Proverbs 26 — Tyndale Study Notes
Pr.26.1
It is not fitting to give honor to fools.
Pr.26.2
Curses and blessings can have real effect (see Gen 27:1-41; 48:8-9, 15-20; Num 6:23-27), but an undeserved curse has no effect.
Pr.26.3
A fool is like a dumb animal that can only be guided by brute force (see 10:13; 14:3).
Pr.26.4-5
Proverbs are often context sensitive. Whether or not to answer the foolish arguments of fools depends on what kind of fool and what kind of situation.
Pr.26.7
A fool might know a proverb but not be able to use it correctly. Cp. 26:9.
Pr.26.9
A proverb misapplied by a fool might actually cause harm. Cp. 26:7.
Pr.26.10
A fool or a bystander might easily be lazy (see 10:4-6) or incompetent (see 26:6-7). An employer should beware!
Pr.26.11
Even when foolishness brings terrible consequences, a fool persists in it (17:10; see also 2 Pet 2:22).
Pr.26.12
Fools have hope because they might recognize their folly and seek advice. However, those who think they are wise will remain ignorant.
Pr.26.13-16
The lazy person: See 6:6-11; 10:4-5; 15:19; 22:13.
Pr.26.15
This proverb repeats 19:24.
Pr.26.17
The wise avoid getting involved in other people’s arguments (cp. 26:21).
Pr.26.18-19
Lies are extremely dangerous because they lead people to act on false information. Liars cannot cover up later by claiming that they were only joking (see 6:16-19; 14:5, 25; 25:18).
Pr.26.20-21
A gossip and a quarrelsome person are both like fuel to the fire of trouble and discord.
Pr.26.22
This proverb repeats 18:8.
Pr.26.23-26
People sometimes hide evil attitudes and wicked intentions through flattery. In the end, the true hatred of smooth talkers will be exposed.
Pr.26.27
People usually receive the bad consequences they intend for others (see 1:17-19).