and the power of wisdom to protect. The “rod of pride” represents the destructive potential of arrogant words, which can lead to conflict and harm. The wise, however, use their words carefully, speaking truth with love and restraint, thereby preserving themselves and others. Saint Macarius the Great of Egypt (Macarius the Great, Homily 4.2.) teaches, “Be watchful over yourself so that you may not be like a channel, running with water but not drinking of it.” The wise person controls their tongue, unlike the fool.

Practical Application: Be mindful of your words and the impact they have on others. Practice humility and avoid boastfulness. Seek to speak with wisdom and discernment, always striving to build up rather than tear down. Consider the silence of our Lord before his accusers – a powerful example of restraint.

Proverbs 14:4

Original (Hebrew): אֵין־אֲלָפִים וּבָר־רָ֑ב וְרֹב־תְּבוּאֹת בְּכֹחַ֥ שֽׁוֹר׃

KJV: Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.

NKJV: Where no oxen are, the trough is clean; But much increase comes by the strength of an ox.

This verse illustrates a principle of productivity and responsibility. While a “clean crib” (an empty stall) might seem appealing, it signifies a lack of industry and effort. The “strength of the ox” represents the hard work and dedication required to achieve abundance. This verse speaks to the necessity of engaging with the world and accepting the challenges that come with it, rather than seeking a sterile and unproductive existence. This mirrors the monastic understanding of physical labour being part of spiritual development, contributing to both physical and spiritual well-being.

Practical Application: Embrace hard work and diligence in all areas of your life. Don’t shy away from challenges or responsibilities. Recognize that true rewards come from effort and perseverance. Find ways to contribute your talents and skills to the world around you.

Proverbs 14:5

Original (Hebrew): עֵד־אֱמוּנִים לֹ֣א יְכַזֵּ֑ב וְעֵ֖ד שְׁקָרִ֣ים יָפִֽיחַ׃

KJV: A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.

NKJV: A faithful witness does not lie, But a false witness will utter lies.

Truthfulness and integrity are paramount in the eyes of God. A “faithful witness” is one who speaks truthfully and honestly, even when it is difficult or unpopular. A “false witness,” on the other hand, deliberately distorts the truth for personal gain or to harm others. This verse emphasizes the importance of honesty in all our dealings, reflecting the ninth commandment (“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor”). Saint Athanasius (Athanasius, Against the Heathen, 30), speaks of Truth as the foundation of the Christian faith.

Practical Application: Commit to speaking the truth in all situations, even when it is uncomfortable or inconvenient. Avoid gossip, slander, and deception. Be a reliable and trustworthy witness in your community, upholding integrity and honesty in your interactions with others.

Proverbs 14:6

Original (Hebrew): בִּקֵּשׁ־לֵץ חָכְמָה וָאָ֑יִן וְדַ֖עַת לְנָב֣וֹן נָקָֽל׃

KJV: A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.

NKJV: A scoffer seeks wisdom and does not find it, But knowledge is easy to him who understands.

The “scorner” is someone who ridicules and mocks wisdom, rendering them incapable of receiving it. Conversely, the “one who understands” (נָבוֹן – navon) readily grasps knowledge because they possess a receptive heart and a willingness to learn. Wisdom cannot be forced or acquired through arrogance; it requires humility and a teachable spirit. This highlights the necessity of approaching spiritual growth with a genuine desire to learn and a willingness to be corrected.

Practical Application: Approach your pursuit of wisdom with humility and a teachable spirit. Avoid cynicism and scorn, and instead, seek to learn from others, especially those who are wise and experienced. Cultivate a receptive heart and a willingness to be corrected. The more open you are, the more easily wisdom will flow into your life.

Proverbs 14:7

Original (Hebrew): לֵךְ מִנֶּ֣גֶד לְאִ֣ישׁ כְּסִ֑יל וּבַל־יָדַ֖עְתָּ שִׂפְתֵי־דָֽעַת׃

KJV: Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.

NKJV: Go from the presence of a foolish man, When you do not perceive in him the lips of knowledge.

This verse advises discernment in our relationships. It suggests that spending time with foolish individuals can be detrimental to our own spiritual growth. If we do not perceive in them the “lips of knowledge,” that is, the ability to impart wisdom and understanding, it is best to distance ourselves. This isn’t necessarily about judging individuals, but about prioritizing our own spiritual well-being and surrounding ourselves with those who can edify us. This is echoed in monastic life, where choosing a spiritual father and avoiding harmful companionship is crucial.

Practical Application: Be discerning about the company you keep. Surround yourself with individuals who are wise, virtuous, and supportive of your spiritual growth. Avoid those who are foolish, cynical, or prone to negativity. Remember that your relationships can significantly impact your spiritual journey. Prayerfully consider your relationships and make adjustments as needed.

Proverbs 14:8

Original (Hebrew): חָכְמַת עָרוּם הָבִין דַּרְכּוֹ וְאִוֶּלֶת כְּסִילִים מִרְמָה׃

KJV: The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.

NKJV: The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way, But the folly of fools is deceit.

The wise person carefully considers their actions and understands the consequences of their choices. The fool, driven by deceit, often acts impulsively and without regard for the ramifications. This emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and thoughtful decision-making. Understanding one’s “way” requires introspection and an honest assessment of one’s motives and actions. This resonates deeply with the Orthodox emphasis on self-examination during confession and spiritual guidance.

Practical Application: Take time for self-reflection and examine your motives and actions. Before making important decisions, carefully consider the potential consequences. Seek the guidance of a spiritual advisor or trusted friend. Strive to live a life of intentionality and purpose, guided by wisdom and discernment.

Proverbs 14:9

Original (Hebrew): אֱוִלִים יָלִיצוּ לְאָשָׁם וּבֵין יְשָׁרִים רָצוֹן׃

KJV: Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

NKJV: Fools mock at sin, But among the upright there is favor.

Fools treat sin lightly, making a “mock” of its consequences. The righteous, however, understand the gravity of sin and seek to avoid it. This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing the seriousness of sin and its destructive power. The contrast highlights the different attitudes towards morality and the consequences of ignoring God’s commandments. This mirrors the emphasis on repentance and confession in Orthodox tradition, recognizing sin as a separation from God.

Practical Application: Take sin seriously and avoid making light of its consequences. Cultivate a healthy fear of God and a desire to live a life of righteousness. Confess your sins regularly and seek forgiveness through repentance and participation in the Sacraments.

Proverbs 14:10

Original (Hebrew): לֵב יֹודֵעַ מָּרַּת נַפְשׁוֹ וּבְשִׂמְחָתוֹ לֹא־יִתְעָרַב זָר׃

KJV: The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.

NKJV: The heart knows its own bitterness, And no stranger shares its joy.

This verse speaks to the individual nature of our inner experiences. It suggests that even in the midst of community, there are joys and sorrows that remain deeply personal and understood only by the individual. While we can share our experiences with others, ultimately, the depth of our emotions remains our own. This verse hints at the importance of cultivating a relationship with God, who alone can fully understand and comfort us in our deepest struggles.

Practical Application: Recognize the uniqueness of your own inner experiences and allow yourself to feel them fully. Cultivate a personal relationship with God, who understands your heart better than anyone else. Seek solace and comfort in prayer and the Sacraments. Share your burdens with trusted friends or spiritual advisors, but remember that ultimately, your relationship with God is the foundation of your strength.

Proverbs 14:11

Original (Hebrew): בֵּית־רְשָׁעִים יִשָּׁמֵד וְאֹהֶל יְשָׁרִים יַפְרִֽיחַ׃

KJV: The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.

NKJV: The house of the wicked will be overthrown, But the tent of the upright will flourish.

This verse presents a contrasting image of the ultimate fates of the wicked and the upright. The “house of the wicked” symbolizes their worldly possessions and ambitions, which will ultimately be destroyed. The “tabernacle of the upright,” on the other hand, represents their relationship with God and their commitment to righteousness, which will flourish and endure. This echoes the parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27), emphasizing the importance of building our lives on a solid foundation of faith and virtue.

Practical Application: Focus on building your life on a solid foundation of faith, virtue, and righteous living. Don’t be consumed by the pursuit of worldly possessions or ambitions. Remember that true and lasting blessings come from a relationship with God and a commitment to His will.

Proverbs 14:12

Original (Hebrew): יֵשׁ דֶּרֶךְ יָשָׁר לִפְנֵי־אִישׁ וְאַחֲרִיתָהּ דַּרְכֵי־מָוֶת׃

KJV: There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

NKJV: There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.

This is a powerful warning against relying solely on our own judgment. What “seems right” to us may not necessarily be in accordance with God’s will. This verse underscores the importance of seeking wisdom from God and aligning our choices with His commandments. It also highlights the deceptive nature of sin, which can appear attractive and harmless but ultimately leads to destruction. Saint Basil the Great (Basil the Great, Ascetical Works, Prologue 2), points out that we must scrutinize even seemingly good things, lest they lead us away from the path of salvation.

Practical Application: Don’t rely solely on your own judgment. Seek wisdom from God through prayer, Scripture reading, and the guidance of trusted spiritual advisors. Be discerning about your choices and make sure they align with God’s will. Guard against the deceptive allure of sin and choose the path of righteousness, even when it is difficult.

Proverbs 14:13

Original (Hebrew): גַּם־בִּשְּׂחֹק יִכְאַב־לֵב וְאַחֲרִיתָהּ שִׂמְחָה תּוּגָה׃

KJV: Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.

NKJV: Even in laughter the heart may sorrow, And the end of mirth may be grief.

This verse speaks to the transient nature of worldly happiness. Even in moments of laughter and joy, there may be an underlying sense of sorrow or emptiness. This is because true and lasting joy is not found in fleeting pleasures but in a relationship with God. The verse reminds us that worldly happiness is temporary and ultimately unsatisfying. It suggests that we should seek a deeper and more lasting source of joy, which can only be found in God.

Practical Application: Recognize the fleeting nature of worldly happiness and don’t rely on it for true fulfillment. Seek a deeper and more lasting source of joy in a relationship with God. Cultivate inner peace and contentment through prayer, Scripture reading, and acts of service. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge your sorrows and seek comfort in God’s presence.

Proverbs 14:14

Original (Hebrew): מִדְּרָכָיו יִשְׂבַּע סוּג לֵב וּמֵעָלָיו אִישׁ־טֽוֹב׃

KJV: The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

NKJV: The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, But a good man will be satisfied from himself.

This verse highlights the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness. The “backslider in heart” will be filled with the bitterness and emptiness of their own choices. The “good man,” on the other hand, will find satisfaction and contentment in living a life of virtue and integrity. This emphasizes the importance of perseverance in faith and the rewards of remaining steadfast in our commitment to God. It’s a call to continual vigilance and striving for spiritual perfection.

Practical Application: Remain steadfast in your commitment to God and avoid straying from the path of righteousness. Persevere in faith, even when faced with temptations and challenges. Seek to live a life of virtue and integrity, and you will find true satisfaction and contentment. Be watchful over your heart and guard against backsliding.

Proverbs 14:15

Original (Hebrew): פֶּתִי יַאֲמִין לְכָל־דָּבָר וְעָרוּם יָבִין לַאֲשֻׁרוֹ׃

KJV: The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.

NKJV: The simple believes every word, But the prudent man considers well his steps.

This verse warns against gullibility and emphasizes the importance of discernment. The “simple” person readily believes everything they hear, while the “prudent man” carefully considers the source and validity of information before accepting it. This principle applies not only to everyday situations but also to spiritual matters. We must be discerning about the teachings and doctrines we embrace, ensuring that they align with the truth of God’s Word and the teachings of the Church. The fathers often warned about heretical teachings and the need for careful discernment.

Practical Application: Be discerning about the information you consume and the teachings you embrace. Question everything and verify its accuracy before accepting it as truth. Seek wisdom and guidance from trusted sources, such as Scripture, the Church Fathers, and spiritual advisors. Avoid being gullible and falling prey to false teachings. Remember to find services with all-in-one-marketing to help spread accurate information.

Proverbs 14:16

Original (Hebrew): חָכָם יָרֵא וְסָר מֵרָע וּכְסִיל מִתְעַבֵּר וּבוֹטֵחַ׃

KJV: A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.

NKJV: A wise man fears and departs from evil, But a fool rages and is self-confident.

The “wise man” demonstrates a healthy fear of God, which leads him to avoid evil. The “fool,” on the other hand, is reckless and self-confident, disregarding the potential consequences of his actions. This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and a recognition of our own limitations. It suggests that true wisdom comes from acknowledging our dependence on God and seeking His guidance in all our decisions. Saint Anthony the Great said “Always be prepared for temptations.”

Practical Application: Cultivate a healthy fear of God and avoid evil. Recognize your own limitations and seek God’s guidance in all your decisions. Practice humility and avoid arrogance. Be mindful of the potential consequences of your actions and choose the path of righteousness, even when it is difficult.

Proverbs 14:17

Original (Hebrew): קְצַר־אַפַּיִם יַעֲשֶׂה אִוֶּלֶת וְאִישׁ מְזִמּוֹת יִשָּׂנֵֽא׃

KJV: He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

NKJV: A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, And a man of wicked intentions is hated.

This verse links anger with folly and wickedness with hatred. A “quick-tempered man” is prone to making foolish decisions, driven by his emotions rather than reason. A “man of wicked intentions” is universally hated because his actions are harmful and destructive. This verse emphasizes the importance of controlling our emotions and avoiding malice. It suggests that true wisdom involves mastering our passions and cultivating a spirit of love and compassion.

Practical Application: Strive to control your anger and avoid acting impulsively. Cultivate a spirit of love and compassion towards others. Avoid wicked intentions and actions. Remember that true wisdom involves mastering your passions and living a life of virtue and integrity.

Proverbs 14:18

Original (Hebrew): נַחֲלוּ פְתָאיִם אִוֶּלֶת וַעֲרוּמִים יַכְתִּרוּ דָֽעַת׃

KJV: The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

NKJV: The simple inherit folly, But the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

This verse contrasts the destinies of the “simple” and the “prudent.” The simple inherit folly, meaning that their lack of discernment leads them down a path of foolishness and destruction. The prudent, on the other hand, are “crowned with knowledge,” signifying that their wisdom and discernment are rewarded with understanding and insight. This reinforces the importance of seeking wisdom and avoiding foolishness, emphasizing that our choices have long-term consequences.

Practical Application: Strive to be prudent and avoid the path of folly. Seek knowledge and understanding through study, prayer, and the guidance of trusted sources. Cultivate wisdom and discernment in all your decisions. Remember that your choices have long-term consequences, and choose the path that leads to righteousness and true fulfillment.

Proverbs 14:19

Original (Hebrew): שַׁחוּ רָעִים לִפְנֵי־טֹובִים וּרְשָׁעִים עַל־שַׁעֲרֵי צַדִּיק׃

KJV: The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

NKJV: The evil will bow before the good, And the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

This verse speaks to the eventual triumph of good over evil. Though the wicked may prosper for a time, ultimately, they will be humbled before the righteous. This is not necessarily a literal bowing but a recognition of the moral authority and spiritual power of those who live according to God’s will. This verse offers hope and encouragement to those who are struggling to live righteously in a world that often seems to favor the wicked.

Practical Application: Remain steadfast in your commitment to righteousness, even when faced with opposition or persecution. Trust that God will ultimately vindicate the righteous and humble the wicked. Take comfort in the knowledge that good will triumph over evil in the end. Be a light in the darkness, demonstrating the power of God’s love and truth.

Proverbs 14:20

Original (Hebrew): גַּם־לְרֵעֵהוּ יִשָּׂנֵא רָשׁ וְאֹהֲבֵי עָשִׁיר רַבִּים׃

KJV: The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

NKJV: Even by his own neighbor the poor man is hated, But the rich has many friends.

This verse is a stark observation about the human tendency to value wealth and status over genuine relationships. The poor are often ostracized and even hated, while the rich attract many “friends” who are motivated by self-interest. This verse challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards wealth and poverty and to cultivate genuine compassion for those in need. It also reminds us that true friendship is based on love and mutual respect, not on material possessions.

Practical Application: Examine your own attitudes towards wealth and poverty. Cultivate compassion for those in need and avoid judging others based on their financial status. Seek genuine relationships based on love and mutual respect, not on material possessions. Remember that true friendship is a gift from God and should be cherished. Give to those in need, in accordance with Jesus’ teachings.

Proverbs 14:21

Original (Hebrew): בּוֹזֶה לְרֵעֵהוּ חוֹטֵא וּמְחֹנֵן עֲנָוִים אַשְׁרֵֽי׃

KJV: He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

NKJV: He who despises his neighbor sins; But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.

Despising one’s neighbor is a sin, while showing mercy to the poor brings blessing. This verse reinforces the importance of love and compassion in our relationships with others. It challenges us to treat everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their social or economic status. It also emphasizes the importance of practical acts of charity and generosity towards those in need. This verse echoes the teachings of Christ, who commanded us to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Practical Application: Treat everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their social or economic status. Practice acts of charity and generosity towards those in need. Cultivate a spirit of love and compassion in your relationships with others. Remember that showing mercy to the poor is a blessing in the eyes of God.

Proverbs 14:22

Original (Hebrew): הֲלוֹא יִתְעוּ חֹרְשֵׁי רָע וְחֶסֶד וֶאֱמֶת חֹרְשֵׁי טֽוֹב׃

KJV: Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

NKJV: Do they not go astray who devise evil? But mercy and truth belong to those who devise good.

Those who “devise evil” will inevitably go astray, while those who “devise good” will be blessed with mercy and truth. This verse emphasizes the importance of intention and the consequences of our thoughts and plans. It suggests that our minds are like gardens, and we must carefully cultivate good thoughts and intentions to reap a harvest of blessings. It connects strongly with Jesus’ teachings of pureness of heart, and thoughts reflecting actions.

Practical Application: Cultivate good thoughts and intentions. Guard your mind against evil thoughts and desires. Strive to devise good plans that will benefit yourself and others. Remember that your thoughts and intentions have consequences, and choose to focus on the good.

Proverbs 14:23

Original (Hebrew): בְּכָל־עֶצֶב יִתְרוֹן וּדְבַר־שְׂפָתַיִם אַךְ־לְמַחְסֽוֹר׃

KJV: In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

NKJV: In all labor there is profit, But idle chatter leads only to poverty.

This verse underscores the value of hard work and the futility of idle chatter. “All labor” brings profit, whether material or spiritual, while “idle chatter” leads only to poverty. This emphasizes the importance of diligence and productivity in all areas of our lives. It suggests that we should focus our energy on meaningful work and avoid wasting time on unproductive activities. This echoes the monastic work ethic which emphasizes prayer, contemplation, and physical labor.

Practical Application: Be diligent and productive in all areas of your life. Avoid wasting time on idle chatter or unproductive activities. Focus your energy on meaningful work that will benefit yourself and others. Remember that hard work brings profit, both material and spiritual.

Proverbs 14:24

Original (Hebrew): עֲטֶרֶת חֲכָמִים עָשְׁרָם אִוֶּלֶת כְּסִילִים אִוֶּלֶת׃

KJV: The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.

NKJV: The crown of the wise is their riches, But the foolishness of fools is folly.

The “riches” of the wise are a “crown,” signifying their honor and influence. The “folly” of fools, on the other hand, is their own destruction. This verse suggests that true wealth is not merely material possessions but also the wisdom and virtue that come from a life of righteousness. The crown symbolises the dignity and respect earned through wisdom.

Practical Application: Seek to acquire wisdom and virtue, not just material possessions. Cultivate a life of righteousness and integrity, and you will be honored and respected. Remember that true wealth is not measured in dollars and cents but in the richness of your character and the depth of your relationship with God. Find scheduling software to improve your financial planning.

Proverbs 14:25

Original (Hebrew): מַצִּיל נְפָשׁוֹת עֵד אֱמֶת וְיָפִיחַ כְּזָבִים מִרְמָֽה׃

KJV: A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.

NKJV: A true witness delivers souls, But a deceitful witness speaks lies.

A true and trustworthy witness can save lives, while a deceitful witness spreads falsehoods that can lead to destruction. This verse highlights the impact that words have on the lives of others. It further emphasizes the importance of speaking truth, upholding justice, and protecting the vulnerable. The theme connects deeply with the concept of being ‘salt and light’ in the world.

Practical Application: Be a true and trustworthy witness in all your dealings. Speak truth and uphold justice. Protect the vulnerable and stand up for what is right. Remember that your words have power, and use them to build up and encourage others.

Proverbs 14:26

Original (Hebrew): בְּיִרְאַת יְהוָה מִבְטַח־עֹז וּלְבָנָיו יִהְיֶה מַחְסֶֽה׃

KJV: In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

NKJV: In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, And His children will have a place of refuge.

This verse reiterates that true confidence and security are found in the fear of the Lord. Those who reverence God have a “strong confidence” and a “place of refuge” in Him. This emphasizes that the way to find true peace is to put your trust in God.

Practical Application: Trust in