Proverbs 11:17
The merciful man does good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubles his own flesh.
Updated King James Version
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 retains honour: and strong men retain riches.
18The wicked works a deceitful work: but to him that sows righteousness shall be a sure reward.
Cross References
Job 20:16He shall suck the poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him.
Psalms 41:1Blessed is he that considers the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.
Psalms 112:4Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
Proverbs 22:9He that has a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he gives of his bread to the poor.
Isaiah 32:7The instruments also of the churl are evil: he devises wicked devices to destroy the poor with lying words, even when the needy speaks right.
Isaiah 58:7Is it not to deal your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor that are cast out to your house? when you see the naked, that you cover him; and that you hide not yourself from yours 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 →