Proverbs 17:18
A man void of understanding is he that striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his neighbour.
JPS TaNaKH 1917
In The King James Version
A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.
In Context
17A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
19He loveth transgression that loveth strife; he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction.
Cross References
Proverbs 11:15He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it; but he that hateth them that strike hands is secure.
Proverbs 22:16One may oppress the poor, yet will their gain increase; one may give to the rich, yet will want come.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 17:18
True Friendship. 17 A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. This intimates the strength of those bonds by which we are bound to each other and which we ought to be sensible of. 1. Friends must be constant to each other at all times. That is not true friendship which is not constant; it will be so if it be sincere, and actuated by a good principle. Those that are fanciful or selfish in their friendship will love no longer than their humour is pleased and their interest served, and… Read the whole commentary →