Proverbs 17 · Geneva Bible Notes (1599)
Better [is] a dry morsel, and quietness with it, than an house full of (a) sacrifices [with] strife. (a) For where there were many sacrifices, there were many portions given to the people, with which they feasted. Proverbs 17:2
A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the (b) inheritance among the brethren. (b) That is, will be made governor over the children. Proverbs 17:8
A bribe [is as] a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: wherever it (c) turneth, it prospereth. (c) The reward has great force to gain the hearts of men. Proverbs 17:9
He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth [very] (d) friends. (d) He that admonishes the prince of his fault makes him his enemy. Proverbs 17:11
An evil [man] seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel (e) messenger shall be sent against him. (e) By the messenger is meant such means as God uses to punish the rebels. Proverbs 17:12
Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than (f) a fool in his folly. (f) By which he means the wicked in his rage, who has no fear of God. Proverbs 17:16
Why [is there] a (g) price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing [he hath] no heart [to it]? (g) What good does it do the wicked to be rich, seeing he does not set his mind to wisdom? Proverbs 17:17
A friend loveth at all times, and a (h) brother is born for adversity. (h) So that he is more than a friend, even a brother that helps in time of adversity. Proverbs 17:18
A man void of understanding (i) striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend. (i) Read ( Pro 6:1 ). Proverbs 17:19
He loveth transgression that loveth strife: [and] he that exalteth his (k) gate seeketh destruction. (k) Lifts up himself above his degree. Proverbs 17:23
A wicked [man] taketh a bribe out of the (l) bosom to pervert the ways of judgment. (l) That is, secretly and out of the bosom of the rich. Proverbs 17:24
Wisdom [is] before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool [are] in the (m) ends of the earth. (m) That is, wander to and fro, and seek not after wisdom. Proverbs 17:26
Also to punish the just [is] not good, [nor] to strike princes (n) for equity. (n) For their well doing.