Proverbs 18:16
A man’s gift expands his way and makes space for him before leaders.
Catholic Public Domain Version
In The King James Version
A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
In Context
15A prudent heart shall possess knowledge. And the ear of the wise seeks doctrine.
17The just is the first accuser of himself; his friend arrives and shall investigate him.
Cross References
Genesis 33:10And Jacob said: “I beg you, let it not be so. But if I have found favor in your eyes, receive a small present from my hands. For I have looked upon your face as I would look upon the countenance of God. Be gracious to me,
1 Samuel 25:27Because of this, accept this blessing, which your handmaid has brought to you, my lord. And give it to the young men who follow you, my lord.
Proverbs 17:8The expectation of those who stand ready is a most pleasing jewel. Whichever way he turns himself, he understands prudently.
Proverbs 21:14A surprise gift extinguishes anger. And a gift concealed in the bosom extinguishes the greatest indignation.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 18:16
15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge. Note, 1. Those that are prudent will seek knowledge, and apply their ear and heart to the pursuit of it, their ear to attend to the means of knowledge and their heart to mix faith with what they hear and make a good improvement of it. Those that are prudent do not think they have prudence enough, but still see they have need of more; and the more prudent a man is the more inquisitive will he be after knowledge, the knowledge… Read the whole commentary →