The Book of Proverbs
by Solomon
King of Judah and Israel
son of David

A Commentary by Brit-Am and Friends

s.1
[Proverbs 1:1] THE PROVERBS OF SOLOMON THE SON OF DAVID, KING OF ISRAEL;
David was the King of Israel and will return to be the King of Israel. He was the once and future king of all Israel. Alternately the future ruler of Israel will be a descendant of David and in some way embody his essence so that it will be as he was David himself. David had many sons (possibly 30 or more) but only the line of Solomon will bring forth the Messiah.
 
[Proverbs 1:2] TO KNOW WISDOM AND INSTRUCTION; TO PERCEIVE THE WORDS OF UNDERSTANDING,
The Book of Proverbs is a very good book. A lot of the words of advice given here are indispensable for someone who really wants to know how to behave. We tend to forget the advice given here and that is one of the reasons why this commentary is going out. It is as an exercise in revision and learning. We are not trying to preach. We need this instruction as much as anybody. We wish to learn this work for our own sake and know from experience that others on our list would like to share with us.
 
[Proverbs 1:3] TO RECEIVE THE INSTRUCTION OF WISDOM, JUSTICE, AND JUDGMENT, AND EQUITY;
EQUITY = In Hebrew misharim i.e. going in the straight paths.
 
[Proverbs 1:4] TO GIVE SUBTILTY TO THE SIMPLE, TO THE YOUNG MAN KNOWLEDGE AND DISCRETION.
One can learn a lot from the words of Solomon. If one manages to put the message of Solomon to heart it is worth much more than years of experience.
DISCRETION: Hebrew "Mizimah" connoting initiative and planning, pre-emptive measures.
 
[Proverbs 1:5] A WISE MAN WILL HEAR, AND WILL INCREASE LEARNING; AND A MAN OF UNDERSTANDING SHALL ATTAIN UNTO WISE COUNSELS:
It is good to listen to advice and wise sayings and try to relate them to other lessons and experiences one has had in the same field.
 
[Proverbs 1:6] TO UNDERSTAND A PROVERB, AND THE INTERPRETATION; THE WORDS OF THE WISE, AND THEIR DARK SAYINGS.
It is not all easy but it is worth it and one point of understanding opens up other vistas of knowledge.

[Proverbs 1:7] THE FEAR OF THE LORD IS THE BEGINNING OF KNOWLEDGE: BUT FOOLS DESPISE WISDOM AND INSTRUCTION.
Without the fear of God there is no point in acquiring knowledge. Eli Merzbach, a Bar-Ilan University Professor of Mathematics who lives in Shiloh, once said (basing himself on a passage in Maimonides) that only good God-Fearing or at least morally-upright people make scientific breakthroughs. I objected and brought forward some examples that I thought were to the contrary. Eli then said that the examples that I had adduced were those of technological improvements rather than real advancements in scientific knowledge. I still feel reservations about this claim but it is worth considering. Eli is involved in the world of science and in a position to know these things.
 
[Proverbs 1:8] MY SON, HEAR THE INSTRUCTION OF THY FATHER, AND FORSAKE NOT THE LAW OF THY MOTHER.
These days most people suffer because of problems they had with their parents and problems they cause for their children. With the fear of God and a little good will most problems can be solved or at least greatly alleviated. The best honor we can show our parents is to live honorably. Even if we have made great mistakes in the past every good deed and good intention we make in the present goes towards a rectification and a better world for ourselves, our parents, and our children. We need to think in terms of past, present, and future.
 
[Proverbs 1:9] FOR THEY SHALL BE AN ORNAMENT OF GRACE UNTO THY HEAD, AND CHAINS ABOUT THY NECK.
This is talking about respect. Someone who respects his parents will receive respect from others and will know how NOT to take negative aspects overduly to heart. Respect your father and mother means if necessary not receiving negative influences but only good positive ones.
 
[Proverbs 1:10] MY SON, IF SINNERS ENTICE THEE, CONSENT THOU NOT.
Bad company is probably the worst corrupter. We should not give in to the enticements or bad example of others.
 
[Proverbs 1:11] IF THEY SAY, COME WITH US, LET US LAY WAIT FOR BLOOD, LET US LURK PRIVILY FOR THE INNOCENT WITHOUT CAUSE.
This includes cheating people, or selling harmful substances, or inducing others to do things they would not normally really want to do.
 
[Proverbs 1:12] LET US SWALLOW THEM UP ALIVE AS THE GRAVE; AND WHOLE, AS THOSE THAT GO DOWN INTO THE PIT:
A person should be responsible and not cause others to harm or demean or cheapen themselves.
 
[Proverbs 1:13] WE SHALL FIND ALL PRECIOUS SUBSTANCE, WE SHALL FILL OUR HOUSES WITH SPOIL:  
Young people are sometimes enticed by the idea of a quick kill, of doing something illegal or unethical in order to make a lot of money fast.                   
 
[Proverbs 1:14] CAST IN THY LOT AMONG US; LET US ALL HAVE ONE PURSE:
In some cases you should not be overduly generous nor allow others control of your livelihood or means of subsistence. If you do not have to rely on others why put yourself in a position where you have to do so? You could even stretch the above verse and say that Solomon was preaching against the ideas of socialism, not because they are necessarily bad in themselves but rather they are against human nature and result in gangster type control by those in charge.
 
[Proverbs 1:15] MY SON, WALK NOT THOU IN THE WAY WITH THEM; REFRAIN THY FOOT FROM THEIR PATH:
Do not be taken in. Do not be an easy victim. Do not encourage evil by acquiescence.                    
 
[Proverbs 1:16] FOR THEIR FEET RUN TO EVIL, AND MAKE HASTE TO SHED BLOOD.
Most important: do not lose control of your own actions and find yourself doing things against your better knowledge.                     
 
[Proverbs 1:17] SURELY IN VAIN THE NET IS SPREAD IN THE SIGHT OF ANY BIRD.
When you try to cheat or deceive others they are often aware of it to some degree. Even when the victim goes along with the trickery and appears to be taken in somewhere in his subconscious he knows something is wrong. He feels it instinctively and eventually this instinct will be realized consciously. A person is often more exposed than he realizes. The message of Solomon is that God sees everything and if we are aware of this we shall keep clean before Him and thus automatically also stay clean in the view of others. This can be easier said than done but honesty really is the best policy.  A broken vessel can frequently be repaired but it is much better not to break it in the first place.
 
 [Proverbs 1:18] AND THEY LAY WAIT FOR THEIR OWN BLOOD; THEY LURK PRIVILY FOR THEIR OWN  LIVES.
This is a well known principle. Those who harm others without reason are harming themselves. What you do you do to yourself. If you destroy evil you destroy it in yourself. If you harm those who deserve no harm you harm yourself.
 
[Proverbs 1:19] SO ARE THE WAYS OF EVERY ONE THAT IS GREEDY OF GAIN; WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE LIFE OF THE OWNERS THEREOF. 
If you cheat others it will come back to you some time or other. 
Sometimes however it happens that a person is in a situation where things are not entirely in his control. This too is hinted at in verse 1:17 above. You are like a bird, open your eyes and you will see if others are deceiving you. It may be that you wish to be deceived but God does not want you to be a victim. The decision is yours at some level. The Bible helps us learn how to be masters of our own fate. The Book of Proverbs gives us advice and the Book of Psalms strength.
Your soul is likened to a bird: Your soul sees what is good and that which is not. Be in touch with it.
In Hebrew "bird" is Tziporah. The wife of Moses was named (T)Zipporah. Isaac Mozeson once began a modernistic translation with Commentary of the Bible. He called "Zipporah "Birdie".  He also suggest that the English word "sparrow" is derived from the Hebrew "tzipor" (bird). 

[Proverbs 1:20] WISDOM CRIETH WITHOUT; SHE UTTERETH HER VOICE IN THE STREETS:                     
 
[Proverbs 1:21] SHE CRIETH IN THE CHIEF PLACE OF CONCOURSE, IN THE OPENINGS OF THE GATES: IN THE CITY SHE UTTERETH HER WORDS, SAYING,                     
 
[Proverbs 1:22] HOW LONG, YE SIMPLE ONES, WILL YE LOVE SIMPLICITY? AND THE SCORNERS DELIGHT IN THEIR SCORNING, AND FOOLS HATE KNOWLEDGE?                     
 
[Proverbs 1:23] TURN YOU AT MY REPROOF: BEHOLD, I WILL POUR OUT MY SPIRIT UNTO YOU, I WILL MAKE KNOWN MY WORDS UNTO YOU.                     
 
[Proverbs 1:24] BECAUSE I HAVE CALLED, AND YE REFUSED; I HAVE STRETCHED OUT MY HAND, AND NO MAN REGARDED;                     
 
[Proverbs 1:25] BUT YE HAVE SET AT NOUGHT ALL MY COUNSEL, AND WOULD NONE OF MY REPROOF:                     
 
[Proverbs 1:26] I ALSO WILL LAUGH AT YOUR CALAMITY; I WILL MOCK WHEN YOUR FEAR COMETH;
 
[Proverbs 1:27] WHEN YOUR FEAR COMETH AS DESOLATION, AND YOUR DESTRUCTION COMETH AS A WHIRLWIND; WHEN DISTRESS AND ANGUISH COMETH UPON YOU.                     
 
[Proverbs 1:28] THEN SHALL THEY CALL UPON ME, BUT I WILL NOT ANSWER; THEY SHALL SEEK ME EARLY, BUT THEY SHALL NOT FIND ME:                     
 
[Proverbs 1:29] FOR THAT THEY HATED KNOWLEDGE, AND DID NOT CHOOSE THE FEAR OF THE LORD:
The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Even if we are inclined to be foolish or do not think things through by fearing not to transgress the will of God we often deliver ourselves.
 
[Proverbs 1:30] THEY WOULD NONE OF MY COUNSEL: THEY DESPISED ALL MY REPROOF.                     
 
[Proverbs 1:31] THEREFORE SHALL THEY EAT OF THE FRUIT OF THEIR OWN WAY, AND BE FILLED WITH THEIR OWN DEVICES.
Very often bad conduct leads to bad results. More often the bad results were clearly foreseeable and the person concerned was warned about them but did not (or could not) hearken.                    
 
[Proverbs 1:32] FOR THE TURNING AWAY OF THE SIMPLE SHALL SLAY THEM, AND THE PROSPERITY OF FOOLS SHALL DESTROY THEM.
People who depart from the true path often fall down in other ways. Ill-gotten gains are usually misspent. Foolish people who become well off often "live it up" without necessarily enjoying themselves. -On the contrary.  An obvious example is the use of drugs. Drugs can cost enormous amounts of money and end up killing the user while causing misery and suffering to those around them.  Incidentally marijuana and its offshoots may be relatively speaking much less destructive than other drugs but it is still a drug and causes harm.
 
 [Proverbs 1:33] BUT WHOSO HEARKENETH UNTO ME SHALL DWELL SAFELY, AND SHALL BE QUIET FROM FEAR OF EVIL.
God will look after you if you listen to HIM.
                    
[Proverbs 2:1] MY SON, IF THOU WILT RECEIVE MY WORDS, AND HIDE MY COMMANDMENTS WITH THEE; 
Treasure up words of wisdom and exhortations. They can save your life.                   
 
 [Proverbs 2:2] SO THAT THOU INCLINE THINE EAR UNTO WISDOM, AND APPLY THINE HEART TO UNDERSTANDING; 
God wants us to try and understand HIS ways as best we can.                   
 
[Proverbs 2:3] YEA, IF THOU CRIEST AFTER KNOWLEDGE, AND LIFTEST UP THY VOICE FOR UNDERSTANDING;
We must pray for knowledge and understanding (Rabbeinu Yonah).                    
We have to try to understand as much as we can.
 
[Proverbs 2:4] IF THOU SEEKEST HER AS SILVER, AND SEARCHEST FOR HER AS FOR HID TREASURES; 
Knowledge and true understanding are to be valued and sometimes we need to expend something of ourselves and of our finances to achieve them. In the same way as it is obvious that we have to do whatever we can to make a livelihood so to should we seek to know what needs to be known.  Further than that, in the same way as if one had a chance to legitimately make a great sum of money for not a great effort  then one would gladly take advantage of it so too when one has the chance of increasing understanding of the way of God should when take it up.                    
 
[Proverbs 2:5] THEN SHALT THOU UNDERSTAND THE FEAR OF THE LORD, AND FIND THE KNOWLEDGE   OF GOD.  
The fear of heaven and religious insight depends upon understanding and knowledge. Brit-Am knowledge may not always at first glance appear to be a source of moral edification. Nevertheless it explains Divine Providence and could help one understand the Will of the Almighty.                  
 
[Proverbs 2:6] FOR THE LORD GIVETH WISDOM: OUT OF HIS MOUTH COMETH KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING.
In the end true wisdom comes from the Almighty who gives it as a free gift to those who labor after it.  The Bible is the source of wisdom and understanding. All knowledge should be viewed in light of the Bible.                
 
[Proverbs 2:2] SO THAT THOU INCLINE THINE EAR UNTO WISDOM, AND APPLY THINE HEART TO  UNDERSTANDING;
                 
[Proverbs 2:3] YEA, IF THOU CRIEST AFTER KNOWLEDGE, AND LIFTEST UP THY VOICE FOR  UNDERSTANDING;
              
 [Proverbs 2:4] IF THOU SEEKEST HER AS SILVER, AND SEARCHEST FOR HER AS FOR HID TREASURES;  
             
 
[Proverbs 2:5] THEN SHALT THOU UNDERSTAND THE FEAR OF THE LORD, AND FIND THE KNOWLEDGE   OF GOD.
                    
[Proverbs 2:6] FOR THE LORD GIVETH WISDOM: OUT OF HIS MOUTH COMETH KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING.
We must try to understand things and know the ways of the Almighty.
It is not enough to be just pious and have a positive attitude though these too are very important. We must try and learn what God wants and understands HIS way with the world. Solomon is saying above that we have to endeavor to search after this knowledge and consequently it will be given unto us as a gift since our endeavors by themselves would not be enough.
 
  [Proverbs 2:7] HE LAYETH UP SOUND WISDOM FOR THE RIGHTEOUS: HE IS A BUCKLER TO THEM THAT WALK UPRIGHTLY.
<<WISDOM>> The Hebrew word for "wisdom" is "Chockmah". Here the word used  is "Toshiah" which means "enterprise" and "initiative, resourcefulness".  God gives to those who are upright the wherewithal to do what must be done.
<<BUCKLER>>: Hebrew "magan" meaning "protection, shield". God protects us both indirectly through His Divine Providence and also by enabling us to be in contact with our inner instincts that guide us through life.
 
[Proverbs 2:8] HE KEEPETH THE PATHS OF JUDGMENT, AND PRESERVETH THE WAY OF HIS SAINTS.
<<THE WAY>>:  Hebrew "orchot" meaning "pathways" or "patterns of behavior".  If we try to do what is right God will teach us how to go about it and will look after us even if we make mistaken decisions.
                 
 [Proverbs 3:1] MY SON, FORGET NOT MY LAW; BUT LET THINE HEART KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS: 
                   
 [Proverbs 3:2] FOR LENGTH OF DAYS, AND LONG LIFE, AND PEACE, SHALL THEY ADD TO THEE.
Keeping the Torah and the Bible way of life brings a blessing in the physical realm as well as the spiritual one.
                    
[Proverbs 3:3] LET NOT MERCY AND TRUTH FORSAKE THEE: BIND THEM ABOUT THY NECK; WRITE  THEM UPON THE TABLE OF THINE HEART:
<<MERCY>>: The Hebrew word used here is "Chesed" which perhaps should better be translated as "kindness". We should try to tell the truth and acknowledge the truth but we should do so with compassion for the feelings and rights of others.
                    
[Proverbs 3:4] SO SHALT THOU FIND FAVOUR AND GOOD UNDERSTANDING IN THE SIGHT OF GOD AND   MAN. 
Go in the right way and in most cases other people will recognize your improved nature and good intentions. This is the bottom line.  We will be judged according to how we lived.  Giving other people a good feeling is also a part of the Biblical way.
                    
[Proverbs 3:5] TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL THINE HEART; AND LEAN NOT UNTO THINE OWN   UNDERSTANDING.
God knows better than we.
                 
[Proverbs 3:6] IN ALL THY WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE HIM, AND HE SHALL DIRECT THY PATHS.
God will lead us in the way we need to go.
                     
[Proverbs 3:7] BE NOT WISE IN THINE OWN EYES: FEAR THE LORD, AND DEPART FROM EVIL.
We all have a tendency to "double-think" about matters when it comes to our own self-interest. The Book of Proverbs is telling us to do what is right and to let doing what is right be our main goal in life. Doing what is right also means looking after yourself and looking after your family,, community, and nation. This is the responsibility God has given you.
                     
[Proverbs 3:8] IT SHALL BE HEALTH TO THY NAVEL, AND MARROW TO THY BONES.
This is true.  The Biblical way reduces a lot of worry, aggravation, and cause for sickness.
                    
[Proverbs 3:9] HONOUR THE LORD WITH THY SUBSTANCE, AND WITH THE FIRSTFRUITS OF ALL THINE  INCREASE:
Tithe, give offerings, do what you should do with what you receive. God will requite you many times over. Not only that but you will also find that what you have after giving to the cause of the Almighty will go further, be enjoyed more and more truly be experienced as belonging to you. I am not just talking. This has been tested on a multitude of occasions and you too can test it:
Cf.
<<BRING YE ALL THE TITHES INTO THE STOREHOUSE, THAT THERE MAY BE MEAT IN MINE HOUSE, AND PROVE ME NOW HEREWITH, SAITH THE LORD OF HOSTS, IF I WILL NOT OPEN YOU THE WINDOWS OF HEAVEN, AND POUR YOU OUT A BLESSING, THAT THERE SHALL NOT BE ROOM ENOUGH TO RECEIVE IT [Malachi 3:10].                     
<<AND I WILL REBUKE THE DEVOURER FOR YOUR SAKES, AND HE SHALL NOT DESTROY THE FRUITS OF YOUR GROUND; NEITHER SHALL YOUR VINE CAST HER FRUIT BEFORE THE TIME IN THE FIELD, SAITH THE LORD OF HOSTS [Malachi 3:11].                     
<<AND ALL NATIONS SHALL CALL YOU BLESSED: FOR YE SHALL BE A DELIGHTSOME LAND, SAITH THE LORD OF HOSTS [Malachi 3:12].                     
                     
[Proverbs 3:10] SO SHALL THY BARNS BE FILLED WITH PLENTY, AND THY PRESSES SHALL BURST OUT WITH NEW WINE.   
You shall be blessed.  God gave the Bible to you and the Biblical Way so that it would be good for you.  Do not hurt yourself.  Go in the Bible Way, the way of Israel.                      
 
[Proverbs 3:11] MY SON, DESPISE NOT THE CHASTENING OF THE LORD; NEITHER BE WEARY OF HIS CORRECTION: 
Learn from your mistakes.  See what you did wrong and resolve that in future you will not repeat it if you are not forced to or at least you will endeavor to take the necessary measures.
If you suffer or some calamity has come upon you, when the pain eases up, look at your situation, attitude and deeds. There may be something that needs correction and that you can make better.                   
 
[Proverbs 3:12] FOR WHOM THE LORD LOVETH HE CORRECTETH; EVEN AS A FATHER THE SON IN WHOM HE DELIGHTETH. 
God talks to us as a father would but we must teach ourselves how to hear HIM. Sometimes this is not so difficult but at other times we need to pray and inquire strongly just to get an idea of the path we should take.                   
 
[Proverbs 3:13] HAPPY IS THE MAN THAT FINDETH WISDOM, AND THE MAN THAT GETTETH   UNDERSTANDING.
Wisdom can be defined as general principle and "Understanding" as the practical application of Wisdom.                     
 
[Proverbs 3:14] FOR THE MERCHANDISE OF IT IS BETTER THAN THE MERCHANDISE OF SILVER, AND THE GAIN THEREOF THAN FINE GOLD.
You should acquire knowledge especially knowledge of the Almighty and his Book.
Brit-Am knowledge in our time is also very very important and an attempt should be made to obtain it and encourage it through offerings and purchases.                    
 
[Proverbs 3:11] MY SON, DESPISE NOT THE CHASTENING OF THE LORD; NEITHER BE WEARY OF HIS CORRECTION: 
Learn from your mistakes.  See what you did wrong and resolve that in future you will not repeat it if you are not forced to or at least you will endeavor to takre the necessary measures.
If you suffer or some calamity has come upon you when thep ain eases up look at your suituation,
Attitude and deeds. Therem ay be something that needs correction  and that you can make better.                   
 
[Proverbs 3:12] FOR WHOM THE LORD LOVETH HE CORRECTETH; EVEN AS A FATHER THE SON IN  WHOM HE DELIGHTETH. 
God talks to us as a father would but we musat teach ourselves how to hear HIM. Sometimes this is not so difficult but at other times we need to pray and inquire strongly just to get an idea of the path we should take.                   
 
[Proverbs 3:13] HAPPY IS THE MAN THAT FINDETH WISDOM, AND THE MAN THAT GETTETH   UNDERSTANDING.
Wisdonm can be defined as general principle and "Understanding" as the practical application of Wisdom.                     
 
[Proverbs 3:14] FOR THE MERCHANDISE OF IT IS BETTER THAN THE MERCHANDISE OF SILVER, AND THE  GAIN THEREOF THAN FINE GOLD.
You should acquire knowledge especially knowledge of the Almighty and his Book.
Brit-Am knowledge in our our time is also very very important and an attempt should be made
to obtain it and encourage it  through offerings and purchases.
 
  [Proverbs 3:15] SHE IS MORE PRECIOUS THAN RUBIES: AND ALL THE THINGS THOU CANST DESIRE ARE  NOT TO BE COMPARED UNTO HER.                     
"RUBIES": Hebrew "peninim" probably meaning "pearls".
The Knowledge of the Biblical Way, of the Wisdom in Scripture, is worth more than fine jewels.
 
[Proverbs 3:16] LENGTH OF DAYS IS IN HER RIGHT HAND; AND IN HER LEFT HAND RICHES AND HONOUR.
People who go on the right path live longer, are better off materially, and are more honored and respected than they otherwise would be. They are also far ahead of those who may begin from a higher starting point but do not go along the same straight path. This is true for a person for most of their life or for a community or social group on the whole.  There are exceptional cases and exceptional periods that confuse matters but on the whole this principle of reward in this life (as well as the next) does hold.                    
 
[Proverbs 3:17] HER WAYS ARE WAYS OF PLEASANTNESS, AND ALL HER PATHS ARE PEACE.  
If you go in the Biblical Path you will be more positive towards yourself and others  and this will result in a harmonious and pleasant existence with other people appreciating you  and your lifestyle contributing to the welfare of all.
 
 [Proverbs 3:18] SHE IS A TREE OF LIFE TO THEM THAT LAY HOLD UPON HER: AND HAPPY IS EVERY ONE THAT RETAINETH HER.
The Wisdom of the Bible gives you life. It ells you how to live and imparts vitality, healing, happiness, faith, love of God
and reconciliation with you fellow-man.  No-one who follows the Biblical path regrets it.                   
 
[Proverbs 3:19] THE LORD BY WISDOM HATH FOUNDED THE EARTH; BY UNDERSTANDING HATH HE ESTABLISHED THE HEAVENS.
The wonders of creation are there for us to understand and appreciate them and through them to draw closer to the Almighty.                    
 
[Proverbs 3:20] BY HIS KNOWLEDGE THE DEPTHS ARE BROKEN UP, AND THE CLOUDS DROP DOWN  THE DEW.
God knows everything and plans all.                     
 
[Proverbs 3:21] MY SON, LET NOT THEM DEPART FROM THINE EYES: KEEP SOUND WISDOM AND DISCRETION:  
Remember these truths always.   
WISDOM: Hebrew: "Toshia" better rendered as "Resourcefulness", i.e. keep your wits about you.
God wants your success.
DISCRETION: Hebrew: "Mizima" also translatable as "initiative" or "innovative planning".             
 
[Proverbs 3:22] SO SHALL THEY BE LIFE UNTO THY SOUL, AND GRACE TO THY NECK.                     
"THY SOUL": Hebrew: "Nafshecha" also translaeable as "your psyche", "your mind".
The words of the Bible give you life and vitality and renewal of mind. They cause you to feel better and to look better in the eyes of others  like a handsome pendant hang on a necklace around your neck.
 
[Proverbs 3:23] THEN SHALT THOU WALK IN THY WAY SAFELY, AND THY FOOT SHALL NOT STUMBLE.   
The Bible helps your mind "clear itself up". It causes you to be more at peace with yourself and sure of your way. This has an effect in practical terms in that you are less likely to make mistakes and you do not stumble in your path.                 
 
[Proverbs 3:24] WHEN THOU LIEST DOWN, THOU SHALT NOT BE AFRAID: YEA, THOU SHALT LIE DOWN,  AND THY SLEEP SHALL BE  SWEET.
Go in the way of the Bible and sooner or later things will work out. At the least they should become much much better than they otherwise would be. You will be able to live your life well and lie down to rest without fear of the morrow.                     
 
[Proverbs 3:25] BE NOT AFRAID OF SUDDEN FEAR, NEITHER OF THE DESOLATION OF THE WICKED,  WHEN IT COMETH.                     
 
[Proverbs 3:26] FOR THE LORD SHALL BE THY CONFIDENCE, AND SHALL KEEP THY FOOT FROM BEING TAKEN.                     
 
[Proverbs 3:27] WITHHOLD NOT GOOD FROM THEM TO WHOM IT IS DUE, WHEN IT IS IN THE POWER OF THINE HAND TO DO IT.
If you can help someone who deserves your help  do not put off helping them. If you owe someone money and have it with you pay them.  We all have a tendecny to delay things or to put off doing a good turn for others.  This attitude is liable to harm others as well as ourselves.
It says in the Bible, "Love your neighbor as yourself".
The Talmudic sage Hillel and the English King Alfred (who lived a few centuries after  Hillel), as reported by W.S. Churchill in his History of the English-Speaking People, both interpreted this verse as saying:
"What you do not want others to do to you, do not do to them".
 
"THOU SHALT NOT AVENGE, NOR BEAR ANY GRUDGE AGAINST THE CHILDREN OF THY PEOPLE, BUT THOU SHALT LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR AS THYSELF: I AM THE LORD" 
 [Leviticus 19:18].  
 
[Proverbs 3:29] DEVISE NOT EVIL AGAINST THY NEIGHBOUR, SEEING HE DWELLETH SECURELY BY  THEE.      
Do not go looking for trouble and try not to cause trouble for others especially when they have not provoked you.               
 
[Proverbs 3:30] STRIVE NOT WITH A MAN WITHOUT CAUSE, IF HE HAVE DONE THEE NO HARM.
Do not be prejudiced and do not pick quarrels needlessly.
In this life trouble and insult is liable to find you all on its own without you seeking it out.
Do not be offended when no offence was meant: Even when it is meant you are often better off ignoring it and at the least one is liable to find such occasions more than enough to cope with.                   
 
[Proverbs 3:31] ENVY THOU NOT THE OPPRESSOR, AND CHOOSE NONE OF HIS WAYS.
"OPPRESSOR": Hebrew "Ish Chamas" literally meaning "man of violence" but also applicable by extension to anyone who pushes others around. If you see someone who bullies physically or with their mouth or with vindicative expressions (sometimes noticeable in women) and seem to get their own way because of it, do not envy them or consider imitating them.                    
 
[Proverbs 3:32] FOR THE FROWARD IS ABOMINATION TO THE LORD: BUT HIS SECRET IS WITH THE RIGHTEOUS.  
God wants the straight and simple path. HE will be with you.                 
 
[Proverbs 3:33] THE CURSE OF THE LORD IS IN THE HOUSE OF THE WICKED: BUT HE BLESSETH THE  HABITATION OF THE JUST.
<<CURSE>>: Hebrew "Me-ayrat" explained by S.R. Hirsch to mean a lessening, i.e. God causes the wicked to receive less than they should or wickedness in itself has the effect of diminishment. On the other hand even a poor man blessed by the Almighty can in effect be rich with what he has.                    
 
[Proverbs 3:34] SURELY HE SCORNETH THE SCORNERS: BUT HE GIVETH GRACE UNTO THE LOWLY.                     
 
[Proverbs 3:35] THE WISE SHALL INHERIT GLORY: BUT SHAME SHALL BE THE PROMOTION OF FOOLS. 
Bad people are foolish and being foolish is bad. The Almighty wants us to do the best we can with what we have and HE will add to it.                    
     
[Proverbs 4:1] HEAR, YE CHILDREN, THE INSTRUCTION OF A FATHER, AND ATTEND TO KNOW  UNDERSTANDING.                     
 
[Proverbs 4:2] FOR I GIVE YOU GOOD DOCTRINE, FORSAKE YE NOT MY LAW.  
<<MY LAW>>: Hebrew "Torati" i.e. My Torah. The word "Torah" strictly speaking connotes instruction.                  
 
[Proverbs 4:3] FOR I WAS MY FATHER'S SON, TENDER AND ONLY BELOVED IN THE SIGHT OF MY MOTHER.
Parents should live their children and want what is good for them.  When marital harmony exists the connection between a child and his parents is increased since (amongst other things) the child receives a message from each parent to love and honor the other partner whose existence in the child they recognize.                    
 
[Proverbs 4:4] HE TAUGHT ME ALSO, AND SAID UNTO ME, LET THINE HEART RETAIN MY WORDS:  KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS, AND LIVE.
Through grasping hold of that which was good and unique in our parents and ancestors we may enhance our own vitality. 
 
[Proverbs 4:5] GET WISDOM, GET UNDERSTANDING: FORGET IT NOT; NEITHER DECLINE FROM THE  WORDS OF MY MOUTH.     
We should try to understand things and know how to live.
We all make mistakes but we also do right things.
Rabbi Nachman of Bratslave said, "If you believe you can make it worse then also believe you can make it better".
Words can help. Words can make a difference. Say postive things to others especially to those around you.               
 
[Proverbs 4:6] FORSAKE HER NOT, AND SHE SHALL PRESERVE THEE: LOVE HER, AND SHE SHALL KEEP THEE. 
Do not abandon wisdom and right knowledge and you will be lead in the right path.                   
 
[Proverbs 4:7] WISDOM IS THE PRINCIPAL THING; THEREFORE GET WISDOM: AND WITH ALL THY GETTING GET UNDERSTANDING. 
Get good knowledge and right principles but also strive to understand how these should be applied and how they work. It can be done and you can do it.                   
 
[Proverbs 4:8] EXALT HER, AND SHE SHALL PROMOTE THEE: SHE SHALL BRING THEE TO HONOUR, WHEN  THOU DOST EMBRACE HER.
Do this, cling to this, and you shall come forward. Even if you make mistakes on the way you wiill still progress if you keep striving and intend the good of all and belief in the Almighty.                    
 
[Proverbs 4:9] SHE SHALL GIVE TO THINE HEAD AN ORNAMENT OF GRACE: A CROWN OF GLORY SHALL  SHE DELIVER TO THEE.    
Eventually through striving in the right path you will earn the respect of others. Even more importantly you will gain your own self-respect. Even if you have lost it in the past, you will get it back.

[Proverbs 4:11] I HAVE TAUGHT THEE IN THE WAY OF WISDOM; I HAVE LED THEE IN RIGHT PATHS.                     
 
[Proverbs 4:12] WHEN THOU GOEST, THY STEPS SHALL NOT BE STRAITENED; AND WHEN THOU RUNNEST, THOU SHALT NOT STUMBLE.                     
If one absorbs Biblical knowledge then even under pressure and/or in exceptional circumstance one will act correctly for the good of everybody.

[Proverbs 4:13] TAKE FAST HOLD OF INSTRUCTION; LET HER NOT GO: KEEP HER; FOR SHE IS THY LIFE.                     
We learn something some times. It happens that we realize a certain truth or receive an insight that we were not aware of previously or had forgotten. We should treasure such instruction and store it with us. How many times have we made the same mistake over and over again? This is not necessary.
 
[Proverbs 4:14] ENTER NOT INTO THE PATH OF THE WICKED, AND GO NOT IN THE WAY OF EVIL MEN.                     
Do not believe in Conspiracy Theories or in the mind set of the evil beasts who concoct them.
The same applies to free-thinkers and liberal humanitarians and the like who in the name of high-sounding principles work against nthe cause of the Bible, of good, and of justice.
 
[Proverbs 4:15] AVOID IT, PASS NOT BY IT, TURN FROM IT, AND PASS AWAY.                     
Keep away from evil paths. If you cannot or will not fight it simply avoid it.
 
[Proverbs 4:16] FOR THEY SLEEP NOT, EXCEPT THEY HAVE DONE MISCHIEF; AND THEIR SLEEP IS TAKEN AWAY, UNLESS THEY CAUSE SOME TO FALL.
This is the way of evil people. They may not be consciously aware of their own evil intentions
But in most cases what the practical results of their evil machinations could be are quite obvious.                     
 
[Proverbs 4:17] FOR THEY EAT THE BREAD OF WICKEDNESS, AND DRINK THE WINE OF VIOLENCE.  
Lack of resistance to evil or the acceptance of evil doctrines invites violence and evil.                  
 
[Proverbs 4:18] BUT THE PATH OF THE JUST IS AS THE SHINING LIGHT, THAT SHINETH MORE AND MORE UNTO THE PERFECT DAY. 
We must be just, fair, speak the truth and acknowledge it.
If we believe in God and avoid evil our light will shine brilliantly without any effort on our part. What is more we will have contributed in some way towards the arrival of "THE PERFECT DAY" at the End of Times.                 
 
[Proverbs 4:19] THE WAY OF THE WICKED IS AS DARKNESS: THEY KNOW NOT AT WHAT THEY  STUMBLE.
Someone who does bad deeds or things in the wrong way will fall over themself in other fields. They will not be aware that their sin in another matter is the cause of their falling.                     
 
[Proverbs 4:20] MY SON, ATTEND TO MY WORDS; INCLINE THINE EAR UNTO MY SAYINGS.                     
 
[Proverbs 4:21] LET THEM NOT DEPART FROM THINE EYES; KEEP THEM IN THE MIDST OF THINE  HEART.    
Remember words of wisdom especially those of the Bible. Keep them with you even if you cannot apply them properly at present or in some kind of crisis situation and cannot think straight.                
 
[Proverbs 4:22] FOR THEY ARE LIFE UNTO THOSE THAT FIND THEM, AND HEALTH TO ALL THEIR FLESH.
The words of the Bible will help you come through.  You may not become as successful as you would have liked to have been but the chances are that you will be vastly better off than you were liable to be if you had not strengthened yourself through the Bible.                    

[Proverbs 4:23] KEEP THY HEART WITH ALL DILIGENCE; FOR OUT OF IT ARE THE ISSUES OF LIFE.
Rashi: Whatever you learn from the Torah keep it wellfor even small things (that are in it) bring great reward if they are kept.
 
Metsudat David: More than anything else that you may watch over, watch over your own heart. Be careful not to think of sinning  for the major outcomes of life spring from the heart. Why therefore should you allow thoughts that can destroy your life?       
 
Iben ezra says that the heart is like the king of the body.
All the Commentators understand this verse along the same lines:
Keep your thoughts positive  because your mind determines what will happen in your life.           
 
[Proverbs 4:24] PUT AWAY FROM THEE A FROWARD MOUTH, AND PERVERSE LIPS PUT FAR FROM THEE.
Rabeinu Yonah: <<This is connected to what it says further on,
THE WICKED IS SNARED BY THE TRANSGRESSION OF HIS LIPS [Proverbs 12:13]
And
DEATH AND LIFE ARE IN THE POWER OF THE TONGUE [Proverbs 18:21].
A FROWARD MOUTH: Means one who does not admit the truth.
PERVERSE LIPS: Someone who calls evil good.>>

[Proverbs 4:25] LET THINE EYES LOOK RIGHT ON, AND LET THINE EYELIDS LOOK STRAIGHT BEFORE  THEE.     
Rashi: <<Perceive the truth and righteousness.>>
 
Metsudat David: <<Consider with the greatest care thre outcome of what you stand to do so that your gaze (eyelids) may guide you in the ritght path>>.

[Proverbs 4:26] PONDER THE PATH OF THY FEET, AND LET ALL THY WAYS BE ESTABLISHED.                     
 
[Proverbs 4:27] TURN NOT TO THE RIGHT HAND NOR TO THE LEFT: REMOVE THY FOOT FROM EVIL.   
Experience shows that going in the right path is not usually so difficult. What is difficult is trying to remain on the right path after one has already compromised their position.  The advice given here is not to put ourselves in such situations and to foresee the possible outcome if we consider doing so.                 
 
 [Proverbs 5:1] MY SON, ATTEND UNTO MY WISDOM, AND BOW THINE EAR TO MY UNDERSTANDING:
 
[Proverbs 5:2] THAT THOU MAYEST REGARD DISCRETION, AND THAT THY LIPS MAY KEEP KNOWLEDGE.
Listen to the First principles of the Bible, draw conclusions from them. When you speak let it be in such a way as to realize your knowledge, to make things known for your sake as well as that of they who listen.
 
[Proverbs 5:3] FOR THE LIPS OF A STRANGE WOMAN DROP AS AN HONEYCOMB, AND HER MOUTH IS SMOOTHER THAN OIL:
Knowledge and outlooks that are not in accordance with the Bible may seem attractive.  They may satisfy some darker side of your personality. Be aware of such things. Examine yourself.
 
[Proverbs 5:4] BUT HER END IS BITTER AS WORMWOOD, SHARP AS A TWO-EDGED SWORD.
 
[Proverbs 5:5] HER FEET GO DOWN TO DEATH; HER STEPS TAKE HOLD ON HELL.
Just like a bad woman might lead you on so too will false doctrine.
 
[Proverbs 5:6] LEST THOU SHOULDEST PONDER THE PATH OF LIFE, HER WAYS ARE MOVEABLE, THAT THOU CANST NOT KNOW THEM.
It is a trick to take you away from the right path. You may be lead to believe that you can allow yourself a little "slip" "on the side" but this is liable to set you on a pathway whose course you have no control over.
God is on our side.
He wants us to be true to HIM for our sake.
 
[Proverbs 5:7] HEAR ME NOW THEREFORE, O YE CHILDREN, AND DEPART NOT FROM THE WORDS OF MY MOUTH.
 
[Proverbs 5:8] REMOVE THY WAY FAR FROM HER, AND COME NOT NIGH THE DOOR OF HER HOUSE:
Do not think that you can play around, or steal a few moments of forbidden pleasure and then return to where you would have been if you had not.  It does not work that way. The same applies to departing from the Bible Pathway.
 
[Proverbs 5:9] LEST THOU GIVE THINE HONOUR UNTO OTHERS, AND THY YEARS UNTO THE CRUEL:
If you come on a woman who belongs to some one else a child could be born who would be brought up by somebody else and it would be as if part of you is held captive or induced to serve your enemy. So too, if you depart from Bible values you give strength to a non-Biblical outlook that works against what you would really want to be.
  
[Proverbs 5:10] LEST STRANGERS BE FILLED WITH THY WEALTH; AND THY LABOURS BE IN THE HOUSE OF A STRANGER;
 
[Proverbs 5:11] AND THOU MOURN AT THE LAST, WHEN THY FLESH AND THY BODY ARE CONSUMED,
 
[Proverbs 5:12] AND SAY, HOW HAVE I HATED INSTRUCTION, AND MY HEART DESPISED REPROOF;
The Bible is the source of our instruction. It is what reproofs us.
 
[Proverbs 5:13] AND HAVE NOT OBEYED THE VOICE OF MY TEACHERS, NOR INCLINED MINE EAR TO THEM THAT INSTRUCTED ME!
 
[Proverbs 5:14] I WAS ALMOST IN ALL EVIL IN THE MIDST OF THE CONGREGATION AND ASSEMBLY.
 Do not reject the Bible and do not adopt false doctrines and wrong outlooks just because everybody else does.
[Proverbs 5:11] AND THOU MOURN AT THE LAST, WHEN THY FLESH AND THY BODY ARE CONSUMED,
 
[Proverbs 5:12] AND SAY, HOW HAVE I HATED INSTRUCTION, AND MY HEART DESPISED REPROOF;
 
[Proverbs 5:13] AND HAVE NOT OBEYED THE VOICE OF MY TEACHERS, NOR INCLINED MINE EAR TO THEM THAT INSTRUCTED ME!
 
[Proverbs 5:14] I WAS ALMOST IN ALL EVIL IN THE MIDST OF THE CONGREGATION AND ASSEMBLY.
I was bad in my own eyes. I would look at myself and not believe that I was such a person that I myself could not stand.
This is what will happen to someone who does not listen to the truth of God as revealed in the Bible.
We should all realize that our own self-interest in the long run is to take the path of righteousness. Anything else is liable to back-fire on us.

[Proverbs 5:15] DRINK WATERS OUT OF THINE OWN CISTERN, AND RUNNING WATERS OUT OF THINE OWN WELL.
Be true to yourself through belief in the Bible.
 
[Proverbs 5:16] LET THY FOUNTAINS BE DISPERSED ABROAD, AND RIVERS OF WATERS IN THE STREETS.
 
[Proverbs 5:17] LET THEM BE ONLY THINE OWN, AND NOT STRANGERS' WITH THEE.
 
[Proverbs 5:18] LET THY FOUNTAIN BE BLESSED: AND REJOICE WITH THE WIFE OF THY YOUTH.
 
[Proverbs 5:19] LET HER BE AS THE LOVING HIND AND PLEASANT ROE; LET HER BREASTS SATISFY THEE AT ALL TIMES; AND BE THOU RAVISHED ALWAYS WITH HER LOVE.
This is true in its simple sense. It may not be what many of us achieve in reality but it is an ideal that we should all strive for, a first choice.
Figuratively we are being told that the Torah is what made us what we are in the beginning of our existence. It still is the reason for our existence.
There is nothing better.
 
[Proverbs 5:20] AND WHY WILT THOU, MY SON, BE RAVISHED WITH A STRANGE WOMAN, AND EMBRACE THE BOSOM OF A STRANGER?
If we elsewhere for spiritual sustenance we are deluding ourselves. It is as if we casting away something that is ours and made for us for another thing that does not pertain unto us.
 
[Proverbs 5:21] FOR THE WAYS OF MAN ARE BEFORE THE EYES OF THE LORD, AND HE PONDERETH ALL HIS GOINGS.
There is no such thing as doing something wrong and getting away with it. God sees everything.
 
[Proverbs 5:22] HIS OWN INIQUITIES SHALL TAKE THE WICKED HIMSELF, AND HE SHALL BE HOLDEN WITH THE CORDS OF HIS SINS.
The sins of a person are what traps and trips and involves us in a world not of our making and in situations we would not choose to be in.
 
[Proverbs 5:23] HE SHALL DIE WITHOUT INSTRUCTION; AND IN THE GREATNESS OF HIS FOLLY HE SHALL GO ASTRAY.
The Commentators explain this to mean, he shall die BECAUSE he did not take instruction, and go astray BECAUSE of his folly.
No-one wants to be cheated or treated like a fool.
Why cheat ourselves?
Why make fools of ourselves in the eyes of the one most important to us, i.e. our own inner conscience?
The Bible is the greatest source of instruction that exists and it is made for us and belongs to us.
Why reject it when such rejection only hurts us before it hurts anybody else?
Why ties ourselves in knots over fantasies when the Bible way is straight, true, and simple?
 
 Proverbs 6:1] MY SON, IF THOU BE SURETY FOR THY FRIEND, IF THOU HAST STRICKEN THY HAND WITH  A STRANGER,    
According to the simple meaning Solomon is speaking of someone who has pledged himself for somebody else or has simply placed himself in danger of bondage for a debt.            
 
[Proverbs 6:2] THOU ART SNARED WITH THE WORDS OF THY MOUTH, THOU ART TAKEN WITH THE WORDS OF THY MOUTH.                     
 
[Proverbs 6:3] DO THIS NOW, MY SON, AND DELIVER THYSELF, WHEN THOU ART COME INTO THE HAND OF THY FRIEND; GO, HUMBLE THYSELF, AND MAKE SURE THY FRIEND. 
<<THY FRIEND>>: Hebrew "ray-echa" meaning "fellow".   
The Commentators says that at the simple level this passage is an exhortation to someone who is such a situation to realize they are in a trap and should do their utmost to get out of it at one.
Do not be proud, be humble. Do what it takes. Placate your creditors, work, borrow from your friends
if you can. Get rid of the debt.  This is your priority.                
 
[Proverbs 6:4] GIVE NOT SLEEP TO THINE EYES, NOR SLUMBER TO THINE EYELIDS.                     
 
[Proverbs 6:5] DELIVER THYSELF AS A ROE FROM THE HAND OF THE HUNTER, AND AS A BIRD FROM THE HAND OF THE FOWLER. 
Consider yourself like a wild animal in danger from a hunter.
Get out of the mess as quickly and with as much alacrity as you can muster.     

"I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life by a conscious endeavour" Henry David Thoreau.

The Sages also saw the above passage as an allegory.
The Children of Israel obligated themselves to keep the commandments.
They should therefore do their utmost to placate "their fellow" who holds them in surety
i.e. the Almighty, do His will, and fulfill their obligation.
The Torah is a blessing and an elevation but it is also a liability.
God set before the Children of Israel both a blessing and a curse:

[Deuteronomy 11:26] BEHOLD, I SET BEFORE YOU THIS DAY A BLESSING AND A CURSE;                    
 
[Deuteronomy 11:27] A BLESSING, IF YE OBEY THE COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD YOUR GOD, WHICH  COMMAND YOU THIS DAY:                
 
[Deuteronomy 11:28] AND A CURSE, IF YE WILL NOT OBEY THE COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD YOUR GOD, BUT TURN ASIDE OUT OF THE WAY WHICH I COMMAND YOU THIS DAY, TO GO AFTER OTHER GODS, WHICH YE HAVE NOT KNOWN.       

 [Proverbs 6:6] GO TO THE ANT, THOU SLUGGARD; CONSIDER HER WAYS, AND BE WISE:

[Proverbs 6:7] WHICH HAVING NO GUIDE, OVERSEER, OR RULER,                     
 
[Proverbs 6:8] PROVIDETH HER MEAT IN THE SUMMER, AND GATHERETH HER FOOD IN THE HARVEST.                     
 
[Proverbs 6:9] HOW LONG WILT THOU SLEEP, O SLUGGARD? WHEN WILT THOU ARISE OUT OF THY  SLEEP?                     
 
[Proverbs 6:10] YET A LITTLE SLEEP, A LITTLE SLUMBER, A LITTLE FOLDING OF THE HANDS TO SLEEP:                     
 
[Proverbs 6:11] SO SHALL THY POVERTY COME AS ONE THAT TRAVELLETH, AND THY WANT AS AN  ARMED MAN.
If you do not provide for the future you may be left weanting in your time of need. We should all take heed of this.

Proverbs 6:12] A NAUGHTY PERSON, A WICKED MAN, WALKETH WITH A FROWARD MOUTH.
<<A NAUGHTY PERSON>>: Hebrew "belial" interpreted to main someone who does not acknowledge the yoke of heaven.                  
 
[Proverbs 6:13] HE WINKETH WITH HIS EYES, HE SPEAKETH WITH HIS FEET, HE TEACHETH WITH HIS  FINGERS;
This is explained to mean that the wicked person makes all kinds of signs and exaggerated gestures in order to mislead others. It could also be understood to indicate body language.                     
 
[Proverbs 6:14] FROWARDNESS IS IN HIS HEART, HE DEVISETH MISCHIEF CONTINUALLY; HE SOWETH  DISCORD.                     
 
[Proverbs 6:15] THEREFORE SHALL HIS CALAMITY COME SUDDENLY; SUDDENLY SHALL HE BE BROKEN  WITHOUT REMEDY.   
According to its simple meaning the above verses are speaking against a person who deceives others, causes harm to his fellow-man and dissension.
Rashi (ca. 1100 CE, Champagne, North France) explains the verses to be primary directed against someone who seeks create a barrier between God and man by causing man to sin or deviate from belief.                 

[Proverbs 6:16] THESE SIX THINGS DOTH THE LORD HATE: YEA, SEVEN ARE AN ABOMINATION UNTO HIM:   
The seventh (discord) in some ways is more despicable than all the others put together (Rashi).                 
 
[Proverbs 6:17] A PROUD LOOK, A LYING TONGUE, AND HANDS THAT SHED INNOCENT BLOOD, 
 <<A PROUD LOOK>>: Also translatable as meaning "uplifted eyes". It is one thing to be proud but another to project it at the expense of others.
<<A LYING TONGUE>>: One should endeavor to tell the truth.  If someone begins to lie then it becomes a habit and takes overs a person's  whole attitude and perception against their will.
<<HANDS THAT SHED INNOCENT BLOOD>>: This includes irresponsible behavior like careless driving as well as cromes of violence and condoning of abortion.

[Proverbs 6:18] AN HEART THAT DEVISETH WICKED IMAGINATIONS, FEET THAT BE SWIFT IN RUNNING  TO MISCHIEF, 
  <<AN HEART THAT DEVISETH WICKED IMAGINATIONS>>:  This could include, thinking how to cheat other people, suspecting others of things that are not so, or even taking offence when it is not necessary when no offence was meant or when you can easily afford to overlook it.                 
 
[Proverbs 6:19] A FALSE WITNESS THAT SPEAKETH LIES, AND HE THAT SOWETH DISCORD AMONG BRETHREN.    
<< A FALSE WITNESS THAT SPEAKETH LIES>>:  From the  Hebrew this could also be translated as, "A spreader of falsehood" and  "A false witness" or  "A spreader of falsehood is  a false witness".   
<<HE THAT SOWETH DISCORD AMONG BRETHREN>>: One should be careful not to even inadvertently cause people to quarrel with each other or to become antagonistic one to another.
 
All of the above exhortations are very fine when they do not involve us personally. The trick is to remember them and act according to them even when our personal involvement and inter-personal passions pull us in the the opposite direction.        

[Proverbs 6:20] MY SON, KEEP THY FATHER'S COMMANDMENT, AND FORSAKE NOT THE LAW OF THY MOTHER:
Eliyahu of Vilna (EV) explains this to mean that we should guard [keep] ourselves to fulfil the commandments when they happen into our sphere. This is the aspect of father hood, of doing. We should also always be aware of  the Torah. This is the "law of mother" of maintaining a state of mind.                     
 
[Proverbs 6:21] BIND THEM CONTINUALLY UPON THINE HEART, AND TIE THEM ABOUT THY NECK.
We should think and speak of these matter [EV].                    
 
[Proverbs 6:22] WHEN THOU GOEST, IT SHALL LEAD THEE; WHEN THOU SLEEPEST, IT SHALL KEEP THEE;  AND WHEN THOU AWAKEST, IT SHALL TALK WITH THEE.   
<< WHEN THOU AWAKEST>>; Hinting at the resurrection of the dead.
<<IT SHALL TALK WITH THEE>>: The expression , "You can't take it with you" only applies to wordly possessions. The good things you hasve learnt and done will help you when you wake up from the last sleeping you do in this life.

[Proverbs 6:23] FOR THE COMMANDMENT IS A LAMP; AND THE LAW IS LIGHT; AND REPROOFS OF INSTRUCTION ARE THE WAY OF LIFE:    
EV distinguishes three aspects of existence in this exhortation.
COMMANDMENT right action.                
 THE LAW IS LIGHT- Scriptural Doctrine.
REPROOFS OF INSTRUCTION- The refinement of personal qualities.

[Proverbs 6:24] TO KEEP THEE FROM THE EVIL WOMAN, FROM THE FLATTERY OF THE TONGUE OF A  STRANGE WOMAN.  
The emphasis here is on "strange". What does not belong to you is strange and  foreign to you  and should be considered "not for you".
Someone who is not married should look at women in order to find a spouse.              
 
[Proverbs 6:25] LUST NOT AFTER HER BEAUTY IN THINE HEART; NEITHER LET HER TAKE THEE WITH HER  EYELIDS.
These are situations that once entered into are hard to get out of . If however one goes the right way and tries to do good and wishes to do so the Almighty will help.                   
 
[Proverbs 6:26] FOR BY MEANS OF A WHORISH WOMAN A MAN IS BROUGHT TO A PIECE OF BREAD:  AND THE ADULTRESS WILL HUNT FOR THE PRECIOUS LIFE.   
Sexual immorality often leads to financial ruination or at the least to weakened resilience. 
A WHORISH WOMAN is bad for you and brings you down.            
" THE ADULTRESS WILL HUNT":  It may seem at the time that the person in question genuinely cares for you and maybe she does (which is unlikely) but even so the objective consequences are harmful and it is as if you are being hunted.
THE PRECIOUS LIFE: You life is worth something in the eyes of the Almighty so you also should value it.    
 
 [Proverbs 6:30] MEN DO NOT DESPISE A THIEF, IF HE STEAL TO SATISFY HIS SOUL WHEN HE IS HUNGRY; 
Someone who has nothing to eat and steals will be punished. Nevertheless his action is understandable and even forgiveable.
 
[Proverbs 6:31]  HE SHALL RESTORE SEVENFOLD; HE SHALL GIVE ALL THE SUBSTANCE OF HIS HOUSE.
Depending on the circumstance a thief when caught should be able to make restitution and have the matter ended.
 
[Proverbs 6:32] BUT WHOSO COMMITTETH ADULTERY WITH A WOMAN LACKETH UNDERSTANDING: HE  THAT DOETH IT DESTROYETH HIS OWN SOUL.
Let us all hope that we never end up in situations like the one described here, not in any way.
 
[Proverbs 6:33] A WOUND AND DISHONOUR SHALL HE GET; AND HIS REPROACH SHALL NOT BE WIPED AWAY.
 
[Proverbs 6:34] FOR JEALOUSY IS THE RAGE OF A MAN: THEREFORE HE WILL NOT SPARE IN THE DAY OF VENGEANCE.   
There is something here about a payment have to be made.
If the husband does not take vengeance the Almighty will.
Everyone is susceptible.
Even King David slipped up on this matter.
David also payed as described  (2-Samuel chapters 15-18) in our ongoing Brit-Am studies of the Book of Samuel.                 
 
[Proverbs 6:35] HE WILL NOT REGARD ANY RANSOM; NEITHER WILL HE REST CONTENT, THOUGH THOU GIVEST MANY GIFTS.     
The Almighty is the only refuge we have.  
 
[Proverbs 7:1] MY SON, KEEP MY WORDS, AND LAY UP MY COMMANDMENTS WITH THEE.                     
 
[Proverbs 7:2] KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS, AND LIVE; AND MY LAW AS THE APPLE OF THINE EYE.                   

[Proverbs 7:3] BIND THEM UPON THY FINGERS, WRITE THEM UPON THE TABLE OF THINE HEART.
Commandments include general precepts and also duties.
We all have duties.
Each person is unique.  
"Do what you have to do".
Remember however that God is your master and employer and you will have to answer to HIM.  
cf.
[The Preacher -Ecclesiastes12:13] LET US HEAR THE CONCLUSION OF THE WHOLE MATTER: FEAR GOD, AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS: FOR THIS IS THE WHOLE DUTY OF MAN.
 
[The Preacher 12:14] FOR GOD SHALL BRING EVERY WORK INTO JUDGMENT, WITH EVERY SECRET THING, WHETHER IT BE GOOD, OR WHETHER IT BE EVIL.
    
  Proverbs 7:4] SAY UNTO WISDOM, THOU ART MY SISTER; AND CALL UNDERSTANDING
THY  KINSWOMAN:
This is advice to be familiar with common sense.
Just as one would usually let his sister tell him what's what and even pay attention to her criticism so too should we let wise counsels be acceptable to us and even disposition ourselves so that such advice comes to us.

[Proverbs 7:5] THAT THEY MAY KEEP THEE FROM THE STRANGE WOMAN, FROM THE
STRANGER WHICH FLATTERETH WITH HER WORDS.
This is good advice at all times and should be taken literally.
In addition to its important literal sense it is also an allegory not to let our pride  or "foreign" considerations divert us from the truth.

[Proverbs 7:6] FOR AT THE WINDOW OF MY HOUSE I LOOKED THROUGH MY
CASEMENT,

[Proverbs 7:7] AND BEHELD AMONG THE SIMPLE ONES, I DISCERNED AMONG THE
YOUTHS, A YOUNG MAN VOID OF
UNDERSTANDING,

[Proverbs 7:8] PASSING THROUGH THE STREET NEAR HER CORNER; AND HE WENT THE
WAY TO HER  HOUSE,

[Proverbs 7:9] IN THE TWILIGHT, IN THE EVENING, IN THE BLACK AND DARK
NIGHT:

[Proverbs 7:10] AND, BEHOLD, THERE MET HIM A WOMAN WITH THE ATTIRE OF AN
HARLOT, AND  SUBTIL OF HEART.

[Proverbs 7:11] (SHE IS LOUD AND STUBBORN; HER FEET ABIDE NOT IN HER
HOUSE:

[Proverbs 7:12] NOW IS SHE WITHOUT, NOW IN THE STREETS, AND LIETH IN WAIT
AT EVERY CORNER.)

[Proverbs 7:13] SO SHE CAUGHT HIM, AND KISSED HIM, AND WITH AN IMPUDENT FACE SAID UNTO HIM,

[Proverbs 7:14] I HAVE PEACE OFFERINGS WITH ME; THIS DAY HAVE I PAYED MY VOWS.
She has finished a debt and feels the need to let herself go.

[Proverbs 7:15] THEREFORE CAME I FORTH TO MEET THEE, DILIGENTLY TO SEEK THY
FACE, AND I HAVE FOUND THEE.
The young man does not realize the trap he is in.
If he think she has eyes only for him he should know that if not he then it will be somebody else.
If on the other hand he thinks that it may as well be him as anybody else since it is bound to be someone he should realize that he is liable to be punished as if it was only he, as if he was entirely responsible.
He is being hunted down, quarried, and led to the kill.
His masculinity may lead him to believe that he is the one doing the staking and maybe he is.
In certain border-line situations it may be difficult to apportion the blame after the event.  If however the youth had have listened to wise advice as he would have listened to an elder sister or a kindly aunt then there would be no need for recriminations.
                  

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