17:1 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
17:18 A man void of understanding i striketh hands, [and]
becometh surety in the presence of his friend.
