1 As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.
2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.
3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool’s back.
4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.
5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, [and] drinketh damage.
7 The legs of the lame are not equal: so [is] a parable in the mouth of fools.
8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so [is] he that giveth honour to a fool.
9 [As] a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so [is] a parable in the mouth of fools.
10 The great [God] that formed all [things] both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.
11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, [so] a fool returneth to his folly.
12 Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? [there is] more hope of a fool than of him.
13 The slothful [man] saith, [There is] a lion in the way; a lion [is] in the streets.
14 [As] the door turneth upon his hinges, so [doth] the slothful upon his bed.
15 The slothful hideth his hand in [his] bosom; it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.
16 The sluggard [is] wiser in his own conceit than seven men that can render a reason.
17 He that passeth by, [and] meddleth with strife [belonging] not to him, [is like] one that taketh a dog by the ears.
18 As a mad [man] who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,
19 So [is] the man [that] deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?
20 Where no wood is, [there] the fire goeth out: so where [there is] no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.
21 [As] coals [are] to burning coals, and wood to fire; so [is] a contentious man to kindle strife.
22 The words of a talebearer [are] as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
23 Burning lips and a wicked heart [are like] a potsherd covered with silver dross.
24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him;
25 When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for [there are] seven abominations in his heart.
26 [Whose] hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the [whole] congregation.
27 Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.
28 A lying tongue hateth [those that are] afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.
Overview of Proverbs 26
Proverbs 26 presents a series of wise sayings that focus on various themes, including foolishness, the nature of sluggards, and the consequences of words and actions. The chapter emphasizes the importance of discernment in dealing with different types of people and situations, particularly those who are foolish or lazy.
The Nature of Foolishness
The chapter begins by illustrating the characteristics of foolishness and its implications:
- Verses 1-3: The text compares the treatment of fools to that of a bird and a dog, suggesting that foolishness is inherently unworthy of respect or honor.
- Verses 4-5: These verses present a paradoxical approach to dealing with fools, indicating that one should not engage with them in the same manner as they engage with others, yet also recognizing the need to respond appropriately to their foolishness.
The Sluggard and Laziness
The chapter continues with a focus on the sluggard, highlighting the dangers of laziness:
- Verses 6-8: The text warns against sending messages by a sluggard, as it is likened to cutting off one’s own feet. This metaphor emphasizes the futility of relying on someone who is unwilling to act.
- Verses 9-11: The imagery of a dog returning to its vomit serves to illustrate the foolishness of repeating one’s mistakes. This emphasizes the need for self-awareness and growth.
Words and Their Consequences
Proverbs 26 also addresses the power of words and the consequences they can bring:
- Verses 12: The text points out the danger of overestimating one’s own wisdom, suggesting that a fool may believe they are wiser than seven wise men.
- Verses 13-16: These verses depict the sluggard’s excuses for not working, illustrating a lack of motivation and responsibility. The sluggard’s reasoning is portrayed as illogical and self-deceptive.
Deception and Conflict
The chapter further explores themes of deception and conflict:
- Verses 17: The metaphor of meddling in another’s quarrel is introduced, warning against becoming involved in conflicts that do not concern oneself.
- Verses 18-19: The text compares a man who deceives his neighbor to a madman, emphasizing the chaos that can arise from deceitful actions.
Conclusion and Reflection
Proverbs 26 serves as a reminder of the complexities of human behavior, particularly regarding foolishness, laziness, and the impact of words. It encourages readers to exercise discernment, to avoid entanglement in foolishness, and to be mindful of their own actions and words. The chapter ultimately calls for wisdom in navigating relationships and conflicts, underscoring the importance of personal responsibility and self-awareness.
