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Explanatory Notes on the Whole Bible, by John Wesley, [1754-65], at sacred-texts.com


Proverbs Chapter 17

Proverbs 17:4

pro 17:4

False lips - To false accusations and calumnies, which give him occasion and encouragement to do mischief.

Proverbs 17:7

pro 17:7

Excellent speech - Discourse of high and excellent things.

Proverbs 17:8

pro 17:8

A precious stone - Pleasant and acceptable; and withal dazzles his eyes. Whithersoever - To whomsoever it is presented. But this, as also many of her proverbs, are to be understood of most men, not of all.

Proverbs 17:9

pro 17:9

Covereth - That conceals as far as he may, other mens faults.

Proverbs 17:11

pro 17:11

Rebellion - Against God. Messenger - Or, a cruel angel, the angel of death, the devil, or some bloody men employed by God to avenge his quarrel.

Proverbs 17:12

pro 17:12

Folly - In the heat of his lust or passion.

Proverbs 17:14

pro 17:14

Letteth out - By cutting the bank of a river. Leave off - Avoid the occasions, and prevent the beginning of contention.

Proverbs 17:16

pro 17:16

A price - Opportunities and abilities of getting it. No heart - Neither discretion to discern the worth of wisdom, nor any sincere desire to get it.

Proverbs 17:17

pro 17:17

Was born - Was sent into the world for this, that he might comfort and relieve his brother in adversity.

Proverbs 17:18

pro 17:18

Friend - Debtor, for whom being his friend, he becomes surety.

Proverbs 17:20

pro 17:20

No good - Shall not get that advantage which he expects.

Proverbs 17:22

pro 17:22

Doth good - Even to the body; it contributes much to bodily health and vigour. Drieth - Wastes the marrow of the bones, and the moisture and strength of the body.

Proverbs 17:24

pro 17:24

In the face - His wisdom appears even in his looks. The eyes - Minding most, those things which are remotest from him, and least concern him.

Proverbs 17:26

pro 17:26

To strike - Nor to smite magistrates, either with the hand or tongue, for the execution of justice.


Next: Proverbs Chapter 18