Proverbs - Chapter 26

Proverbs 26.1 As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool. Proverbs 26.2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come. Proverbs 26.3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool’s back. Proverbs 26.4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. Proverbs 26.5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit. Proverbs 26.6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage. Proverbs 26.7 The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools. Proverbs 26.8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool. Proverbs 26.9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouths of fools. Proverbs 26.10 The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors. Proverbs 26.11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly. Proverbs 26.12 Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him. Proverbs 26.13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets. Proverbs 26.14 As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed. Proverbs 26.15 The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth. Proverbs 26.16 The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason. Proverbs 26.17 He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears. Proverbs 26.19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport? Proverbs 26.20 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. Proverbs 26.21 As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife. Proverbs 26.22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly. Proverbs 26.23 Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross. Proverbs 26.24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him; Proverbs 26.25 When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart. Proverbs 26.26 Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation. Proverbs 26.27 Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him. Proverbs 26.28 A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.

Proverbs : Chapter 26

Wisdom and Folly in Proverbs 26

Proverbs chapter 26 invites us to reflect on the distinction between wisdom and folly. But how can we identify and respond to the folly around us? This incisive passage addresses crucial topics such as the dangers of honoring fools, the repetitive nature of folly, and the harms of laziness and deceit.

Foolish Behaviors

Through striking analogies, chapter 26 illustrates foolish behaviors and their consequences. It warns against gossip and argument, emphasizing the importance of discernment in our relationships. In this light, let us consider five key verses that illuminate the essential principles of this revelatory chapter.

Key Verses

Titus 3:9: "But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, arguments, and quarrels about the law, for these are useless and worthless." This verse echoes the theme of Proverbs 26:4-5 regarding handling foolish arguments.

2 Thessalonians 3:10: "For while we were still with you, we gave you this commandment: If anyone would not work, neither should he eat." This passage reflects the theme of Proverbs 26:13-16 about laziness and its consequences.

Ephesians 4:29: "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only such as is useful for building others up, as the need arises, so that it may give grace to those who hear it." This verse refers to Proverbs 26:18-19, emphasizing the importance of using our words responsibly.

Romans 16:18: "For such people do not serve Christ our Lord, but their own appetites. With smooth and flattering words they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting." This passage echoes the warning in Proverbs 26:24-26 about deceitful people and their intentions.

James 3:5-6: "Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it possesses great things. Consider how a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue is also a fire; it is a world of iniquity." This verse reflects the theme of Proverbs 26:20-22 on the destructive power of words.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Proverbs chapter 26 reminds us of the importance of wisdom in the face of folly. As we meditate on these verses, we are called to exercise enlightened discernment in our relationships and our words, in order to build a more just world imbued with divine wisdom.