Proverbs 14 continues Solomon’s teachings on wisdom and folly, highlighting the consequences of choices that lead either to life and security or to destruction and ruin. This chapter emphasizes themes of integrity, diligence, fear of the Lord, and the power of speech, reinforcing the contrasts between the righteous and the wicked.

Proverbs 14:1-3 – The Wise vs. the Foolish

“The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.”

  • NIV (New International Version): “The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.”
  • KJV (King James Version): “Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.”
  • ESV (English Standard Version): “The wisest of women builds her house, but folly with her own hands tears it down.”

Commentary: This verse illustrates the power of wisdom in establishing stability and prosperity, while foolishness leads to destruction. A wise person nurtures and strengthens their family and community, whereas recklessness brings downfall.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Builds” (בָּנָה, banah) – Refers to constructing or establishing something strong and lasting.
  • “Tears down” (הָרַס, haras) – Indicates destruction or ruin, often due to poor decisions or negligence.

Application: Our daily choices either build up or tear down the relationships and responsibilities entrusted to us. Wisdom fosters growth and stability, while folly leads to chaos and regret.

Proverbs 14:6-7 – Seeking Wisdom

“The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.”

  • NIV: “The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.”
  • KJV: “A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.”
  • ESV: “A scoffer seeks wisdom in vain, but knowledge is easy for a man of understanding.”

Commentary: Wisdom requires a humble heart. Those who mock truth and reject correction will not attain wisdom, whereas those who seek it sincerely will grow in understanding.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Mocker” (לֵץ, lets) – Describes a scoffer or arrogant person who rejects wisdom.
  • “Discerning” (בִּין, bin) – Signifies understanding and insight gained through reflection.

Application: A heart that seeks wisdom with sincerity will find it. Humility and openness to instruction are essential in acquiring true knowledge.

Proverbs 14:12 – The Danger of Self-Deception

“There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.”

  • NIV: “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.”
  • KJV: “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.”
  • ESV: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.”

Commentary: Human judgment is often flawed. What may seem logical or beneficial in the moment can lead to destruction if not aligned with God’s truth.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Way” (דֶּרֶךְ, derekh) – Represents a path or course of action.
  • “Death” (מָוֶת, mavet) – Symbolizes both physical death and spiritual separation from God.

Application: We must evaluate our decisions through the lens of God’s wisdom rather than personal understanding. Seeking divine guidance prevents disastrous choices.

Proverbs 14:21 – The Blessing of Kindness

“Whoever despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.”

  • NIV: “Whoever despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.”
  • KJV: “He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.”
  • ESV: “Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”

Commentary: Kindness and generosity reflect God’s character, while contempt for others reveals a hardened heart.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Despises” (בָּזָה, bazah) – Indicates disdain or treating others as worthless.
  • “Blessed” (אַשְׁרֵי, ashrei) – Signifies joy and divine favor.

Application: Generosity leads to blessing, while disdain for others is sinful. Practicing kindness aligns us with God’s will and brings joy.

General Overview of Proverbs 14

Proverbs 14 contrasts wisdom with folly, emphasizing the consequences of choices in daily life. It encourages reverence for God, integrity, and kindness while warning against pride, deceit, and destructive behaviors.

Key Takeaways:

  • Wisdom builds stability, while foolishness leads to ruin.
  • True wisdom is accessible to those who seek it with sincerity.
  • What seems right to human reasoning may lead to destruction if not aligned with God’s truth.
  • Kindness and generosity bring blessings, while arrogance leads to sin.

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.