Proverbs 11:17
A merciful man doth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel casteth off even his own kindred.
Douay-Rheims 1899
In The King James Version
The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.
In Context
16A gracious woman shall find glory: and the strong shall have riches.
18The wicked maketh an unsteady work: but to him that soweth justice, there is a faithful reward.
Cross References
Job 20:16He shall suck the head of asps, and the viper's tongue shall kill him.
Psalms 41:1Unto the end, a psalm for David himself.
Psalms 112:4To the righteous a light is risen up in darkness: he is merciful, and compassionate and just.
Proverbs 22:9He that is inclined to mercy shall be blessed: for of his bread he hath given to the poor. He that maketh presents shall purchase victory and honour: but he carrieth away the souls of the receivers.
Isaiah 32:7The vessels of the deceitful are most wicked: for he hath framed devices to destroy the meek, with lying words, when the poor man speaketh judgment.
Isaiah 58:7Deal thy bread to the hungry, and bring the needy and the harbourless into thy house: when thou shalt see one naked, cover him, and despise not thy own flesh.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 11:17
16 A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches. Here, 1. It is allowed that strong men retain riches, that those who bustle in the world, who are men of spirit and interest, and are able to make their part good against all who stand in their way, are likely to keep what they have and to get more, while those who are weak are preyed upon by all about them. 2. It is taken for granted that a gracious woman is as solicitous to preserve her reputation for wisdom and modesty, humility and courtesy,… Read the whole commentary →