Proverbs 10 marks the beginning of Solomon’s collection of wise sayings. Unlike the previous chapters, which focus on extended teachings, this chapter presents a series of concise, contrasting statements that highlight the differences between wisdom and folly, righteousness and wickedness, diligence and laziness.

These proverbs emphasize the moral and practical consequences of one’s choices.

Proverbs 10:1-5 – Righteousness vs. Laziness

“A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.”

  • NIV (New International Version): “A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.”
  • KJV (King James Version): “A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.”
  • ESV (English Standard Version): “A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother.”

Commentary: This proverb emphasizes how wisdom and foolishness affect relationships, particularly within families. A child’s choices reflect on their parents, bringing either joy or sorrow.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Wise” (חָכָם, chakam) – A term indicating one who possesses understanding and moral insight.
  • “Foolish” (כְּסִיל, kesil) – Describes one who despises wisdom and discipline.

Application: Our choices impact not just ourselves but also those around us. Seeking wisdom fosters strong, healthy relationships and brings honor to one’s family.

Proverbs 10:6-9 – Integrity Leads to Security

“Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.”

  • NIV: “Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.”
  • KJV: “Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.”
  • ESV: “Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.”

Commentary: Righteous living results in divine favor and security, while wickedness leads to turmoil. Integrity ensures stability, whereas deceit leads to downfall.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Blessings” (בְּרָכוֹת, berakhot) – Indicates divine favor and prosperity.
  • “Violence” (חָמָס, chamas) – Represents destructive behavior that ultimately backfires on the wicked.

Application: Living righteously brings peace and honor. Dishonesty and wrongdoing may seem beneficial temporarily but ultimately lead to destruction.

Proverbs 10:12-14 – The Power of Words

“Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.”

  • NIV: “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.”
  • KJV: “Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.”
  • ESV: “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.”

Commentary: Words have the power to either create division or promote reconciliation. Hatred leads to discord, while love fosters unity and forgiveness.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Hatred” (שִׂנְאָה, sin’ah) – Represents hostility and bitterness.
  • “Covers” (כָּסָה, kasah) – Means to conceal, forgive, or protect from exposure.

Application: Practicing love and forgiveness leads to peace, while harboring resentment only causes more harm. Words should be used to heal rather than divide.

Proverbs 10:17-20 – The Path of Life vs. Destruction

“Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.”

  • NIV: “Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.”
  • KJV: “He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.”
  • ESV: “Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.”

Commentary: The willingness to accept correction is a hallmark of wisdom, leading to growth and life. Rejecting discipline not only harms oneself but misguides others.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Heeds” (שָׁמַע, shama’) – To listen attentively and obey.
  • “Discipline” (מוּסָר, musar) – Refers to correction, instruction, or moral training.

Application: A teachable spirit fosters wisdom and growth. Ignoring correction can have long-term negative effects on both personal and communal well-being.

General Overview of Proverbs 10

Proverbs 10 introduces the classic format of Solomon’s proverbs—brief yet powerful sayings that contrast righteousness and wickedness. The chapter reinforces the idea that wisdom leads to blessing and security, while folly results in ruin.

Key Takeaways:

  • Righteousness leads to honor and security, while wickedness brings destruction.
  • Words have power—love fosters unity, while hatred breeds conflict.
  • Accepting correction leads to growth and a fulfilling life.
  • Diligence and integrity bring long-term success, whereas laziness and dishonesty lead to downfall.

References

  • HENRY, Matthew. Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: Complete and Unabridged. Hendrickson Publishers, 1991.
  • KIDNER, Derek. Proverbs: An Introduction and Commentary. Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries, 1981.
  • WIERSBE, Warren W. Be Skillful (Proverbs): God’s Guidebook to Wise Living. David C. Cook, 1995.