Proverbs 17:8
The expectation of those who stand ready is a most pleasing jewel. Whichever way he turns himself, he understands prudently.
Catholic Public Domain Version
In The King James Version
In Context
7Well-chosen words are not fitting for the foolish, nor are lying lips fitting for a leader.
Cross References
Genesis 32:14two hundred she-goats, twenty he-goats, two hundred ewes, and twenty rams,
Genesis 33:9But he said, “I have plenty, my brother; let these be for yourself.”
Exodus 23:8Neither shall you accept bribes, which blind even the prudent and subvert the words of the just.
1 Samuel 25:35Then David received from her hand all that she had brought to him. And he said to her: “Go in peace to your own house. Behold, I have heeded your voice, and I have honored your face.”
Psalms 21:13Many calves have surrounded me; fat bulls have besieged me.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 17:8
7 Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince. Two things are here represented as very absurd: 1. That men of no repute should be dictators. What can be more unbecoming than for fools, who are known to have little sense and discretion, to pretend to that which is above them and which they were never cut out for? A fool, in Solomon's proverbs, signifies a wicked man, whom excellent speech does not become, because his conversation gives the lie to his excellent speech. What have those to… Read the whole commentary →