Down to Earth But Heavenly Minded

What does Proverbs Chapter 20 mean?

This chapter begins with an often-cited verse about the dangers of alcohol. Wise persons avoid becoming controlled by anything, including substances (1 Corinthians 6:12). Common sense tells a person to avoid angering authorities unless it’s unavoidable. Along the same lines, those who avoid conflict will have a better reputation than those who are constantly involved in scandal and controversy. Loyalty and integrity are hard to find in this world, but those who have them benefit themselves and their children (Proverbs 20:1–11).

Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) also offers several reminders about the value of wisdom. It’s especially important to use all the knowledge-seeking resources God gives us—including our senses, advice from others, and respect for experience. Dishonest business practices, gossip, greed, and laziness are all condemned as immoral and dangerous. God knows everything about us, and whatever evil isn’t punished by righteous government will be judged by a perfect, holy God (Proverbs 20:12–30).

Chapter Context
This chapter of Proverbs belongs to the second division of the book that extends from Proverbs chapter 10 to chapter 22, in which there are nearly 400 wise sayings. Proverbs 20 continues the collection of Solomon’s wise sayings. In this chapter Solomon focuses on numerous things which harm the unwise. Among them are laziness, wrong values, and bad decisions.

Verse by Verse

Verse 1. Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler,and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.

Scripture does not forbid the drinking of alcohol, though it clearly identifies drunkenness as a sin (Ephesians 5:18; Romans 13:13). Numerous examples from the Bible show what happens when a person loses self-control due to alcohol (Genesis 9:21; 19:33). This verse uses Hebrew terms referring to alcohol derived from grapes, as well as stronger drinks made from grains and other fruits. The risk of addiction, the lack of control, and other dangers are why those who overuse alcohol are unwise. The phrasing here might also be translated to imply that such a person will not “become wise,” thanks to a life derailed by drinking.

The apostle Paul endorsed the use of wine for medicinal purposes, telling Timothy, “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments” (1Timothy 5:23). Proverbs 23:20–21, 29–35, and 31:4–5 also issue warnings about getting drunk.

Context Summary
Proverbs 20:1–11 issues warnings about alcohol, infuriating those in authority, quarreling, and laziness. Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) also commends an understanding mind, faithfulness, integrity, and righteous conduct.

Verse 2. The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion;whoever provokes him to anger forfeits his life.

Common sense involves the idea of prudence: knowing how to gauge a situation and act accordingly. Not all authority figures are good, and not all they do is right. And yet, a wise person avoids antagonizing them unless it’s necessary (Acts 5:29). Solomon compares provoking a king’s anger to disturbing a lion. A ruler’s anger, or “terror,” is a warning much as is the lion’s growl or roar. Especially in the ancient world, kings had the power to execute those who made them unhappy (Genesis 40:20–22). In modern contexts, a person can be subject to all sorts of trouble at the hands of angered governments, employers, or other authority figures.

Romans 13:1–5 explains that everyone should be subject to governing authorities, in general, since God established them for a reason. Corruption and abuse can happen, of course, but in general government serves to restrain evil and protect the innocent. While political authorities pass civil laws that should be obeyed, there are also other authority figures to whom we are subject. A father is an authority figure and has the power to punish a disobedient child. A teacher has the authority to instruct his or her students and to give failing grades to those who refuse to learn. A policeman has the authority to arrest lawbreakers. A wise person will not provoke an authority figure to anger unless it’s unavoidable.

Verse 3. It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife,but every fool will be quarreling.

“Honor” often refers to reputation, as well as respect. In earlier verses, Solomon noted that a person who knows when to be quiet could be seen as wise, even if he’s not (Proverbs 17:28). The person who lacks self-control might talk themselves into a beating (Proverbs 18:6). Not every argument is worth having, so a wise person chooses their battles carefully. Avoiding petty squabbles is the mark of a wise person; it earns the respect of others. In contrast, those who are hot-tempered, argumentative, or easily angered are clearly fools.

New Testament instructions echo this principle. Jesus commands His followers to ignore insults and other minor infractions (Luke 6:29). Paul extols the honor of peacemakers (Romans 12:18) and commands Christians to avoid revenge (Romans 12:19–21).

Abram—later renamed as Abraham (Genesis 17:5)—chose peace instead of strife. There was conflict between his herdsmen and those of his nephew Lot. So, Abram said, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen” (Genesis 13:8). He offered Lot whatever land he wanted. He told Lot, “Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right, or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left” (Genesis 13:9). The Lord rewarded Abram for choosing peace instead of strife. He promised Abram and his descendants all the land Abram could see, re-emphasizing the promise He had made with Abram when He called him out of his homeland (Genesis 12:1–3, 7). He said, “for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever” (Genesis 13:15).

Verse 4. The sluggard does not plow in the autumn;he will seek at harvest and have nothing.

This lazy person is not physically unable to do what needs to be done. He simply lacks the desire to work. Once again Solomon decries laziness. This follows many similar warnings and commands in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 6:9; 12:24; 18:9). Laziness is a mark of shame (Proverbs 19:24) and puts a person at greater risk of poverty (Proverbs 14:23; 20:13). A mark of laziness is failing to work at the proper time—to prepare now for future needs. This relates to the idea of planting so that one can harvest crops later. Those who don’t plow won’t bring in food. The lazy person who doesn’t work now will find themselves in need before long.

The time for plowing and planting in the Middle East is the rainy season. This might mean working in muddy fields. Doing so demands too much work for a lazy person. But if the lazy person fails to work in less-than-ideal conditions, he will go hungry during harvest time. A lazy person today may refuse to work and prefer to look for handouts, but he does not have biblical support for doing so. Paul and his coworkers did not demand that the Thessalonian church support them. Instead, they worked day and night so they would not be a burden to the Thessalonian believers (2 Thessalonians 3:8–9). He told the Thessalonian church that if a person is not willing to work, let him not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10–11).

Verse 5. The purpose in a man ‘s heart is like deep water,but a man of understanding will draw it out.

Even in modern language, ideas which require clearer thought to understand are described as “deep.” When something is sunken under water, it is harder to access, more difficult to see, and requires more effort to bring up. In this proverb, Solomon is using this imagery in one or more ways.

Human motives are not always clear, even to the person themselves. A wise person can draw them out of himself through thought and prayer. Or he can help another uncover them by counseling him. Even outside of counseling, motives, intentions, thoughts, and expectations can sometimes be discerned by a wise person. God has placed in the church gifted individuals who can assist others by leading them into a correct understanding of those inner aspects of motivation.

Everything that lies in a person’s heart needs to conform to God’s standards and plans. God does not leave us alone in this. In addition to wise counselors in the church, the Holy Spirit searches the heart and convicts believers of sin—whatever is contrary to God’s standards and plans. He helps believers know the truth (John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13–15). Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 2:11–13: “For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.”

Verse 6. Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love,but a faithful man who can find?

An earlier proverb noted that “mere talk” does not benefit anyone (Proverbs 14:23). Here, Solomon makes a similar statement. Both harmonize with the English expression “talk is cheap.” Saying you will do something is easy, and many people brag about the wonderful things they will do. That includes declaring their loyalty and friendship to others. But when times become hard, and friendship requires sacrifice, many people suddenly disappear (Proverbs 17:17; 18:24). The question posed here speaks to the rarity of a person whose loyalty lives up to their “big talk.”

Among Scripture’s vivid examples of this difference is Peter. He bragged that he was willing to fight and die for Jesus (John 13:36–38). To his credit, he tried to fight (John 18:10) before running away (Matthew 26:56), but then lied out of fear when his loyalty was tested (Matthew 26:69–75).

Rarely does anyone find someone who fully keeps their word, showing loyalty to God and others. Fortunately, believers can depend upon Jesus to keep His word and love them unconditionally. He cannot lie (Titus 1:2), because He is the truth (John 14:6). Furthermore, He will always love us. John 13:1 tells us: “Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” Romans 8:38–39 assures us that nothing can separate believers from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. He is our loyal friend who will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

Verse 7. The righteous who walks in his integrity —blessed are his children after him!

The example of a godly (Proverbs 1:7; 3:1–6), righteous parent brings many benefits. Wisdom makes a family less prone to risks and failures (Proverbs 8:35–36; 10:9). It also increases one’s reputation in the eyes of others (Proverbs 3:35; 20:3). Raising children with proper wisdom (Proverbs 13:24) sets them up for success in life (Proverbs 19:18). As it often does, the book of Proverbs here refers to a person’s life as a “path,” or the way someone “walks” (Proverbs 2:20; 12:28).

Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) may have been reflecting on his father, David. He was known as a man who “walked in” integrity (1 Kings 3:6). As one of David’s sons, Solomon was blessed. The Lord granted Solomon a peaceful, prosperous kingdom and great wisdom.

Although Joseph was not Jesus’ biological father (Luke 1:31–35), he acted as His father, and was known for being fair and honorable (Matthew 1:19). Despite the awkward situation of his betrothed being pregnant, Joseph obeyed God’s command to take Mary as his wife (Mathew 1:20–25). Also, when commanded to take Mary and Jesus to Egypt, he did so without hesitation (Matthew 2:13–14). Later, when Herod died, an angel commanded Joseph to take the family to Israel, and Joseph again obeyed (Matthew 2:19–23). Undoubtedly, as a man whose life demonstrated a pattern of honoring God’s will, Joseph set a good example for the boy Jesus as Jesus “increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52).

Verse 8. A king who sits on the throne of judgmentwinnows all evil with his eyes.

Some proverbs simply note harsh realities (Proverbs 17:23; 19:7). Others commend a certain view or course of action (Proverbs 6:6; 14:7; 19:20). This is one of the proverbs expressing an ideal: the way things ought to be (Proverbs 16:12). Properly understood, the role of “king” should be grounded in godliness and justice (Proverbs 8:12–15; 14:34; 29:14).

Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) served not only as Israel’s king, but also as her judge (1 Kings 3:16–28). As a wise king and judge, when he tried a case, he had to carefully consider who was innocent and who was guilty. True wisdom comes from a pursuit of godly truth (Proverbs 1:7; 3:1–6). It is developed through constant learning (Proverbs 18:15; 27:17) and practice (Hebrews 5:14). Solomon also had been given a special dose of wisdom from God (1 Kings 3:9–12). His eyes could separate those telling the truth from those who were lying. Here, this is compared to the “winnowing” process which divides edible grain from inedible chaff.

The apostle James identifies Jesus as the Judge (James 5:9). Matthew 25:31–46 reveals that at His second coming, Jesus will judge the nations. As the all-knowing, all-seeing, and all-wise Judge, He will divide believers from unbelievers, rewarding His people and punishing those who reject Him. The book of Revelation shows readers the great white throne judgment. When this takes place, all unbelievers throughout history will be appropriately tried for their sins and cast into the lake of fire. Earthly judges have finite knowledge and are subject to error, but Jesus has infinite knowledge and cannot make a mistake. His judgment is flawless—there will one day be a perfect “winnowing” of all evil.

Verse 9.

Verse 10. Unequal weights and unequal measuresare both alike an abomination to the Lord.

Because God is holy and righteous, He detests sin, which includes theft and dishonesty (Exodus 20:15; Proverbs 6:16–19). An example of both is cheating in business, here portrayed as the use of deceptive measurements. In the ancient world, this could involve using two different sets of weights, while pretending they were the same. A crooked vendor might agree to trade a certain weight of grain for a certain weight of gold, using these modified balances to secretly cheat a customer. The Hebrew phrase literally says something like “weights and weights, measures and measures,” calling such things despicable in God’s eyes.

Cheating in business has always been a temptation for mankind; it’s one clear example of the charge made in verse 9 that no one is pure and clean from sin (Proverbs 20:9). This can involve literal weights, as when a dishonest butcher presses on the scale with his thumb to gain a bigger payment for his meat—but the Lord sees the thumb (Hebrews 4:13). It also applies to any form of deception, whether it relies on physical tricks or corrupt record-keeping. The Lord always sees the transaction. No one can cheat in business and escape God’s notice and judgment. All dishonest transactions are an “abomination” to Him.

The same sentiment is repeated in verse 23, with additional emphasis on using deceptive scales (Proverbs 20:23).

Verse 11. Even a child makes himself known by his acts,by whether his conduct is pure and upright.

Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) understood that character and conduct are intricately connected. What a person believes eventually works itself out through their words and actions (Matthew 15:18–20; James 2:15–18). If someone’s character is deeply corrupt, that corruption will be revealed in evil conduct. Conversely, a godly person will show by his deeds that he is godly (Matthew 5:16; John 13:35). This is most reliably true of adults, but it’s even the case with children. When Jesus was a boy, He revealed His pure character in many ways, one of which was by submission to His earthly parents. We read in Luke 2:51 that Jesus went with Joseph and Mary to Nazareth “and was submissive to them.”

Parents learn soon enough whether a child’s character is pure by observing behavior. Are they obedient? Are they kind? Or are they rebellious, selfish, and mean? Children are no more or less moral than adults—the only meaningful difference is that children are more pliable. They can more easily “grow out of” sinful habits than can adults who are entrenched in their ways. Therefore, the book of Proverbs emphasizes the need for parents to lovingly guide their children’s spiritual growth (Proverbs 13:24; 19:18; 22:6, 15). In his letter to the Ephesians Paul exhorts fathers not to be senseless or overly harsh in their guidance (Ephesians 6:4).

Verse 12. The hearing ear and the seeing eye,the Lord has made them both.

The Creator designed mankind with the ability to both see and hear. We are given more than one way to obtain knowledge—so we need to pursue truth in all forms and from all means. This statement reiterates concepts about diligence in uncovering truth (Proverbs 2:1–5; 11:27), including the value in seeking more than a single perspective (Proverbs 18:1, 15, 17). This highlights the idea of “cautious skepticism,” which means taking in all information before making a decision (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1; Galatians 1:8). The comment also connects to the prior proverb, which noted that how a person acts speaks to their character—such evidence should be carefully noted (Matthew 7:16–20; 1 Corinthians 6:9–13).

How a person interprets what they perceive is important (Romans 1:18–20). Paul predicted that the time was coming “when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions” (2 Timothy 4:3). In other words, they will follow teachers who tell them what they want to hear instead of what they need to hear. Jesus identified true believers as those who hear His voice and follow Him (John 10:3–4).

It is also good to carefully consider what a person exposes their senses to, in the first place (Philippians 4:8–9). A person can look at good things, or evil. We can listen to what is uplifting, or to what’s morally destructive. The psalmist declared: “I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless” (Psalm 101:3). Psalm 119:18 contains a prayer that every believer should offer regarding his eyes, “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”

Context Summary
Proverbs 20:12–30 touches on a variety of subjects as Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) wisely observes what is right and what is wrong. He censures deceit and dishonest gain but commends honesty, love, and loyalty. This section also includes common sense reminders about topics like business and hastiness.

Verse 13. Love not sleep, lest you come to poverty;open your eyes, and you will have plenty of bread.

Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) warns again about the potential consequences of laziness (Proverbs 6:4; 10:4). Hard work is not a magic spell that guarantees success—but the hardworking person is at much less risk of poverty than the person who is sluggish. Sleep is not bad (Proverbs 3:21–24) and neither is rest (Exodus 16:23–30). However, the person who sleeps when they should work is at risk. A prior proverb compared a lazy person to someone asleep: they are inactive and unaware of their surroundings (Proverbs 19:15).

Some people prefer to sleep rather than face reality. A common symptom of severe depression is unusual sleepiness or fatigue. But the reality is that God-honoring work is both therapeutic and essential. The apostle Paul actively engaged in work. Most Bible teachers believe he was a tentmaker. Acts 20:33–35 quotes him as telling the elders of the church at Ephesus, “I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my necessities and to those who were with me. In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.””

Verse 14. “Bad, bad,” says the buyer,but when he goes away, then he boasts.

Here, again, Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) notes an aspect of the real world without endorsing it (Proverbs 17:23; 18:16; 19:6). What’s depicted here is a common tactic in business negotiations: to downplay the value of something one wishes to buy. The opposite is also the case, as a seller may over-promise or exaggerate a product or service. In one sense, Solomon’s comment is a reminder of this aspect of business. When a potential buyer criticizes some product or service, it’s naïve to assume those words are free from all bias (Proverbs 18:17). It’s possible for someone to haggle for a low price, only to brag later about what a great deal they got. Or, for a seller to “talk up” something so a buyer spends more on it than they need to.

At worst, this practice can become blatantly dishonest. Some buyers or sellers overtly lie about a potential transaction. They go beyond looking to make a fair-yet-profitable deal. Deception and lies in business are forms of theft; it’s cheating as much as are false weights or rigged scale (Proverbs 20:10, 23). Both stealing and lying violate God’s commandments. Listed in the Ten Commandments are these: “You shall not steal” (Exodus 20:15) and “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16).

The New Testament also points out the evil of stealing and lying. Ephesians 4:25 states: “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor.” Verse 28 implores, “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands.” Colossians 3:9 commands: “Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices.”

Verse 15. There is gold and abundance of costly stones,but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

Solomon makes an interesting comparison in this verse. He compares the value of speaking knowledgeably with the value of gold and jewels and concludes that wise words are more precious. This valuation of godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 3:1–6) is expressed in numerous ways in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 3:13–15; 16:16; 22:1). Well-considered, well-timed, well-spoken wisdom is an incredibly valuable gift (Proverbs 8:11; 15:23; 27:9).

Jesus, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3), always spoke wisely. He taught about heaven, the value of human life, righteousness, pleasing and glorifying God, and genuine love for God and others. Consequently, crowds followed Him to hear what He would say, and it was said that “no one ever spoke like this man” (John 7:46). Jesus rightly claimed, “The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life” (John 6:63). When Jesus asked His disciples if they would abandon Him, Peter quickly responded, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68).

Verse 16. Take a man ‘s garment when he has put up security for a stranger,and hold it in pledge when he puts up security for foreigners.

This verse emphasizes the risk a creditor takes in granting a loan. The debtor or cosigner may never repay the debt. The creditor—the one lending money or property—is advised to hold something from the borrower to help guarantee the debt will be repaid. The garment, in this case, serves as a pledge. Exodus 22:26–27 mentions this exact practice, but insists on a level of human decency: “If ever you take your neighbor’s cloak in pledge, you shall return it to him before the sun goes down, for that is his only covering, and it is his cloak for his body; in what else shall he sleep?” Deuteronomy 24:10–13 adds this further instruction: “When you make your neighbor a loan of any sort, you shall not go into his house to collect his pledge. You shall stand outside, and the man to whom you make the loan shall bring the pledge out to you. And if he is a poor man, you shall not sleep in his pledge. You shall restore to him the pledge as the sun sets, that he may sleep in his cloak and bless you. And it shall be righteousness for you before the LORD your God.”

Other proverbs warn about taking on debt, especially on behalf of others (Proverbs 6:1; 11:15; 22:6). This statement seems to emphasize caution about the character of those who seek to borrow. The phrasing refers to lending “for a stranger” and “for foreigners.” “Foreigners” is translated from the Greek nākri. This is the same term used in Proverbs 7:5 in reference to an immoral woman. In the Old Testament context, “foreigners” were not merely people of other cultures, they were worshippers of idols (Deuteronomy 7:1–5). Lending is risky enough—lending to immoral or ungodly people is even more dangerous.

Verse 17. Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man,but afterward his mouth will be full of gravel.

This verse sounds a warning against stealing. Like many sins, there is a temporary pleasure involved (Proverbs 9:17). But the consequences of that sin will come, eventually. Those results can be intensely bitter. Most people have, at some point, discovered something hard in a soft bite of food while chewing. The experience can be surprising and painful. Some have even broken a tooth biting down on a hard object. One can only imagine what it would be like to start chewing a sweet, soft piece of bread, only to have it suddenly turn into rocks. Yet this is what sin does: promising freedom and pleasure (Genesis 3:4–5) but leading to suffering and slavery (Genesis 3:16–19; Romans 6:17–18; James 1:13–18).

A related English proverb is the phrase “crime doesn’t pay.” Obviously, people commit many crimes because it’s a way of making money. The point of the English expression, as well as Solomon’s proverb, is that the eventual consequences greatly outweigh the short-term benefits.

Scripture records a drastic example of this, when Achan looked on what God had said was off-limits. Rather than following the command to destroy everything in Jericho, he took “a beautiful cloak from Shinar, and 200 shekels of silver, and a bar of gold weighing 50 shekels” (Joshua 7:21). After gaining what seemed so attractive, Achan hid the loot in his tent. However, his sin cost him his life. According to Johsua 7:22–25, messengers from Joshua ran to Achan’s tent, retrieved the stolen items, and laid them down before the Lord. Then Joshua and the people of Israel took Achan, the illicit goods, and Achan’s sons and daughters—all accomplices in the theft—to the Valley of Achor, where they put Achan and his family to death by stoning.

Verse 18. Plans are established by counsel;by wise guidance wage war.

Seeking advice from others is strongly advised in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 11:14; 18:17; 19:27). Good plans based on wise guidance are valuable when waging war. The same general idea applies to all situations. Diligence and planning are important (Proverbs 12:24; 15:22), even as we recognize that everything is subject to God’s sovereign will (James 4:13–15). As a king and judge, Solomon understood this truth by personal experience.

Christians face many battles in the war against the Devil. He employs numerous schemes and evil allies against us. Ephesians 6:11 counsels us to put on the whole armor of God in this war. Verse 12 informs us we wrestle against a hierarchy of dark forces: “against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” However, God gives us specific wise counsel by telling us to put on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and shoes of the gospel of peace. Also, we are supposed to employ the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s Word. Finally, we are advised to pray at all times in the Spirit and to stay alert (Ephesians 6:13–18).

Verse 19. Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets;therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.

In the Bible, “slander” means making false statements about someone to ruin their reputation. It can also refer to things like gossip—which is often unsubstantiated rumor or scandal—or undue criticism. In most modern legal contexts, slander and libel refer to untrue spoken or written comments which harm someone’s standing, and which the offender should have known were false. The term used here is rākil, which plays on the similarity of terms for merchants and those for liars and deceivers. The “gossip monger” or “tale bearer” should be avoided. This person not only cannot keep legitimate secrets (Proverbs 2:11; 19:11), but they prefer controversy and scandal (Proverbs 16:28; 17:9; 18:8). They “deal in” such things as if it were a business. Associating with such a person means eventually being caught up in the consequences of their sins.

History’s most notorious slanderer is the Devil. Revelation 12:10 calls him “the accuser of our brothers…who accuses them day and night before our God.” The Devil still has access to God’s throne, but he does not live in heaven. His realm is Earth and its atmosphere. He is “the prince of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2). All who engage in slander resemble him and are censured by Solomon as “babblers.” The Hebrew phrasing here connects the idea of being “simple,” or uninformed, with the lips. This is a simple definition of gossip: spreading rumors about issues when one lacks full understanding.

Investing any trust in such a person is a foolish risk. The gossip will reveal those secrets to others and likely embellish them with lies. According to Solomon the way to deal with a slanderer is to avoid him. In his instructions to Timothy, the apostle Paul warned about those who depart from faithful pursuits and occupy their time as slanderers: gossips and busybodies (1 Timothy 5:11–13).

Verse 20. If one curses his father or his mother,his lamp will be put out in utter darkness.

In this verse Solomon castigates anyone who curses his father or his mother. The person who disrespects his parents and insults them breaks God’s commandment to “honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). This commandment promises longevity to those who obey it. Verse 12 continues: “that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.”

Solomon understood this promise, so he writes that whoever breaks the commandment given in Exodus 20:12 will come to an untimely end. The core issue is not merely the relationship to parents, but how the child respects authority, in general. Often, a rebellious son disrespects not only his parents, but anyone who seeks control over him.

Earlier advice warned that allowing a child to grow without discipline was to set them on a dangerous path (Proverbs 19:18). Undisciplined children can become lawbreakers, whose criminal path leads to lengthy imprisonment or capital punishment. Waywardness may include the use of illegal drugs that snuff out a life. God gives commandments for our good, and if we violate them, we will pay a heavy price (Proverbs 3:1–6; 8:34–36).

Verse 21. An inheritance gained hastily in the beginningwill not be blessed in the end.

In an earlier statement, Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) noted the shame of a child who abuses their parents (Proverbs 19:26). He also commented on the dangers of “get rich quick” thinking (Proverbs 13:11). When godliness is thrown aside in pursuit of wealth, that wealth is not likely to last. Even in well-meaning situations, sudden wealth carries serious risks. Many modern-day lottery winners, who unexpectedly became enormously rich, find themselves bankrupt within several years. The spiritual maturity that helps a person properly care for what they have is incompatible with the immaturity that seeks money for money’s sake.

A classic New Testament example of this principle is the prodigal son, from a parable of Jesus. This wayward child demanded his share of the inheritance prematurely and left home. Then he wasted what he’d demanded from his father, living a wild lifestyle. His reckless path led him to poverty and friendlessness. He took a lowly job feeding pigs—a humiliating position for a Jewish man of that era. He was so destitute and hungry that he wished he could eat the slop being fed to the swine, but no one gave him anything (Luke 15:11–16). He came to his senses and found forgiveness, but the lesson was still costly (Luke 15:17–24).

Jacob’s example also shows the danger of conniving to gain wealth, especially at the expense of one’s family. He cheated his brother, Esau, out of the blessing which rightly belonged to the older brother. Jacob disguised himself, so his blind father Isaac thought he was blessing Esau (Genesis 27:34–35). In the aftermath, Jacob was forced to flee from his murderous brother (Genesis 27:41–43). Later, when Jacob was working for his uncle Laban, the tables turned on him. Laban cheated him numerous times (Genesis 29:21–30; 30:33–35; 31:41–42). The love of money can bring many problems!

Verse 22. Do not say, “I will repay evil”;wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you.

Solomon advises us not to seek revenge (Proverbs 24:29). Rather, believers should rest assured that God will settle all accounts. To “wait” for God’s intervention requires faithful patience. This is not easy, but it’s critically important. This counsel agrees with the teaching in Deuteronomy 32:35–36. Moses delivered these words to Israel: “‘Vengeance is mine, and recompense, for the time when their foot shall slip; for the day of their calamity is at hand, and their doom comes swiftly.’ For the LORD will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants.” Paul expresses the same sentiment in his writings (Romans 12:19).

When Jesus died on the cross, He did not take vengeance on those who crucified Him. Instead, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). Peter remembered that when Jesus was insulted during His pre-crucifixion trial, He did not lash out in return, or offer threats when He was suffering (1 Peter 2:23). Instead, He “continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23). Jesus demonstrated the ideal to which we should all aspire (1 Peter 2:21; 3:9).

There are practical reasons to avoid retribution, as well. Taking revenge tends to create a vicious circle. Someone is wronged, so they retaliate. The victim of that vengeance sees it as unjust, so they take further revenge. The struggle to “settle the score” never settles anything. This escalation into a feud can last for years, or even generations (Proverbs 17:13).

Verse 23. Unequal weights are an abomination to the Lord,and false scales are not good.

This verse is almost identical to a recent statement from this same chapter (Proverbs 20:10). Where verse 10 mentions unequal measures, this proverb condemns false scales. The general idea is the same: a dishonest, deceitful practice meant to cheat someone. Even haggling for a price can go too far (Proverbs 20:14), so setting up a scale that lies about its measurements is blatantly sinful and despicable in God’s eyes (Proverbs 11:1).

Dishonesty is condemned in Scripture (Exodus 20:15–16; Proverbs 6:16–19). In business, as well as in every area of life, the Lord demands honesty. In Leviticus 19:35–36 the Lord commanded Israel: “You shall do no wrong in judgment, in measures of length or weight or quantity. You shall have just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin: I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt.” In Deuteronomy 25:13–16 the Lord commanded, “You shall not have in your bag two kinds of weights, a large and a small. You shall not have in your house two kinds of measures, a large and a small. A full and fair weight you shall have, a full and fair measure you shall have, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. For all that do such things, all who act dishonestly, are an abomination to the LORD your God.”

A person might violate this principle in a very literal way, by modifying measuring tools to get a favorable result. Yet the same concept applies to corrupt bookkeeping, false reporting, or other tricks. God sees and knows all such things (Hebrews 4:13).

Verse 24. A man ‘s steps are from the Lord;how then can man understand his way?

The point made here is not that God drags a man through life without any free will or choice. Rather, this proverb notes that God is ultimately in control of all things, and we will not always understand the circumstances we face. It is important to know where the Lord is leading and to trust Him to direct us in the right way (Proverbs 3:4–6). He never leads us astray or allows temptations that are too difficult to endure (1 Corinthians 10:13). We can’t presume to understand such things in the exact same way as God—if we lean too hard on our own judgment, we go down the wrong path, stumble, and fall (Proverbs 8:34–36).

We cannot see the future. The Lord not only sees the future but holds it. We can ask God for wisdom (James 1:5), including perspective on why we experience things. But we are too limited to demand a “satisfactory” answer to every possible question about life. David prayed what every believer should pray: “Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths” (Psalm 25:4). When Abraham’s servant followed Abraham’s instructions to find a bride for Abraham’s son Isaac, he prayed for the Lord’s direction (Genesis 24:42–44). When the Lord brought Rebekah to him, he bowed his head, worshiped the Lord, and blessed the Lord, who had led him by the right way to take Rebekah to Isaac (Genesis 24:48). Following the Lord may not always be easy, but it will always be right. Psalm 18:30 assures us His way is perfect.

Verse 25. It is a snare to say rashly, “It is holy,”and to reflect only after making vows.

Making any promise without thinking it through is foolish, but hasty vows to God are especially unwise (Deuteronomy 23:21). This proverb compares this error to stepping into a trap, such as those used to catch animals (Proverbs 7:21–23). Solomon gives similar advice in the book of Ecclesiastes (Ecclesiastes 5:4–5).

Jephthah, a judge of Israel, “trapped” himself in an unwise vow (Judges 11:30–31). He failed to think through what he was promising and it cost him his only child (Judges 11:34–35). In the other extreme, a person might feel helpless in a difficult situation and pray something like, “God, if you will get me out of this situation, I will serve you for the rest of my life.” However, when the danger is gone, they forget the promise.

Peter arrogantly promised to remain by Jesus’ side even if all the other disciples were disloyal (John 13:36–38). He learned the hard way that he would not keep his promise. After Jesus was arrested, Peter succumbed to fear and denied knowing Jesus three times (Mark 14:26–31; Luke 22:54–61; John 18:15–18, 25–27).

Those who follow God should be known for integrity and honesty (Matthew 5:37). Making unwise promises is wrong. And yet, so is adding additional vows or oaths onto what we say. Instead of saying “I swear by…” or “I promise on…” the Christian should always keep their word, without any need for further guarantees (James 5:12).

Verse 26.
A wise king winnows the wickedand drives the wheel over them.

Solomon (Proverbs 10:1), the wise king and judge (1 Kings 3:10–12), comments on the importance of justice in leadership. Biblical wisdom starts with proper respect for God and His will (Proverbs 1:7; 3:1–6). One of the reasons God institutes human government is to restrain evil (Romans 13:1–5), which involves separating the guilty from the innocent. Then, those who are guilty should be punished, to deter others from committing the same crimes.

The figurative speech here uses imagery from agriculture. “Winnowing” usually involved tossing processed grain into the air, so the wind could blow away the inedible parts. This symbolism is often used to represent sorting or separating through wisdom or judgment. That technique was employed earlier in this same passage (Proverbs 20:8). The wise king should properly distinguish matters, including guilt and innocence.

Prior to winnowing, grain had to be “threshed.” This could be done in several ways, but all involved physically striking or tearing the stalks to break grain and chaff apart. The resulting mixture could then be winnowed. One method employed in the ancient world was to drag a spiked sled, with heavy wheels, across the harvested grain. Threshing was also associated with judgment, but more often tied to punishment (Judges 6:11; 8:7, 16). It is important for government to separate the innocent from the guilty, but equally important that it properly punish lawbreakers.

Jesus will one day return to earth and establish His kingdom. As a wise king, He will rule with justice and righteousness. But Jesus will also judge the nations before inaugurating His kingdom. He will wisely separate the sheep from the goats—the righteous from the wicked—and send the wicked into eternal punishment (Matthew 25:31–46). John the Baptist alluded to the separation of wheat and chaff by the Messiah. He said: “His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into the barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire” (Matthew 3:12).

This reference to a just king using proper judgment ties to the next proverb, which refers to God’s inescapable knowledge and wisdom (Proverbs 20:27; Hebrews 4:13).

Verse 27. The spirit of man is the lamp of the Lord,searching all his innermost parts.

Man’s spirit possesses thought, motives, intentions, feelings, and desires, all of which the Lord tests. God is aware of every aspect of our inner lives (1 Samuel 16:7; Hebrews 4:13). A person’s spirit illuminates who and what they really are (Luke 6:45). A person’s spirit is seen by God; it shows everything needed to know to properly judge them (Psalm 7:11; Psalm 139:7). In biblical terminology, “light” is associated with goodness, as well as truth and knowledge. God has access to the “light” of a person’s spirit: factual truth about their innermost being.

When Jesus was in Jerusalem for the Passover, He cleansed the temple by forcing out corrupt businessmen (John 2:13–17). He knew that their motives were impure. As a result, local religious leaders (John 2:18) questioned Him. Many people accepted Jesus’ message because of the miraculous things He did (John 2:23). In that same passage, it was noted that Jesus knew what was happening in each person’s spirit (John 2:24–25). Indeed, the Lord “knows the secrets of the heart” (Psalm 44:21).

Verse 28.Steadfast love and faithfulness preserve the king,and by steadfast love his throne is upheld.

All proverbs, biblical or otherwise, are general statements. They are intended as short summaries of wisdom, and not meant to be taken as absolute rules. In this case, Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) notes that caring, faithful leaders inspire loyalty in their people. A king who is just (Proverbs 20:26) and good to his people (Proverbs 29:2) will typically be rewarded by a nation who loves and defends their king. While it’s possible for good leaders to be unfairly attacked, or evil leaders to cling to power, the expected pattern is for good leaders to inspire happy, devoted followers.

The history of Judah and Israel shows what happens when kings either reign in righteousness or digress from God’s standards of love and faithfulness. In 721 BC, Israel, the northern kingdom, fell to the Assyrians because it lacked good kings and the nation dishonored God. However, the southern kingdom, Judah, lasted until 586 BC because it had some good kings and periods of revival. God places rulers in authority for the people’s good, but He can remove those rulers at His discretion. Psalm 75:7 says, “It is God who executes judgment, putting down one and lifting up another.”

Verse 29. The glory of young men is their strength,but the splendor of old men is their gray hair.

The main advantage of youth is physical. Younger people are usually healthier and stronger than those who are older. Youths can brag about their athleticism and energy. In contrast, the main advantage of age is wisdom—the longer one survives, the more experience and knowledge they can gain. This proverb notes that gray hair is a sign of aging; in the ancient world, this was associated with increased knowledge (Proverbs 16:31). Symbolically, those with white hair were the wisest and most knowledgeable of all (Daniel 7:9–10; Revelation 1:14).

This does not mean that every aging person is wise (Hebrews 5:11–12; 1 Samuel 25:23–25). Nor does it mean youths cannot have godly wisdom to share (1 Timothy 4:12; Daniel 1:17). Paul writes that in Jesus “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). As we age, our strength will fade, but our wisdom will increase if we become more like Jesus (Isaiah 40:28–31; Hebrews 5:14; 2 Corinthians 4:16–18).

Verse 30. Blows that wound cleanse away evil;strokes make clean the innermost parts.

Corporal punishment in Solomon’s time was not simply punitive but also remedial. The person undergoing punishment would learn that crime carries a harsh penalty, and he would resolve not to commit the crime again (Proverbs 19:29; 29:15). The meaning here is not entirely symbolic, but neither is it meant to encourage punishments which lead to injury.

The Bible teaches that every human being is a sinner and possesses a sin nature. Adam’s sin passed upon the entire human race (Romans 5:12). But we are not just sinners by nature, we are also sinners by choice. Isaiah 53:6 explains that like sheep we have all gone astray, choosing to follow our will instead of God’s. Even Christians choose to sin, but do not make sin a way of life. Often, when we sin, God uses discipline to correct us. He uses the “blows” and “strokes” of discipline to steer us away from sin and to produce righteousness in us.

Godly discipline, including consequences, is an important part of spiritual growth. The book of Hebrews tells us:

“It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? …Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? …For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:7–11).

End of Proverbs 20

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