Proverbs

Proverbs front

Introduction to Proverbs

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of Proverbs

1. Introduction and purpose for Proverbs (1:1–7)
2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
3. Proverbs from Solomon (10:1–22:16)
4. Sayings from wise men (22:17–24:22)
5. More sayings from wise men (24:23–34)
6. Hezekiah’s proverbs from Solomon (25:1–29:27)
7. Sayings from Agur (30:1–33)
8. Sayings from Lemuel (31:1–9)
9. Description of a good and capable wife (31:10–31)

What is the Book of Proverbs about?

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of proverbs. A proverb is a saying that gives wise advice or teaches something that is generally true about life. Most societies have their own proverbs and may use specific language that indicates something is a proverb. (See: Притчи)

How should the title of this book be translated?

The title of this book is often translated as “Proverbs.” A more general translation would be “Sayings for Wise People,” “Wise Sayings,” or something similar.

Who wrote the Book of Proverbs?

Proverbs begins with the words, “The Proverbs of Solomon, son of David and King of Israel.” However, Solomon did not write all of the proverbs in this book. Unnamed wise men wrote the proverbs in 22:17–24:34. Agur the son of Jakeh wrote the proverbs in 30:1–33 and King Lemuel wrote the proverbs in 31:1–31.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What is meant by “wisdom” and “foolishness” in the Book of Proverbs?

“Wisdom” refers to understanding and doing what is true and morally right. A wise person understands and does what Yahweh considers to be right. Anyone living in this way will also learn to live well with other people and to make good practical decisions in life. Those who fail to live in this way are called “foolish.” For this reason, it is possible for a person to be very intelligent and still be foolish. (See: мудрий, мудрість and дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство)

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Parallelism

Many proverbs have two parts that have a relationship to each other. The second part may strengthen the first part, give more details about the first part, or say what seems to be the opposite of the first part. Translators should take into account that each proverb is also part of a larger group of proverbs. (See: Параллелизм)

Personification

In Proverbs, certain qualities such as wisdom and stupidity are often represented as if they were human. Proverbs 1:20–33, 3:15–18, 4:6–9, and 8:1–9:12 refer to wisdom as if it were a woman. Proverbs 9:13–18 might also refer to stupidity as if it were a woman. In languages where it is possible for a woman figure to represent these qualities, the translator should translate in this way. However, if direct translation is not possible in your language, you may translate these personifications as similes instead. In that case, wisdom or folly would be presented as being like a wise or stupid woman. (See: Олицетворение)

Proverbs 1

Proverbs 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1. Introduction and purpose for Proverbs (1:1–7)
   • Title (1:1)
   • The Purpose of Proverbs (1:2–6)
   • Main Theme: Fearing Yahweh is essential to being wise (1:7)
2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)

Special concepts in this chapter

My Son

Occasionally, Solomon addresses a series of proverbs to “my son” or “sons.” This does not mean that those proverbs only apply to males. Instead, these phrases are forms used to pass on advice from a father to his son, and the kind of advice in these proverbs is about common temptations of young men.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Personification

In 1:20–33, wisdom is referred to as if it were a woman. In languages where it is possible for a woman figure to represent an abstract concept like wisdom, the translator should translate the personification directly. However, if direct translation is not possible in your language, you may translate these personifications as similes instead. In that case, wisdom would be presented as being like a wise woman. (See: Олицетворение)

Proverbs 1:1

The proverbs of Solomon

Quote: מִ֭שְׁלֵי שְׁלֹמֹ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “These are the proverbs of Solomon”

The proverbs of Solomon

Quote: מִ֭שְׁלֵי שְׁלֹמֹ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the author is using the possessive form to describe proverbs that were written by Solomon. If this is not clear in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The proverbs that were written by Solomon”

Proverbs 1:2

To know wisdom and instruction

Quote: לָ⁠דַ֣עַת חָכְמָ֣ה וּ⁠מוּסָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1:2–6 are one long sentence that lacks some of the words that a sentence in many languages would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “The purposes of proverbs are to know wisdom and instruction”

To know … to understand

Quote: לָ⁠דַ֣עַת & לְ֝⁠הָבִ֗ין (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

To and to here indicate two purposes for proverbs. Use a natural way in your language for introducing purpose clauses. Alternate translation: “These proverbs are for the purpose of knowing … and they are for the purpose of understanding”

wisdom and instruction

Quote: חָכְמָ֣ה וּ⁠מוּסָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of wisdom and instruction, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “wise and instructive things”

sayings of understanding

Quote: אִמְרֵ֥י בִינָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the author is using the possessive form to describe sayings that give a person understanding. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “sayings that give someone understanding”

Proverbs 1:3

to receive instruction of

Quote: לָ֭⁠קַחַת מוּסַ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates a third purpose for proverbs. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. You may want to begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “These proverbs are for the purpose of receiving instruction of”

instruction of insight, righteousness and justice and integrity

Quote: מוּסַ֣ר הַשְׂכֵּ֑ל צֶ֥דֶק וּ֝⁠מִשְׁפָּ֗ט וּ⁠מֵישָׁרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of instruction, insight, righteousness, justice, and integrity, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is instructive of what is insightful, what is righteous, what is just, and what is honest”

Proverbs 1:4

to give to naive ones prudence

Quote: לָ⁠תֵ֣ת לִ⁠פְתָאיִ֣ם עָרְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates a fourth purpose for proverbs. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. You may want to begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “These proverbs are for the purpose of giving naive ones prudence”

prudence, … knowledge and discretion

Quote: עָרְמָ֑ה & דַּ֣עַת וּ⁠מְזִמָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of prudence, knowledge, and discretion, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what is prudent … what he should know and how to be discreet”

to a young man

Quote: לְ֝⁠נַ֗עַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is speaking of young men in general, not of one particular young man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “to young men”

Proverbs 1:5

This verse is parenthetical and interrupts the list of purposes for proverbs in 1:2–6. If it would be helpful in your language, you could add parentheses, as in the ULT, or use a natural way in your language to indicate a parenthetical statement.

a wise one will hear and increase learning, and the understanding one will acquire directions

Quote: יִשְׁמַ֣ע חָ֭כָם וְ⁠י֣וֹסֶף לֶ֑קַח וְ֝⁠נָב֗וֹן תַּחְבֻּל֥וֹת יִקְנֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first clause by repeating the same idea with different words. Hebrew poetry was based on this kind of repetition, and it would be good to show this to your readers by including both phrases in your translation rather than combining them. However, if it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “a wise one will hear and increase insight, yes, the understanding one will acquire guidance”

a wise one will hear

Quote: יִשְׁמַ֣ע חָ֭כָם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “a wise one will hear these proverbs”

will acquire directions

Quote: תַּחְבֻּל֥וֹת יִקְנֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author implies that this person will acquire directions from proverbs. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will acquire directions from these proverbs”

directions

Quote: תַּחְבֻּל֥וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea directions, you could express the same ides in another way. Alternate translation: “what directs”

Proverbs 1:6

to understand a proverb and a satire, the words of the wise ones and their riddles

Quote: לְ⁠הָבִ֣ין מָ֭שָׁל וּ⁠מְלִיצָ֑ה דִּבְרֵ֥י חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים וְ⁠חִידֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first clause by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word that indicates that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “to understand a proverb and a satire, yes, to understand the words of the wise ones and their riddles”

to understand a proverb and a satire

Quote: לְ⁠הָבִ֣ין מָ֭שָׁל וּ⁠מְלִיצָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates a fifth purpose for proverbs. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. You may want to begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “These proverbs are for the purpose of understanding a proverb and a satire”

the words of the wise ones

Quote: דִּבְרֵ֥י חֲ֝כָמִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “to understand the words of the wise ones”

the words of

Quote: דִּבְרֵ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the author uses the term words to describe what the wise ones say by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the words spoken by”

Proverbs 1:7

The fear of Yahweh

Quote: יִרְאַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the author is using the possessive form to describe fear that a person should have for Yahweh. If this is not clear in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The fear for Yahweh”

is} the beginning of knowledge

Quote: רֵאשִׁ֣ית דָּ֑עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, beginning refers to the foundation or basis of something. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is the foundation of knowledge” or “is the prerequisite for acquiring knowledge” or “is what knowledge is based upon”

The fear of … knowledge, … wisdom and instruction

Quote: יִרְאַ֣ת & דָּ֑עַת חָכְמָ֥ה וּ֝⁠מוּסָ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of fear, knowledge, wisdom, and instruction, you could express the same ideas in another way. See how you translated knowledge in 1:4 and wisdom and instruction in 1:2. Alternate translation: “Being fearful of … knowing something … wise things and instructive things”

fools despise wisdom and instruction

Quote: חָכְמָ֥ה וּ֝⁠מוּסָ֗ר אֱוִילִ֥ים בָּֽזוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is a strong contrast with the previous clause. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by contrast, fools despise wisdom and instruction”

Proverbs 1:8

Hear, my son, the instruction of your father and do not forsake the law of your mother

Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע בְּ֭נִ⁠י מוּסַ֣ר אָבִ֑י⁠ךָ וְ⁠אַל־תִּ֝טֹּ֗שׁ תּוֹרַ֥ת אִמֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Hear, my son, the instruction of your father, yes, do not forsake the law of your mother”

Hear, my son, the instruction of

Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע בְּ֭נִ⁠י מוּסַ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Hear often means “hear and obey.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language. Alternative translation: “Pay attention, my son, to the instruction of”

the instruction of

Quote: מוּסַ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated instruction in 1:2.

the instruction of your father

Quote: מוּסַ֣ר אָבִ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Solomon is speaking about himself in the third person. If this would not be natural in your language, you could use the first person form. Alternate translation: “the instruction of me, your father”

and do not forsake

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תִּ֝טֹּ֗שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of rejecting the law of your mother as if it were a person whom someone could forsake. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and do not reject”

and do not forsake

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תִּ֝טֹּ֗שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Solomon is using a figure of speech here that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning, forsake. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “and heed”

the law of

Quote: תּוֹרַ֥ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, the word law is singular in form, but it refers to several laws as a group. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the rules of”

Proverbs 1:9

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for the commands in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Obey these instructions because” or “Obey your parents because”

they {are} a garland of grace for your head and pendants for your neck

Quote: לִוְיַ֤ת חֵ֓ן הֵ֬ם לְ⁠רֹאשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ וַ֝⁠עֲנָקִ֗ים לְ⁠גַרְגְּרֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “they are a garland of grace for your head, yes, pendants for your neck”

they {are} a garland of grace

Quote: לִוְיַ֤ת חֵ֓ן הֵ֬ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronoun they refers to the instruction and teaching of one’s parents, as stated in the previous verse. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the instruction and law from your parents are a garland of grace” or “what your parents taught you is a garland of grace”

they {are} a garland of grace for your head and pendants for your neck

Quote: לִוְיַ֤ת חֵ֓ן הֵ֬ם לְ⁠רֹאשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ וַ֝⁠עֲנָקִ֗ים לְ⁠גַרְגְּרֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here the author speaks of the rules and instructions that parents teach their children as if they were a garland or pendants. These two items make a person look more attractive to other people and may cause other people to respect that person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use similes. Alternate translation: “they make you look more beautiful and respectable” or “they are like a garland of grace for your head and like pendants for your neck”

are} a garland of grace

Quote: לִוְיַ֤ת חֵ֓ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a garland that is characterized by grace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “are a gracious garland”

Proverbs 1:10

if sinners entice you

Quote: אִם־יְפַתּ֥וּ⁠ךָ חַ֝טָּאִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Solomon is using a hypothetical situation to help his readers understand how important it is to resist temptation from sinners. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “suppose sinners entice you”

if sinners entice you, do not consent

Quote: אִם־יְפַתּ֥וּ⁠ךָ חַ֝טָּאִ֗ים אַל־תֹּבֵֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon implies that the sinners would entice his son to sin with them. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “if sinners entice you to join them in sinning, do not consent to sin with them”

Proverbs 1:11

If they say

Quote: אִם־יֹאמְרוּ֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Solomon is using a hypothetical situation to help his readers understand how sinners might entice someone to join them in sinning. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “Suppose they say”

they say

Quote: יֹאמְרוּ֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronoun they refers to sinners, as mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those sinners say”

with us! Let us lie in wait … Let us hide to ambush

Quote: אִ֫תָּ֥⁠נוּ נֶאֶרְבָ֥ה & נִצְפְּנָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

By us, the sinners are referring to themselves but not other people, so use the exclusive form of that word in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

Let us lie in wait … Let us hide to ambush

Quote: נֶאֶרְבָ֥ה & נִצְפְּנָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use a word that shows the connection between these two phrases. Alternate translation: “Let us lie in wait … Yes, let us hide to ambush”

for blood

Quote: לְ⁠דָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, blood refers to violently murdering someone, which usually causes blood to come out of the person who is murdered. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “to shed blood” or “to murder someone”

for blood. Let us hide to ambush

Quote: לְ⁠דָ֑ם נִצְפְּנָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, for and to introduce the purposes for these actions. The purpose for lying in wait is to shed blood. The purpose for hiding is to ambush someone. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate purposes. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of shedding blood. Let us hide for the purpose of ambushing”

the innocent one

Quote: לְ⁠נָקִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The sinners are speaking of an innocent person in general, not of one particular innocent one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “some innocent person”

Proverbs 1:12

Let us swallow them

Quote: נִ֭בְלָעֵ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

By us, the sinners are referring to themselves but not other people, so use the exclusive form of that word in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

Let us swallow them

Quote: נִ֭בְלָעֵ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The sinners speak of murdering people as if they were swallowing them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Let us murder them”

the living ones, like Sheol, and the whole ones like those going down to a pit

Quote: כִּ⁠שְׁא֣וֹל חַיִּ֑ים וּ֝⁠תְמִימִ֗ים כְּ⁠י֣וֹרְדֵי בֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “the living ones, like Sheol, yes, the whole ones like those going down to a pit”

like Sheol

Quote: כִּ⁠שְׁא֣וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The sinners are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “like Sheol swallows people”

like Sheol

Quote: כִּ⁠שְׁא֣וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The Israelites sometimes referred to dying as “going down to Sheol.” Here, Sheol is spoken of as if it were an animal that could swallow someone. The idea of Sheol swallowing someone refers to how people are completely gone after they die and are buried. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “like death is complete”

and the whole ones

Quote: וּ֝⁠תְמִימִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The sinners are leaving out some of the words that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the beginning of the verse. Alternate translation: “and let us swallow the whole ones”

and the whole ones

Quote: וּ֝⁠תְמִימִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, whole refers to being completely healthy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and the healthy ones”

like those going down to a pit

Quote: כְּ⁠י֣וֹרְדֵי בֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The sinners are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “like those going down to a pit are swallowed”

like those going down to a pit

Quote: כְּ⁠י֣וֹרְדֵי בֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The Israelites referred to dying as going down to Sheol or a pit. Here the sinners are saying that their victims are like those going down to a pit because those people will die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “like those who die”

Proverbs 1:13

We will find … We will fill our houses

Quote: נִמְצָ֑א נְמַלֵּ֖א בָתֵּ֣י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

In this verse, the sinners use We and our to refer to themselves but not other people. Use the exclusive form of those words in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

all

Quote: כָּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The sinners say all here as a generalization for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “very much”

Proverbs 1:14

You must cause your lot to fall in our midst

Quote: גּ֭וֹרָ֣לְ⁠ךָ תַּפִּ֣יל בְּ⁠תוֹכֵ֑⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. If could refer to: (1) joining with a group of people that will share the same destiny. Alternate translation: “You must join us and share our destiny” (2) the practice of throwing small objects called lots to determine who would receive something. Alternate translation: “You must join us in sharing loot by casting lots”

one purse will be for all of us

Quote: כִּ֥יס אֶ֝חָ֗ד יִהְיֶ֥ה לְ⁠כֻלָּֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, purse represents everything that these sinners steal. Some of what they steal would be put in a purse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “we will equally share everything that we steal”

in our midst; … for all of us

Quote: בְּ⁠תוֹכֵ֑⁠נוּ & לְ⁠כֻלָּֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

In this verse, the sinners use our and us to refer to themselves but not other people. Use the exclusive form of those words in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

Proverbs 1:15

do not walk in the way with them; restrain your foot from their path

Quote: אַל־תֵּלֵ֣ךְ בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ אִתָּ֑⁠ם מְנַ֥ע רַ֝גְלְ⁠ךָ֗ מִ⁠נְּתִיבָתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word that would show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “do not walk in the way with them, yes, restrain your foot from their path”

do not walk in the way with them; restrain your foot from their path

Quote: אַל־תֵּלֵ֣ךְ בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ אִתָּ֑⁠ם מְנַ֥ע רַ֝גְלְ⁠ךָ֗ מִ⁠נְּתִיבָתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Solomon uses walk to refer to associating with the sinners. He uses way and path to refer to the behavior of the sinners. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “have nothing to do with those sinners; keep yourself from behaving like them”

your foot

Quote: רַ֝גְלְ⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Solomon is using one part of a person, the foot, to represent the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “yourself”

Proverbs 1:16

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for the commands in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Do not walk with them because”

their feet run

Quote: רַ֭גְלֵי⁠הֶם & יָר֑וּצוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, “feet” represents the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they run”

their feet run to evil

Quote: רַ֭גְלֵי⁠הֶם לָ⁠רַ֣ע יָר֑וּצוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Solomon speaks of how eager the sinners are to do evil as if their feet were running to it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they are eager to do evil”

to pour out blood

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁפָּךְ־דָּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase pour out blood refers to violently murdering people, which usually causes blood to come out of the people who are murdered. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “to murder others”

Proverbs 1:17

is} the net spread out

Quote: מְזֹרָ֣ה הָ⁠רָ֑שֶׁת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “does someone spread out a net”

is} the net spread out

Quote: מְזֹרָ֣ה הָ⁠רָ֑שֶׁת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A net is a trap that hunters use to catch animals. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of trap, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “is the trap set up”

in the eyes of

Quote: בְּ֝⁠עֵינֵ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, eyes refers to what is seen with the eyes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in view of” or “in the sight of”

owner of wing

Quote: בַּ֥עַל כָּנָֽף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase owner of wing refers to a bird. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly, as in the UST.

Proverbs 1:18

but they

Quote: וְ֭⁠הֵם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Here, but indicates a strong contrast between the bird mentioned in the previous verse and the sinners who speak in 1:11–14. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. You may want to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “By contrast, they”

but they lie in wait

Quote: וְ֭⁠הֵם & יֶאֱרֹ֑בוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This phrase finishes the comparison started in the previous verse. Unlike a bird who is smart enough to avoid a net, these sinners destroy themselves by doing sinful things that cause them to be killed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but they are more foolish than birds. They lie in wait”

but they lie in wait for their blood, they hide in ambush for their lives

Quote: וְ֭⁠הֵם לְ⁠דָמָ֣⁠ם יֶאֱרֹ֑בוּ יִ֝צְפְּנ֗וּ לְ⁠נַפְשֹׁתָֽ⁠ם׃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use a word that shows the connection between these two clauses. Alternate translation: “but they lie in wait for their blood, yes, they hide in ambush for their lives”

but they … they hide in ambush

Quote: וְ֭⁠הֵם & יִ֝צְפְּנ֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronoun they refers to the sinners described in 1:10–16. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but those sinners … those sinners hide in ambush”

but they lie in wait for their blood, they hide in ambush for their lives

Quote: וְ֭⁠הֵם לְ⁠דָמָ֣⁠ם יֶאֱרֹ֑בוּ יִ֝צְפְּנ֗וּ לְ⁠נַפְשֹׁתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

In this verse, for introduces the result of these actions. They lie in wait and hide in ambush and the result is that it costs them their bloodand their lives. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate results. Alternate translation: “but they lie in wait, which costs them their blood; they hide in ambush, which costs them their lives”

for their blood

Quote: לְ⁠דָמָ֣⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated blood in 1:11.

for their lives

Quote: לְ⁠נַפְשֹׁתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, “their own lives” refers to the sinners themselves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for themselves”

Proverbs 1:19

are} the paths of

Quote: אָ֭רְחוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses paths to refer to the destiny of those sinners. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are the destinies of”

all

Quote: כָּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Here, Solomon uses the adjective all as a noun to mean “every person.” Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “every person”

unjust gain

Quote: בָּ֑צַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of gain, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what they gain unjustly”

it takes … its owner

Quote: בְּעָלָ֣י⁠ו יִקָּֽח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronouns it and its refer to the unjust gain, which is mentioned in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “that unjust gain takes … unjust gain’s owner”

it takes the life of its owner

Quote: אֶת־נֶ֖פֶשׁ בְּעָלָ֣י⁠ו יִקָּֽח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Solomon speaks of unjust gain as if it were a person who could kill his owner. He means that the wicked things that sinful people do to unjustly gain unjust gain will result in them dying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “unjust gain results in its owner dying” or “seeking unjust gain kills those who do it” or “it is as if unjust gain takes the life of its owner”

it takes the life of

Quote: אֶת־נֶ֖פֶשׁ & יִקָּֽח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the phrase takes the life of means to kill someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “it kills”

Proverbs 1:20

In 1:20–33, wisdom is spoken of as if it were a woman speaking to the people. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter.

Wisdom cries out outside, she gives her voice in the open areas

Quote: חָ֭כְמוֹת בַּ⁠ח֣וּץ תָּרֹ֑נָּה בָּ֝⁠רְחֹב֗וֹת תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses and the two clauses of the next verse mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Wisdom cries out outside, yes, she gives her voice in the open places”

Wisdom cries out … she gives her voice

Quote: חָ֭כְמוֹת & תָּרֹ֑נָּה & תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of Wisdom as if it were a woman who cries out or gives her voice. He means that Wisdom is available to all people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “Wisdom is available … it is available” or “Wisdom is like a woman who cries out … like a woman who gives her voice” or “It is as if wisdom cries out … it is as if wisdom gives its voice”

outside

Quote: בַּ⁠ח֣וּץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, outside refers to the public space outside of one’s house where there would be many people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the streets”

she gives her voice

Quote: תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom that means she spoke very loudly. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “speaks with a loud voice”

in the open areas

Quote: בָּ֝⁠רְחֹב֗וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, open areas refers to large, outdoor public places where there would usually be many people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the marketplaces” or “in the plazas”

Proverbs 1:21

At the head of the tumultuous places she calls out; at the opening of the gates in the city she says her sayings

Quote: בְּ⁠רֹ֥אשׁ הֹמִיּ֗וֹת תִּ֫קְרָ֥א בְּ⁠פִתְחֵ֖י שְׁעָרִ֥ים בָּ⁠עִ֗יר אֲמָרֶ֥י⁠הָ תֹאמֵֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses and the two clauses of the previous verse mean basically the same thing. These two clauses emphasize the meaning of the first clause of the previous verse by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word that would show that these clauses are repeating the first one in the previous verse, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Yes, at the head of the tumultuous places she calls out; yes, at the opening of the gates in the city she says her sayings”

At the head of

Quote: בְּ⁠רֹ֥אשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, head refers to the place where busy streets intersect. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “At the intersection of streets in”

she calls out; … she says her sayings

Quote: תִּ֫קְרָ֥א & אֲמָרֶ֥י⁠הָ תֹאמֵֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of wisdom as if it were a woman who calls out or says her sayings. He means that Wisdom is available to all people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “wisdom is available … it is available” or “it is as if wisdom calls out … it is as if wisdom says its sayings”

at the opening of the gates in the city

Quote: בְּ⁠פִתְחֵ֖י שְׁעָרִ֥ים בָּ⁠עִ֗יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon’s readers would have understood that the the opening of the gates in the city was a crowded place where many people gathered. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the opening of the gates in the city, where many people gather,”

Proverbs 1:22

Until when

Quote: עַד־מָתַ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

1:22–33 are one long quotation that Solomon presents as if wisdom itself were speaking. Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “She says, ‘Until when” or “It is as if wisdom says, ‘Until when”

Until when will naive ones love naiveté and mockers delight {in} mockery for themselves and stupid ones hate knowledge

Quote: עַד־מָתַ֣י ׀ פְּתָיִם֮ תְּֽאֵהֲב֫וּ פֶ֥תִי וְ⁠לֵצִ֗ים לָ֭צוֹן חָמְד֣וּ לָ⁠הֶ֑ם וּ֝⁠כְסִילִ֗ים יִשְׂנְאוּ־דָֽעַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Wisdom is using the question form to emphasize that these types of people should stop acting the way they do. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “For too long the naive ones have loved naiveté and mockers have delighted in mockery for themselves and stupid ones have hated knowledge!”

naiveté … mockery … knowledge

Quote: פֶ֥תִי & לָ֭צוֹן & דָֽעַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of naiveté, mockery, and knowledge, you could express the same ideas in other ways. See how you translated knowledge in 1:4. Alternate translation: “thinking naively … mocking …knowing something”

Proverbs 1:23

Turn

Quote: תָּשׁ֗וּבוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Turn here implies turning one’s head in order to listen better to what someone is saying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Turn your heads and listen”

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)

Behold is a term meant to focus the attention of the listener on what the speaker is about to say. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use some emphatic term or expression in your language that would have this same effect. Alternate translation: “Listen carefully”

I shall allow my spirit to gush forth to you, I shall cause you to know my words

Quote: אַבִּ֣יעָה לָ⁠כֶ֣ם רוּחִ֑⁠י אוֹדִ֖יעָה דְבָרַ֣⁠י אֶתְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word that would show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “I shall allow my spirit to gush forth to you, yes, I shall cause you to know my words”

my spirit

Quote: רוּחִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, spirit refers to a person’s thoughts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “my thoughts”

I shall allow my spirit to gush forth to you

Quote: אַבִּ֣יעָה לָ⁠כֶ֣ם רוּחִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Wisdom telling the people what she thinks is spoken of as if her thoughts were a liquid that she would gush forth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I shall tell you what I think”

my words

Quote: דְבָרַ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, wisdom uses the term words to describe what she says by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the words that I speak”

Proverbs 1:24

Because

Quote: יַ֣עַן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Because here indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse is the reason for the result that is stated in 1:26–27. Use the most natural way in your language to state a reason. If you divide 1:24–27 into two sentences, then you will need to remove Because here and add a word to express result at the beginning of 1:26, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “Since”

I have called and you have refused, I have stretched out my hand and there was no one listening attentively

Quote: קָ֭רָאתִי וַ⁠תְּמָאֵ֑נוּ נָטִ֥יתִי יָ֝דִ֗⁠י וְ⁠אֵ֣ין מַקְשִֽׁיב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word that would show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “I have called and you have refused, yes, I have stretched out my hand and there was no one listening attentively”

and you have refused

Quote: וַ⁠תְּמָאֵ֑נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Wisdom implies that people refused to listen to what she said. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and you have refused to listen to me”

I have stretched out my hand

Quote: נָטִ֥יתִי יָ֝דִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase stretched out my hand is an idiom that refers to beckoning someone or inviting a person to come. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I stretched out my hand to beckon you” or “I beckoned you”

Proverbs 1:25

and you have ignored all my counsel, and my rebuke you did not accept

Quote: וַ⁠תִּפְרְע֥וּ כָל־עֲצָתִ֑⁠י וְ֝⁠תוֹכַחְתִּ֗⁠י לֹ֣א אֲבִיתֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “and you have ignored all my counsel, yes, my rebuke you did not accept”

my counsel, and my rebuke

Quote: עֲצָתִ֑⁠י וְ֝⁠תוֹכַחְתִּ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of counsel and rebuke, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “that I have counseled, and … what I said to rebuke you”

Proverbs 1:26

I too

Quote: גַּם־אֲ֭נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

1:26–27 state the result of what was stated in 1:24–25. If you divided 1:24–27 into two sentences and removed Because from 1:24, then you will need to add a word here to express the result of the reasons given in 1:24–25. Alternate translation: “As a result, I too” or “So, I too”

I too shall laugh at your calamity, I shall mock when your dread comes

Quote: גַּם־אֲ֭נִי בְּ⁠אֵידְ⁠כֶ֣ם אֶשְׂחָ֑ק אֶ֝לְעַ֗ג בְּ⁠בֹ֣א פַחְדְּ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word that shows that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “I too shall laugh in your calamity, yes, I shall mock when your dread comes”

I too

Quote: גַּם־אֲ֭נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase translated as I too shifts the focus from the foolish people mentioned in 1:24–25 to the person speaking, who represents wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I in turn” or “I, for my part”

at your calamity, … when your dread comes

Quote: בְּ⁠אֵידְ⁠כֶ֣ם & בְּ⁠בֹ֣א פַחְדְּ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of calamity and dread, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “when you suffer … when you are scared”

when your dread comes

Quote: בְּ⁠בֹ֣א פַחְדְּ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, wisdom speaks of experiencing dread as if it were a person who comes to someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when you experience dread”

Proverbs 1:27

when your dread comes

Quote: בְּ⁠בֹ֤א & פַּחְדְּ⁠כֶ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

your dread … and your calamity

Quote: פַּחְדְּ⁠כֶ֗ם וְֽ֭⁠אֵידְ⁠כֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated dread and calamity in the previous verse.

like a storm … like a whirlwind

Quote: כ⁠שאוה & כְּ⁠סוּפָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, wisdom compares the manner in which dread and calamity will happen to the destructive power of a storm or whirlwind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “violently … violently”

when distress and anguish come upon you

Quote: בְּ⁠בֹ֥א עֲ֝לֵי⁠כֶ֗ם צָרָ֥ה וְ⁠צוּקָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, wisdom speaks of experiencing distress and anguish as if they were a person who could come upon someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when you experience distress and anguish”

distress and anguish

Quote: צָרָ֥ה וְ⁠צוּקָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of distress and anguish, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “what is distressing and what makes you anguished”

Proverbs 1:28

Then they will call out to me, but I will not answer. They will diligently seek me, but they will not find me

Quote: אָ֣ז יִ֭קְרָאֻ⁠נְנִי וְ⁠לֹ֣א אֶֽעֱנֶ֑ה יְ֝שַׁחֲרֻ֗⁠נְנִי וְ⁠לֹ֣א יִמְצָאֻֽ⁠נְנִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two sentences mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the sentences with a word that shows that the second sentence is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Then they will call out to me, but I will not answer. Yes, they will diligently seek me, but they will not find me”

they will call out to me, … They will diligently seek me, but they will not find me

Quote: יִ֭קְרָאֻ⁠נְנִי & יְ֝שַׁחֲרֻ֗⁠נְנִי וְ⁠לֹ֣א יִמְצָאֻֽ⁠נְנִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronoun they refers to the foolish people who ignored wisdom, as described in 1:22–27. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those who ignored me will call out to me … those people will diligently seek me, but they will not find me”

they will call out to me

Quote: יִ֭קְרָאֻ⁠נְנִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, call out implies crying out for help. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “they will call out to me for help”

Proverbs 1:29

for the reason that

Quote: תַּ֭חַת כִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This phrase indicates that what follows in this verse and the next verse are the reasons why the foolish people will not find wisdom, as stated in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language to express reasons. Alternate translation: “because”

knowledge

Quote: דָ֑עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated knowledge in 1:4.

and the fear of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠יִרְאַ֥ת יְ֝הֹוָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated the fear of Yahweh in 1:7.

Proverbs 1:30

they did not want my counsel, and they despised my every rebuke

Quote: לֹא־אָב֥וּ לַ⁠עֲצָתִ֑⁠י נָ֝אֲצ֗וּ כָּל־תּוֹכַחְתִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “they did not want my counsel, yes, they despised my every rebuke”

they did not want … and they despised

Quote: לֹא־אָב֥וּ & נָ֝אֲצ֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronoun they refers to the foolish people who ignored wisdom, as described in 1:22–27. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those who ignored me did not want … and those people despised”

my counsel, … my every rebuke

Quote: לַ⁠עֲצָתִ֑⁠י & כָּל־תּוֹכַחְתִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns counsel and rebuke in 1:25.

Proverbs 1:31

And they will eat from the fruit of their way, and from their plans they will be satisfied

Quote: וְֽ֭⁠יֹאכְלוּ מִ⁠פְּרִ֣י דַרְכָּ֑⁠ם וּֽ⁠מִ⁠מֹּעֲצֹ֖תֵי⁠הֶ֣ם יִשְׂבָּֽעוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “And they will eat from the fruit of their way, yes, from their plans they will be satisfied”

And they will eat from the fruit of their way

Quote: וְֽ֭⁠יֹאכְלוּ מִ⁠פְּרִ֣י דַרְכָּ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, people suffering the consequences of their behavior is spoken of as if they were eating the fruit of their way. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a similar idiom from your language or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “And they will experience the consequences of their behavior”

and from their plans they will be satisfied

Quote: וּֽ⁠מִ⁠מֹּעֲצֹ֖תֵי⁠הֶ֣ם יִשְׂבָּֽעוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and their plans will satisfy them”

and from their plans they will be satisfied

Quote: וּֽ⁠מִ⁠מֹּעֲצֹ֖תֵי⁠הֶ֣ם יִשְׂבָּֽעוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the word translated as satisfied means “to be made full of.” This word can have either a positive or negative meaning, but here the meaning is negative. It means that these foolish people will suffer the full consequences of their foolish plans. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they will experience the consequences of their plans”

Proverbs 1:32

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For here indicates that what follows in 1:32–33 is the conclusion to what wisdom stated in 1:22–31. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In conclusion,”

the turning away of the naive ones will slay them and {false} security will lead stupid ones to ruin

Quote: מְשׁוּבַ֣ת פְּתָיִ֣ם תַּֽהַרְגֵ֑⁠ם וְ⁠שַׁלְוַ֖ת כְּסִילִ֣ים תְּאַבְּדֵֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “the turning away of the naive ones will slay them, yes, false security will lead stupid ones to ruin”

the turning away of the naive ones will slay them

Quote: מְשׁוּבַ֣ת פְּתָיִ֣ם תַּֽהַרְגֵ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, turning away is spoken of as if it were a person who could slay someone. This expression means that the naive ones will die because of their turning away. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “the naive ones will die because of their turning away” or “the turning away of the naive ones is like someone who will slay them”

the turning away of the naive ones

Quote: מְשׁוּבַ֣ת פְּתָיִ֣ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, refusing to listen to wisdom is spoken of as turning away from the one who is speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the refusing to listen of the naive ones”

and {false} security

Quote: וְ⁠שַׁלְוַ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of false security, you could express the same idea with a different expression. Alternate translation: “wrongly feeling secure”

and {false} security will lead stupid ones to ruin

Quote: וְ⁠שַׁלְוַ֖ת כְּסִילִ֣ים תְּאַבְּדֵֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, false security is spoken of as if it were a person who could lead someone. This expression means that stupid ones will die because of their false security. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “and stupid ones will be ruined because of their false security” or “false security of stupid ones is like someone who will ruin them”

Proverbs 1:33

But the one who listens

Quote: וְ⁠שֹׁמֵ֣עַֽ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

But here indicates a strong contrast between the one who listens and “the naive ones,” who were mentioned in the previous verse. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “However, the one who listens”

from the dread of evil

Quote: מִ⁠פַּ֥חַד רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the possessive form describes dread that a person has for evil. If this is not clear in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from dreading evil”

from the dread of evil

Quote: מִ⁠פַּ֥חַד רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns dread in 1:26 and evil in 1:16.

Proverbs 2

Proverbs 2 General Notes

Structure and formatting

2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)
   • Wisdom prevents people from committing crimes or adultery (2:1–22)

Special concepts in this chapter

My Son

Occasionally, Solomon addresses a series of proverbs to “my son” or “sons.” This does not mean that those proverbs only apply to males. Instead, these phrases are forms used to pass on advice from a father to his son, and the kind of advice in these proverbs is about common temptations of young men.

Proverbs 2:1

My son

Quote: בְּ֭נִ⁠י (1)

In 2:1–7:27, Solomon continues addressing his son directly, as he had previously in 1:8–19.

if

Quote: אִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Here, if indicates the beginning of a conditional sentence that extends from this verse to 2:5. This is the first of three if clauses in this long sentence. If it would be clearer in your language, you could divide this long sentence into shorter sentences and indicate the condition along with the result in 2:5, as in the UST.

and my commandments you store up with you

Quote: וּ֝⁠מִצְוֺתַ֗⁠י תִּצְפֹּ֥ן אִתָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Valuing the father’s commandments is spoken of as if the commandments were a treasure and the person were a safe place to store that treasure. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and consider my commandments to be as valuable as a treasure”

Proverbs 2:2

to cause your ear to be attentive to wisdom, incline your heart to understanding

Quote: לְ⁠הַקְשִׁ֣יב לַֽ⁠חָכְמָ֣ה אָזְנֶ֑⁠ךָ תַּטֶּ֥ה לִ֝בְּ⁠ךָ֗ לַ⁠תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated as to here indicates that what follows in this verse explains the means by which a person can receive the sayings and commandments mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by causing your ear to be attentive to wisdom, and by inclining your heart to understanding”

to cause your ear to be attentive

Quote: לְ⁠הַקְשִׁ֣יב & אָזְנֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to forcing oneself to listen carefully. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “force yourself to listen carefully”

to wisdom, … to understanding

Quote: לַֽ⁠חָכְמָ֣ה & לַ⁠תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and understanding in 1:2.

incline your heart to understanding

Quote: תַּטֶּ֥ה לִ֝בְּ⁠ךָ֗ לַ⁠תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses heart to refer a person’s inner being or mind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “incline your inner being to understanding” or “incline your mind to understanding”

incline your heart to understanding

Quote: תַּטֶּ֥ה לִ֝בְּ⁠ךָ֗ לַ⁠תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase incline your heart is an idiom that refers to fully committing one’s mind to doing something. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “fully commit yourself to gaining understanding”

Proverbs 2:3

if for understanding you call out, for perception you lift up your voice

Quote: אִ֣ם לַ⁠בִּינָ֣ה תִקְרָ֑א לַ֝⁠תְּבוּנָ֗ה תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with words that show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “if you call out for understanding, yes, if for perception you lift up your voice”

for understanding … for perception

Quote: לַ⁠בִּינָ֣ה & לַ֝⁠תְּבוּנָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of calling out to receive understanding and perception as if they were people whom someone could summon. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to receive understanding … to receive perception”

for understanding

Quote: לַ⁠בִּינָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun understanding in the previous verse.

for perception

Quote: לַ֝⁠תְּבוּנָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of perception, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “for what should be perceived”

you lift up your voice

Quote: תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to speaking loudly. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you speak with a loud voice”

Proverbs 2:4

if you seek it like silver and like hidden treasures you search for it

Quote: אִם־תְּבַקְשֶׁ֥⁠נָּה כַ⁠כָּ֑סֶף וְֽ⁠כַ⁠מַּטְמוֹנִ֥ים תַּחְפְּשֶֽׂ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with words other than and that show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “if you seek it like silver, yes, if search for it like hidden treasures”

if you seek it like silver and like hidden treasures you search for it

Quote: אִם־תְּבַקְשֶׁ֥⁠נָּה כַ⁠כָּ֑סֶף וְֽ⁠כַ⁠מַּטְמוֹנִ֥ים תַּחְפְּשֶֽׂ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “if you seek it like it were silver and search for it like it were hidden treasures” or “if you seek it like you would seek silver and search for it like you would search for hidden treasures”

you seek it … you search for it

Quote: תְּבַקְשֶׁ֥⁠נָּה & תַּחְפְּשֶֽׂ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronoun it refers to wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you seek wisdom … search for wisdom”

if you seek it like silver and like hidden treasures you search for it

Quote: אִם־תְּבַקְשֶׁ֥⁠נָּה כַ⁠כָּ֑סֶף וְֽ⁠כַ⁠מַּטְמוֹנִ֥ים תַּחְפְּשֶֽׂ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon is saying that wisdom is like silver and hidden treasures because those are items they people value greatly and work very hard to find. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “if you seek it diligently like one seeks silver and search for it diligently like one searches for hidden treasures”

Proverbs 2:5

then

Quote: אָ֗ז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, then indicates that what follows is the result of meeting the conditions that are stated in 2:1–4. If you divided this long sentence in 2:1–5 into shorter sentences, then you will need to indicate condition before the result here, as in the UST. Alternate translation: “If you do so, then the result will be that”

the fear of Yahweh

Quote: יִרְאַ֣ת יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 1:7.

and the knowledge of God you will find

Quote: וְ⁠דַ֖עַת אֱלֹהִ֣ים תִּמְצָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Obtaining the knowledge of God is spoken of as if the knowledge of God were an object that a person can find by searching for it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you will have the knowledge of God”

and the knowledge of God you will find

Quote: וְ⁠דַ֖עַת אֱלֹהִ֣ים תִּמְצָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe knowing God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and you will find how to know God”

Proverbs 2:6

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why what Solomon stated in 2:1–4 is true. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

wisdom, … are} knowledge and understanding

Quote: חָכְמָ֑ה & דַּ֣עַת וּ⁠תְבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated wisdom in 1:2 and knowledge and understanding in the previous verse.

from his mouth {are} knowledge and understanding

Quote: מִ֝⁠פִּ֗י⁠ו דַּ֣עַת וּ⁠תְבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, mouth represents Yahweh himself or what he says. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from Yahweh comes knowledge and understanding”

Proverbs 2:7

And he stores up for the upright ones sound wisdom

Quote: ו⁠צפן לַ֭⁠יְשָׁרִים תּוּשִׁיָּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh possessing sound wisdom that he gives to people is spoken of as if sound wisdom were an item that Yahweh stores up. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “And he has sound wisdom to provide for the upright ones”

sound wisdom

Quote: תּוּשִׁיָּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of sound wisdom, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “soundly wise things”

a shield for those walking {with} integrity

Quote: מָ֝גֵ֗ן לְ⁠הֹ֣לְכֵי תֹֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh protecting his people is spoken of as if he were a shield. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he shields those walking with integrity”

for those walking {with} integrity

Quote: לְ⁠הֹ֣לְכֵי תֹֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, walking refers to how people behave. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who conduct themselves with integrity”

with} integrity

Quote: תֹֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun integrity in 1:3.

Proverbs 2:8

to guard

Quote: לִ֭⁠נְצֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates that what follows is the purpose for Yahweh giving “sound wisdom” and being a “shield,” as stated in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a purpose. You may to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Yahweh does these things for the purpose of guarding”

the paths of justice

Quote: אָרְח֣וֹת מִשְׁפָּ֑ט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, paths could refer to: (1) the lives of people who behave justly, in which case the meaning is similar to the next clause in the verse. Alternate translation: “those who behave justly” (2) justice itself, as if it were paths. Alternate translation: “the path that is justice” or “justice”

and the way of his faithful ones he will preserve

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֖רֶךְ חֲסִידָ֣יו יִשְׁמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the lives of God’s faithful ones as if they were a way or road. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and he will preserve the lives of his faithful ones”

Proverbs 2:9

Then

Quote: אָ֗ז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Then here indicates that what follows is another result of meeting the conditions stated in 2:1–4. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate the result of meeting conditions. Alternate translation: “If you do those things, then the result will be that”

righteousness and justice and integrity

Quote: צֶ֣דֶק וּ⁠מִשְׁפָּ֑ט וּ֝⁠מֵישָׁרִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns righteousness, justice, and integrity in 1:3.

every good track

Quote: כָּל־מַעְגַּל־טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of wise behavior as if it were a good track. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “every good behavior”

Proverbs 2:10

wisdom … and knowledge

Quote: חָכְמָ֣ה & וְ֝⁠דַ֗עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated wisdom in 1:2 and knowledge in 1:4.

into your heart

Quote: בְ⁠לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

will enter into your heart

Quote: תָב֣וֹא & בְ⁠לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to fully knowing something. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will be fully known by you” or “will be fully in your mind”

will be pleasant to your soul

Quote: לְֽ⁠נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֥ יִנְעָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, soul refers to the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will be pleasant to you”

Proverbs 2:11

2:11–17 are one long sentence. If you divide these verses into multiple sentences, as the UST does, then you may need to repeat some phrases in order to make the meaning clear.

Discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you

Quote: מְ֭זִמָּה תִּשְׁמֹ֥ר עָלֶ֗י⁠ךָ תְּבוּנָ֥ה תִנְצְרֶֽ⁠כָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Discretion will preserve over you, yes, understanding will protect you”

Discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you

Quote: מְ֭זִמָּה תִּשְׁמֹ֥ר עָלֶ֗י⁠ךָ תְּבוּנָ֥ה תִנְצְרֶֽ⁠כָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of discretion and understanding as if they were people who could protect someone else. He means that someone who has discretion and understanding will be safe. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “If you have discretion, you will be safe; if you have understanding, you will be secure”

Discretion … understanding

Quote: מְ֭זִמָּה & תְּבוּנָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated Discretion in 1:4 and understanding in 1:2.

Proverbs 2:12

to rescue you

Quote: לְ֭⁠הַצִּ֣ילְ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of “discretion” and “understanding” as if they were people who could rescue someone. He means that people who have “discretion” and “understanding” will rescue themselves from harm. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to rescue yourselves”

to rescue you

Quote: לְ֭⁠הַצִּ֣ילְ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates that what follows is the purpose for “discretion” and “understanding” protecting a person, as stated in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a purpose. Alternate translation: “Discretion and understanding will protect you for the purpose of rescuing you”

from the way of evil

Quote: מִ⁠דֶּ֣רֶךְ רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

This phase the way of evil could refer to: (1) the way of an evil person. This interpretation fits the context of the descriptions of evil people given in 2:12–17. Alternate translation: “from the way of an evil person” (2) a way that is characterized by evil. Alternate translation: “from the evil way”

from the way of

Quote: מִ⁠דֶּ֣רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses way to refer to how people behave. See how you translated this use of way in 1:15.

evil

Quote: רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun evil in 1:16.

from a man

Quote: מֵ֝⁠אִ֗ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and to rescue you from a man”

from a man

Quote: מֵ֝⁠אִ֗ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word man here represents a type of person in general, not one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “from a person”

Proverbs 2:13

the ones who forsake

Quote: הַ֭⁠עֹ֣זְבִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated the same use of forsake in 1:8.

the paths of straightness

Quote: אָרְח֣וֹת יֹ֑שֶׁר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the paths of straightness refers to behaving in a right manner. The word paths refers to human behavior, and straightness refers to being righteous. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “doing what is right” or “acting rightly”

to walk

Quote: לָ֝⁠לֶ֗כֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to introduces the purpose for forsaking the paths of straightness. Use a natural way in your language to indicate purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of walking”

to walk in the ways of darkness

Quote: לָ֝⁠לֶ֗כֶת בְּ⁠דַרְכֵי־חֹֽשֶׁךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase refers to behaving in an evil manner. The biblical authors often use walk to refer to how someone behaves and darkness to refer to evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to do what is evil” or “to behave in an evil manner”

Proverbs 2:14

evil, … evil

Quote: רָ֑ע & רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun evilin 1:16.

in perverse things of evil

Quote: בְּֽ⁠תַהְפֻּכ֥וֹת רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe perverse things that are characterized by evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “evil perverse things”

Proverbs 2:15

whose paths {are} crooked and who go astray in their tracks

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָרְחֹתֵי⁠הֶ֣ם עִקְּשִׁ֑ים וּ֝⁠נְלוֹזִ֗ים בְּ⁠מַעְגְּלוֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “whose paths are crooked, yes, who go astray in their tracks”

paths {are} crooked … in their tracks

Quote: אָרְחֹתֵי⁠הֶ֣ם עִקְּשִׁ֑ים & בְּ⁠מַעְגְּלוֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to human behavior as if it were paths and tracks that people walk on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “behavior is crooked … in their behavior”

are} crooked and who go astray

Quote: עִקְּשִׁ֑ים & וּ֝⁠נְלוֹזִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses the phrases are crooked and go astray to refer to being deceptive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are deceptive and who are deceptive”

Proverbs 2:16

to rescue you

Quote: לְ֭⁠הַצִּ֣ילְ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates that what follows is another purpose for “discretion” and “understanding” guarding a person, as stated in the 2:11. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a purpose. If you divided up the long sentence in 2:11–17 into shorter sentences, then here you will need to repeat some information from 2:11. Alternate translation: “Discretion and understanding will guard you for the additional purpose of rescuing you”

from a strange woman, from a foreign woman

Quote: מֵ⁠אִשָּׁ֣ה זָרָ֑ה מִ֝⁠נָּכְרִיָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to an immoral and adulterous woman as if she were a stranger or foreigner. God considers such a woman to be strange or foreign because her sinful acts have caused her to be alienated from God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly, as in the UST.

from a strange woman, from a foreign woman

Quote: מֵ⁠אִשָּׁ֣ה זָרָ֑ה מִ֝⁠נָּכְרִיָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Solomon is speaking of any women who do these things, not of one particular woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “from any strange woman, from any foreign woman”

from a foreign woman

Quote: מִ֝⁠נָּכְרִיָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and to rescue you from a foreign woman”

who makes her sayings smooth

Quote: אֲמָרֶ֥י⁠הָ הֶחֱלִֽיקָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of this woman speaking seductively as if she were making what she says smooth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who makes her sayings seductive”

Proverbs 2:17

the companion of

Quote: אַלּ֣וּף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, companion refers to the husband of the adulterous woman mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the husband of”

the companion of her youth

Quote: אַלּ֣וּף נְעוּרֶ֑י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the companion whom this woman married while she was in her youth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the companion whom she married in her youth”

her youth

Quote: נְעוּרֶ֑י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of youth, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “the time when she was young”

the covenant of her God

Quote: בְּרִ֖ית אֱלֹהֶ֣י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the covenant that this woman made with her God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the covenant that she made with her God”

the covenant of

Quote: בְּרִ֖ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, covenant refers specifically to the covenant that that man and woman made with each other and God when they married. This covenant included promising not to commit adultery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the covenant that she made with her God when she married her husband”

Proverbs 2:18

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why “discretion” and “understanding” rescue a man from an adulterous woman, as stated in 2:16. Use the most natural way in your language to state a reason. Alternate translation: “Discretion and understanding will rescue you from her because”

her house sinks down to death and her tracks to the spirits of dead ones

Quote: שָׁ֣חָה אֶל־מָ֣וֶת בֵּיתָ֑⁠הּ וְ⁠אֶל־רְ֝פָאִ֗ים מַעְגְּלֹתֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “her house sinks down to death, yes, her tracks to the spirits of the dead”

her house

Quote: בֵּיתָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, house could refer to: (1) going to the adulterous woman’s house. Alternate translation: “going to her house” (2) the adulterous activity that takes place in her house. Alternate translation: “what she does in her house”

sinks down to death

Quote: שָׁ֣חָה אֶל־מָ֣וֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a man doing something that would result in his death as if he were going on a path or to a house that sinks down. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “results in a man dying” or “causes a man to die”

and her tracks to the spirits of dead ones

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל־רְ֝פָאִ֗ים מַעְגְּלֹתֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause. Alternate translation: “and her tracks sink down to the spirits of the dead” or “and her tracks lead to the spirits of the dead”

her tracks

Quote: מַעְגְּלֹתֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, tracks could refer to: (1) the path that leads to the adulterous woman. Alternate translation: “the path that leads to her” (2) how she behaves, which is how tracks is used in 2:15. Alternate translation: “her behavior”

the spirits of dead ones

Quote: רְ֝פָאִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the spirits of dead ones refers to the place where people’s spirits go when they die, which was called “Sheol” in 1:12. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the place where the spirits of dead people dwell” or “the place of the dead”

Proverbs 2:19

those who enter her

Quote: בָּ֭אֶי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Here, enter refers to someone having sexual relations with another person. This is a polite way of referring to something that is offensive or embarrassing in some cultures. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to this act or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “those who have sexual relations with her” or “those who sleep with her”

will not return

Quote: לֹ֣א יְשׁוּב֑וּ⁠ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, return could refer to: (1) those people coming back to life, as suggested by the references to death in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “will not become alive again” (2) those people returning to a joyful or prosperous life. Alternate translation: “will not return to living well”

and they will not reach the paths of life

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־יַ֝שִּׂ֗יגוּ אָרְח֥וֹת חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This could mean: (1) those people will not be able to come back to life, as suggested by the references to death in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “and they will not return to the land of the living” (2) those people will not be able to enjoy a good life again. Alternate translation: “and they will never live a happy life again”

Proverbs 2:20

So

Quote: לְמַ֗עַן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

So here indicates that what follows is the result of what was stated in 2:11–19 being true. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “Because this is true”

you shall walk in the way of the good ones and the paths of the righteous ones you shall keep

Quote: תֵּ֭לֵךְ בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ טוֹבִ֑ים וְ⁠אָרְח֖וֹת צַדִּיקִ֣ים תִּשְׁמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “you shall walk in the way of the good ones, yes, the paths of the righteous ones you shall keep”

you shall walk in the way of the good ones and the paths of the righteous ones you shall keep

Quote: תֵּ֭לֵךְ בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ טוֹבִ֑ים וְ⁠אָרְח֖וֹת צַדִּיקִ֣ים תִּשְׁמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-declarative

Solomon is using a future statement to give an instruction or command. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate these words using a command or instruction form. Alternate translation: “walk in the way of the good ones and keep the paths of the righteous ones”

you shall walk in the way of … and the paths of … you shall keep

Quote: תֵּ֭לֵךְ בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ & וְ⁠אָרְח֖וֹת & תִּשְׁמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrases walk in the way of and keep the paths of both refer to how people behave or live their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you shall behave like … and you shall behave like”

Proverbs 2:21

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows in 2:21–22 is the conclusion to what was stated in 2:11–20. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. See how you translated a similar use of For in 1:32. Alternate translation: “In conclusion,”

the upright ones will dwell {in} the land, and the blameless ones will remain in it

Quote: יְשָׁרִ֥ים יִשְׁכְּנוּ אָ֑רֶץ וּ֝⁠תְמִימִ֗ים יִוָּ֥תְרוּ בָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “the upright ones will dwell in the land, yes, the blameless ones will remain in it”

will dwell {in} the land, … will remain in it

Quote: יִשְׁכְּנוּ אָ֑רֶץ & יִוָּ֥תְרוּ בָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the land and it could refer to: (1) the land of Israel, which God had given to the Jewish people and which Solomon was ruling over when he wrote these proverbs. Alternate translation: “will dwell in the land of Israel … will remain in Israel” or “will dwell in our land … will remain in our land” (2) the earth in general, in which case this would refer to staying alive. Alternate translation: “will dwell on the earth … will remain alive on the earth”

Proverbs 2:22

but wicked ones

Quote: וּ֭⁠רְשָׁעִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Here, but indicates a strong contrast between the wicked and treacherous people and the “upright” and “blameless” people, who were mentioned in the previous verse. See how you translated a similar strong contrast in 1:33.

will be cut off … will be torn away

Quote: יִכָּרֵ֑תוּ &יִסְּח֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The context indicates that God will do the action. Alternate translation: “God will cut off … God will tear away”

will be cut off … will be torn away

Quote: יִכָּרֵ֑תוּ & יִסְּח֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Solomon speaks of Yahweh removing people from the land as if he were cutting those people off, like a person cuts a branch from a tree, or as if he were tearing those people away, like a person violently pulls someone off of something. Solomon does not state if these people are removed by being killed or by being forced to leave the land, so it is best to use general expressions for these phrases. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will be removed … will be taken away”

from the land, … from it

Quote: מֵ⁠אֶ֣רֶץ & מִמֶּֽ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the land and it in the previous verse.

Proverbs 3

Proverbs 3 General Notes

Structure and formatting

2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)
   • Wisdom prevents people from committing crime or adultery (2:1–22)
   • Humbly trust Yahweh (3:1–12)
   • The value of wisdom (3:13–20)
   • Do not act wickedly (3:21–35)

Special concepts in this chapter

My Son

Occasionally, Solomon addresses a series of proverbs to “my son” or “sons.” This does not mean that those proverbs only apply to males. Instead, these phrases are forms used to pass on advice from a father to his son, and the kind of advice in these proverbs is about common temptations of young men.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Personification

In 3:15–18, wisdom is referred to as if it were a woman. In languages where it is possible for a woman figure to represent an abstract concept like wisdom, the translator should translate the personification directly. However, if direct translation is not possible in your language, you may translate these personifications as similes instead. In that case, wisdom would be presented as being like a wise woman. (See: Олицетворение)

Proverbs 3:1

My son

Quote: בְּ֭נִ⁠י (1)

From 2:1 to 7:27, Solomon addresses his son directly, as he had previously in 1:8–19. 3:1 continues these direct instructions.

do not forget my law, and my commandments let your heart guard

Quote: תּוֹרָתִ֣⁠י אַל־תִּשְׁכָּ֑ח וּ֝⁠מִצְוֺתַ֗⁠י יִצֹּ֥ר לִבֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “do not forget my law, yes, my commandments let your heart guard”

do not forget

Quote: אַל־תִּשְׁכָּ֑ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here, Solomon uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning positively, as in the UST.

my law

Quote: תּוֹרָתִ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, the word law is singular in form, but it refers to several laws as a group. See how you translated this use of law in 1:8.

and my commandments

Quote: וּ֝⁠מִצְוֺתַ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun commandments in 2:1.

let your heart guard

Quote: יִצֹּ֥ר לִבֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

let your heart guard

Quote: יִצֹּ֥ר לִבֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of a person’s heart as if it were a person who could guard something, and he speaks of commandments as if they were things that could be guarded. He means that he wants his son to remember these commandments in order to obey them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “remember to obey”

Proverbs 3:2

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for the commands in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Remember my commandments because”

length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you

Quote: אֹ֣רֶךְ יָ֭מִים וּ⁠שְׁנ֣וֹת חַיִּ֑ים וְ֝⁠שָׁל֗וֹם יוֹסִ֥יפוּ לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be helpful in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “they will add to you length of days and years of life and peace”

length of days

Quote: אֹ֣רֶךְ יָ֭מִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, length of days is an idiom that means “a long life.” If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a long life”

and years of life

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁנ֣וֹת חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, years of life is an idiom that means “a long and fulfilling life.” If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and a fulfilling life” or “and years of fulfilling life”

and peace

Quote: וְ֝⁠שָׁל֗וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “and a peaceful life”

they will add

Quote: יוֹסִ֥יפוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronoun they refers to the law and commandments mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “my law and commandments will add”

they will add to you

Quote: יוֹסִ֥יפוּ לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of his commandments as if they could add length to a person’s life. He means that obeying his commandments will enable a person to life a long life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “obeying them will add to you” or “by obeying them you will add to yourself”

Proverbs 3:3

Do not let covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness leave you, tie them on your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart

Quote: חֶ֥סֶד וֶ⁠אֱמֶ֗ת אַֽל־יַעַ֫זְבֻ֥⁠ךָ קָשְׁרֵ֥⁠ם עַל־גַּרְגְּרוֹתֶ֑י⁠ךָ כָּ֝תְבֵ֗⁠ם עַל־ל֥וּחַ לִבֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These three clauses mean basically the same thing. The second and third clauses emphasize the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use a word that shows the connection between these three clauses. Alternate translation: “Do not let covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness leave you, yes, bind them on your throats, indeed, write them on the tablet of your heart”

Do not let covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness leave you

Quote: חֶ֥סֶד וֶ⁠אֱמֶ֗ת אַֽל־יַעַ֫זְבֻ֥⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness as if they were people who could leave someone. He means that a person should not stop being faithful and trustworthy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Do not stop being faithful and trustworthy”

Do not let covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness leave you

Quote: חֶ֥סֶד וֶ⁠אֱמֶ֗ת אַֽל־יַעַ֫זְבֻ֥⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here, Solomon uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “Retain covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness”

covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness

Quote: חֶ֥סֶד וֶ⁠אֱמֶ֗ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “being faithful and trustworthy”

tie them on your neck

Quote: קָשְׁרֵ֥⁠ם עַל־גַּרְגְּרוֹתֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness as if they were objects that someone could tie around his neck like a necklace. He means that these are valuable qualities that people should display outwardly by their behavior. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “show them outwardly by how you behave” or “display them like one would wear a necklace”

write them on the tablet of your heart

Quote: כָּ֝תְבֵ֗⁠ם עַל־ל֥וּחַ לִבֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

write them on the tablet of your heart

Quote: כָּ֝תְבֵ֗⁠ם עַל־ל֥וּחַ לִבֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the heart as if it were a tablet upon which someone could write covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness. He means that people should always remember to behave with covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “keep these things in your mind” or “always remember them, as if you had written them permanently on a tablet”

Proverbs 3:4

and find favor

Quote: וּ⁠מְצָא־חֵ֖ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of obeying the commands stated in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate results. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “If you do these things, then you will find favor” or “This will result in you finding favor”

and find favor and good insight

Quote: וּ⁠מְצָא־חֵ֖ן וְ⁠שֵֽׂכֶל־ט֑וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of favor and good insight as if they were objects that a person could find. He means that God and man will show favor and good insight to the person who does what Solomon commanded in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and you will experience favor and good insight”

in the eyes of

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, eyes refers to seeing, and seeing is a metaphor for knowledge, notice, attention, or judgment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in the judgment of”

and man

Quote: וְ⁠אָדָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Solomon is speaking of people in general, not of one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “and others”

Proverbs 3:5

your heart

Quote: לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated heart in 2:2.

and on your understanding do not lean

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל־בִּֽ֝ינָתְ⁠ךָ֗ אַל־תִּשָּׁעֵֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of relying on one’s own understanding as if understanding were an object that a person could lean on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “do not rely on your own understanding”

your understanding

Quote: בִּֽ֝ינָתְ⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun understanding in 1:2.

Proverbs 3:6

in all your ways … your paths

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־דְּרָכֶ֥י⁠ךָ & אֹֽרְחֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a person’s actions as if they were ways or paths on which that person walks. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in all that you do … what you do”

and he himself will straighten

Quote: וְ֝⁠ה֗וּא יְיַשֵּׁ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of obeying the commands stated in the previous verse and the beginning of this verse. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate results. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “If you do these things, then he himself will straighten” or “This will result in he himself straightening”

and he himself will straighten

Quote: וְ֝⁠ה֗וּא יְיַשֵּׁ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For emphasis, Solomon is stating the pronoun himself, whose meaning is already stated as he. If your language can state implied pronouns explicitly for emphasis, you may want to use that construction in your translation. Other languages may have other ways of bringing out this emphasis. The ULT does so by using the intensive pronoun himself. Alternate translation: “he indeed will straighten”

and he himself will straighten your paths

Quote: וְ֝⁠ה֗וּא יְיַשֵּׁ֥ר אֹֽרְחֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of Yahweh showing people what they should do as if Yahweh were removing obstacles and smoothing out paths that people walk on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and he himself will make clear to you what you should do” or “and he himself will guide your actions”

Proverbs 3:7

in your eyes

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a person’s opinion as if that person were seeing something with his eyes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in your own opinion”

fear Yahweh and turn away from evil

Quote: יְרָ֥א אֶת־יְ֝הוָ֗ה וְ⁠ס֣וּר מֵ⁠רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is a strong contrast with the previous clause. While the previous clause said what a person should not do, this clause says what that person should do instead. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Rather, fear Yahweh and turn from evil”

and turn away from evil

Quote: וְ⁠ס֣וּר מֵ⁠רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of refusing to do evil actions as if are person were turning away from evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and do not commit evil”

from evil

Quote: מֵ⁠רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun evil in 1:16.

Proverbs 3:8

It will be healing for your navel and refreshment for your bones

Quote: רִ֭פְאוּת תְּהִ֣י לְ⁠שָׁרֶּ֑⁠ךָ וְ֝⁠שִׁקּ֗וּי לְ⁠עַצְמוֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “It will be healing for your navel, yes, refreshment for your bones”

It will be

Quote: תְּהִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun It here refers to following the commands that Solomon stated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Obeying these commands will be”

for your navel … for your bones

Quote: לְ⁠שָׁרֶּ֑⁠ךָ & לְ⁠עַצְמוֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Solomon is using parts of a person, the navel and bones, to represent a person’s whole body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for your body … for your whole body”

and refreshment for your bones

Quote: וְ֝⁠שִׁקּ֗וּי לְ⁠עַצְמוֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and it will be refreshment for your bones”

and refreshment for your bones

Quote: וְ֝⁠שִׁקּ֗וּי לְ⁠עַצְמוֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of refreshment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “and will cause your bones to be refreshed”

Proverbs 3:9

from your wealth and from the first of all your produce

Quote: מֵ⁠הוֹנֶ֑⁠ךָ וּ֝⁠מֵ⁠רֵאשִׁ֗ית כָּל־תְּבוּאָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “by giving from your wealth and by giving from the first of all your produce”

and from the first of

Quote: וּ֝⁠מֵ⁠רֵאשִׁ֗ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, first refers to the first crops that were harvested at harvest time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and from the first crops harvested of”

Proverbs 3:10

and your storehouses will be full with plenty

Quote: וְ⁠יִמָּלְא֣וּ אֲסָמֶ֣י⁠ךָ שָׂבָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of obeying the command stated in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “If you do these things, then your storehouses will be full with plenty” or “This will result in your storehouses being full with plenty”

your storehouses

Quote: אֲסָמֶ֣י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The word storehouses refers to buildings or rooms where harvested crops are stored. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of storage place, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “your place for storing harvested crops”

plenty

Quote: שָׂבָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, plenty refers to a plentiful amount of harvested crops. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a plentiful amount of harvested crops”

and with new wine your wine vats will burst open

Quote: וְ֝⁠תִיר֗וֹשׁ יְקָבֶ֥י⁠ךָ יִפְרֹֽצוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The word vats refers to large containers in which the juice of grapes called new wine was processed into wine. If a very large amount of new wine was put in the vat, it could flow over the top of the vat. If your readers would not be familiar with wine or the way it is produced, you could refer to something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “and your storage containers will become so extremely full that they break open”

Proverbs 3:11

The correction of … his rebuke

Quote: מוּסַ֣ר & בְּ⁠תוֹכַחְתּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of correction and rebuke, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “Being corrected by … being rebuked by him”

Proverbs 3:12

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here introduces the reason for obeying the commands stated in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate reasons. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Do not do these things because”

and like a father, a son he is pleased with

Quote: וּ֝⁠כְ⁠אָ֗ב אֶת־בֵּ֥ן יִרְצֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and like a father he rebukes a son he is pleased with”

a son he is pleased with

Quote: אֶת־בֵּ֥ן יִרְצֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase he is pleased with refers to the father’s affection for his son. It does not mean that the father approves of his son’s behavior. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a son who is dear to him”

Proverbs 3:13

Happy {is} a man who finds wisdom and a man who obtains understanding

Quote: אַשְׁרֵ֣י אָ֭דָם מָצָ֣א חָכְמָ֑ה וְ֝⁠אָדָ֗ם יָפִ֥יק תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Happy is a man who finds wisdom and happy is a man who obtains understanding”

Happy {is} a man who finds wisdom and a man who obtains understanding

Quote: אַשְׁרֵ֣י אָ֭דָם מָצָ֣א חָכְמָ֑ה וְ֝⁠אָדָ֗ם יָפִ֥יק תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Happy is a man who finds wisdom, yes, happy is a man who obtains understanding”

is} a man … and a man

Quote: אָ֭דָם & וְ֝⁠אָדָ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, a man represents a person in general, not one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “is a person … and a person”

who finds wisdom

Quote: מָצָ֣א חָכְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of attaining wisdom as if it were an object that a person finds. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “who attains wisdom”

wisdom … understanding

Quote: חָכְמָ֑ה & תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and understanding in 1:2.

Proverbs 3:14

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is the reason what was stated in the previous verse is true. Use the most natural way in your language to state a reason. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

and than gold its produce

Quote: וּ֝⁠מֵ⁠חָר֗וּץ תְּבוּאָתָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and than the produce of gold better is its produce”

better {is} its profit than the profit of silver, and than gold its produce

Quote: ט֣וֹב סַ֭חְרָ⁠הּ מִ⁠סְּחַר־כָּ֑סֶף וּ֝⁠מֵ⁠חָר֗וּץ תְּבוּאָתָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “better {is} its profit than the profit of silver, yes, better than the produce of gold is its produce”

is} its profit … its produce

Quote: סַ֭חְרָ⁠הּ & תְּבוּאָתָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, its refers to wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is wisdom’s profit … wisdom’s produce”

is} its profit than the profit of silver

Quote: סַ֭חְרָ⁠הּ מִ⁠סְּחַר־כָּ֑סֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Although the word profit usually refers to money that someone earns, Solomon uses it here to refer to a benefit in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is its benefit than the benefit of silver”

than the profit of silver

Quote: מִ⁠סְּחַר־כָּ֑סֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the monetary profit that one gains by selling or investing silver. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “then the profit one can make from selling silver”

and than gold its produce

Quote: וּ֝⁠מֵ⁠חָר֗וּץ תְּבוּאָתָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Although the word produce usually refers to harvested crops, Solomon uses it here to refer to a benefit in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and than gold its benefit”

Proverbs 3:15

She … with her

Quote: הִ֭יא & בָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In 3:15–18 Solomon speaks of wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “It … with it”

is more precious than corals

Quote: יְקָ֣רָה & מִפְּנִינִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The word translated corals could also refer to precious stones called “rubies.” Either word refers to an item that is extremely valuable. If your readers would not be familiar with corals or rubies, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “is more precious than valuable stones” or “is more precious than something extremely valuable”

Proverbs 3:16

Length of days

Quote: אֹ֣רֶךְ יָ֭מִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this idiom in 3:2.

is} in her right hand, in her left hand

Quote: בִּֽ⁠ימִינָ֑⁠הּ בִּ֝⁠שְׂמֹאולָ֗⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, her refers to wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is in wisdom’s right hand, in wisdom’s left hand”

is} in her right hand, in her left hand {are} riches

Quote: בִּֽ⁠ימִינָ֑⁠הּ בִּ֝⁠שְׂמֹאולָ֗⁠הּ עֹ֣שֶׁר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of wise people receiving length of days, riches, and honor as if they were objects received from the right and left hands of wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is received by those who have wisdom, those who have wisdom receive riches”

and honor

Quote: וְ⁠כָבֽוֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of honor, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “and being honored”

Proverbs 3:17

Her ways {… her beaten paths

Quote: דְּרָכֶ֥י⁠הָ & נְתִ֖יבוֹתֶ֣י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Her and her here refer to wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Wisdom’s ways … wisdom’s beaten paths”

Her ways {are} ways of pleasantness and all her beaten paths {are} peace

Quote: דְּרָכֶ֥י⁠הָ דַרְכֵי־נֹ֑עַם וְֽ⁠כָל־נְתִ֖יבוֹתֶ֣י⁠הָ שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Her ways are ways of pleasantness, yes, all her beaten paths are peace”

Her ways {are} ways of … her beaten paths {are} peace

Quote: דְּרָכֶ֥י⁠הָ דַרְכֵי & נְתִ֖יבוֹתֶ֣י⁠הָ שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, ways and beaten paths refer to how being wise guides a person’s behavior. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Wise behavior is behavior of … wise behavior brings peace”

are} ways of pleasantness

Quote: דַרְכֵי־נֹ֑עַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe ways that result in pleasantness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “are ways that lead to pleasantness”

are} peace

Quote: שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. The context indicates that peace is result of following the beaten paths. Alternate translation: “lead to being peaceful” or “result in living peacefully”

Proverbs 3:18

She {… of her, and those who grasp her

Quote: הִ֭יא & בָּ֑⁠הּ וְֽ⁠תֹמְכֶ֥י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

She and her here refer to wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Wisdom … of wisdom, and those who grasp wisdom”

is} a tree of life

Quote: עֵץ־חַיִּ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a tree with fruit that sustains life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is a tree that gives life” or “is a tree with fruit that sustains life”

is} a tree of life to the ones who take hold of her

Quote: עֵץ־חַיִּ֣ים & לַ⁠מַּחֲזִיקִ֣ים בָּ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of wisdom as if it were a tree that gives life to those who eat its fruit. He means that wisdom causes a person to live and long and happy life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “results in a good life for the ones who take hold of her” or “is like a tree that sustains the life the ones who take hold of her”

to the ones who take hold of her, and those who grasp her

Quote: לַ⁠מַּחֲזִיקִ֣ים בָּ֑⁠הּ וְֽ⁠תֹמְכֶ֥י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to people who persist in being wise as if they take hold of or grasp wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to the ones who retain wisdom, and those who remain wise”

Proverbs 3:19

founded the earth

Quote: יָֽסַד־אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of Yahweh creating the earth as if he were laying the foundation of a building. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh created the earth”

by wisdom … by understanding

Quote: בְּ⁠חָכְמָ֥ה & בִּ⁠תְבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom in 1:2 and understanding in 2:2.

Proverbs 3:20

the depths

Quote: תְּהוֹמ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, depths refers to bodies of water that were deep under the earth’s surface. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the underground bodies of water”

broke open

Quote: נִבְקָ֑עוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, broke open could refer to: (1) the water from the depths bursting out from under the ground to form rivers, which best fits the discussion of creation in 3:19–20. Alternate translation: “burst forth water that formed rivers” (2) the water from the depths bursting out during the global flood of Noah’s time, as described in 7:11. Alternate translation: “burst forth flood water”

Proverbs 3:21

do not let them depart from your eyes, guard prudence and discretion

Quote: אַל־יָלֻ֣זוּ מֵ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ נְצֹ֥ר תֻּ֝שִׁיָּ֗ה וּ⁠מְזִמָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “guard prudence and discretion, do not let them depart from your eyes”

do not let them depart from your eyes

Quote: אַל־יָלֻ֣זוּ מֵ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of not forgetting something as if someone were always able to see that thing with his eyes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “do not forget them”

guard

Quote: נְצֹ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of prudence and discretion as they were things that could be guarded. He means that he wants his son to remember these qualities in order to practice them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “remember to practice”

prudence and discretion

Quote: תֻּ֝שִׁיָּ֗ה וּ⁠מְזִמָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns prudence and discretion in 1:4.

Proverbs 3:22

And they will be

Quote: וְ⁠יִֽהְי֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

And here introduces the result of obeying the commands stated in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate results. Alternate translation: “If you do this, then they will be” or “This will result in them being”

And they will be

Quote: וְ⁠יִֽהְי֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, they refers to “prudence” and “discretion” mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “And prudence and discretion will be”

for your soul

Quote: לְ⁠נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the same use of soul in 2:10.

And they will be life for your soul

Quote: וְ⁠יִֽהְי֣וּ חַיִּ֣ים לְ⁠נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to having a long life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “And they will cause your life to be long”

and grace for your neck

Quote: וְ֝⁠חֵ֗ן לְ⁠גַרְגְּרֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, grace refers to something that looks graceful or attractive to others. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and graceful ornaments for your neck”

and grace for your neck

Quote: וְ֝⁠חֵ֗ן לְ⁠גַרְגְּרֹתֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of “prudence” and “discretion” as if they were objects that a person could tie around the neck like a necklace. The image suggests that these are valuable things that the person displays outwardly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use similes. See how you translated a similar expression in 1:9. Alternate translation: “and a gracious display like a necklace around your neck”

Proverbs 3:23

Then you will walk

Quote: אָ֤ז תֵּלֵ֣ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Then here introduces more results of obeying the commands stated in 3:21. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate results. Alternate translation: “Having prudence and discretion will also result in you walking”

you will walk your way to security

Quote: תֵּלֵ֣ךְ לָ⁠בֶ֣טַח דַּרְכֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of living one’s life as if one were walking along a way. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you will live your life in security”

to security

Quote: לָ⁠בֶ֣טַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of security, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “securely”

and your foot

Quote: וְ֝⁠רַגְלְ⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, the word “foot” represents the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and you”

and your foot will not stumble

Quote: וְ֝⁠רַגְלְ⁠ךָ֗ לֹ֣א תִגּֽוֹף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, not stumble could refer to: (1) a person not experiencing harm, which is similar to the idea in the previous clause. Alternate translation: “and your foot will not be harmed” (2) not sinning, which stumble is a common metaphor for in other scripture. Alternate translation: “and you will not sin”

Proverbs 3:24

you lie down, … and you will lie down

Quote: תִּשְׁכַּ֥ב & וְ֝⁠שָׁכַבְתָּ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, lie down implies lying down in order to sleep. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

Proverbs 3:25

of sudden dread and of the devastation of

Quote: מִ⁠פַּ֣חַד פִּתְאֹ֑ם וּ⁠מִ⁠שֹּׁאַ֥ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of dread and devastation, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “of dreadful things that happen suddenly and of what devastates”

and of the devastation of the wicked ones

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠שֹּׁאַ֥ת רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the devastation that is experienced by the wicked ones. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and of the wicked ones being devastated”

it comes

Quote: תָבֹֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, it refers to the devastation mentioned earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “that devastation comes”

Proverbs 3:26

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for the command in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Do not be afraid of these things because”

your confidence

Quote: בְ⁠כִסְלֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses confidence to refer to the source of a person’s confidence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your source of confidence”

your confidence

Quote: בְ⁠כִסְלֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of confidence, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “who makes you confident”

and he will keep your foot from capture

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁמַ֖ר רַגְלְ⁠ךָ֣ מִ⁠לָּֽכֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, “foot” represents the whole person. See how you translated the similar use of foot in 1:15.

and he will keep your foot from capture

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁמַ֖ר רַגְלְ⁠ךָ֣ מִ⁠לָּֽכֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone experiencing “sudden dread” or “devastation” as if the person were captured in a trap. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and he will keep you from sudden dread or devastation” or “and he will keep you from harm”

Proverbs 3:27

good

Quote: ט֥וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of good, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “something that is good”

from its owners

Quote: מִ⁠בְּעָלָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the good that people deserve as if they were its owners. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from those to whom it is due”

when it is in the power of your hand

Quote: בִּ⁠הְי֨וֹת לְ⁠אֵ֖ל יָדְךָ֣ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, Solomon speaks of being able to do something as if doing something was in the power of one’s hand. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when you have the ability”

Proverbs 3:28

Do not say to your neighbor

Quote: אַל־תֹּ֘אמַ֤ר לְרֵֽעֲךָ֨ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon implies that the neighbor needs something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “When your neighbor needs something, do not say to your neighbor”

I will give {it},” and it is

Quote: אֶתֵּ֗ן וְ⁠יֵ֣שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, it refers to the thing that the neighbor needs. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I will give you what you need, yet that thing is”

and it is

Quote: וְ⁠יֵ֣שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

Here, and indicates that what follows is true at the same time as the speaker is speaking in the previous clause. This means that the person speaking refuses to give something to someone even though he has it with him. You can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “when it is”

Proverbs 3:29

Do not plot evil

Quote: אַל־תַּחֲרֹ֣שׁ & רָעָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, plot evil implies someone plotting to do evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Do not scheme to do evil”

evil

Quote: רָעָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun evil in 1:16.

securely

Quote: לָ⁠בֶ֣טַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, securely implies that this person trusts you and does not expect to be harmed by you. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “trustfully”

with you

Quote: אִתָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, with you refers to being near someone. It does not mean these people dwell in the same house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “near you”

Proverbs 3:30

a man … he has not done you

Quote: אָדָ֣ם & לֹ֖א גְמָלְ⁠ךָ֣ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, man and he represent a person in general, not one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “a person … that person has not done you”

without cause, if he has not done you evil

Quote: חִנָּ֑ם אִם־לֹ֖א גְמָלְ⁠ךָ֣ רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This clause gives the reason why such contending would be without cause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use change the sentence structure to show this explicitly. Alternate translation: “who has not done you evil. There is no reason to argue.”

evil

Quote: רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun evil in 1:16.

Proverbs 3:31

of a man of violence

Quote: בְּ⁠אִ֣ישׁ חָמָ֑ס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a man who is characterized by violence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “of a violent man”

of a man of

Quote: בְּ⁠אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, man represents a person in general, not one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “of a person of”

his ways

Quote: דְּרָכָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses ways to refer to the behavior of a man of violence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the things he does”

and do not choose any of his ways

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תִּ֝בְחַ֗ר בְּ⁠כָל־דְּרָכָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon assumes that his readers will understand that this command refers to choosing not to do something. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “and do not choose to do anything he does”

Proverbs 3:32

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for the command in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Do not do these things because”

an abomination to Yahweh

Quote: תוֹעֲבַ֣ת יְהוָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of abomination, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “is an abominable person to Yahweh”

is} he who goes astray

Quote: נָל֑וֹז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone who refuses to act righteously and deliberately does what is wicked as if that person goes astray from a path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he who acts wickedly”

but with the upright ones {is} his secret counsel

Quote: וְֽ⁠אֶת־יְשָׁרִ֥ים סוֹדֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of Yahweh giving secret counsel to people as if it were an object that could be with those people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but to the upright ones he gives his secret counsel”

is} his secret counsel

Quote: סוֹדֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase secret counsel refers to confidential conversation between friends. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his confidential conversation”

Proverbs 3:33

The curse of Yahweh

Quote: מְאֵרַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a curse that comes from Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The curse from Yahweh”

is} on the house of

Quote: בְּ⁠בֵ֣ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Solomon speaks of the curse of Yahweh as if it were an object that he placed on top of the wicked person’s house. He means that Yahweh curses that house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is against the house of”

is} on the house of … but he blesses the abode of

Quote: בְּ⁠בֵ֣ית & וּ⁠נְוֵ֖ה & יְבָרֵֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the words house and abode represent the families who live in those houses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is on the households of … but he blesses the households of”

Proverbs 3:34

he himself mocks

Quote: הֽוּא־יָלִ֑יץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For emphasis, Solomon is stating the pronoun himself, whose meaning is already stated as he. If your language can state implied pronouns explicitly for emphasis, you may want to use that construction in your translation. Other languages may have other ways of bringing out this emphasis. The ULT does so by using the intensive pronoun himself. Alternate translation: “he indeed mocks”

he gives favor

Quote: יִתֶּן־חֵֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of Yahweh favoring people as if his favor were an object that he gives to people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he acts favorably” or “he is gracious”

Proverbs 3:35

will inherit

Quote: יִנְחָ֑לוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of wise people receiving honor as if honor were property or wealth that they could inherit from a family member. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Wise ones will receive honor”

honor, … dishonor

Quote: כָּ֭בוֹד & קָלֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of honor and dishonor, you could express the same ideas in other ways. See how you translated honor in 3:16. Alternate translation: “what is honorable … what is dishonorable”

lift up

Quote: מֵרִ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of stupid people receiving dishonor as if their dishonor was lifted up for everyone to see. If it would be helpful in your language, you cold express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will receive”

Proverbs 4

Proverbs 4 General Notes

Structure and formatting

2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)
   • Wisdom prevents people from committing crime or adultery (2:1–22)
   • Humbly trust Yahweh (3:1–12)
   • The value of wisdom (3:13–20)
   • Do not act wickedly (3:21–35)
   • Wisdom will benefit you (4:1–9)
   • Behave wisely and avoid those who do not (4:10–19)
   • Live righteously (4:20–27)

Special concepts in this chapter

My Son

Occasionally, Solomon addresses a series of proverbs to “my son” or “sons.” This does not mean that those proverbs only apply to males. Instead, these phrases are forms used to pass on advice from a father to his son, and the kind of advice in these proverbs is about common temptations of young men.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Personification

In 4:6–9, wisdom is referred to as if it were a woman. In languages where it is possible for a woman figure to represent an abstract concept like wisdom, the translator should translate the personification directly. However, if direct translation is not possible in your language, you may translate these personifications as similes instead. In that case, wisdom would be presented as being like a wise woman. (See: Олицетворение)

Proverbs 4:1

Hear

Quote: שִׁמְע֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated Hear in 1:8.

sons

Quote: בָ֭נִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Throughout chapters 1–9, Solomon alternates between using the plural sons and singular “son.” Many scholars think that Solomon does this in order to indicate that he is not only instructing one of his sons, but all of his readers as well. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “you children”

the instruction of … understanding

Quote: מ֣וּסַר & בִּינָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns instruction and understanding in 1:2.

a father

Quote: אָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Here, Solomon is speaking about himself in the third person. If this would not be natural in your language, you could use the first person form. Alternate translation: “me, your father”

Proverbs 4:2

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for the commands in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Hear these instructions because”

to you

Quote: לָ⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

Here, you is plural and refers to the “sons” referred to in the previous verse.

do not forsake my law

Quote: תּֽ֝וֹרָתִ֗⁠י אַֽל־תַּעֲזֹֽבוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause is the result of what came before in the previous clause. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a result of what came before. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “This is why you must not forsake my law”

do not forsake

Quote: אַֽל־תַּעֲזֹֽבוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

See how you translated this phrase in 1:8.

my law

Quote: תּֽ֝וֹרָתִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the collective noun law in 1:8.

Proverbs 4:3

When I was a son of my father

Quote: כִּי־בֵ֭ן הָיִ֣יתִי לְ⁠אָבִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

When here indicates that what follows refers to the time when Solomon was a child and still lived under his father’s care. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “When I was still a boy learning from my father”

the tender and only one

Quote: רַ֥ךְ וְ֝⁠יָחִ֗יד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word tender tells what the only one was like. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use and. Alternate translation: “the tender only one”

and only one

Quote: וְ֝⁠יָחִ֗יד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, only one could mean: (1) he was his mother’s only child. Alternate translation: “and only child” (2) he was a unique child of his mother. Alternate translation: “and unique one”

before the face of my mother

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י אִמִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of his mother considering him to be the tender and only one as if he were before her face. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “according to my mother” or “in my mother’s estimation”

Proverbs 4:4

then he taught me

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּרֵ֗⁠נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he refers to Solomon’s father. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

your heart

Quote: לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

Let your heart grasp

Quote: יִֽתְמָךְ & לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of remembering words as if the heart were holding on tightly to them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Let your heart remember”

my words

Quote: דְּבָרַ֥⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar use of my words in 1:23.

my commandments

Quote: מִצְוֺתַ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun commandments in 2:1.

and live

Quote: וֶֽ⁠חְיֵֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of obeying the command stated in the previous phrase. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “and it will result in you living”

Proverbs 4:5

wisdom, … understanding

Quote: חָ֭כְמָה & בִינָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and understanding in 1:2.

do not forget and do not veer from the sayings of my mouth

Quote: אַל־תִּשְׁכַּ֥ח וְ⁠אַל־תֵּ֝֗ט מֵֽ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here, the phrases do not forget and do not veer from are figures of speech that express strongly positive meanings by using a negative word, not, together with expressions that are the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meanings. Alternate translation: “remember and keep going in the direction of the sayings of my mouth”

do not forget and do not veer from the sayings of my mouth

Quote: אַל־תִּשְׁכַּ֥ח וְ⁠אַל־תֵּ֝֗ט מֵֽ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of not forgetting something as if a person were not veering off of a path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “do not forget and do not stop remembering the sayings of my mouth”

do not forget and do not veer from the sayings of my mouth

Quote: אַל־תִּשְׁכַּ֥ח וְ⁠אַל־תֵּ֝֗ט מֵֽ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Here, the terms forget and veer mean similar things. Solomon is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “certainly do not forget the sayings of my mouth”

from the sayings of my mouth

Quote: מֵֽ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, mouth represents Solomon’s father himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from my sayings”

Proverbs 4:6

Do not forsake her

Quote: אַל־תַּעַזְבֶ֥⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

See how you translated Do not forsake in 1:8.

and she will preserve you; … and she will guard you

Quote: וְ⁠תִשְׁמְרֶ֑⁠ךָּ & וְ⁠תִצְּרֶֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Both occurrences of and in this verse indicate that what follows are the results of the phrases that precede them. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate results. Alternate translation: “and it will result in her preserving you … and it will result in her guarding you”

Do not forsake her and she will preserve you; love her and she will guard you

Quote: אַל־תַּעַזְבֶ֥⁠הָ וְ⁠תִשְׁמְרֶ֑⁠ךָּ אֱהָבֶ֥⁠הָ וְ⁠תִצְּרֶֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In 4:6–9 Solomon speaks of wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “Do not forsake wisdom and wisdom will be like a woman who preserves you; love wisdom and wisdom will be like a woman who guards you”

Proverbs 4:7

The beginning of wisdom

Quote: רֵאשִׁ֣ית חָ֭כְמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, beginning could refer to: (1) the most important thing. Alternate translation: “the most important thing is wisdom” or “wisdom is supreme” (2) the foundation or basis of something, as it means in 1:7. Alternate translation: “the foundation of wisdom” or “the prerequisite for acquiring wisdom”

acquire wisdom! … acquire understanding

Quote: קְנֵ֣ה חָכְמָ֑ה & קְנֵ֣ה בִינָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated these phrases in 4:5.

And with all your acquisition

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־קִ֝נְיָנְ⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The word acquisition here is singular in form, but it refers to all of a person’s possessions as a group. If it would be helpful in your language, you could say this plainly. Alternate translation: “And with all your acquisitions” or “And with everything that you acquire”

And with all your acquisition

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־קִ֝נְיָנְ⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, all your acquisition implies the price of everything that someone has acquired. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “And with the price of all your acquisition” or “And with the price of all you possess”

Proverbs 4:8

Cherish her and she will raise you up; she will honor you when you embrace her

Quote: סַלְסְלֶ֥⁠הָ וּֽ⁠תְרוֹמְמֶ֑⁠ךָּ תְּ֝כַבֵּ֗דְ⁠ךָ כִּ֣י תְחַבְּקֶֽ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, Solomon speaks of wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “Cherish wisdom and wisdom will be like a woman who raises you up; wisdom will be like a woman who honors you when you embrace her”

Cherish her and she will raise you up

Quote: סַלְסְלֶ֥⁠הָ וּֽ⁠תְרוֹמְמֶ֑⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of obeying the command stated in the previous phrase. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “If you cherish her, then she will raise you up” or “Cherish her and it will result in her raising you up”

and she will raise you up

Quote: וּֽ⁠תְרוֹמְמֶ֑⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a wise person receiving honor as if wisdom were raising that person up. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and she will cause you to be honored”

she will honor you

Quote: תְּ֝כַבֵּ֗דְ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that wisdom will cause people to honor the person who embraces her. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “she will cause people to honor you”

you embrace her

Quote: תְחַבְּקֶֽ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of someone valuing wisdom as if he were embracing a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you value wisdom”

Proverbs 4:9

She will give for your head a garland of grace; with} a crown of splendor she will cover you

Quote: תִּתֵּ֣ן לְ֭⁠רֹאשְׁ⁠ךָ לִוְיַת־חֵ֑ן עֲטֶ֖רֶת תִּפְאֶ֣רֶת תְּמַגְּנֶֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “She will give for your head a garland of grace; yes, with a crown of splendor she will cover you”

She will give for your head a garland of grace; with} a crown of splendor she will cover you

Quote: תִּתֵּ֣ן לְ֭⁠רֹאשְׁ⁠ךָ לִוְיַת־חֵ֑ן עֲטֶ֖רֶת תִּפְאֶ֣רֶת תְּמַגְּנֶֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, Solomon speaks of wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “Wisdom will be like a woman who gives a garland of grace for your head; wisdom will be like a woman who covers you with a crown of splendor”

a garland of grace

Quote: לִוְיַת־חֵ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 1:9.

with} a crown of splendor she will cover you

Quote: עֲטֶ֖רֶת תִּפְאֶ֣רֶת תְּמַגְּנֶֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the honor that a person will have from gaining wisdom as if wisdom placed a crown upon that person’s head. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “wisdom will cause people to honor you” or “wisdom will be like someone who puts a crown of splendor on your head”

with} a crown of splendor

Quote: עֲטֶ֖רֶת תִּפְאֶ֣רֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a crown that is characterized by splendor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “with a splendorous crown”

Proverbs 4:10

Hear

Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the same use of Hear in 1:8.

and they will multiply

Quote: וְ⁠יִרְבּ֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of obeying the commands stated in the previous clause. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “If you do these things, then they will multiply” or “This will result in them multiplying”

and they will multiply for you the years of life

Quote: וְ⁠יִרְבּ֥וּ לְ֝⁠ךָ֗ שְׁנ֣וֹת חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of his sayings as if they were able to cause someone to live longer. He means that someone who obeys his sayings will live longer than if they did not do so. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and obey my sayings will multiply for you the years of life”

the years of life

Quote: שְׁנ֣וֹת חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the years that a person lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the years that you are alive”

Proverbs 4:11

In the way of wisdom

Quote: בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ חָ֭כְמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a way that is characterized by wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “in the wise way”

In the way of wisdom

Quote: בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ חָ֭כְמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the way refers to how people behave or live their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the wise behavior” or “how to behave wisely”

I caused you to tread in the tracks of uprightness

Quote: הִ֝דְרַכְתִּ֗י⁠ךָ בְּ⁠מַעְגְּלֵי־יֹֽשֶׁר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe tracks that are characterized by uprightness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “I caused you to tread in the upright tracks”

I caused you to tread in the tracks of uprightness

Quote: הִ֝דְרַכְתִּ֗י⁠ךָ בְּ⁠מַעְגְּלֵי־יֹֽשֶׁר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to how people behave or live their lives as if they tread in tracks on a path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I caused you to behave uprightly”

Proverbs 4:12

When you walk, your step will not be restricted; and if you run, you will not stumble

Quote: בְּֽ֭⁠לֶכְתְּ⁠ךָ לֹא־יֵצַ֣ר צַעֲדֶ֑⁠ךָ וְ⁠אִם־תָּ֝ר֗וּץ לֹ֣א תִכָּשֵֽׁל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “When you walk, your step will not be restricted; yes, if you run, you will not stumble”

When you walk, your step will not be restricted; and if you run, you will not stumble

Quote: בְּֽ֭⁠לֶכְתְּ⁠ךָ לֹא־יֵצַ֣ר צַעֲדֶ֑⁠ךָ וְ⁠אִם־תָּ֝ר֗וּץ לֹ֣א תִכָּשֵֽׁל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Solomon refers to what people do as if they were walking or running along paths, and he refers to their success in what they do as if the paths were free of obstacles that might make the person stumble. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “When you do something, you will not be hindered; and if you attempt to do something, you will not fail”

will not be restricted; … you will not stumble

Quote: לֹא־יֵצַ֣ר & לֹ֣א תִכָּשֵֽׁל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Solomon is using a figure of speech in these two phrases that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “will be free … you will keep going”

Proverbs 4:13

Grasp on to instruction, do not let go

Quote: הַחֲזֵ֣ק בַּ⁠מּוּסָ֣ר אַל־תֶּ֑רֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a person remembering instruction as if it were an object that the person could grasp and not let go of. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated grasp in 3:18. Alternate translation: “Keep on remembering instruction, do not forget it”

to instruction

Quote: בַּ⁠מּוּסָ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun instruction in 1:2.

do not let go

Quote: אַל־תֶּ֑רֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Solomon is using a figure of speech here that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “keep holding on to it”

guard it

Quote: נִ֝צְּרֶ֗⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of instruction as if it were an object that someone should guard. He means that he wants his son to remember to do what he has taught him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated a similar use of guard in 3:21. Alternate translation: “remember to practice it”

it {is} your life

Quote: הִ֥יא חַיֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon speaks of instruction preserving a person’s life as if it were that person’s life itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “it will preserve your life”

Proverbs 4:14

On the path of wicked ones do not go and do not advance on the way of evil ones

Quote: בְּ⁠אֹ֣רַח רְ֭שָׁעִים אַל־תָּבֹ֑א וְ⁠אַל־תְּ֝אַשֵּׁ֗ר בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ רָעִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “On the path of wicked ones do not go, yes, do not advance on the way of evil ones”

On the path of … on the way of

Quote: בְּ⁠אֹ֣רַח & בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar use of “paths” and “ways” in 3:6.

Proverbs 4:15

Avoid it, … it; … from it

Quote: פְּרָעֵ֥⁠הוּ & בּ֑⁠וֹ & מֵ⁠עָלָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronoun it refers to “the way of evil ones” mentioned in the previous verse. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Avoid the way of evil ones … that way … from that evil way”

Avoid it, do not pass through it; veer from it and pass on

Quote: פְּרָעֵ֥⁠הוּ אַל־תַּעֲבָר־בּ֑⁠וֹ שְׂטֵ֖ה מֵ⁠עָלָ֣י⁠ו וַ⁠עֲבֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Solomon speaks of behaving wickedly as if it were a path that people could pass through, veer from, and pass on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Avoid acting evilly, do not try it; completely avoid doing evil and do not even think about it”

Proverbs 4:16

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows are reasons why someone should avoid doing evil, as stated in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Avoid acting wickedly because”

they do not sleep if they do not do evil and their sleep is robbed if they do not cause stumbling

Quote: לֹ֣א יִֽ֭שְׁנוּ אִם־לֹ֣א יָרֵ֑עוּ וְֽ⁠נִגְזְלָ֥ה שְׁ֝נָתָ֗⁠ם אִם־לֹ֥א יַכְשִֽׁילוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronoun they refers to the wicked people mentioned in 4:14. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the instruction and law from your parents are a garland of grace” or “wicked ones do not sleep if they do not do evil and the sleep of wicked ones is robbed if those wicked ones do not cause stumbling”

they do not sleep if they do not do evil and their sleep is robbed if they do not cause stumbling

Quote: לֹ֣א יִֽ֭שְׁנוּ אִם־לֹ֣א יָרֵ֑עוּ וְֽ⁠נִגְזְלָ֥ה שְׁ֝נָתָ֗⁠ם אִם־לֹ֥א יַכְשִֽׁילוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

In these two clauses, Solomon exaggerates to express how intensely these wicked people desire to do evil actions. Solomon did not mean that these people really did not sleep without doing evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “they desire to do evil so much that it is as if they cannot sleep unless they have done evil”

and their sleep is robbed

Quote: וְֽ⁠נִגְזְלָ֥ה שְׁ֝נָתָ֗⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon is speaking of not being able to sleep as if sleep were an object that someone could be robbed of. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and they are not able to sleep”

if they do not cause stumbling

Quote: אִם־לֹ֥א יַכְשִֽׁילוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of causing harm to another person as if it were causing that person to stumble. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “if they do not harm someone”

Proverbs 4:17

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows are more reasons why someone should avoid doing evil, as commanded in 4:15. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Avoid acting wickedly because”

they eat … they drink

Quote: לָ֭חֲמוּ & יִשְׁתּֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronoun they refers to the wicked people mentioned in 4:14. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “wicked ones eat … wicked ones drink”

they eat the bread of wickedness and the wine of violent {acts} they drink

Quote: לָ֭חֲמוּ לֶ֣חֶם רֶ֑שַׁע וְ⁠יֵ֖ין חֲמָסִ֣ים יִשְׁתּֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

These two clauses could mean: (1) these wicked people do acts of wickedness and violence as regularly as they eat bread and drink wine. Alternate translation: “wickedness is like the bread that they eat and violence is like the wine that they drink” or (2) these wicked people do acts of wickedness and violence in order to get their bread and wine. Alternate translation: “they eat bread that they obtain by doing wicked things and they drink wine that they obtain through violent acts”

Proverbs 4:18

But the path of the righteous ones

Quote: וְ⁠אֹ֣רַח צַ֭דִּיקִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, path could refer to: (1) the things that people experience during their lives. Alternate translation: “But what the righteous ones experience” (2) how people behave, as it does in 1:15. Alternate translation: “But the lifestyle of the righteous ones”

is} like the light of brightness

Quote: כְּ⁠א֣וֹר נֹ֑גַהּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the light of brightness refers to the first sunlight that appears in the morning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is like the light of dawn” or “is like the first sunlight in the morning”

is} like the light of brightness

Quote: כְּ⁠א֣וֹר נֹ֑גַהּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, Solomon compares the path of the righteous ones to the light that appears at sunrise. He means that righteous people are safe because they understand what God wants them to do during their lives, just like people can walk safely on a path because the light enables them to see where they are going. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is safe”

going and shining until the day {is} established

Quote: הוֹלֵ֥ךְ וָ֝⁠א֗וֹר עַד־נְכ֥וֹן הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase the day is established refers to the time of day when the sun shines the brightest. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “going and shining until the sun shines the brightest” or “going and shining brighter until full daylight”

going and shining until the day {is} established

Quote: הוֹלֵ֥ךְ וָ֝⁠א֗וֹר עַד־נְכ֥וֹן הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, Solomon continues the comparison of the path of the righteous ones to the light at sunrise. Just like the sunlight shines increasingly brighter from sunrise until the middle of the day, so also the righteous ones will be safer and safer as they understand more and more of how God wants them to live. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “increasing in safety until they are completely safe”

Proverbs 4:19

The way of

Quote: דֶּ֣רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, way has the same meaning as “path” in the previous verse. See how you translated “path” there.

is} like the darkness

Quote: כָּֽ⁠אֲפֵלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, Solomon compares the way of the wicked ones to darkness. He means that the wicked people are always in danger, just like people who walk in darkness are in danger because they cannot see where they are going. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is dangerous”

they do not know on what they stumble

Quote: לֹ֥א יָ֝דְע֗וּ בַּ⁠מֶּ֥ה יִכָּשֵֽׁלוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of people experiencing harm as if they were stumbling over an object in the path they were walking on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they do not know why they experience harm”

Proverbs 4:20

listen attentively to my words; incline your ear to my sayings

Quote: לִ⁠דְבָרַ֣⁠י הַקְשִׁ֑יבָ⁠ה לַ֝⁠אֲמָרַ֗⁠י הַט־אָזְנֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “listen attentively to my words, yes, incline your ear to my sayings”

to my words

Quote: לִ⁠דְבָרַ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated my words in 1:23.

incline your ear

Quote: הַט־אָזְנֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase incline your ear is an idiom that refers to listening carefully to what someone is saying as if the listener was turning his ear toward the person speaking. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “listen carefully”

Proverbs 4:21

Do not let them depart from your eyes

Quote: אַל־יַלִּ֥יזוּ מֵ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this clause in 3:21.

keep them in the midst of your heart

Quote: שָׁ֝מְרֵ֗⁠ם בְּ⁠ת֣וֹךְ לְבָבֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

keep them in the midst of your heart

Quote: שָׁ֝מְרֵ֗⁠ם בְּ⁠ת֣וֹךְ לְבָבֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of remembering something as if someone were keeping it in the midst of his heart. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “always remember them”

Proverbs 4:22

they {… to those who find them

Quote: הֵ֭ם לְ⁠מֹצְאֵי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronouns they and them refer to the “sayings” mentioned in 4:20. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “my sayings … to those who find my sayings”

they {are} life to those who find them

Quote: חַיִּ֣ים הֵ֭ם לְ⁠מֹצְאֵי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon speaks of his sayings as if they were the lives of those who remember them. He means that those who remember what he says will preserve their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “they preserve the life of those who find them” or “they cause those who find them to keep living”

to those who find them

Quote: לְ⁠מֹצְאֵי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of people remembering his sayings as if those people have found them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to those who remember them”

and healing to all of his flesh

Quote: וּֽ⁠לְ⁠כָל־בְּשָׂר֥⁠וֹ מַרְפֵּֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, Solomon uses the word flesh to refer to a person’s whole body, which is made of flesh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and healing to all of his body”

his flesh

Quote: בְּשָׂר֥⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although his is masculine, here it refers to anyone who remembers Solomon’s sayings. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a person’s flesh”

and healing to all of his flesh

Quote: וּֽ⁠לְ⁠כָל־בְּשָׂר֥⁠וֹ מַרְפֵּֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of his sayings as if they were healing for those who remember them. He means that those who remember what he says will have healthy bodies. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and they preserve their health” or “and they cause their bodies to stay healthy”

Proverbs 4:23

Guard your heart

Quote: נְצֹ֣ר לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a person being careful of what he thinks in his heart as if his heart were an object that could be guarded. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Protect what you think in your heart”

your heart

Quote: לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

more than all {that} is protected

Quote: מִֽ⁠כָּל־מִ֭שְׁמָר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “more than all that you protect”

more than all {that} is protected

Quote: מִֽ⁠כָּל־מִ֭שְׁמָר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that means “with all diligence.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “with utmost diligence”

from it

Quote: מִ֝מֶּ֗⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, it refers to the heart, which refers to a person’s mind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from your heart” or “from your mind”

from it {are} the sources of life

Quote: מִ֝מֶּ֗⁠נּוּ תּוֹצְא֥וֹת חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the influence that a person’s heart has over what happens in that person’s life as if the heart were sources that produce life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “from your heart comes what will direct your life” or “your mind determines what your life will be like”

Proverbs 4:24

Remove from you perversity of mouth, and the deviousness of lips put far away from you

Quote: הָסֵ֣ר מִ֭מְּ⁠ךָ עִקְּשׁ֣וּת פֶּ֑ה וּ⁠לְז֥וּת שְׂ֝פָתַ֗יִם הַרְחֵ֥ק מִמֶּֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Remove from you perversity of mouth, yes, the deviousness of lips put far away from you”

Remove from you perversity of mouth, and the deviousness of lips put far away from you

Quote: הָסֵ֣ר מִ֭מְּ⁠ךָ עִקְּשׁ֣וּת פֶּ֑ה וּ⁠לְז֥וּת שְׂ֝פָתַ֗יִם הַרְחֵ֥ק מִמֶּֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrases perversity of mouth and deviousness of lips both refer to someone using his mouth or lips to speak deceitfully. If these phrases do not have that meaning in your language, you could use idioms from your language that do have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Remove from you perverse speech, and devious speech put far away from you”

Remove from you perversity of mouth, and the deviousness of lips put far away from you

Quote: הָסֵ֣ר מִ֭מְּ⁠ךָ עִקְּשׁ֣וּת פֶּ֑ה וּ⁠לְז֥וּת שְׂ֝פָתַ֗יִם הַרְחֵ֥ק מִמֶּֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Solomon speaks of perversity of mouth and the deviousness of lips as if they were objects that someone could Remove or put far away. He means that a person should not speak deceitfully. If it would be helpful in your language you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Do not speak perversely, and do not speak deviously”

Proverbs 4:25

Cause your eyes to gaze to the front, and cause your eyelids to be straight in front of you

Quote: עֵ֭ינֶי⁠ךָ לְ⁠נֹ֣כַח יַבִּ֑יטוּ וְ֝⁠עַפְעַפֶּ֗י⁠ךָ יַיְשִׁ֥רוּ נֶגְדֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Cause your eyes to gaze to the front, yes, cause your eyelids to be straight in front of you”

Cause your eyes to gaze to the front, and cause your eyelids to be straight in front of you

Quote: עֵ֭ינֶי⁠ךָ לְ⁠נֹ֣כַח יַבִּ֑יטוּ וְ֝⁠עַפְעַפֶּ֗י⁠ךָ יַיְשִׁ֥רוּ נֶגְדֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

In this verse, eyes and eyelids represent the person who is looking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Cause yourself to gaze to the front, and cause yourself to look straight in front of you”

Cause your eyes to gaze to the front, and cause your eyelids to be straight in front of you

Quote: עֵ֭ינֶי⁠ךָ לְ⁠נֹ֣כַח יַבִּ֑יטוּ וְ֝⁠עַפְעַפֶּ֗י⁠ךָ יַיְשִׁ֥רוּ נֶגְדֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In these two clauses, Solomon speaks of committing oneself to behaving wisely and righteously as if those qualities were always in front of the person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Keep yourself focused on doing what is right, and keep looking ahead to what is good”

Proverbs 4:26

Make level

Quote: פַּ֭לֵּס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of being careful as if someone were making the ground in front of them flat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Be careful with” or “Take heed to”

the track of your foot

Quote: מַעְגַּ֣ל רַגְלֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here the word foot represents the whole person who is walking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your track”

the track of your foot

Quote: מַעְגַּ֣ל רַגְלֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, track refers to how someone behaves. See how you translated the same use of track in 2:9.

and all

Quote: וְֽ⁠כָל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of obeying the command stated in the previous clause. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “If you do this, then all” or “This will result in all”

your ways

Quote: דְּרָכֶ֥י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of ways in 3:6.

will be firm

Quote: יִכֹּֽנוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of person’s life being successful as if that person were walking safely on solid ground. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will be successful”

Proverbs 4:27

Do not veer right or left

Quote: אַֽל־תֵּט־יָמִ֥ין וּ⁠שְׂמֹ֑אול (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Here, Solomon uses right and left to refer to going in any direction other than straight ahead. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Do not go in any direction other than straight ahead”

Do not veer right or left; cause your foot to turn away from evil

Quote: אַֽל־תֵּט־יָמִ֥ין וּ⁠שְׂמֹ֑אול הָסֵ֖ר רַגְלְ⁠ךָ֣ מֵ⁠רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

In this verse, Solomon continues to make an extended comparison between how a person behaves and a person walking on a path that he should not veer or turn away from. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Do not stop behaving rightly, make yourself avoid doing evil”

your foot

Quote: רַגְלְ⁠ךָ֣ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the same use of foot in the previous verse.

from evil

Quote: מֵ⁠רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated from evil in 3:7.

Proverbs 5

Proverbs 5 General Notes

Structure and formatting

2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)
   • Wisdom prevents people from committing crime or adultery (2:1–22)
   • Humbly trust Yahweh (3:1–12)
   • The value of wisdom (3:13–20)
   • Do not act wickedly (3:21–35)
   • Wisdom will benefit you (4:1–9)
   • Behave wisely and avoid those who do not (4:10–19)
   • Live righteously (4:20–27)
   • Avoid temptation to commit adultery (5:1–23)

Special concepts in this chapter

My Son

Occasionally, Solomon addresses a series of proverbs to “my son” or “sons.” This does not mean that those proverbs only apply to males. Instead, these phrases are forms used to pass on advice from a father to his son, and the kind of advice in these proverbs is about common temptations of young men.

Adulteress

This chapter repeatedly warns young men to avoid any adulterous woman, who is called “strange” and “foreign.” (See: порушувати подружню вірність)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Euphemism

In 5:15–20, Solomon uses several euphemisms to refer to sexual activity between a man and his wife or an adulterous woman. Although the UST expresses the meaning of these euphemisms plainly, only do so if sexual language would not be offensive in your culture. It is usually best to use a euphemism from your own language that means the same thing.

Proverbs 5:1

listen attentively to my wisdom, incline your ear to my understanding

Quote: לְ⁠חָכְמָתִ֣⁠י הַקְשִׁ֑יבָ⁠ה לִ֝⁠תְבוּנָתִ֗⁠י הַט־אָזְנֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “listen attentively to my wisdom, yes, incline your ear to my understanding”

to my wisdom, … to my understanding

Quote: לְ⁠חָכְמָתִ֣⁠י & לִ֝⁠תְבוּנָתִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and understanding in 1:2.

to my wisdom, … to my understanding

Quote: לְ⁠חָכְמָתִ֣⁠י & לִ֝⁠תְבוּנָתִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, my wisdom and my understanding refer to the wise lessons that Solomon teaches his son and what he tells his son to understand. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to my wise lessons … to what I tell you to understand”

incline your ear

Quote: הַט־אָזְנֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this idiom in 4:20.

Proverbs 5:2

in order to keep discretion, and … may guard knowledge

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁמֹ֥ר מְזִמּ֑וֹת וְ֝⁠דַ֗עַת & יִנְצֹֽרוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Solomon speaks of discretion as if it were an object that someone should keep, and knowledge as if it were an object that someone’s lips should guard. He means that he wants his son to preserve or remember what he has taught him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in order to preserve discretion, and your lips may preserve knowledge”

discretion

Quote: מְזִמּ֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns discretion in 1:4.

and your lips may guard knowledge

Quote: וְ֝⁠דַ֗עַת שְׂפָתֶ֥י⁠ךָ יִנְצֹֽרוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, lips represents the person who speaks by moving the lips. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and you may guard knowledge by what you say”

and … knowledge

Quote: וְ֝⁠דַ֗עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, knowledge refers to what the son has learned from his father. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and … what you have learned”

Proverbs 5:3

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason why someone should obey the commands introduced in 5:1. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Do what I say because”

the lips of a strange woman … is} her palate

Quote: שִׂפְתֵ֣י זָרָ֑ה & חִכָּֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, lips and palate represent the words that the strange woman speaks. If it would be helpful in your language, you cold express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “what a strange woman says … is what she says”

a strange woman

Quote: זָרָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated strange woman in 2:16.

drip fresh honey and smoother than oil

Quote: נֹ֣פֶת תִּ֭טֹּפְנָה & וְ⁠חָלָ֖ק מִ⁠שֶּׁ֣מֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon speaks of the tempting words that the strange woman speaks is as if what she says is like fresh honey and oil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “are delightful like fresh honey and more pleasant than oil”

Proverbs 5:4

but her aftermath

Quote: וְֽ֭⁠אַחֲרִיתָ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the aftermath of having a sexual relationship with an adulterous woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the aftermath of having a sexual relationship with her”

like wormwood

Quote: כַֽ⁠לַּעֲנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The word wormwood refers to a plant that tastes bitter. People made medicine out of it, but they also believed that it was poisonous. If your readers would not be familiar with this plant, you could use the name of a bitter-tasting plant in your area, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “like a bitter-tasting plant”

is} bitter like wormwood

Quote: מָרָ֣ה כַֽ⁠לַּעֲנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, Solomon compares the harm that comes from having a relationship with an adulterous woman to tasting bitter wormwood. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “is harmful like bitter-tasting wormwood”

sharp like a sword of mouths

Quote: חַ֝דָּ֗ה כְּ⁠חֶ֣רֶב פִּיּֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “her aftermath is sharp like a sword with mouths”

sharp like a sword of mouths

Quote: חַ֝דָּ֗ה כְּ⁠חֶ֣רֶב פִּיּֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase sword of mouths refers to a sword with a blade that is sharp on both sides. Each side can cut a person like a mouth that bites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “sharp like a sword with a blade that is sharp on both sides”

sharp like a sword of mouths

Quote: חַ֝דָּ֗ה כְּ⁠חֶ֣רֶב פִּיּֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the pain that the adulteress will cause to the one who has a relationship with her as if it were a sharp sword that cuts the person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “it wounds a person, as if it were a sharp sword of mouths”

Proverbs 5:5

Her feet are going down {to} death; her steps take hold of Sheol

Quote: רַ֭גְלֶי⁠הָ יֹרְד֣וֹת מָ֑וֶת שְׁ֝א֗וֹל צְעָדֶ֥י⁠הָ יִתְמֹֽכוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Her feet are going down to death; yes, her steps take hold of Sheol”

Her feet are going down {to} death; her steps take hold of Sheol

Quote: רַ֭גְלֶי⁠הָ יֹרְד֣וֹת מָ֑וֶת שְׁ֝א֗וֹל צְעָדֶ֥י⁠הָ יִתְמֹֽכוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrases her feet and her steps could refer to: (1) the behavior of the adulterous woman as if she were walking along a path. Alternate translation: “Her lifestyle goes down to death; her way of living takes hold of Sheol” (2) the adulterous woman. Alternate translation: “She goes down to death; she takes hold of Sheol”

are going down {to} death

Quote: יֹרְד֣וֹת מָ֑וֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the behavior of the adulterous woman causer her death and the death of whoever commits adultery with her as if they were going on a path that leadsdown to death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “result in death” or “cause them to die”

take hold of Sheol

Quote: שְׁ֝א֗וֹל & יִתְמֹֽכוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of the behavior of the adulterous woman causing her death and the death of whoever commits adultery with her as if they were taking hold of Sheol, which is the place where people’s spirits go when they die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “result in death” or “cause them to die”

Proverbs 5:6

Lest she observe the path of life

Quote: אֹ֣רַח חַ֭יִּים פֶּן־תְּפַלֵּ֑ס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Lest here implies that the adulterous woman has an aversion to the path of life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “She refuses to observe the path of life”

Lest she observe the path of life

Quote: אֹ֣רַח חַ֭יִּים פֶּן־תְּפַלֵּ֑ס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of behavior that results in living a long life as if it were a path that leads to life and can be observed. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Lest she cares about behavior that leads to life”

her tracks

Quote: מַ֝עְגְּלֹתֶ֗י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of tracks in 2:15.

Proverbs 5:7

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

And now here indicates a transition from the description of the adulterous woman in 5:3–6 to the call to pay attention that follows. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a transition. Alternate translation: “Next”

And now, sons, listen to me; and do not turn away from the sayings of my mouth

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה בָ֭נִים שִׁמְעוּ־לִ֑⁠י וְ⁠אַל־תָּ֝ס֗וּרוּ מֵ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “And now, sons, listen to me; yes, do not turn aside from the sayings of my mouth”

sons

Quote: בָ֭נִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Throughout chapters 1–9, Solomon alternates between using the plural sons and singular “son.” Many scholars think that Solomon does this in order to indicate that he is not only instructing one of his sons, but all of his readers as well. See how you translated sons in 4:1.

and do not turn away from the sayings of my mouth

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תָּ֝ס֗וּרוּ מֵ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of someone not listening to someone else as if the person physically turned away from what he was saying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “do not stop listening to the sayings of my mouth”

and do not turn away from the sayings of my mouth

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תָּ֝ס֗וּרוּ מֵ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here, Solomon uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “and listen to the sayings of my mouth”

from the sayings of my mouth

Quote: מֵ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the sayings of my mouth in 4:5.

Proverbs 5:8

Keep your way far from her

Quote: הַרְחֵ֣ק מֵ⁠עָלֶ֣י⁠הָ דַרְכֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, way represents the person and their daily activities. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Keep yourself far away from her”

from her … her house

Quote: מֵ⁠עָלֶ֣י⁠הָ & בֵּיתָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, her refers to the adulterous woman described in 5:3–6. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from an adulteress … the house of an adulteress”

and do not come near

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תִּ֝קְרַ֗ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In a context such as this, your language might say “go” instead of come. Alternate translation: “and do not go near”

Proverbs 5:9

Lest

Quote: פֶּן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Lest here indicates that what follows in this verse is what would happen to people if they do not obey the commands in the previous verse. Use a natural form in your language for connecting this statement to the previous one. Alternate translation: “If you do this, then”

you give to others your splendor

Quote: תִּתֵּ֣ן לַ⁠אֲחֵרִ֣ים הוֹדֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, splendor could refer to: (1) everything that a person achieves during the time in a person’s life when he is the strongest, which would be the same meaning as your years in the next clause. Alternate translation: “you give to others your vigor” or “you give to others your achievements from your vigorous time of life” (2) a person’s reputation, in which case this clause would refer to a person getting a bad reputation. Alternate translation: “you will lose your good reputation with others”

and your years

Quote: וּ֝⁠שְׁנֹתֶ֗י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and lest you give your years”

and your years

Quote: וּ֝⁠שְׁנֹתֶ֗י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, your years could refer to: (1) everything that a person achieves during the time in a person’s life when he is his healthiest and strongest. Alternate translation: “and all you have achieved in the best years of your life” (2) the years that a person is alive, meaning that a cruel one would kill this person. Alternate translation: “and your life”

to a cruel one

Quote: לְ⁠אַכְזָרִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, a cruel one could refer to: (1) one person, possibly the husband of the adulterous woman. Alternate translation: “a cruel person” or “a cruel man” (2) a group of cruel people who are called others in the previous clause. Alternate translation: “to cruel people”

Proverbs 5:10

Lest

Quote: פֶּֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Lest here indicates that what follows in this verse is what would happen to people if they do not obey the commands in 5:8. Use a natural form in your language for connecting this statement to the previous one. Alternate translation: “If you do this, then”

be satisfied

Quote: יִשְׂבְּע֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language, as in the UST.

with your strength

Quote: כֹּחֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, your strength refers to everything that a person achieves during the time in a person’s life when he has the most strength. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “with what you achieved when you were strong”

and your toils

Quote: וַ֝⁠עֲצָבֶ֗י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, your toils refers to everything that a person earns by working hard. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and what you gain from toiling”

be} in the house of a foreigner

Quote: בְּ⁠בֵ֣ית נָכְרִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, house could refer to: (1) the house where the foreigner keeps the things he takes from this person, as in the UST. (2) the people who live in the house of a foreigner. Alternate translation: “be with the household or a foreigner”

a foreigner

Quote: נָכְרִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, a foreigner could refer to: (1) one person, possibly the adulterous woman or her husband. Alternate translation: “a foreign person” (2) a group of foreign people who are called strangers in the previous clause. Alternate translation: “to foreign people”

Proverbs 5:11

at your end when your flesh and your body are finished

Quote: בְ⁠אַחֲרִיתֶ֑⁠ךָ בִּ⁠כְל֥וֹת בְּ֝שָׂרְ⁠ךָ֗ וּ⁠שְׁאֵרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Here, Solomon is referring to dying in a polite way by using the word end and the phrase your body and your flesh are finished. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a polite way of referring to death in your language, or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “at the time of your death, when your flesh and your body die”

your flesh and your body

Quote: בְּ֝שָׂרְ⁠ךָ֗ וּ⁠שְׁאֵרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The words flesh and body mean basically the same thing and represent the whole person. Solomon is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “you yourself”

Proverbs 5:12

I hated correction and my heart despised rebuke

Quote: שָׂנֵ֣אתִי מוּסָ֑ר וְ֝⁠תוֹכַ֗חַת נָאַ֥ץ לִבִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first clause by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “I hated correction, yes, my heart despised rebuke”

How I hated correction

Quote: אֵ֭יךְ שָׂנֵ֣אתִי מוּסָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

“How” here is an exclamation that emphasizes how much he hated correction. Use an exclamation that would communicate that meaning in your language. Alternate translation: “I hated correction so very much”

correction and … rebuke

Quote: מוּסָ֑ר וְ֝⁠תוֹכַ֗חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns correction and rebuke in 3:11.

my heart

Quote: לִבִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

Proverbs 5:13

And I did not listen to the voice of my teachers and to my instructors I did not incline my ear

Quote: וְֽ⁠לֹא־שָׁ֭מַעְתִּי בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל מוֹרָ֑⁠י וְ֝⁠לִֽ⁠מְלַמְּדַ֗⁠י לֹא־הִטִּ֥יתִי אָזְנִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first clause by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “And I did not listen to the voice of my teachers, yes, to my instructors I did not incline my ear”

And I did not listen to the voice of

Quote: וְֽ⁠לֹא־שָׁ֭מַעְתִּי בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase listen to the voice of is an idiom that refers to obeying someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “And I did not obey the instructions of”

I did not incline my ear

Quote: לֹא־הִטִּ֥יתִי אָזְנִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this idiom in 4:20.

Proverbs 5:14

in all evil

Quote: בְ⁠כָל־רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the adulterous man speaks of experiencing complete disgrace as if all evil were a location he was in. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “experiencing total disgrace”

in the midst of the assembly and the congregation

Quote: בְּ⁠ת֖וֹךְ קָהָ֣ל וְ⁠עֵדָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms assembly and congregation mean the same thing and refer to the man’s community. The man is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “in the midst of the entire assembly”

Proverbs 5:15

Drink water from your cistern and flowing waters from the midst of your well

Quote: שְׁתֵה־מַ֥יִם מִ⁠בּוֹרֶ֑⁠ךָ וְ֝⁠נֹזְלִ֗ים מִ⁠תּ֥וֹךְ בְּאֵרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first clause by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Drink water from your cistern, yes, drink flowing waters from the midst of your well”

Drink water from your cistern and flowing waters from the midst of your well

Quote: שְׁתֵה־מַ֥יִם מִ⁠בּוֹרֶ֑⁠ךָ וְ֝⁠נֹזְלִ֗ים מִ⁠תּ֥וֹךְ בְּאֵרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word in the second clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the first clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Drink water from your cistern and drink flowing waters from the midst of your well”

Drink water from your cistern and flowing waters from the midst of your well

Quote: שְׁתֵה־מַ֥יִם מִ⁠בּוֹרֶ֑⁠ךָ וְ֝⁠נֹזְלִ֗ים מִ⁠תּ֥וֹךְ בְּאֵרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

In both of these clauses, Solomon is referring to a man satisfying his sexual desire with his own wife in a polite way. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more normal polite way of referring to this in your language, or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Sleep with your wife only and only satisfy yourself with her” or “Satisfy your sexual desire only with your wife, yes, satisfy your sexual desire only with her”

Proverbs 5:16

Should your springs overflow outside, channels of water in the open areas

Quote: יָפ֣וּצוּ מַעְיְנֹתֶ֣י⁠ךָ ח֑וּצָ⁠ה בָּ֝⁠רְחֹב֗וֹת פַּלְגֵי־מָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Solomon is using the question form to emphasize that a man should not commit adultery. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “Your springs should not overflow outside, channels of water in the open areas!”

Should your springs overflow outside, channels of water in the open areas

Quote: יָפ֣וּצוּ מַעְיְנֹתֶ֣י⁠ךָ ח֑וּצָ⁠ה בָּ֝⁠רְחֹב֗וֹת פַּלְגֵי־מָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some words in the second clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the first clause if it would be clearer in your language. You may need to make a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Should your springs overflow outside? Should your channels of water overflow in the open areas?”

Should your springs overflow outside, channels of water in the open areas

Quote: יָפ֣וּצוּ מַעְיְנֹתֶ֣י⁠ךָ ח֑וּצָ⁠ה בָּ֝⁠רְחֹב֗וֹת פַּלְגֵי־מָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

In both clauses, Solomon is using a polite way to refer to a man having sex with women who are not his wife as if he were allowing his springs or water to flow in public places. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more polite way of referring to this in your language, or you could express the meaning plainly. See the discussion of euphemisms in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “Should you sleep with other women, sleeping with them openly”

outside, … in the open areas

Quote: ח֑וּצָ⁠ה & בָּ֝⁠רְחֹב֗וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, outside and open areas refer to public places where there are many people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “out into public streets … in public places”

Proverbs 5:17

Let them be

Quote: יִֽהְיוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them refers to the “springs” and “channels of water” mentioned in the previous verse, which are euphemisms for sexual activity. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. See how you translated those euphemisms in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “Let your sexual desires be”

for you, for you alone

Quote: לְ⁠ךָ֥ לְ⁠בַדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The phrases for you and for you alone mean the same thing. Solomon is using the two phrases together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “for only you alone”

Proverbs 5:18

May your fountain be blessed

Quote: יְהִֽי־מְקוֹרְ⁠ךָ֥ בָר֑וּךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause is a command like the command to be glad in the next clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Be blessed by your fountain”

May your fountain be blessed

Quote: יְהִֽי־מְקוֹרְ⁠ךָ֥ בָר֑וּךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of his son’s wife as if she were a fountain by which his son should be blessed. Here the word blessed refers to experiencing joy or sexual pleasure. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “May you experience joy with your wife”

from the wife of your youth

Quote: מֵ⁠אֵ֥שֶׁת נְעוּרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the wife whom his son married while he was in his youth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from the wife whom you married in your youth”

your youth

Quote: נְעוּרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun youth in 2:17.

Proverbs 5:19

A doe of loves and a mountain goat of grace

Quote: אַיֶּ֥לֶת אֲהָבִ֗ים וְֽ⁠יַעֲלַ֫ת־חֵ֥ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of how beautiful the “wife of your youth” is as if she were a doe of loves and a mountain goat of grace. The Israelites considered these two animals to be symbols of physical beauty and graceful movements. If it would be helpful in your language or it would not be appropriate in your language to compare a woman to an animal, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “She is as beautiful as a doe of loves and as graceful as a goat of grace”

A doe of loves

Quote: אַיֶּ֥לֶת אֲהָבִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon uses the possessive form to describe a doe that is characterized by loves. The word loves is plural here for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could indicate this with a different expression. Alternate translation: “A very lovely doe”

and a mountain goat of grace

Quote: וְֽ⁠יַעֲלַ֫ת־חֵ֥ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon uses the possessive form to describe a mountain goat that is characterized by grace. If it would be helpful in your language, you could indicate this with a different expression. Alternate translation: “a graceful mountain goat”

may her breasts drench you

Quote: דַּ֭דֶּי⁠הָ יְרַוֻּ֣⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a wife’s breasts satisfying her husband’s sexual desires as they would satisfy the thirst of a hungry baby. Here, drench refers to giving a baby a satisfying amount of milk. If it would be helpful in your language or if it would be offensive in your language to refer to breasts, then you could use a more general expression. Alternate translation: “may her breasts fill you with delight as a mother’s breasts fill her child with food” or “may she satisfy your sexual desires”

may you continually stagger

Quote: תִּשְׁגֶּ֥ה תָמִֽיד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the exhilarating delight of the love that a man should have for his wife as if he were staggering like an intoxicated person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “may you continually revel”

Proverbs 5:20

And why would you stagger, my son, with a strange woman, or embrace the bosom of a foreign woman

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֤⁠מָּה תִשְׁגֶּ֣ה בְנִ֣⁠י בְ⁠זָרָ֑ה וּ֝⁠תְחַבֵּ֗ק חֵ֣ק נָכְרִיָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Solomon is using the question form to emphasize the a man should not commit adultery. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “And you should not stagger, my son, with a strange woman, or embrace the bosom of a foreign woman!”

And why would you stagger, my son, with a strange woman, or embrace the bosom of a foreign woman

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֤⁠מָּה תִשְׁגֶּ֣ה בְנִ֣⁠י בְ⁠זָרָ֑ה וּ֝⁠תְחַבֵּ֗ק חֵ֣ק נָכְרִיָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some words in the second clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the first clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “And why would you stagger, my son, with a strange woman, or why would you embrace the bosom of a foreign woman”

would you stagger

Quote: תִשְׁגֶּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of stagger in the previous verse.

with a strange woman, … a foreign woman

Quote: בְ⁠זָרָ֑ה & נָכְרִיָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated strange woman and foreign woman in 2:16.

Proverbs 5:21

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here introduces the reason for obeying the commands stated in 5:15–20. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “Do not commit adultery because”

in front of the eyes of Yahweh {are} the ways of a man, and all of his paths he observes

Quote: נֹ֨כַח ׀ עֵינֵ֣י יְ֭הוָה דַּרְכֵי־אִ֑ישׁ וְֽ⁠כָל־מַעְגְּלֹתָ֥י⁠ו מְפַלֵּֽס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “in front of the eyes of Yahweh are the ways of a man, yes, all of his paths he observes”

in front of the eyes of Yahweh {are} … he observes

Quote: נֹ֨כַח ׀ עֵינֵ֣י יְ֭הוָה & מְפַלֵּֽס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of Yahweh knowing what people do as if everything people do is in front of his eyes or is what he observes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is fully aware of … he is fully aware of”

the ways of … his paths

Quote: דַּרְכֵי & מַעְגְּלֹתָ֥י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of ways and paths in 3:6.

a man, … his paths

Quote: אִ֑ישׁ &מַעְגְּלֹתָ֥י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the terms man and his are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “a person … that person’s paths”

Proverbs 5:22

His iniquities capture him, the wicked one; and by the cords of his sin he is grasped

Quote: עַֽווֹנוֹתָ֗י⁠ו יִלְכְּדֻ⁠נ֥וֹ אֶת־הָ⁠רָשָׁ֑ע וּ⁠בְ⁠חַבְלֵ֥י חַ֝טָּאת֗⁠וֹ יִתָּמֵֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

His in this verse refers to the wicked one mentioned in the first clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The iniquities of the wicked one capture him; and by the cords of the wicked one’s sin he is grasped”

His iniquities capture him, the wicked one; and by the cords of his sin he is grasped

Quote: עַֽווֹנוֹתָ֗י⁠ו יִלְכְּדֻ⁠נ֥וֹ אֶת־הָ⁠רָשָׁ֑ע וּ⁠בְ⁠חַבְלֵ֥י חַ֝טָּאת֗⁠וֹ יִתָּמֵֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the terms His, him, and he are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “The wicked person’s iniquities capture that person; and by the cords of that person’s sins that person is grasped”

His iniquities capture him, … and by the cords of his sin he is grasped

Quote: עַֽווֹנוֹתָ֗י⁠ו יִלְכְּדֻ⁠נ֥וֹ & וּ⁠בְ⁠חַבְלֵ֥י חַ֝טָּאת֗⁠וֹ יִתָּמֵֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, Solomon speaks of a wicked person being unable to avoid the consequences of his iniquities and sin as if those iniquities and sin were people who could capture or grasp that person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “He will not escape being punished for his iniquities … and he is trapped because of the cords of his sin”

His iniquities … his sin

Quote: עַֽווֹנוֹתָ֗י⁠ו & חַ֝טָּאת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of iniquities and sin, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “The iniquitous things he does … the sinful things he does”

and by the cords of his sin he is grasped

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠חַבְלֵ֥י חַ֝טָּאת֗⁠וֹ יִתָּמֵֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and the cords of his sin grasp him”

and by the cords of his sin

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠חַבְלֵ֥י חַ֝טָּאת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the cords that are sin. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “and by the cords, that is, his sin,”

Proverbs 5:23

He … and in the abundance of his folly he staggers

Quote: ה֗וּא & וּ⁠בְ⁠רֹ֖ב אִוַּלְתּ֣⁠וֹ יִשְׁגֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the terms He and his are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “That person … and in the abundance of that person’s folly that person staggers”

because there is no correction; and in the abundance of his folly

Quote: בְּ⁠אֵ֣ין מוּסָ֑ר וּ⁠בְ⁠רֹ֖ב אִוַּלְתּ֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of correction, abundance, and folly, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “because he is not corrected; and in how abundantly foolish he is”

he staggers

Quote: יִשְׁגֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a person behaving in a sinful manner that will cause him to die as if he were staggering like an intoxicated person who gets lost. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he loses his way” or “he behaves recklessly”

Proverbs 6

Proverbs 6 General Notes

Structure and formatting

2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)
   • Wisdom prevents people from committing crime or adultery (2:1–22)
   • Humbly trust Yahweh (3:1–12)
   • The value of wisdom (3:13–20)
   • Do not act wickedly (3:21–35)
   • Wisdom will benefit you (4:1–9)
   • Behave wisely and avoid those who do not (4:10–19)
   • Live righteously (4:20–27)
   • Avoid temptation to commit adultery (5:1–23)
   • Practical warnings (6:1–19)
   • Adultery will be punished (6:20–35)

Special concepts in this chapter

My Son

Occasionally, Solomon addresses a series of proverbs to “my son” or “sons.” This does not mean that those proverbs only apply to males. Instead, these phrases are forms used to pass on advice from a father to his son, and the kind of advice in these proverbs is about common temptations of young men.

Adulterous women

This chapter repeatedly warns young men to avoid any adulterous woman, who is called “strange” and “foreign.” (See: порушувати подружню вірність)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical questions

In 6:9, 27, 28, the author uses rhetorical questions to emphasize the importance of what he is saying. (See: Риторический вопрос)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Animals used as examples

In this chapter, the gazelle, bird, and ant have certain characteristics which the author uses to teach about wisdom. If your language does not recognize those animals as being wise, you could add a footnote to explain or possibly substitute other animals from your culture that would help explain the same concept.

Proverbs 6:1

if

Quote: אִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Here, if indicates that Solomon is using a hypothetical situation to teach his son. This verse and the next verse are one long conditional sentence. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a situation that could happen. Alternate translation: “suppose”

if you pledge for your neighbor

Quote: אִם־עָרַ֣בְתָּ לְ⁠רֵעֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that the pledge is a promise to pay back a loan of money for your neighbor if he is unable to pay back the loan himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “if you promise to pay back the loan for your neighbor when he is unable to pay it”

you clasp your palms for a stranger

Quote: תָּקַ֖עְתָּ לַ⁠זָּ֣ר כַּפֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply the word from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “if you clasp your palms for a stranger”

you clasp your palms

Quote: תָּקַ֖עְתָּ & כַּפֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The function of this action in this culture was to confirm a contractual agreement with someone. If there is a gesture with similar meaning in your culture, you could consider using it here in your translation, or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you shake hands to confirm an agreement” or “you confirm an agreement”

Proverbs 6:2

you are ensnared by the sayings of your mouth, you are caught by the sayings of your mouth

Quote: נוֹקַ֥שְׁתָּ בְ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִ֑י⁠ךָ נִ֝לְכַּ֗דְתָּ בְּ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “you are ensnared by the sayings of your mouth, yes, you are caught by the sayings of your mouth”

you are ensnared by the sayings of your mouth, you are caught by the sayings of your mouth

Quote: נוֹקַ֥שְׁתָּ בְ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִ֑י⁠ךָ נִ֝לְכַּ֗דְתָּ בְּ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

In both of these clauses, Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply the word from the first clause of the previous verse if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “if you are ensnared by the sayings of your mouth, if you are caught by the sayings of your mouth”

you are ensnared by the sayings of your mouth, you are caught by the sayings of your mouth

Quote: נוֹקַ֥שְׁתָּ בְ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִ֑י⁠ךָ נִ֝לְכַּ֗דְתָּ בְּ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active forms or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the sayings of your mouth ensnared you, the sayings of your mouth caught you”

you are ensnared by the sayings of your mouth, you are caught by the sayings of your mouth

Quote: נוֹקַ֥שְׁתָּ בְ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִ֑י⁠ךָ נִ֝לְכַּ֗דְתָּ בְּ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In these clauses, Solomon refers to someone getting into trouble because of what he said as if his sayings were a trap that could ensnare or catch him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “if you get into trouble by the sayings of your mouth, if you encounter difficulty by the sayings of your mouth”

by the sayings of your mouth, … by the sayings of your mouth

Quote: בְ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִ֑י⁠ךָ & בְּ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, mouth represents the ensnared or caught person himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “by your sayings … by your sayings”

Proverbs 6:3

then do this

Quote: עֲשֵׂ֨ה זֹ֥את אֵפ֪וֹא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, then indicates that what follows is what someone should do if the hypothetical conditions stated in the previous two verses take place. Use the most natural way to express this in your language. Alternate translation: “then do this in response”

and rescue yourself

Quote: וְֽ⁠הִנָּצֵ֗ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, and indicates that what follows is the purpose for doing what Solomon commands his son to do in this verse. Use a connector in your language that indicates a purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of rescuing yourself”

and rescue yourself

Quote: וְֽ⁠הִנָּצֵ֗ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that his son should rescue himself from his obligation to fulfill the promise referred to in 6:1–2. If it would be helpful in your language, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and rescue yourself from your obligation”

you have come into the palm of your neighbor

Quote: בָ֤אתָ בְ⁠כַף־רֵעֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of his son being controlled by his neighbor as if he had come into the palm of his neighbor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your neighbor has power over you”

and press

Quote: וּ⁠רְהַ֥ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of his son begging his neighbor as if he were pressing him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and plead with”

and press your neighbor

Quote: וּ⁠רְהַ֥ב רֵעֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that his son should press his neighbor to free him from his obligation to fulfill the promise referred to in 6:1–2. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and press your neighbor to release you from your obligation”

Proverbs 6:4

Do not give sleep to your eyes and slumber to your eyelids

Quote: אַל־תִּתֵּ֣ן שֵׁנָ֣ה לְ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ וּ֝⁠תְנוּמָ֗ה לְ⁠עַפְעַפֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words in the second clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the first clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Do not give sleep to your eyes and do not give slumber to your eyelids”

Do not give sleep to your eyes and slumber to your eyelids

Quote: אַל־תִּתֵּ֣ן שֵׁנָ֣ה לְ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ וּ֝⁠תְנוּמָ֗ה לְ⁠עַפְעַפֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Do not give sleep to your eyes, yes, do not give slumber to your eyelids”

Do not give sleep to your eyes and slumber to your eyelids

Quote: אַל־תִּתֵּ֣ן שֵׁנָ֣ה לְ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ וּ֝⁠תְנוּמָ֗ה לְ⁠עַפְעַפֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Solomon is speaking of allowing oneself to sleep and slumber as if they were objects that one could give to oneself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Do not let your eyes sleep or your eyelids slumber”

Do not give sleep

Quote: אַל־תִּתֵּ֣ן שֵׁנָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon implies that this person should not allow himself to sleep until he goes to his neighbor to get out of the agreement. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Until you rescue yourself from this problem, do not give sleep”

to your eyes … to your eyelids

Quote: לְ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ & לְ⁠עַפְעַפֶּֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, Solomon is using eyes and eyelids to refer to one’s whole body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to yourself … to yourself”

Proverbs 6:5

Rescue yourself like a gazelle from a hand, and like a bird from the hand of the trapper

Quote: הִ֭נָּצֵל כִּ⁠צְבִ֣י מִ⁠יָּ֑ד וּ֝⁠כְ⁠צִפּ֗וֹר מִ⁠יַּ֥ד יָקֽוּשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Rescue yourself like a gazelle would rescue itself from a hand, and rescue yourself like a bird would rescue itself from the hand of the trapper”

Rescue yourself like a gazelle from a hand, and like a bird from the hand of the trapper

Quote: הִ֭נָּצֵל כִּ⁠צְבִ֣י מִ⁠יָּ֑ד וּ֝⁠כְ⁠צִפּ֗וֹר מִ⁠יַּ֥ד יָקֽוּשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Rescue yourself like a gazelle from a hand, yes, rescue yourself like a bird from the hand of the trapper”

like a gazelle … and like a bird

Quote: כִּ⁠צְבִ֣י & וּ֝⁠כְ⁠צִפּ֗וֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon is saying that the person should act like a gazelle and a bird because both of those animals are wise enough to flee from hunters quickly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “quickly, like a gazelle … and quickly, like a bird”

like a gazelle

Quote: כִּ⁠צְבִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A gazelle is a land animal that is known for running quickly and gracefully. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of animal, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “like an animal that runs quickly”

Proverbs 6:6

Go to the ant

Quote: לֵֽךְ־אֶל־נְמָלָ֥ה (1)

Go here implies going for the purpose of looking at the ant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Go and observe the ant”

the ant

Quote: נְמָלָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word ant represents ants in general, not one particular ant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “ants”

the ant

Quote: נְמָלָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

An ant is a small insect that lives underground in large groups. Ants are known for diligently working together to collect food and maintain their nests. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of insect, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “the hard-working insect”

See

Quote: רְאֵ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See here means to observe for the purpose of learning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “See and learn”

its ways

Quote: דְרָכֶ֣י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of ways in 3:6.

and be wise

Quote: וַ⁠חֲכָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, and indicates that what follows is the purpose for doing what Solomon commands his son to do in this verse. Use a connector in your language that makes indicates a purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of becoming wise”

Proverbs 6:7

a commander, officer, or ruler

Quote: קָצִ֗ין שֹׁטֵ֥ר וּ⁠מֹשֵֽׁל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These three words mean basically the same thing and are used to emphasize that no one commands ants to work diligently. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “any ruler whatsoever”

Proverbs 6:8

prepares

Quote: תָּכִ֣ין (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

The idea in this verse is contrary to what one would expect after knowing the information in the previous verse. Indicate this contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but prepares”

prepares its bread in the summer; it gathers its food in the harvest

Quote: תָּכִ֣ין בַּ⁠קַּ֣יִץ לַחְמָ֑⁠הּ אָגְרָ֥ה בַ֝⁠קָּצִ֗יר מַאֲכָלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “prepares its bread in the summer; yes, it gathers its food in the harvest”

prepares … it gathers

Quote: תָּכִ֣ין & אָגְרָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, prepares and gathers refer to collecting and storing food for winter, the time when food is scarce. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “acquires … it stockpiles”

its bread … it gathers its food

Quote: לַחְמָ֑⁠הּ אָגְרָ֥ה & מַאֲכָלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, its refers to “the ant” mentioned in 6:7, which is a collective word for ants in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the ant’s bread … the ant gathers its food” or “the ants’ bread … the ants gather their food”

in the summer; … in the harvest

Quote: בַּ⁠קַּ֣יִץ & בַ֝⁠קָּצִ֗יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In the place where this book was written, summer is the time of year when people harvest crops. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the time for harvesting crops … in the harvesting time”

Proverbs 6:9

Until when, lazy one, will you lie down? When will you rise from your sleep

Quote: עַד־מָתַ֖י עָצֵ֥ל ׀ תִּשְׁכָּ֑ב מָ֝תַ֗י תָּק֥וּם מִ⁠שְּׁנָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Solomon is using the question form twice in this verse for emphasis. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “You should stop lying down! You should rise from your sleep!”

will you lie down

Quote: תִּשְׁכָּ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase lie down implies that the person has been lying on a bed to sleep. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will you sleep in your bed”

will you rise from your sleep

Quote: תָּק֥וּם מִ⁠שְּׁנָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to waking up as if a person were rising up from sleep. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will you wake up”

Proverbs 6:10

A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to lie down

Quote: מְעַ֣ט שֵׁ֭נוֹת מְעַ֣ט תְּנוּמ֑וֹת מְעַ֓ט ׀ חִבֻּ֖ק יָדַ֣יִם לִ⁠שְׁכָּֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

This verse is a quotation of what the “lazy one” might say. If it would be helpful in your language, you could indicate this with quotation marks or with whatever other punctuation or convention your language uses to indicate a quotation.

A little sleep, a little slumber

Quote: מְעַ֣ט שֵׁ֭נוֹת מְעַ֣ט תְּנוּמ֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The lazy person is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Let me have a little more sleep; let me have a little more slumber”

A little sleep, a little slumber

Quote: מְעַ֣ט שֵׁ֭נוֹת מְעַ֣ט תְּנוּמ֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean the same thing. The lazy person is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “Just a little more sleep”

a little folding of the hands to lie down

Quote: מְעַ֓ט ׀ חִבֻּ֖ק יָדַ֣יִם לִ⁠שְׁכָּֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to an action that people often do in order to rest more comfortably when they lie down to sleep. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a little folding of the hands comfortably to lie down and sleep”

Proverbs 6:11

and your poverty will come like one who walks and your lack like a man of shield

Quote: וּ⁠בָֽא־כִ⁠מְהַלֵּ֥ךְ רֵאשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ וּ֝⁠מַחְסֹֽרְ⁠ךָ֗ כְּ⁠אִ֣ישׁ מָגֵֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and your poverty will come like one who walks and your need will come like a man of shield”

and your poverty will come like one who walks and your lack like a man of shield

Quote: וּ⁠בָֽא־כִ⁠מְהַלֵּ֥ךְ רֵאשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ וּ֝⁠מַחְסֹֽרְ⁠ךָ֗ כְּ⁠אִ֣ישׁ מָגֵֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “and your poverty will come like one who walks, yes, your need will come like a man of shield”

and your poverty will come

Quote: וּ⁠בָֽא & רֵאשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of what the lazy person does and says in the two previous verses. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate results. Alternate translation: “and all this will cause your poverty to come”

your poverty … and your lack

Quote: רֵאשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ וּ֝⁠מַחְסֹֽרְ⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of poverty and need, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “you being poor … and you being needy”

and your poverty will come

Quote: וּ⁠בָֽא & רֵאשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of experiencing poverty as if it were a person who could come to someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and you will experience poverty”

like one who walks

Quote: כִ⁠מְהַלֵּ֥ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the phrase one who walks refers to a robber. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “like a robber”

like one who walks

Quote: כִ⁠מְהַלֵּ֥ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, Solomon speaks of how suddenly a lazy person becomes poor as if poverty were a robber who unexpectedly steals everything the person owns. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “abruptly”

like a man of

Quote: כְּ⁠אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the phrase a man of shield refers to a robber with weapons. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “like a robber with weapons” or “like an armed man”

like a man of shield

Quote: כְּ⁠אִ֣ישׁ מָגֵֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, Solomon speaks of how suddenly a lazy person becomes needy as if need were a robber with weapons who steals everything the person owns. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “abruptly”

Proverbs 6:12

A man of worthlessness, a man of iniquity

Quote: אָדָ֣ם בְּ֭לִיַּעַל אִ֣ישׁ אָ֑וֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The phrases man of worthlessness and man of iniquity mean the same thing. Solomon is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “A completely useless man”

A man of worthlessness, a man of iniquity

Quote: אָדָ֣ם בְּ֭לִיַּעַל אִ֣ישׁ אָ֑וֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a man that is characterized by worthless and iniquity. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A worthless man, an iniquitous man”

A man of … a man of

Quote: אָדָ֣ם & אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “A person of … a person of”

is} one who walks

Quote: ה֝וֹלֵ֗ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar use of “walking” in 2:7.

with} perversity of mouth

Quote: עִקְּשׁ֥וּת פֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in 4:24.

Proverbs 6:13

one who winks with his eye, one who rubs with his foot, one who points with his fingers

Quote: קֹרֵ֣ץ בְּ֭⁠עֵינָ⁠ו מֹלֵ֣ל בְּ⁠רַגְלָ֑⁠ו מֹ֝רֶ֗ה בְּ⁠אֶצְבְּעֹתָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous verse if it would be clearer in your language. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “He is one who winks with his eye, one who rubs with his foot, and one who points with his fingers”

one who winks with his eye, one who rubs with his foot, one who points with his fingers

Quote: קֹרֵ֣ץ בְּ֭⁠עֵינָ⁠ו מֹלֵ֣ל בְּ⁠רַגְלָ֑⁠ו מֹ֝רֶ֗ה בְּ⁠אֶצְבְּעֹתָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term his is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “one who winks with one’s eye, one who rubs with one’s foot, one who points with one’s fingers”

one who winks with his eye, one who rubs with his foot, one who points with his fingers

Quote: קֹרֵ֣ץ בְּ֭⁠עֵינָ⁠ו מֹלֵ֣ל בְּ⁠רַגְלָ֑⁠ו מֹ֝רֶ֗ה בְּ⁠אֶצְבְּעֹתָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

These three clauses refer to actions that someone uses when deceiving people. If this would not be clear to your readers, you could explain the significance of these actions in the text or in a footnote. Alternate translation: “one who winks with his eye, rubs with his foot, and points with his fingers to deceive people”

Proverbs 6:14

Perverse things {are} in his heart, plotting evil on every occasion

Quote: תַּֽהְפֻּכ֨וֹת ׀ בְּ⁠לִבּ֗⁠וֹ חֹרֵ֣שׁ רָ֣ע בְּ⁠כָל־עֵ֑ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

These two clauses are describing two situations that are occurring at the same time. You can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “Perverse things are in his heart while he plots evil on every occasion”

are} in his heart, … he sends forth

Quote: בְּ⁠לִבּ֗⁠וֹ & יְשַׁלֵּֽחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the terms his and he are masculine, Solomon is using the words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “are in that person’s heart … that person sends forth”

are} in his heart

Quote: בְּ⁠לִבּ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

evil

Quote: רָ֣ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns evil in 1:16.

he sends forth quarrels

Quote: מדנים יְשַׁלֵּֽחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of quarrels as if they were objects that a person sends forth. He means that this person causes other people to quarrel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he causes people to quarrel”

Proverbs 6:15

his calamity … he will be broken

Quote: אֵיד֑⁠וֹ & יִ֝שָּׁבֵ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the terms his and he are masculine, Solomon is using the words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “that person’s calamity … that person will be broken”

his calamity

Quote: אֵיד֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun calamity in 1:26.

will come

Quote: יָב֣וֹא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of calamity occurring as if it were a person who could come to someone else. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will occur”

he will be broken

Quote: יִ֝שָּׁבֵ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “his calamity will break him”

and without healing

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֣ין מַרְפֵּֽא (1)

Alternate translation: “and he will not heal”

Proverbs 6:16

Six {are} they Yahweh hates, and seven {are} abominations to his self

Quote: שֶׁשׁ־הֵ֭נָּה שָׂנֵ֣א יְהוָ֑ה וְ֝⁠שֶׁ֗בַע תועבות נַפְשֽׁ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

To make a comprehensive statement, Solomon is using a rhetorical device in which the speaker names a number that should be sufficient to illustrate his point and then increases that number by one for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh absolutely hates these seven things, and they are abominations to his self”

Six {… and seven

Quote: שֶׁשׁ & וְ֝⁠שֶׁ֗בַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Solomon is using the adjectives Six and seven as nouns to mean six and seven things. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “Six things … and seven things”

are} abominations to

Quote: תועבות (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of abominations, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “are abominable to”

his self

Quote: נַפְשֽׁ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, self refers to Yahweh himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “him”

Proverbs 6:17

uplifted eyes

Quote: עֵינַ֣יִם רָ֭מוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to pride as uplifted eyes, which is a characteristic facial expression of proud people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “pride”

a tongue of falsehood

Quote: לְשׁ֣וֹן שָׁ֑קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a tongue that is characterized by falsehood. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a false tongue”

a tongue of falsehood

Quote: לְשׁ֣וֹן שָׁ֑קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, tongue represents what a person says. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “speech of falsehood”

and hands

Quote: וְ֝⁠יָדַ֗יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, hands refers to the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and people”

pouring out innocent blood

Quote: שֹׁפְכ֥וֹת דָּם־נָקִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated a similar phrase in 1:16.

Proverbs 6:18

a heart … feet

Quote: לֵ֗ב & רַגְלַ֥יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, heart and feet refer to a whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “people … people”

plans of iniquity

Quote: מַחְשְׁב֣וֹת אָ֑וֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe plans that are characterized by iniquity. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “iniquitous plans”

iniquity, … to evil

Quote: אָ֑וֶן & לָֽ⁠רָעָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns iniquity in 6:12 and evil in 1:16.

hurrying to run to evil

Quote: מְ֝מַהֲר֗וֹת לָ⁠ר֥וּץ לָֽ⁠רָעָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, Solomon speaks of being eager to do evil as if evil were a place that a person could run to. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “eager to do evil”

Proverbs 6:19

a witness of falsehood

Quote: עֵ֣ד שָׁ֑קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a witness that is characterized by falsehood. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a false witness”

who breathes out lies

Quote: יָפִ֣יחַ כְּ֭זָבִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of someone who lies easily as if that person breathes out lies. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “easily lies”

and who sends forth quarrels

Quote: וּ⁠מְשַׁלֵּ֥חַ מְ֝דָנִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated sends forth quarrels in 6:14.

brothers

Quote: אַחִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term brothers is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “family members”

Proverbs 6:20

Guard, my son, the commandment of your father and do not forsake the law of your mother

Quote: נְצֹ֣ר בְּ֭נִ⁠י מִצְוַ֣ת אָבִ֑י⁠ךָ וְ⁠אַל־תִּ֝טֹּ֗שׁ תּוֹרַ֥ת אִמֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Guard, my son, the commandment of your father, yes, do not forsake the law of your mother”

Guard

Quote: נְצֹ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a commandment as if it were an object that someone should Guard. He means that he wants his son to remember to do what he has commanded him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated a similar use of guard in 3:21. Alternate translation: “Remember to practice”

and do not forsake the law of your mother

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תִּ֝טֹּ֗שׁ תּוֹרַ֥ת אִמֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

See how you translated this clause in 1:8.

Proverbs 6:21

Bind them on your heart continually; tie them around your neck

Quote: קָשְׁרֵ֣⁠ם עַל־לִבְּ⁠ךָ֣ תָמִ֑יד עָ֝נְדֵ֗⁠ם עַל־גַּרְגְּרֹתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word that shows that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Bind them on your heart continually; yes, tie them around your neck”

Bind them on your heart

Quote: קָשְׁרֵ֣⁠ם עַל־לִבְּ⁠ךָ֣ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Solomon is speaking of remembering his commands as if they were objects that people could bind on their hearts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Remember them”

tie them around your neck

Quote: עָ֝נְדֵ֗⁠ם עַל־גַּרְגְּרֹתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon is speaking of remembering his commands as if they were objects that people could tie around their necks. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “remember them”

Proverbs 6:22

When you walk about, it will guide you; when you lie down, it will preserve you; and you will wake up, it will converse with you

Quote: בְּ⁠הִתְהַלֶּכְ⁠ךָ֨ ׀ תַּנְחֶ֬ה אֹתָ֗⁠ךְ בְּֽ֭⁠שָׁכְבְּ⁠ךָ תִּשְׁמֹ֣ר עָלֶ֑י⁠ךָ וַ֝⁠הֲקִיצ֗וֹתָ הִ֣יא תְשִׂיחֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, Solomon speaks of the lessons he called “the command” and “the teaching” in 6:20 as if they were a person who could guide, preserve, and converse with a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use similes. Alternate translation: “When you walk about, it will enable you to know what to do; when you lie down, it will enable you to be safe; and you will wake up, it will be advice for you” or “When you walk about, it will be like a guide for you; when you lie down, it will be like someone who preserves you; and you will wake up, it will be like someone who converses with you”

When you walk about

Quote: בְּ⁠הִתְהַלֶּכְ⁠ךָ֨ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, walk about refers to doing one’s daily activities. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “When you do your daily activities”

when you lie down

Quote: בְּֽ֭⁠שָׁכְבְּ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the same use of lie down in 3:24.

Proverbs 6:23

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for what came before. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “This is because”

the commandment {is} a lamp and the law {is} a light

Quote: נֵ֣ר מִ֭צְוָה וְ⁠ת֣וֹרָה א֑וֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word other than and that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “the commandment is a lamp, yes, the law is a light”

the commandment {… and the law

Quote: מִ֭צְוָה וְ⁠ת֣וֹרָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the commandment and the law could refer to: (1) the commands of the father and mother, which are referred to in the previous two verses. Alternate translation: “my commandments … and your mother’s law” (2) good commandments and laws in general. Alternate translation: “what people command … and the rules people make”

the commandment

Quote: מִ֭צְוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Solomon is speaking of commandments in general, not of one particular commandment. If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “the commandments”

the commandment

Quote: מִ֭צְוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun “commandments” in 2:1.

is} a lamp … is} a light

Quote: נֵ֣ר & א֑וֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the commandment and law enabling people to understand how to live as if they were a lamp and a light that shows people the path in front of them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “enables one to understand … enables one to perceive”

and the law

Quote: וְ⁠ת֣וֹרָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated this use of law in 1:8.

the rebukes of instruction

Quote: תּוֹכְח֥וֹת מוּסָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns “rebuke” in 1:25 and instruction in 1:2.

the rebukes of instruction

Quote: תּוֹכְח֥וֹת מוּסָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe rebukes that are included in instruction. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the rebukes that come from instruction”

and … are} the way of life

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֥רֶךְ חַ֝יִּ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the way that results in life. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “and … the way that results in life”

and … are} the way of

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֥רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses way to refer to how people behave. See how you translated this use of way in 1:15.

Proverbs 6:24

to keep you

Quote: לִ֭⁠שְׁמָרְ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates that what follows is the purpose for the “commandments,” “law,” and “rebukes of instruction” referred to in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes indicates a purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of keeping you”

from a woman of evil

Quote: מֵ⁠אֵ֣שֶׁת רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a woman who is characterized by evil. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “from an evil woman”

from the smoothness of the tongue of

Quote: מֵֽ֝⁠חֶלְקַ֗ת לָשׁ֥וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the seductive speech of an adulterous woman as if it were the smoothness of the tongue. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the seductive speech of”

a foreign woman

Quote: נָכְרִיָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of foreign woman in 2:16.

Proverbs 6:25

her beauty

Quote: יָ֭פְיָ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of beauty, you could express the same idea in another way, as in the UST.

in your heart

Quote: בִּ⁠לְבָבֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

and do not let her take you

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תִּ֝קָּֽחֲ⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to a woman seducing a man as if she could take him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and do not let her tempt you”

with her eyelashes

Quote: בְּ⁠עַפְעַפֶּֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to a woman using her eyelashes to look more attractive and seduce a man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly or use an expression that has the same meaning in your language. Alternate translation: “by glancing seductively”

Proverbs 6:26

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for the commands in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Do not do those things because”

the price of a prostitute woman

Quote: בְעַד־אִשָּׁ֥ה זוֹנָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to refer to the price that a person pays to have sex with a prostitute woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly or use a euphemism for this idea. Alternate translation: “the price to sleep with a prostitute woman”

a loaf of bread

Quote: כִּכַּ֫ר לָ֥חֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

In this culture, a loaf of bread was inexpensive daily food. A loaf of bread is a lump of flour dough that a person has shaped and baked. If your readers would not be familiar with bread should could use the name of an inexpensive food that is commonly eaten in your country or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “inexpensive food”

but the wife of a man

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֥שֶׁת אִ֑ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that this wife of a man is an adulterous woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but a married woman who commits adultery”

hunts a precious life

Quote: נֶ֖פֶשׁ יְקָרָ֣ה תָצֽוּד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a adulterous woman causing the man she commits adultery with to die as if she hunts him the way a hunter hunts an animal. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “kills a precious life”

Proverbs 6:27

Could a man carry a fire on his chest and his clothes not be burned

Quote: הֲ⁠יַחְתֶּ֤ה אִ֓ישׁ אֵ֬שׁ בְּ⁠חֵיק֑⁠וֹ וּ֝⁠בְגָדָ֗י⁠ו לֹ֣א תִשָּׂרַֽפְנָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Solomon is using the question form to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “Surely a man could not carry a fire on his chest and his clothes not be burned!”

Proverbs 6:27-28

Could a man carry a fire on his chest and his clothes not be burned … If a man walks on coals then will his feet not be scorched

Quote: הֲ⁠יַחְתֶּ֤ה אִ֓ישׁ אֵ֬שׁ בְּ⁠חֵיק֑⁠וֹ וּ֝⁠בְגָדָ֗י⁠ו לֹ֣א תִשָּׂרַֽפְנָה׃ & אִם־יְהַלֵּ֣ךְ אִ֭ישׁ עַל־הַ⁠גֶּחָלִ֑ים וְ֝⁠רַגְלָ֗י⁠ו לֹ֣א תִכָּוֶֽינָה׃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Could a man carry a fire on his chest and his clothes not be burned? Indeed, if a man walks on coals then will his feet not be scorched?”

Proverbs 6:27

Could a man carry a fire on his chest and his clothes not be burned

Quote: הֲ⁠יַחְתֶּ֤ה אִ֓ישׁ אֵ֬שׁ בְּ⁠חֵיק֑⁠וֹ וּ֝⁠בְגָדָ֗י⁠ו לֹ֣א תִשָּׂרַֽפְנָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here, Solomon is referring to the negative consequences of committing adultery as if a man were burning himself with fire. Since this comparison is explained in 6:29, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

a man … on his chest and his clothes

Quote: אִ֓ישׁ & בְּ⁠חֵיק֑⁠וֹ וּ֝⁠בְגָדָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a man and his do not refer to a specific man. They refer to any person who does this thing. If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “a person … on that person’s chest and that person’s clothes”

and his clothes not be burned

Quote: וּ֝⁠בְגָדָ֗י⁠ו לֹ֣א תִשָּׂרַֽפְנָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and the fire not burn his clothes”

and his clothes

Quote: וּ֝⁠בְגָדָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, clothes refers to the person who is wearing those clothes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and he” or “and that person”

Proverbs 6:28

If a man walks on coals then will his feet not be scorched

Quote: אִם־יְהַלֵּ֣ךְ אִ֭ישׁ עַל־הַ⁠גֶּחָלִ֑ים וְ֝⁠רַגְלָ֗י⁠ו לֹ֣א תִכָּוֶֽינָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Solomon is using the question form to emphasize the truth of what he is saying. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “Surely if a man walks on coals, then his feet will be scorched!”

If a man walks on coals then will his feet not be scorched

Quote: אִם־יְהַלֵּ֣ךְ אִ֭ישׁ עַל־הַ⁠גֶּחָלִ֑ים וְ֝⁠רַגְלָ֗י⁠ו לֹ֣א תִכָּוֶֽינָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Here, Solomon is referring to the negative consequences of committing adultery as if a man were burning himself with coals. Since this comparison is explained in 6:29, you do not need to explain its meaning further here.

a man … then will his feet not be scorched

Quote: אִ֭ישׁ & וְ֝⁠רַגְלָ֗י⁠ו לֹ֣א תִכָּוֶֽינָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a man and his do not refer to a specific man. They refer to any person who does this thing. If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “a person … then will that person’s feet not be scorched”

coals

Quote: הַ⁠גֶּחָלִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, coals refers to small pieces of burning wood that are often used for cooking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “burning wood pieces”

Proverbs 6:29

So

Quote: כֵּ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

So here indicates that what follows explains the meaning of the statements made in the previous two verses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a fuller expression. Alternate translation: “In the same situation”

is the one going to … one who touches her

Quote: הַ֭⁠בָּא אֶל & הַ⁠נֹּגֵ֥עַ בָּֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

Here, going to and touches both refer to someone having sexual relations with another person. This is a polite way of referring to something that is offensive or embarrassing in some cultures. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to this act or you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the same use of “enter” in 2:19. Alternate translation: “is the one who has sexual relations with … one who has sexual relations with her” or “is the one who sleeps with … one who sleeps with her”

will not remain blameless

Quote: לֹ֥א יִ֝נָּקֶ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Here, Solomon uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “will certainly be guilty”

will not remain blameless

Quote: לֹ֥א יִ֝נָּקֶ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses not remain blameless to refer to the outcome of not being blameless, which is being punished for being guilty. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will not avoid punishment” or “will not remain unpunished”

Proverbs 6:30

They do not despise

Quote: לֹא־יָב֣וּזוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

They here refers to people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “People”

the thief … he steals … his appetite … he is hungry

Quote: לַ֭⁠גַּנָּב & יִגְנ֑וֹב &נַ֝פְשׁ֗⁠וֹ & יִרְעָֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the thief, he, and his do not refer to a specific thief. These words refer to any person who steals. If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “thieves … they steal … their appetites … they are hungry”

he steals

Quote: יִגְנ֑וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context, as in the UST.

his appetite

Quote: נַ֝פְשׁ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of appetite, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “how hungry he is”

Proverbs 6:31

But if he is found, he must repay … his house he must give

Quote: וְ֭⁠נִמְצָא יְשַׁלֵּ֣ם & בֵּית֣⁠וֹ יִתֵּֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, he and his refer to any person who steals, as indicated in the previous verse. If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “But if someone is found … that person must repay … that person’s house that person must give”

But if he is found

Quote: וְ֭⁠נִמְצָא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here. found implies not only discovering the thief but also catching him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “But if he is caught”

But if he is found

Quote: וְ֭⁠נִמְצָא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “But if someone finds him” or “But if someone catches him”

he must repay sevenfold

Quote: יְשַׁלֵּ֣ם שִׁבְעָתָ֑יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause implies that the thief must repay seven times the amount of what he stole to those to whom he stole it from. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he must repay sevenfold the amount of things that he stole to those people he stole them from”

all the wealth of his house

Quote: כָּל־ה֖וֹן בֵּית֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to everything that someone owns. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “all that he owns”

Proverbs 6:32

One who commits adultery

Quote: נֹאֵ֣ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This verse says something that is in contrast to what was said about the thief in the previous two verses. Use a natural way in your language to express a strong contrast. Alternate translation: “However, one who commits adultery”

One who commits adultery

Quote: נֹאֵ֣ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of adultery, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “One who acts adulterously”

is} lacking of heart

Quote: חֲסַר־לֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses heart to refer to a person’s ability to think. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is lacking the ability to think”

destroying his life, he does it

Quote: מַֽשְׁחִ֥ית נַ֝פְשׁ֗⁠וֹ ה֣וּא יַעֲשֶֽׂ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be helpful in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “he does what results in destroying his life”

destroying his life

Quote: מַֽשְׁחִ֥ית נַ֝פְשׁ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause is the result of what is described in the next clause. Use a natural way in your language to indicate a result. Alternate translation: “what will result in destroying his life”

he does it

Quote: ה֣וּא יַעֲשֶֽׂ⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronoun it refers to adultery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he commits adultery”

Proverbs 6:33

He will find a wound and disgrace and his shame will not be wiped out

Quote: נֶֽגַע־וְ⁠קָל֥וֹן יִמְצָ֑א וְ֝⁠חֶרְפָּת֗⁠וֹ לֹ֣א תִמָּחֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon implies that these things will happen to the adulterous man because he committed adultery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Because he committed adultery, he will find a wound and disgrace and his shame will not be wiped out”

He will find a wound and disgrace

Quote: נֶֽגַע־וְ⁠קָל֥וֹן יִמְצָ֑א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the adulterous man receiving a wound and disgrace as if they were objects that a person would find. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “He will receive a wound and disgrace” or “He will become wounded and disgraced”

and disgrace and his shame

Quote: וְ⁠קָל֥וֹן & וְ֝⁠חֶרְפָּת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of disgrace and shame, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “and be disgraced and how shameful he is”

will not be wiped out

Quote: לֹ֣א תִמָּחֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he will never wipe out”

will not be wiped out

Quote: לֹ֣א תִמָּחֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Solomon is using a figure of speech here that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “will always remain”

will not be wiped out

Quote: לֹ֣א תִמָּחֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the adulterous man’s shame never ceasing as if shame were a stain that could not be wiped away. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will not cease”

Proverbs 6:34

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why what Solomon stated in in the previous verse is true. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “This is due to the fact that”

jealousy … vengeance

Quote: קִנְאָ֥ה & נָקָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of jealousy and vengeance, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “being jealous … being avenged”

is the heat of a man

Quote: חֲמַת־גָּ֑בֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, heat refers to extreme anger, which causes the angry person’s body to become hot. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is the rage of a man”

a man, and he will not spare

Quote: גָּ֑בֶר וְ⁠לֹֽא־יַ֝חְמ֗וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, man and he refer to the husband who has just found out that his wife has committed adultery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a husband of an adulterous woman, and that husband will not spare”

and he will not spare

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־יַ֝חְמ֗וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Solomon is using a figure of speech here that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “and he will be merciless”

and he will not spare

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־יַ֝חְמ֗וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and he will not spare the man who slept with his wife”

in the day of vengeance

Quote: בְּ⁠י֣וֹם נָקָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the day when vengeance occurs. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “when vengeance occurs”

Proverbs 6:35

He will not lift up … and he will not be willing

Quote: לֹא־יִ֭שָּׂא & וְ⁠לֹֽא־יֹ֝אבֶ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, the pronoun he refers to the man who has just found out that his wife has committed adultery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The husband of an adulterous wife will not life up … and that husband will not be willing”

He will not lift up the face of

Quote: לֹא־יִ֭שָּׂא פְּנֵ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the phrase lift up the face of is an idiom that means “regard.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “He will not regard”

ransom, … the bribe

Quote: כֹּ֑פֶר & שֹֽׁחַד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the words ransom and bribe refer to money that a man would give to the husband of the woman he has committed adultery with in order to avoid harm or stop the man from being angry. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “money offered to appease him … that money”

and he will not be willing

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־יֹ֝אבֶ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and he will not be willing to be appeased” or “and he will not stop being angry”

Proverbs 7

Proverbs 7 General Notes

Structure and formatting

2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)
   • Wisdom prevents people from committing crime or adultery (2:1–22)
   • Humbly trust Yahweh (3:1–12)
   • The value of wisdom (3:13–20)
   • Do not act wickedly (3:21–35)
   • Wisdom will benefit you (4:1–9)
   • Behave wisely and avoid those who do not (4:10–19)
   • Live righteously (4:20–27)
   • Avoid temptation to commit adultery (5:1–23)
   • Practical warnings (6:1–19)
   • Adultery will be punished (6:20–35)
   • The Story of an Adulterer (7:1–27)

Special concepts in this chapter

My Son

Occasionally, Solomon addresses a series of proverbs to “my son” or “sons.” This does not mean that those proverbs only apply to males. Instead, these phrases are forms used to pass on advice from a father to his son, and the kind of advice in these proverbs is about common temptations of young men.

Adulterous women

This chapter continues the theme about adulterous women and warns young men to avoid any adulterous woman, who is called “strange” and “foreign.” (See: порушувати подружню вірність)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

The historic present

To call attention to developments in the story, Solomon uses the present tense in past narration in 7:8–13 and 21–22. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense in your translation. (See: INVALID translate/translate-tense)

Proverbs 7:1

store up

Quote: תִּצְפֹּ֥ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of store up in 2:1.

and … my commandments

Quote: וּ֝⁠מִצְוֺתַ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun commandments in 2:1.

Proverbs 7:2

Keep my commandments and live

Quote: שְׁמֹ֣ר מִצְוֺתַ֣⁠י וֶ⁠חְיֵ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the same clause in 4:4.

and my law as the pupil of your eyes

Quote: וְ֝⁠תוֹרָתִ֗⁠י כְּ⁠אִישׁ֥וֹן עֵינֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply the word from the first clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and keep my law as the pupil of your eyes”

and my law

Quote: וְ֝⁠תוֹרָתִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated law in 1:8.

as the pupil of your eyes

Quote: כְּ⁠אִישׁ֥וֹן עֵינֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, Solomon refers to his law as if it were the pupil of your eyes. He means that people should value wise rules as much as they value their ability to see and protect their eyes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “as your most valuable possession”

Proverbs 7:3

Tie them on your fingers

Quote: קָשְׁרֵ֥⁠ם עַל־אֶצְבְּעֹתֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of always remembering something, as if what should be remembered were an object tied to the person’s fingers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Remember them at all times”

Tie them … write them

Quote: קָשְׁרֵ֥⁠ם & כָּ֝תְבֵ֗⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, them refers to “my commandments,” which are referred to in the previous two verses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Tie my commandments … write my commandments”

write them on the tablet of your heart

Quote: כָּ֝תְבֵ֗⁠ם עַל־ל֥וּחַ לִבֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this clause in 3:3.

Proverbs 7:4

Say to wisdom, “You {are} my sister,” and call to understanding, “Kinsman

Quote: אֱמֹ֣ר לַֽ֭⁠חָכְמָה אֲחֹ֣תִ⁠י אָ֑תְּ וּ֝⁠מֹדָ֗ע לַ⁠בִּינָ֥ה תִקְרָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Say to wisdom, ‘You {are} my sister,’ yes, call to understanding, ‘Kinsman,’”

Say to wisdom, “You {are} my sister,” and call to understanding, “Kinsman

Quote: אֱמֹ֣ר לַֽ֭⁠חָכְמָה אֲחֹ֣תִ⁠י אָ֑תְּ וּ֝⁠מֹדָ֗ע לַ⁠בִּינָ֥ה תִקְרָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

If it would be more natural in your language, you could express these two clauses as indirect quotations. Alternate translation: “Say to wisdom than she is your sister, and all to understanding that she is your kinsman”

to wisdom, “… to understanding

Quote: לַֽ֭⁠חָכְמָה & לַ⁠בִּינָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and understanding in 1:2.

Say to wisdom, “You {are} my sister

Quote: אֱמֹ֣ר לַֽ֭⁠חָכְמָה אֲחֹ֣תִ⁠י אָ֑תְּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of wisdom as if it were a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Value wisdom as if it were a woman to whom you would say, ‘You are my sister,’”

and call to understanding, “Kinsman

Quote: וּ֝⁠מֹדָ֗ע לַ⁠בִּינָ֥ה תִקְרָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of understanding as if it were a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and value understanding as if it were someone whom you would call, ‘Kinsman,’”

and call to understanding, “Kinsman

Quote: וּ֝⁠מֹדָ֗ע לַ⁠בִּינָ֥ה תִקְרָֽא (1)

Although the term Kinsman is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that could refer to any close relative. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “and call to understanding, ‘Family member,’”

Proverbs 7:5

from the strange woman

Quote: מֵ⁠אִשָּׁ֣ה זָרָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated strange woman in 2:16.

from the foreign woman

Quote: מִ֝⁠נָּכְרִיָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “to keep you from the foreign woman”

from the foreign woman who makes her sayings smooth

Quote: מִ֝⁠נָּכְרִיָּ֗ה אֲמָרֶ֥י⁠הָ הֶחֱלִֽיקָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same clause in 2:16.

Proverbs 7:6

For

Quote: כִּ֭י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For here introduces a story that Solomon tells in 7:6–23 in order to warn his son against committing adultery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different word or phrase that introduces a story. Alternate translation: “There was a time when”

at the window of my house

Quote: בְּ⁠חַלּ֣וֹן בֵּיתִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon implies that he was standing at the window while looking out of it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

at the window of my house

Quote: בְּ⁠חַלּ֣וֹן בֵּיתִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a window that is in the side of his house. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “at the window that is in the side of my house”

the window lattice

Quote: אֶשְׁנַבִּ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A lattice consists of thin strips of wood that cross one another in a slanted pattern and are placed over a window to partially cover it. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of window covering, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “the window screen” or “the covering on the window”

I looked down

Quote: נִשְׁקָֽפְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that he was standing at a location that was higher than the street outside. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I looked down at the street outside”

Proverbs 7:7

And I saw among the naive ones

Quote: וָ⁠אֵ֤רֶא בַ⁠פְּתָאיִ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the next clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “And I saw a young man among the naive ones”

among the sons

Quote: בַ⁠בָּנִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, sons refers to young men. It does not specifically refer to Solomon’s sons. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “among the young men”

lacking of heart

Quote: חֲסַר־לֵֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 6:32.

Proverbs 7:8

her corner, … her house

Quote: פִּנָּ֑⁠הּ & בֵּיתָ֣⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, her refers to an adulterous woman, as referred to in 7:5. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the corner of an adulterous woman … that woman’s house”

her corner

Quote: פִּנָּ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, corner refers to the place where two roads intersect. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “her place at the intersection of two streets”

and he steps {in} the way of her house

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֖רֶךְ בֵּיתָ֣⁠הּ יִצְעָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a way that leads to her house. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and he steps in the way that leads to her house”

he steps {in

Quote: יִצְעָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Here, Solomon uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense. Alternate translation: “he stepped in”

Proverbs 7:9

in the twilight breeze, in the evening of day, in the pupil of the night and darkness

Quote: בְּ⁠נֶֽשֶׁף־בְּ⁠עֶ֥רֶב י֑וֹם בְּ⁠אִישׁ֥וֹן לַ֝֗יְלָה וַ⁠אֲפֵלָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Solomon provides this background information about the time period when the young man went to the adulterous woman’s house. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. You may need to start a new sentence. Alternate translation: “Now it was the time of the twilight breeze, in the evening of day, in the pupil of the night and darkness”

in the twilight breeze, in the evening of day, in the pupil of the night and darkness

Quote: בְּ⁠נֶֽשֶׁף־בְּ⁠עֶ֥רֶב י֑וֹם בְּ⁠אִישׁ֥וֹן לַ֝֗יְלָה וַ⁠אֲפֵלָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrases twilight breeze and evening of day refer to the time when evening begins, but the pupil of the night and darkness refers to the time later in the night. Together these phrases indicate it getting progressively darker as the young man goes to the adulterous woman’s house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the twilight breeze, in the evening of day, and even in the pupil of the night and darkness”

in the pupil of the night

Quote: בְּ⁠אִישׁ֥וֹן לַ֝֗יְלָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the middle of the night is referred to as a pupil because the pupil is the darkest part of the eye. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in the middle of the night”

Proverbs 7:10

And behold, {there is

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Here, Solomon uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense. Alternate translation: “And behold, there is”

And behold, {there is

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, behold is a term meant to focus the attention of the reader to what is about to happen next in the story. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use some emphatic term or expression in your language that would have this same effect. Alternate translation: “And pay attention to this: there was”

to meet him

Quote: לִ⁠קְרָאת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “who came out to meet him”

and guarded of heart

Quote: וּ⁠נְצֻ֥רַת לֵֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase guarded of heart is an idiom that refers to hiding one’s intentions or plans from other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use an idiom from your language. Alternate translation: “and she planned to deceive someone” or “and being wily of heart”

Proverbs 7:11-12

In these two verses, Solomon provides background information about the adulterous woman. In your translation, present this information in a way that makes it clear that this is background information.

Proverbs 7:11

is} a loud … do not stay

Quote: הֹמִיָּ֣ה & לֹא־יִשְׁכְּנ֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Here, Solomon uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense. Alternate translation: “was a loud … did not stay”

her feet do not stay in her house

Quote: בְּ֝⁠בֵיתָ֗⁠הּ לֹא־יִשְׁכְּנ֥וּ רַגְלֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Solomon is using one part of a person, the feet, to represent the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “she did not stay in her house”

Proverbs 7:12

At {one} time in the street, at {another} time in the open areas, and beside every corner she lies in ambush

Quote: פַּ֤עַם ׀ בַּ⁠ח֗וּץ פַּ֥עַם בָּ⁠רְחֹב֑וֹת וְ⁠אֵ֖צֶל כָּל־פִּנָּ֣ה תֶאֱרֹֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be helpful in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “She lies in ambush at one time in the street, at another time in the open areas, and beside every corner”

in the street

Quote: בַּ⁠ח֗וּץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word street represents streets in general, not one particular street. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “in the streets”

corner

Quote: פִּנָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated corner in 7:8.

she lies in ambush

Quote: תֶאֱרֹֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Here, Solomon uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense. Alternate translation: “she lay in ambush”

she lies in ambush

Quote: תֶאֱרֹֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the adulterous woman looking for a man to persuade to have sex with her as if she were preparing to attack someone by surprise. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “she waited to find someone she could persuade to have sex with”

Proverbs 7:13

And she grabs

Quote: וְ⁠הֶחֱזִ֣יקָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

Then here indicates that what follows is the continuation of the narrative from 7:10, which Solomon had interrupted with background information in 7:11–12. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show reference to earlier events by translating this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “After she meets him, she grabs”

And she grabs … and kisses … she strengthens … and says

Quote: וְ⁠הֶחֱזִ֣יקָה & וְ⁠נָ֣שְׁקָה & הֵעֵ֥זָה & וַ⁠תֹּ֣אמַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Here, Solomon uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense. Alternate translation: “And she grabbed … and kissed … she strengthened … and said”

she strengthens her face

Quote: הֵעֵ֥זָה פָ֝נֶ֗י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, strengthens her face means that the woman had a facial expression that showed how shameless or impudent she was. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a similar expression from your language or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “she had a brazen face” or “with a shameless expression on her face”

Proverbs 7:14

The sacrifices of peace offerings {are} with me

Quote: זִבְחֵ֣י שְׁלָמִ֣ים עָלָ֑⁠י (1)

The woman implies that she has meat to eat at her home because someone who made peace offerings was allowed to keep some of the meat that was offered to Yahweh in the temple (see Leviticus 7:11–17 and 1 Samuel 9:11–13). If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I have leftover meat from the sacrifices of peace offerings I made to Yahweh in the temple”

today I paid my vows

Quote: הַ֝⁠יּ֗וֹם שִׁלַּ֥מְתִּי נְדָרָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, vows refers to the sacrifices of peace offerings that the woman promised to sacrifice to God. According to Leviticus 7:16, the woman would have to eat the meat leftover from paying her vows by the end of the next day. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I made the sacrifices I promised to give to God”

Proverbs 7:15

to diligently seek

Quote: לְ⁠שַׁחֵ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The woman is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “I came out to diligently seek”

your face

Quote: פָּ֝נֶ֗י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, face refers to being in the presence of the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “your presence” or “where you are”

Proverbs 7:16

my couch

Quote: עַרְשִׂ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Here, couch refers to a platform that wealthy people would sit or lie on in order to rest or sleep. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of furniture, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “my place for resting”

with} coverings, colored linen of Egypt

Quote: מַ֭רְבַדִּים & חֲ֝טֻב֗וֹת אֵט֥וּן מִצְרָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the woman describes the coverings as being colored linen of Egypt, which is expensive and luxurious fabric. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “with coverings, which are expensive colored linen of Egypt”

Proverbs 7:17

I have sprinkled my bed

Quote: נַ֥פְתִּי מִשְׁכָּבִ֑⁠י (1)

Alternate translation: “scattered on my bed”

with} myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon

Quote: מֹ֥ר אֲ֝הָלִ֗ים וְ⁠קִנָּמֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

This mixture of myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon consisted of pleasant-smelling substances that were mixed together and used like perfume. If your readers would not be familiar with these substances, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: “with pleasant-smelling substances”

Proverbs 7:18

let us be drenched {with} lusts

Quote: נִרְוֶ֣ה דֹ֭דִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word translated drench refers to giving a baby a satisfying amount of milk. Here, the woman speaks about satisfying one’s sexual desires as if one were satisfying the thirst of a hungry baby. If it would be helpful in your language, your could express the meaning plainly or use a more general expression. Alternate translation: “let us satisfy our sexual desires” or “let us satisfy ourselves with lusts as a mother’s breasts fill her child with food”

lusts … with loves

Quote: דֹ֭דִים & בָּ⁠אֳהָבִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The words lusts and loves are plural here for emphasis. In this verse, both words refer to passionate sexual activity. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “intense lust … with intense love”

Proverbs 7:19

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

For here indicates that what follows is the reason why the woman thinks that it is safe for the young man to come with her, as she told him in the previous verse. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “We can do this because”

the man

Quote: הָ⁠אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the man refers to the woman’s husband. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the man whom I married”

in his house

Quote: בְּ⁠בֵית֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the woman speaks of the house that she lives in with her husband as if it were his house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in our house”

on a road far away

Quote: בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ מֵ⁠רָחֽוֹק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, road refers to a journey that would include traveling on a road. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “on a journey to a far away place”

Proverbs 7:20

He took the bag of the silver in his hand

Quote: צְֽרוֹר־הַ֭⁠כֶּסֶף לָקַ֣ח בְּ⁠יָד֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause implies that the woman’s husband will be gone for a long time because he took a lot of money with him when he left. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “He will be gone for a long time because he took the bag of the silver in his hand”

the bag of the silver

Quote: צְֽרוֹר־הַ֭⁠כֶּסֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the woman is using the possessive form to describe a bag that is full of silver. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the bag full of silver”

the full moon

Quote: הַ֝⁠כֵּ֗סֶא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase full moon refers to the moon when it looks like a perfectly round disk in the sky, shining at its brightest. This occurs at the middle of each month. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the moon shining its brightest”

his house

Quote: בֵיתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

Proverbs 7:21

She leads him astray … she compels him

Quote: הִ֭טַּתּ⁠וּ & תַּדִּיחֶֽ⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Here, Solomon uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense. Alternate translation: “She led him astray … she compelled him”

She leads him astray … her teaching; … her lips she compels him

Quote: הִ֭טַּתּ⁠וּ & לִקְחָ֑⁠הּ & שְׂ֝פָתֶ֗י⁠הָ תַּדִּיחֶֽ⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

She and her in this verse refer to the adulterous woman who was spoke in 7:14–20 and him refers to the young man whom she is seducing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The adulterous woman led the young man astray … that woman’s teaching … that woman’s lips she compels that man”

She leads him astray

Quote: הִ֭טַּתּ⁠וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the woman persuading the young man to do something as if she were causing him to change the direction in which he was walking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “She persuaded him”

with the abundance of her teaching

Quote: בְּ⁠רֹ֣ב לִקְחָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to refer to an abundant amount of teaching. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “with her abundant amount of teaching”

with the smoothness of her lips

Quote: בְּ⁠חֵ֥לֶק שְׂ֝פָתֶ֗י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the seductive speech of the adulterous woman as if it were the smoothness of her lips. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “with her seductive speech”

she compels him

Quote: תַּדִּיחֶֽ⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that the adulterous woman compelled the young man to commit adultery with her. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “she compelled him to go with her” or “she compelled him to have sex with her”

Proverbs 7:22

like an ox to slaughter

Quote: כְּ֭⁠שׁוֹר אֶל־טָ֣בַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “like an ox that is going to slaughter”

like an ox to slaughter he goes

Quote: כְּ֭⁠שׁוֹר אֶל־טָ֣בַח יָב֑וֹא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon compares the young man who does not know that he was going to die to an ox that was unknowingly going to be slaughtered. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “he unknowingly goes to be killed”

he goes

Quote: יָב֑וֹא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Here, Solomon uses the present tense in past narration in order to call attention to a development in the story. If it would not be natural to do that in your language, you could use the past tense. Alternate translation: “he went”

and like an ankle chain to the correction of a fool

Quote: וּ֝⁠כְ⁠עֶ֗כֶס אֶל־מוּסַ֥ר אֱוִֽיל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

The ULT is a translation of the Hebrew text for this clause. However, some ancient translations of this clause read “and like a deer to a trap.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

and like an ankle chain to the correction of a fool

Quote: וּ֝⁠כְ⁠עֶ֗כֶס אֶל־מוּסַ֥ר אֱוִֽיל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon compares the man not being able to escape his death as if he were a fool who could not escape correction because he had a chain around his ankle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the language plainly. Alternate translation: “and he will inevitably die”

the correction of

Quote: מוּסַ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun correction in 3:11.

Proverbs 7:23

an arrow splits his liver

Quote: יְפַלַּ֪ח חֵ֡ץ כְּֽבֵד֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, liver refers to an organ in one’s body that one needs in order to remain alive. Solomon means that the arrow will kill whomever it strikes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “an arrow pierces his vital organs” or “an arrow kills him”

like a bird rushing into a trap

Quote: כְּ⁠מַהֵ֣ר צִפּ֣וֹר אֶל־פָּ֑ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon compares the young man who is quickly doing something that will kill him to a bird rushing into a trap. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he quickly goes to be killed”

it

Quote: הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun it here refers to committing adultery. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “committing adultery” or “having sex with a married woman”

it {was} for his life

Quote: בְ⁠נַפְשׁ֥⁠וֹ הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that means that this person will die as a result of what he did. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an idiom with the same meaning from your language or you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “it would cost him his life” or “it would kill him”

Proverbs 7:24

And now, sons, listen to me

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה בָ֭נִים שִׁמְעוּ־לִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

And now here indicates a transition from the story of the adulterous woman and young man in 7:6–23 to the call to pay attention that follows. See how you translated the same clause in 5:7.

to the sayings of my mouth

Quote: לְ⁠אִמְרֵי־פִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

See how you translated this phrase in 4:5.

Proverbs 7:25

Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways; do not wander into her tracks

Quote: אַל־יֵ֣שְׂטְ אֶל־דְּרָכֶ֣י⁠הָ לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ אַל־תֵּ֝תַע בִּ⁠נְתִיבוֹתֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways; yes, do not wander into her tracks”

Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways; do not wander into her tracks

Quote: אַל־יֵ֣שְׂטְ אֶל־דְּרָכֶ֣י⁠הָ לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ אַל־תֵּ֝תַע בִּ⁠נְתִיבוֹתֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks behaving like an adulterous woman as if one were turning aside to go on her ways or wandering on her tracks. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated ways in 3:6 and tracks in 2:15. Alternate translation: “Do not let your heart want to do the things that the adulterous woman does; do not do anything that she does”

your heart

Quote: לִבֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

Proverbs 7:26

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason for the commands in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “Do not do those things because”

she has caused … to fall, … her slain ones

Quote: הִפִּ֑ילָה & הֲרֻגֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, she and her refer to any adulterous woman, not one specific adulterous wife. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “an adulterous woman has caused … to fall … ones slain by such a woman”

pierced ones

Quote: חֲלָלִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, pierced ones refers to people who have been killed, since people were often killed by being pierced by spears or arrows. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “dead ones”

she has caused … to fall

Quote: הִפִּ֑ילָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses fall to refer to dying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “she has caused … to die”

her slain ones

Quote: הֲרֻגֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the ones whom she has slain”

Proverbs 7:27

Her house

Quote: בֵּיתָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of Her house in 2:18.

is} the ways of Sheol

Quote: דַּרְכֵ֣י שְׁא֣וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Although ways here is plural, it refers to the singular house at the beginning of this verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use the singular form here. Alternate translation: “is the way of Sheol”

is} the ways of Sheol

Quote: דַּרְכֵ֣י שְׁא֣וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe ways that result in someone going to Sheol. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is the way that lead to Sheol” or “is the way that cause one to go to Sheol”

is} the ways of

Quote: דַּרְכֵ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated ways in 3:6.

descending to the chambers of death

Quote: יֹ֝רְד֗וֹת אֶל־חַדְרֵי־מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a man doing something that would result in his death as if he were going on a path that is descending to the chambers of death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “results in a man dying” or “causes a man to die”

the chambers of death

Quote: חַדְרֵי־מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This phrase refers to the place where people’s spirits go when they die, which was called Sheol in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the place where the spirits of dead people dwell” or “the place of the dead”

Proverbs 8

Proverbs 8 General Notes

Structure and formatting

2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)
   • Wisdom prevents people from committing crime or adultery (2:1–22)
   • Humbly trust Yahweh (3:1–12)
   • The value of wisdom (3:13–20)
   • Do not act wickedly (3:21–35)
   • Wisdom will benefit you (4:1–9)
   • Behave wisely and avoid those who do not (4:10–19)
   • Live righteously (4:20–27)
   • Avoid temptation to commit adultery (5:1–23)
   • Practical warnings (6:1–19)
   • Adultery will be punished (6:20–35)
   • The Story of an Adulterer (7:1–27)
   • Wisdom benefits the wise (8:1–36)

Special concepts in this chapter

Wisdom calls out

In this chapter, wisdom is referred to as if it were a woman who calls out for all to learn from her and was with God when he created the universe. In languages where it is possible for something like wisdom to be spoken of as if it were a person who speaks, the translator should translate in this way. However, if direct translation is not possible in your language, you may translate the personification as similes instead. In that case wisdom would be presented as being like a wise woman. When wisdom speaks in 8:4–36, the notes will use the proper noun “Wisdom” to indicate that the personification of wisdom is speaking. See how you translated similar references to wisdom in 1:20–33. (See: Олицетворение)

Proverbs 8:1

Does not wisdom call out and understanding give her voice

Quote: הֲ⁠לֹֽא־חָכְמָ֥ה תִקְרָ֑א וּ֝⁠תְבוּנָ֗ה תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Solomon is using the question form to emphasize that wisdom is available to everyone. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “Surely wisdom calls out and understanding gives her voice!”

Does not wisdom call out and understanding give her voice

Quote: הֲ⁠לֹֽא־חָכְמָ֥ה תִקְרָ֑א וּ֝⁠תְבוּנָ֗ה תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some words in the second clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply the word from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Does not wisdom call out, and does not understanding give her voice”

Does not wisdom call out and understanding give her voice

Quote: הֲ⁠לֹֽא־חָכְמָ֥ה תִקְרָ֑א וּ֝⁠תְבוּנָ֗ה תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Does not wisdom call out, yes, does not understanding give her voice” or “Surely wisdom calls out, yes, surely understanding gives her voice!”

wisdom … and understanding

Quote: חָכְמָ֥ה & וּ֝⁠תְבוּנָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and understanding in 1:2.

call out … give her voice

Quote: תִקְרָ֑א & תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, wisdom and understanding are spoken of as if they were women. See the discussion of such personification in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “call out as if it were a woman … give her voice as if it were a woman”

give her voice

Quote: תִּתֵּ֥ן קוֹלָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this phrase in 1:20.

Proverbs 8:2

At the head of the heights beside the road, the house of the paths, she stations herself

Quote: בְּ⁠רֹאשׁ־מְרוֹמִ֥ים עֲלֵי־דָ֑רֶךְ בֵּ֖ית נְתִיב֣וֹת נִצָּֽבָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “She stations herself at the head of the heights beside the road, the house of the paths”

At the head of the heights beside the road, the house of the paths

Quote: בְּ⁠רֹאשׁ־מְרוֹמִ֥ים עֲלֵי־דָ֑רֶךְ בֵּ֖ית נְתִיב֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrases the head of the heights beside the road and the house of the paths both refer to the same place, which is a place where there would be many people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “At the public place at the head of the heights beside the road, the house of the paths”

At the head of the heights

Quote: בְּ⁠רֹאשׁ־מְרוֹמִ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase the head of the heights refers to the top of a hill or elevated place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “At the top of hill” or “At the highest place”

the house of the paths

Quote: בֵּ֖ית נְתִיב֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase refers to the place where roads intersect. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “where roads intersect” or “the crossroads”

she stations herself

Quote: נִצָּֽבָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, she refers to wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “wisdom stations herself” or “wisdom stations itself as if it were a woman”

Proverbs 8:3

At the hand of the gates, at the mouth of the city, the entrance of the openings, she cries out

Quote: לְ⁠יַד־שְׁעָרִ֥ים לְ⁠פִי־קָ֑רֶת מְב֖וֹא פְתָחִ֣ים תָּרֹֽנָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could change the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “She cries out at the hand of the gates, at the mouth of the city, the entrance of the openings”

At the hand of the gates, at the mouth of the city, the entrance of the openings

Quote: לְ⁠יַד־שְׁעָרִ֥ים לְ⁠פִי־קָ֑רֶת מְב֖וֹא פְתָחִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrases the hand of the gates, the mouth of the city, and the entrance of the openings all refer to the same place, which is inside the main gate of the city where there would be many people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “At the public place at the hand of the gates, at the mouth of the city, the entrance of the openings”

At the hand of

Quote: לְ⁠יַד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, hand refers to the place beside the gates. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “At the side of”

at the mouth of the city

Quote: לְ⁠פִי־קָ֑רֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, mouth refers to the entrance to the city. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “at the entrance of the city”

the city

Quote: קָ֑רֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word city represents cities in general, not one particular city. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “any city”

the entrance of the openings

Quote: מְב֖וֹא פְתָחִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

This phrase refers to the main entrance into the city, which had gates. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the main entrance”

she cries out

Quote: תָּרֹֽנָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, she refers to wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “wisdom cries out” or “wisdom cries out as if it were a woman”

Proverbs 8:4

men

Quote: אִישִׁ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although men is masculine, here it refers to people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “people”

and my voice

Quote: וְ֝⁠קוֹלִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, voice refers to what wisdom is saying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and what I am saying”

the sons of man

Quote: בְּנֵ֥י אָדָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although sons and man are masculine, this phrase refers to all human beings. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “humankind”

Proverbs 8:5

prudence

Quote: עָרְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun prudence in 1:4.

heart

Quote: לֵֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, heart refers to discernment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “discernment”

Proverbs 8:6

and the opening of my lips

Quote: וּ⁠מִפְתַּ֥ח שְׂ֝פָתַ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the opening of my lips refers to what is said when Wisdom opens her lips to speak. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when I open my mouth to speak”

Proverbs 8:7

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows in 8:7–9 are additional reasons why people should listen to Wisdom, as commanded in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows are reasons. Alternate translation: “Listen because”

my palate … my lips

Quote: חִכִּ֑⁠י & שְׂפָתַ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, palate and lips refer to the person who is speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I … me”

truth, and wickedness {is} an abomination to

Quote: אֱ֭מֶת & וְ⁠תוֹעֲבַ֖ת & רֶֽשַׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract nouns for the ideas of truth, wickedness, and abomination, you could express the same ideas in another way. See how you translated wickedness in 4:17 and abomination in 3:32. Alternate translation: “true things, and wicked things are abominable to”

Proverbs 8:8

the words of

Quote: אִמְרֵי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar use of words in 1:23.

my mouth

Quote: פִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, mouth refers to the person who is speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “mine”

are} in righteousness

Quote: בְּ⁠צֶ֥דֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “are spoken in righteousness” or “are spoken righteously”

twisted or crooked

Quote: נִפְתָּ֥ל וְ⁠עִקֵּֽשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom refers to something that is false as if it were twisted. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “untrue”

or crooked

Quote: וְ⁠עִקֵּֽשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of crooked in 2:15.

in them

Quote: בָּ֝⁠הֶ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them refers to the words of my mouth stated in the previous clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in those words” or “in what I say”

Proverbs 8:9

All of them

Quote: כֻּלָּ֣⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

See how you translated them in the previous verse.

and upright things

Quote: וִֽ֝⁠ישָׁרִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and all of them are upright things”

for finders of knowledge

Quote: לְ⁠מֹ֣צְאֵי דָֽעַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, wisdom speaks of acquiring knowledge as if it were something that people find. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for people who acquire knowledge”

knowledge

Quote: דָֽעַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun knowledge in 1:4.

Proverbs 8:10

Take my instruction and not silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold

Quote: קְחֽוּ־מוּסָרִ֥⁠י וְ⁠אַל־כָּ֑סֶף וְ֝⁠דַ֗עַת מֵ⁠חָר֥וּץ נִבְחָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word in the second clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the first clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Take my instruction and not silver, and take knowledge more than choice gold”

Take my instruction and not silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold

Quote: קְחֽוּ־מוּסָרִ֥⁠י וְ⁠אַל־כָּ֑סֶף וְ֝⁠דַ֗עַת מֵ⁠חָר֥וּץ נִבְחָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first clause by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Take my instruction and not silver, yes, take knowledge more than choice gold”

Take

Quote: קְחֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, wisdom speaks of acquiring instruction and knowledge as if they were objects that a person can Take. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Acquire”

my instruction … and knowledge

Quote: מוּסָרִ֥⁠י & וְ֝⁠דַ֗עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns instruction in 1:2 and knowledge in 1:4.

and not silver

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־כָּ֑סֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, and not means the same as rather than in the next clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “rather than silver”

rather than choice gold

Quote: מֵ⁠חָר֥וּץ נִבְחָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, choice gold refers to gold that is the best quality. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “more than the best gold”

Proverbs 8:11

wisdom {… with her

Quote: חָ֭כְמָה & בָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Here, wisdom, personified as a woman, is speaking about herself in the third person. If this would not be natural in your language, you could use the first person form. Alternate translation: “I … with me”

than corals

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנִינִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

See how you translated corals in 3:15.

Proverbs 8:12

I dwell with prudence

Quote: שָׁכַ֣נְתִּי עָרְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, wisdom speaks of being associated with prudence as if prudence were a person that wisdom dwells with. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “What is wise is associated with what is prudent” or “I dwell with prudence like two people live in the same house”

Wisdom, … prudence, and knowledge of discretion

Quote: חָ֭כְמָה & עָרְמָ֑ה וְ⁠דַ֖עַת מְזִמּ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns Wisdom in 1:2, and prudence, knowledge, and discretion in 1:4.

and knowledge of discretion

Quote: וְ⁠דַ֖עַת מְזִמּ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Wisdom is using the possessive form to describe a knowledge that is about discretion. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “and knowing discretion”

and knowledge of discretion I find

Quote: וְ⁠דַ֖עַת מְזִמּ֣וֹת אֶמְצָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of enabling people to have knowledge of discretion as if they were objects that one could find. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I enable you to acquire knowledge of discretion” or “What is wise enables you to acquire knowledge of discretion”

Proverbs 8:13

The fear of Yahweh

Quote: יִֽרְאַ֣ת יְהוָה֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated the fear of Yahweh in 1:7.

evil. Pride and arrogance

Quote: רָ֥ע גֵּ֘אָ֤ה וְ⁠גָא֨וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of evil, pride, and arrogance, you could express the same ideas in other ways. See how you translated evil in 1:16. Alternate translation: “evil things … being proud and arrogant”

and the evil way

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ רָ֭ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this use of way in 1:15.

and the mouth of perverse things

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֨י תַהְפֻּכ֬וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Wisdom is using the possessive form to describe a mouth that speaks perverse things. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “and the mouth that speaks perverse things”

and the mouth of

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֨י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, mouth represents the person speaking perverse things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and the person who speaks”

Proverbs 8:14

Counsel and sound wisdom {… am} understanding; strength

Quote: עֵ֭צָה וְ⁠תוּשִׁיָּ֑ה & בִ֝ינָ֗ה & גְבוּרָֽה (1)

See how you translated Counsel in 1:25, wisdom and * understanding* in 1:2, and strength in 5:10.

Counsel and sound wisdom {are} mine; … strength {is} mine

Quote: לִֽ⁠י־עֵ֭צָה וְ⁠תוּשִׁיָּ֑ה & לִ֣⁠י גְבוּרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of enabling people to have Counsel, sound wisdom, and strength as if they were objects that belong to Wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I enable you to acquire counsel and sound wisdom … I enable you to acquire strength” or “What is wise enables you to acquire counsel and sound wisdom … what is wise enables you to acquire strength”

Proverbs 8:15

and dignitaries decree righteousness

Quote: וְ֝⁠רוֹזְנִ֗ים יְחֹ֣קְקוּ צֶֽדֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and by me dignitaries decree righteousness” or “and by what is wise dignitaries decree righteousness”

righteousness

Quote: צֶֽדֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun righteousness in 1:3.

Proverbs 8:16

and nobles

Quote: וּ֝⁠נְדִיבִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and by me nobles rule” or “and by what is wise nobles rule”

and nobles, all judges of righteousness

Quote: וּ֝⁠נְדִיבִ֗ים כָּל־שֹׁ֥פְטֵי צֶֽדֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

This phrase is making a distinction between nobles who are judges of righteousness and those who are not. It is not giving us further information the nobles. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “and nobles, that is, all those nobles who are judges of righteousness”

judges of righteousness

Quote: שֹׁ֥פְטֵי צֶֽדֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Wisdom is using the possessive form to describe judges that are characterized by righteousness. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “righteous judges”

Proverbs 8:17

I myself love

Quote: אֲ֭נִי & אֵהָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Wisdom uses the word myself to emphasize how significant it was that wisdom is like a woman who loves those who love her. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this significance. Alternate translation: “Even I love”

I myself love those who love me

Quote: אֲ֭נִי אֹהֲבַ֣י אֵהָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, wisdom is depicted as if it were a person who canlove and be loved by people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “Wisdom benefits those who value it” or “It is as if wisdom were a woman who loves those who love her”

and those who diligently seek me will find me

Quote: וּ֝⁠מְשַׁחֲרַ֗⁠י יִמְצָאֻֽ⁠נְנִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, people trying to be wise and succeeding is described as if wisdom were a person who people can seek and find. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and those who diligently try to become wise will become wise”

Proverbs 8:18

Riches and honor {are} with me

Quote: עֹֽשֶׁר־וְ⁠כָב֥וֹד אִתִּ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of enabling people to have Riches, honor, surpassing wealth, and righteousness as if they were objects that were with Wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I enable you to have riches, honor, surpassing wealth, and righteousness” or “What is wise enables you to have riches, honor, surpassing wealth, and righteousness”

lasting wealth and righteousness

Quote: ה֥וֹן עָ֝תֵ֗ק וּ⁠צְדָקָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “surpassing wealth and righteousness are with me” or “surpassing wealth and righteousness are with what is wise”

and honor {… and righteousness

Quote: וְ⁠כָב֥וֹד & וּ⁠צְדָקָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns honor in 3:16 and righteousness in 1:3.

Proverbs 8:19

My fruit {is} better

Quote: ט֣וֹב פִּ֭רְיִ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, fruit refers to the benefits that a person receives from having wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “My benefits are better” or “The benefits I can give you are better”

than gold, and than refined gold

Quote: מֵ⁠חָר֣וּץ וּ⁠מִ⁠פָּ֑ז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms gold and refined gold mean similar things. Wisdom is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: “than the finest gold”

and my produce

Quote: וּ֝⁠תְבוּאָתִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, produce refers to the benefits that a person receives from having wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and my benefits” or “and the benefits I can give you”

than choice silver

Quote: מִ⁠כֶּ֥סֶף נִבְחָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “is better than choice silver”

than choice silver

Quote: מִ⁠כֶּ֥סֶף נִבְחָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, choice silver refers to silver that is the best quality. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “than the best silver”

Proverbs 8:20

I walk in the path of righteousness

Quote: בְּ⁠אֹֽרַח־צְדָקָ֥ה אֲהַלֵּ֑ך (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of behaving righteously as if someone were walking on a path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I behave righteously”

in the path of righteousness

Quote: בְּ⁠אֹֽרַח־צְדָקָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Wisdom is using the possessive form to describe the path that is characterized by righteousness. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the righteous path”

in the midst of the beaten paths of justice

Quote: בְּ֝⁠ת֗וֹךְ נְתִיב֥וֹת מִשְׁפָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “I walk in the midst of the beaten paths of justice”

the beaten paths of justice

Quote: נְתִיב֥וֹת מִשְׁפָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Wisdom is using the possessive form to describe the beaten paths that are characterized by justice. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the just beaten paths”

Proverbs 8:21

to cause those who love me to inherit

Quote: לְ⁠הַנְחִ֖יל אֹהֲבַ֥⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates that what follows is the purpose for what Wisdom does in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose. You may want to begin a new sentence. Alternate translation: “I do that for the purpose of causing those who love me to inherit”

and their treasuries

Quote: וְ⁠אֹצְרֹ֖תֵי⁠הֶ֣ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word treasuries refers to buildings or rooms where people store valuable things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and their buildings where they store precious things”

Proverbs 8:22

Yahweh possessed me {at} the beginning of his way, before his works from then

Quote: יְֽהוָ֗ה קָ֭נָ⁠נִי רֵאשִׁ֣ית דַּרְכּ֑⁠וֹ קֶ֖דֶם מִפְעָלָ֣י⁠ו מֵ⁠אָֽז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out a word in the second clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the first clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh possessed me at the beginning of his way, Yahweh possessed me before his works from then”

Yahweh possessed me {at} the beginning of his way, before his works from then

Quote: יְֽהוָ֗ה קָ֭נָ⁠נִי רֵאשִׁ֣ית דַּרְכּ֑⁠וֹ קֶ֖דֶם מִפְעָלָ֣י⁠ו מֵ⁠אָֽז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first clause by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word that shows that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “Yahweh possessed me at the beginning of his way, yes, Yahweh possessed me before his works from then”

possessed me

Quote: קָ֭נָ⁠נִי (1)

Some scholars believe that the word translated as possessed could also mean “created.” Either way, the point is that Yahweh had wisdom before he created the universe. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

his way, … his works

Quote: דַּרְכּ֑⁠וֹ & מִפְעָלָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrases his way and his works both refer to Yahweh creating the universe. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his creating … his creative works”

from then

Quote: מֵ⁠אָֽז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, then refers to the beginning mentioned in the previous clause, which refers to when Yahweh started creating the universe. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from the beginning”

Proverbs 8:23

From eternity I was poured out,from the head, from the ancient times of the earth

Quote: מֵ֭⁠עוֹלָם נִסַּ֥כְתִּי מֵ⁠רֹ֗אשׁ מִ⁠קַּדְמֵי־אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be helpful in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “I was poured out from eternity, from the head, from the ancient times of the earth”

From eternity

Quote: מֵ֭⁠עוֹלָם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, eternity refers to the distant past. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Very long ago”

I was poured out

Quote: נִסַּ֥כְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh poured me out”

I was poured out

Quote: נִסַּ֥כְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of being established as if it were a liquid that was poured out. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I was established”

from the head

Quote: מֵ⁠רֹ֗אשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, head refers to the first in a series of something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “at the first”

from the ancient times of the earth

Quote: מִ⁠קַּדְמֵי־אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase the ancient times of the earth refers to the time when the earth was made. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “from when God created the earth”

Proverbs 8:24

When there were no watery depths, I was brought forth, when there were no springs heavy with water

Quote: בְּ⁠אֵין־תְּהֹמ֥וֹת חוֹלָ֑לְתִּי בְּ⁠אֵ֥ין מַ֝עְיָנ֗וֹת נִכְבַּדֵּי־מָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be helpful in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “I was brought forth when there were no watery depths and when there were no springs heavy with water”

I was brought forth

Quote: חוֹלָ֑לְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh brought me forth”

I was brought forth

Quote: חוֹלָ֑לְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Wisdom speaks of starting to exist as if it were something that was brought forth, which is an idiomatic way to say “born.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “I started to exist”

springs heavy with water

Quote: מַ֝עְיָנ֗וֹת נִכְבַּדֵּי־מָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of springs being full of water that flows out as if they were heavy with water. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “springs full of flowing water”

Proverbs 8:25

Before the mountains were sunk, before the face of the hills, I was brought forth

Quote: בְּ⁠טֶ֣רֶם הָרִ֣ים הָטְבָּ֑עוּ לִ⁠פְנֵ֖י גְבָע֣וֹת חוֹלָֽלְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be helpful in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “I was brought forth before the mountains were sunk and before the face of the hills”

the mountains were sunk

Quote: הָרִ֣ים הָטְבָּ֑עוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh sunk the mountains”

the mountains were sunk

Quote: הָרִ֣ים הָטְבָּ֑עוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of the creation of the mountains as if their foundations were sunk in the earth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the mountains were created”

before the face of the hills

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֖י גְבָע֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, face represents the presence of the hills as if they were a person with a face. Wisdom is referring to the time before the hills existed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “before the existence of the hills”

I was brought forth

Quote: חוֹלָֽלְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

Proverbs 8:26

before he made the earth or the outside places or the head of the loose soil of the world

Quote: עַד־לֹ֣א עָ֭שָׂה אֶ֣רֶץ וְ⁠חוּצ֑וֹת וְ֝⁠רֹ֗אשׁ עָפְר֥וֹת תֵּבֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

This verse continues the sentence that began in the previous verse. If you divide the previous verse and this verse into separate sentences, then you will need to repeat the main clause from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “I was brought forth before he made the earth or the outside places or the head of the loose soil of the world”

or the outside places

Quote: וְ⁠חוּצ֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, outside places refers to the fields in the countryside. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “open spaces of the countryside”

or the head of

Quote: וְ֝⁠רֹ֗אשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the head refers to the first part of something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “or the first of”

Proverbs 8:27

This verse is the beginning of a sentence that continues through 8:29. If you make each of these verses a separate sentence, then you will need to repeat I was there in each of those verses.

When he established the heavens, I {was} there

Quote: בַּ⁠הֲכִינ֣⁠וֹ שָׁ֭מַיִם שָׁ֣ם אָ֑נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be helpful in your language, you could change the order of these phrases. This verse is the beginning of a sentence that continues through 8:29. If you make each verse a separate sentence, then you will need to repeat the main clause of this verse in each of those verses. Alternate translation: “I was there when he established the heavens”

when he inscribed a circle over the face of the watery deep

Quote: בְּ⁠ח֥וּק⁠וֹ ח֝֗וּג עַל־פְּנֵ֥י תְהֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This clause refers to Yahweh forming the horizon between the sky and ocean as if he were drawing a circle on the ocean’s surface. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when he made the horizon between the heavens and the surface of the ocean”

Proverbs 8:28

when he made firm the clouds

Quote: בְּ⁠אַמְּצ֣⁠וֹ שְׁחָקִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Wisdom speaks of God forming the clouds as if he made them firm. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “When he created the clouds”

when the springs of the watery deep became strong

Quote: בַּ֝⁠עֲז֗וֹז עִינ֥וֹת תְּהוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Wisdom speaks of the springs flowing with much water as if they were people who became strong. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when the springs of the watery deep flowed strongly”

the springs of the watery deep

Quote: עִינ֥וֹת תְּהוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Wisdom is using the possessive form to describe the springs that supply water to the watery deep, which refers to the bottom of the ocean. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the springs that fill the watery deep”

Proverbs 8:29

when he set up … his mouth, when he inscribed

Quote: בְּ⁠שׂ֘וּמ֤⁠וֹ & פִ֑י⁠ו & בְּ֝⁠חוּק֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

In this verse, he and his refer to Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “when Yahweh set up … Yahweh’s mouth … when Yahweh inscribed”

its statute

Quote: חֻקּ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, law refers to the limit or boundary of sea, where the sea ends and the dry land begins. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “its limit”

his mouth

Quote: פִ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, mouth refers to God’s law that was mentioned in the previous clause as if it were a command spoken by God. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “his command” or “that limit”

when he inscribed

Quote: בְּ֝⁠חוּק֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This clause refers to Yahweh designating the foundations of the earth as if he were drawing them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when he designated” or “when he decreed”

the foundations of the earth

Quote: מ֣וֹסְדֵי אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This phrase could refer to: (1) the limits of the land, which were considered to be the bottoms of the mountains (see Micah 6:2). Alternate translation: “the limits of the land” (2) where Yahweh placed the earth, which was spoken as if the earth were resting on top of foundations. Alternate translation: “where the earth would be placed”

Proverbs 8:30

Then I was beside him {as} a skilled worker

Quote: וָֽ⁠אֶהְיֶ֥ה אֶצְל֗⁠וֹ אָ֫מ֥וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Yahweh using wisdom to create the universe is spoke of as if wisdom were a skilled worker who was beside him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “Then he used wisdom skillfully” or “Then I was like a skilled worker beside him”

a delight

Quote: שַׁ֭עֲשֻׁעִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of delight, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “delightful”

frolicking

Quote: מְשַׂחֶ֖קֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, frolicking refers to dancing or playing in a way that expresses great joy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “acting joyfully”

before his face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, face refers to Yahweh’s presence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in his presence”

Proverbs 8:31

Frolicking

Quote: מְ֭שַׂחֶקֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this word in the previous verse.

in the world of his earth

Quote: בְּ⁠תֵבֵ֣ל אַרְצ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase world of his earth could refer to: (1) the whole world. Alternate translation: “his entire world” (2) the inhabited part of the world. Alternate translation: “his inhabited world”

and my delights

Quote: וְ֝⁠שַׁעֲשֻׁעַ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated “delight” in the previous verse.

the sons of man

Quote: בְּנֵ֥י אָדָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this phrase in 8:4

Proverbs 8:32

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

And now here indicates a transition from what Wisdom said in 8:4–31 to the call to pay attention that follows. See how you translated the same clause in 5:7 and 7:24.

and happy

Quote: וְ֝⁠אַשְׁרֵ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here, and introduces the reason for obeying the command stated in the previous clause. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “since happy”

are} they {who} keep my ways

Quote: דְּרָכַ֥⁠י יִשְׁמֹֽרוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, ways refers to behavior. See how you translated the similar use of keep and “paths” in 2:20. Alternate translation: “are they who behave like me”

Proverbs 8:33

instruction

Quote: מוּסָ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated instruction in 1:2.

and be wise

Quote: וַ⁠חֲכָ֗מוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

This is an imperative, but it communicates the result of obeying the command stated in the previous phrase. Use a form in your language that communicates a result. Alternate translation: “and it will result in you becoming wise”

and do not neglect {it

Quote: וְ⁠אַל־תִּפְרָֽעוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Wisdom is using a figure of speech here that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “be sure to pay attention to” or “be sure to follow”

Proverbs 8:34

is} the man

Quote: אָדָם֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word man represents a person in general, not one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “is the person”

keeping vigil over my doors day {by} day, keeping watch {over} the doorposts of my entrances

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁקֹ֣ד עַל־דַּ֭לְתֹתַ⁠י י֤וֹם ׀ י֑וֹם לִ֝⁠שְׁמֹ֗ר מְזוּזֹ֥ת פְּתָחָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second clause emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the clauses with a word that shows that the second clause is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “keeping vigil over my doors day by day, yes, keeping watch over the doorposts of my entrances”

keeping vigil over my doors day {by} day, keeping watch {over} the doorposts of my entrances

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁקֹ֣ד עַל־דַּ֭לְתֹתַ⁠י י֤וֹם ׀ י֑וֹם לִ֝⁠שְׁמֹ֗ר מְזוּזֹ֥ת פְּתָחָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of someone being eager to listen to her as if that person was vigilantly waiting at the door to her house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “being eager to listen to me” or “being eager to listen to me as if one were keeping vigil over my doors day by day, keeping watch over the doorposts of my entrances”

keeping vigil over my doors day {by} day, keeping watch {over} the doorposts of my entrances

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁקֹ֣ד עַל־דַּ֭לְתֹתַ⁠י י֤וֹם ׀ י֑וֹם לִ֝⁠שְׁמֹ֗ר מְזוּזֹ֥ת פְּתָחָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, doors and doorposts of my entrances implies that Wisdom has a house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “keeping vigil over the doors of my house day by day, keeping watch over the doorposts of the entrances of my house”

Proverbs 8:35

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

For here indicates that what follows is a reason why someone who listens to Wisdom will be happy, as stated in the previous verse. Use a connector in your language that makes it clear that what follows is a reason for what came before. Alternate translation: “That man will be happy because”

finders of me

Quote: מֹצְאַי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, learning wisdom is spoken of as if wisdom were a person that someone could find. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated a similar phrase in 3:13 and 8:17. Alternate translation: “those who attain wisdom” or “those who become wise”

are} finders of life

Quote: מֹצְאֵי חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Having a long life is spoken of as if life were an object that a person can find by searching for it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are those who will have long lives”

and he obtains

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֥פֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term he is masculine, Wisdom is using the word in a generic sense that could refer to either a man or woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “and that person obtains”

favor

Quote: רָ֝צ֗וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated favor in 3:4.

Proverbs 8:36

But a sinner {against} me

Quote: וְֽ֭⁠חֹטְאִ⁠י (1)

The phrase translated a sinner against me could also be translated as “one who misses me,” which has the idea of failing to “find” wisdom. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

But a sinner {against} me

Quote: וְֽ֭⁠חֹטְאִ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, wisdom is spoken of as if it were a person whom people could sin against. This phrase refers to people who sin by rejecting wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “But someone who sins by rejecting me” or “But someone who sins by rejecting wisdom”

his life

Quote: נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, life refers to the person himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “himself”

does violence to … death

Quote: חֹמֵ֣ס & מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns violence in 3:31 and death in 2:18.

love death

Quote: אָ֣הֲבוּ מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

This phrase is an exaggeration that emphasizes that people who hate wisdom choose to live in a way that will cause them to die. It does not mean that people who hate wisdom actually love death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “show by their actions that they choose to die” or “act as if they love death”

Proverbs 9

Proverbs 9 General Notes

Structure and formatting

2. A father teaches his son about wisdom (1:8–9:18)
   • Avoid evil companions (1:8–19)
   • Do not reject wisdom (1:20–33)
   • Wisdom prevents people from committing crime or adultery (2:1–22)
   • Humbly trust Yahweh (3:1–12)
   • The value of wisdom (3:13–20)
   • Do not act wickedly (3:21–35)
   • Wisdom will benefit you (4:1–9)
   • Behave wisely and avoid those who do not (4:10–19)
   • Live righteously (4:20–27)
   • Avoid temptation to commit adultery (5:1–23)
   • Practical warnings (6:1–19)
   • Adultery will be punished (6:20–35)
   • The Story of an Adulterer (7:1–27)
   • Wisdom benefits the wise (8:1–36)
   • Wisdom and folly (9:1–18)

Special concepts in this chapter

Wisdom calls out

In this chapter and the previous chapter, wisdom is referred to as if it were a woman who prepares a meal and calls out for all to come and learn from her. In languages where it is possible for something like wisdom to be spoken of as if it were a person who speaks, the translator should translate in this way. However, if direct translation is not possible in your language, you may translate the personification as similes instead. In that case wisdom would be presented as being like a wise woman. When wisdom speaks in 9:4–12, the notes will use the proper noun “Wisdom” to indicate that the personification of wisdom is speaking. See how you translated similar references to wisdom in 1:20–33 and 8:4–36. (See: Олицетворение)

Proverbs 9:1

Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn out her seven pillars

Quote: חָ֭כְמוֹת בָּנְתָ֣ה בֵיתָ֑⁠הּ חָצְבָ֖ה עַמּוּדֶ֣י⁠הָ שִׁבְעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In 9:1–12, Wisdom is spoken of as if it were a woman. See the discussion of this in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “It is as if wisdom were a woman who has built her house and has hewn out her seven pillars”

she has hewn out her seven pillars

Quote: חָצְבָ֖ה עַמּוּדֶ֣י⁠הָ שִׁבְעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This clause refers to part of the process of building the house that was mentioned in the previous clause. A house with seven pillars would have been very large. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “she has hewn out seven pillars to support the roof of her house”

Proverbs 9:2

She has slaughtered her slaughter, she has mixed her wine, also she has arranged her table

Quote: טָבְחָ֣ה טִ֭בְחָ⁠הּ מָסְכָ֣ה יֵינָ֑⁠הּ אַ֝֗ף עָֽרְכָ֥ה שֻׁלְחָנָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, wisdom is spoken of as if it were a woman. See the discussion of such personification in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “It is as if wisdom were a woman who has slaughtered her slaughter, mixed her wine, and arranged her table”

She has slaughtered her slaughter, she has mixed her wine, also she has arranged her table

Quote: טָבְחָ֣ה טִ֭בְחָ⁠הּ מָסְכָ֣ה יֵינָ֑⁠הּ אַ֝֗ף עָֽרְכָ֥ה שֻׁלְחָנָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

All three of these clauses refer to parts of the process to prepare a special meal for guests. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “She has prepared a meal for guests by slaughtering her slaughter, mixing her wine, and arranging her table”

She has slaughtered her slaughter

Quote: טָבְחָ֣ה טִ֭בְחָ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, slaughter refers to the animals that Wisdom has slaughtered so that their meat may be eaten at a meal. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “She has slaughtered the animals so that their meat may be eaten at the meal”

she has mixed her wine

Quote: מָסְכָ֣ה יֵינָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In ancient Israel, people often prepared wine for drinking by mixing it with water. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “she has prepared her wine by mixing it with water”

she has arranged her table

Quote: עָֽרְכָ֥ה שֻׁלְחָנָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to putting the food and eating utensils on a table in order to prepare for a meal. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “she has prepared her table for people to eat a meal”

Proverbs 9:3

She has sent out her young women, she calls out

Quote: שָֽׁלְחָ֣ה נַעֲרֹתֶ֣י⁠הָ תִקְרָ֑א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, wisdom is spoken of as if it were a wealthy woman who has servants and calls out in public. See the discussion of such personification in the General Notes for this chapter. Alternate translation: “It is as if wisdom were a woman who has sent out her young women and calls out”

She has sent out her young women

Quote: שָֽׁלְחָ֣ה נַעֲרֹתֶ֣י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon implies that the young women were sent out in order to invite people to the meal that Wisdom had prepared. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “She has sent out her young women to invite people to the meal”

on the tops of the heights of

Quote: עַל־גַּ֝פֵּ֗י מְרֹ֣מֵי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar phrase “the head of the heights” in 8:2.

Proverbs 9:4

Whoever {is} naive, let him turn aside here,” she says to him lacking of heart

Quote: מִי־פֶ֭תִי יָסֻ֣ר הֵ֑נָּה חֲסַר־לֵ֝֗ב אָ֣מְרָה לּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “She says to him lacking of heart, ‘Whoever is naive, let him turn aside here”

Proverbs 9:4-5

Whoever {is} naive, let him turn aside here,” she says to him lacking of heart … Come, eat my bread, and drink the wine I have mixed

Quote: מִי־פֶ֭תִי יָסֻ֣ר הֵ֑נָּה חֲסַר־לֵ֝֗ב אָ֣מְרָה לּֽ⁠וֹ & לְ֭כוּ לַחֲמ֣וּ בְֽ⁠לַחֲמִ֑⁠י וּ֝⁠שְׁת֗וּ בְּ⁠יַ֣יִן מָסָֽכְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor

In these two verses, Wisdom speaks of people acquiring wisdom as they were turning aside from a path to enter Wisdom’s house, eat Wisdom’s bread, and drink Wisdom’s wine. Just as bread and wineare good and keep people alive, so wisdom also is good and something that enables people to live for a long time. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the comparison. Alternate translation: “She says to him lacking of heart, ‘Whoever is naive, benefit your lives by acquiring wisdom. Doing so is like turning aside here, coming to me, eating my bread, and drinking the wine I have mixed”

Proverbs 9:4

let him turn aside here

Quote: יָסֻ֣ר הֵ֑נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Wisdom implies that the naive person should turn aside and come to her house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “let him leave his path and come to my house”

let him turn aside … to him

Quote: יָסֻ֣ר & לּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although him is masculine, here it refers to any naive person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “let that person turn aside … to that person”

lacking of heart

Quote: חֲסַר־לֵ֝֗ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of this phrase in 7:7.

Proverbs 9:5

my bread

Quote: בְֽ⁠לַחֲמִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, bread is used to refer to food in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or express the meaning plainly, as in the UST.

Come, eat … and drink

Quote: לְ֭כוּ לַחֲמ֣וּ & וּ֝⁠שְׁת֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

All three of these commands are plural because Wisdom is addressing all the “naive” people at the same time.

the wine I have mixed

Quote: בְּ⁠יַ֣יִן מָסָֽכְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar phrase in 9:2.

Proverbs 9:6

Forsake … and live; and stride

Quote: עִזְב֣וּ & וִֽ⁠חְי֑וּ וְ֝⁠אִשְׁר֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

All three of these commands are plural because Wisdom is addressing all the naive people at the same time.

Forsake naive things

Quote: עִזְב֣וּ פְתָאיִ֣ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Wisdom tells people to stop doing naive things as if those things were people whom a person could Forsake. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Stop your naive behavior” or “Stop doing naive things”

and live

Quote: וִֽ⁠חְי֑וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, and indicates that what follows is the purpose for doing what Wisdom commands people to do earlier in this verse. Use a connector in your language that indicates a purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of living”

and live

Quote: וִֽ⁠חְי֑וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, live refers to living a long life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and live a long life”

and stride on the way of understanding

Quote: וְ֝⁠אִשְׁר֗וּ בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ בִּינָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of a people behaving in a manner that will enable them to acquire understanding as if they were striding on a path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and behave in a manner that will enable you to acquire understanding”

understanding

Quote: בִּינָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun understanding in 1:2.

Proverbs 9:7

The instructor of a mocker receives disgrace for himself, and the rebuker of a wicked one, his injury

Quote: יֹ֤סֵ֨ר ׀ לֵ֗ץ לֹקֵ֣חַֽ ל֣⁠וֹ קָל֑וֹן וּ⁠מוֹכִ֖יחַ לְ⁠רָשָׁ֣ע מוּמֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, The instructor, a mocker, himself, the rebuker, a wicked one, and his do not refer to specific people, but refer to types of people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Any instructor of any mocker receives disgrace for that person, and any rebuker of any wicked one, that person’s injury”

The instructor of a mocker

Quote: יֹ֤סֵ֨ר ׀ לֵ֗ץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Since a mocker does not accept instruction, this phrase implies that someone attempted to be an instructor of a mocker. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “The one who attempts to instruct a mocker”

receives disgrace for himself

Quote: לֹקֵ֣חַֽ ל֣⁠וֹ קָל֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of disgrace as if it were an object that a person receives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will himself be disgraced”

disgrace

Quote: קָל֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun disgrace in 6:33.

and the rebuker of a wicked one, his injury

Quote: וּ⁠מוֹכִ֖יחַ לְ⁠רָשָׁ֣ע מוּמֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and the rebuker of a wicked one receives his injury”

his injury

Quote: מוּמֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of injury, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “his being injured”

Proverbs 9:8

Do not rebuke

Quote: אַל־תּ֣וֹכַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This clause states what Wisdom wants people to do as a result of what Wisdom said in the previous verse. Use the most natural way to express an intended result in your language. Alternate translation: “Therefore, do not rebuke”

a mocker, lest he hate you; … a wise one and he will love you

Quote: לֵ֭ץ פֶּן־יִשְׂנָאֶ֑⁠ךָּ & לְ֝⁠חָכָ֗ם וְ⁠יֶאֱהָבֶֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a mocker, he, and a wise one do not refer to specific people, but refer to types of people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “any mocker, lest that person hate you … any wise one and that person will love you”

rebuke a wise one

Quote: הוֹכַ֥ח לְ֝⁠חָכָ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause says something that is in contrast to what was said in the previous clause. Use a natural way in your language to express a strong contrast. Alternate translation: “By contrast, rebuke a wise one”

and he will love you

Quote: וְ⁠יֶאֱהָבֶֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of obeying the command stated in the previous phrase. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “and it will result in him loving you”

Proverbs 9:9

Give

Quote: תֵּ֣ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Wisdom is leaving out a word that a clause would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply this word from the context. Alternate translation: “Give instruction” or “Give what is wise”

to a wise one and he will become more wise; … a righteous one, and he will increase

Quote: לְ֭⁠חָכָם וְ⁠יֶחְכַּם־ע֑וֹד & לְ֝⁠צַדִּ֗יק וְ⁠י֣וֹסֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a wise one, he, and a righteous one do not refer to specific people, but refer to these types of people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “to any wise one and that person will become more wise … any righteous one and that person will increase”

Proverbs 9:10

The beginning of

Quote: תְּחִלַּ֣ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated the same use of beginning in 1:7.

wisdom {… and knowledge of … is} understanding

Quote: חָ֭כְמָה & וְ⁠דַ֖עַת & בִּינָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and understanding in 1:2 and knowledge in 1:4.

is} the fear of Yahweh

Quote: יִרְאַ֣ת יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 1:7.

Proverbs 9:11

For

Quote: כִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

For here indicates that Wisdom is emphasizing what follows in this verse. Use a connector in your language that makes that emphasis clear. Alternate translation: “Truly”

your days will increase

Quote: יִרְבּ֣וּ יָמֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of people living for a long time as if the days that they are alive were something that could increase in number. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you will live many more days”

and years of life will be added to you

Quote: וְ⁠יוֹסִ֥יפוּ לְּ֝⁠ךָ֗ שְׁנ֣וֹת חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of people living for a long time as if the years that they are alive were something that could be added to their lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and you will live many more years”

years of life

Quote: שְׁנ֣וֹת חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this idiom in 3:2.

and … will be added to you

Quote: וְ⁠יוֹסִ֥יפוּ לְּ֝⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and … I will add to you”

Proverbs 9:12

for yourself

Quote: לָּ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, for implies that being wise is for the benefit of the wise person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for the benefit of yourself”

and {if} you mock

Quote: וְ֝⁠לַ֗צְתָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Here, and indicates that what follows is a strong contrast to what was stated in the previous clause. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “however, if you mock”

you alone will bear {it

Quote: לְֽ⁠בַדְּ⁠ךָ֥ תִשָּֽׂא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Wisdom speaks of someone experiencing the consequences of one’s bad behavior as if it were a heavy object that one had to carry on one’s back. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “you alone will experience the consequences”

Proverbs 9:13

The woman of stupidity {is} loud, naive, and she does not know anything

Quote: אֵ֣שֶׁת כְּ֭סִילוּת הֹֽמִיָּ֑ה פְּ֝תַיּ֗וּת וּ⁠בַל־יָ֥דְעָה מָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The phrase woman of insolence could refer to: (1) a woman who is characterized by stupidity, in which case this phrase would refer to stupid women in general. Alternate translation: “A stupid woman is loud, naive, and she does not know anything” or “Stupid women are loud, naive, and do not know anything” (2) stupidity as if it were a woman, which is how wisdom was spoken of in the previous part of this chapter. Alternate translation: “Lady Stupidity is loud, naive, and she does not know anything”

and she does not know anything

Quote: וּ⁠בַל־יָ֥דְעָה מָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

This phrase is an exaggeration that Solomon uses to emphasize how ignorant this woman is. It does not mean that she does not know anything at all. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and she does not know much” or “and she knows very little”

Proverbs 9:14

And she sits at the opening of her house, on a seat {by} the heights of the city

Quote: וְֽ֭⁠יָשְׁבָה לְ⁠פֶ֣תַח בֵּיתָ֑⁠הּ עַל־כִּ֝סֵּ֗א מְרֹ֣מֵי קָֽרֶת (1)

If you translated the phrase “woman of stupidity” as a plural form in the previous verse, then you should use plural forms in this verse. Alternate translation: “And they sit at the opening of their houses, on seats by the heights of the city”

at the opening of her house

Quote: לְ⁠פֶ֣תַח בֵּיתָ֑⁠הּ (1)

See how you translated this phrase in 5:8.

on a seat

Quote: עַל־כִּ֝סֵּ֗א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

This clause could refer to: (1) the specific location of the opening of her house. Alternate translation: “which is on a seat” (2) a second location where she sits. Alternate translation: “or on a seat”

by} the heights of the city

Quote: מְרֹ֣מֵי קָֽרֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 9:3.

Proverbs 9:15

to call

Quote: לִ⁠קְרֹ֥א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, to indicates that what follows is the purpose for the “woman of stupidity” sitting in a public place, as stated in the previous verse. Use a natural way in your language to express a purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of calling”

to those who pass over the way

Quote: לְ⁠עֹֽבְרֵי־דָ֑רֶךְ (1)

Alternate translation: “to those walking by on the road”

the ones going straight {on} their paths

Quote: הַֽ֝⁠מְיַשְּׁרִ֗ים אֹֽרְחוֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This clause is an idiom that describes people who are only thinking of their own affairs. If this clause does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the ones minding their own business” or “the ones only thinking about their own affairs”

Proverbs 9:16

Whoever {is} naive, let him turn aside here!” And she says to him, the lacking of heart

Quote: מִי־פֶ֭תִי יָסֻ֣ר הֵ֑נָּה וַ⁠חֲסַר־לֵ֝֗ב וְ⁠אָ֣מְרָה לּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the nearly identical clauses in 9:4.

Proverbs 9:17

Stolen waters are sweet

Quote: מַֽיִם־גְּנוּבִ֥ים יִמְתָּ֑קוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The stupid woman implies that what she says in this verse is the reason why the “naive” should “turn aside” to her. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Turn aside here because stolen waters are sweet”

Stolen waters are sweet, and bread of secrecies is pleasant

Quote: מַֽיִם־גְּנוּבִ֥ים יִמְתָּ֑קוּ וְ⁠לֶ֖חֶם סְתָרִ֣ים יִנְעָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, the foolish woman refers to the pleasure of having sex with someone to whom one is not married as if it were as sweet as stolen waters or as pleasant as bread of secrecies. Water and food are also used as euphemisms for sexual activity in 5:15–19 and 30:20. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile: “Having sex with me is truly enjoyable” or “Having sex with me is as enjoyable as drinking stolen waters or eating bread of secrecies”

and bread of secrecies

Quote: וְ⁠לֶ֖חֶם סְתָרִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

The phrase bread of secrecies could refer to: (1) bread that is eating secretly by oneself. Alternate translation: “and bread that is eaten in secrecy” (2) bread that one obtains through secret deeds, which implies stealing the bread. Alternate translation: “and bread obtained secretly”

Proverbs 9:18

And he does not know

Quote: וְֽ⁠לֹא־יָ֭דַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

And here indicates that was follows is in contrast with what the foolish woman stated in the previous verses. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a contrast. Alternate translation: “However, he does not know”

And he does not know

Quote: וְֽ⁠לֹא־יָ֭דַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, he refers to any naive man to whom the stupid woman calls. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “And any naive man does not know”

the spirits of the dead {are} there

Quote: רְפָאִ֣ים שָׁ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of those men who died because they went to the stupid woman’s house as if their dead spirits were there. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “that the men who have gone to her house are now dead”

her called ones

Quote: קְרֻאֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the ones whom she called”

her called ones

Quote: קְרֻאֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to the men who went to the stupid woman’s house to commit adultery with her in response to her calling them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the men whom she called and they accepted her call” or “the men who went to her house after she called them”

Proverbs 10

Proverbs 10 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Outline of Proverbs

3. Proverbs from Solomon (10:1–22:16)

Chapter 10 starts a new section of the book, which is mainly filled with short, individual proverbs that were written by Solomon.

Special concepts in this chapter

Contrasting parallelism

Except for 10:10, 18, 22, 26, all the proverbs in this chapter consist of two parallel clauses that contrast with each other.

Proverbs 10:1

The proverbs of Solomon

Quote: מִשְׁלֵ֗י שְׁלֹ֫מֹ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

See how you translated this phrase in 1:1.

A wise son gladdens a father, but a stupid son {is} the grief of his mother

Quote: בֵּ֣ן חָ֭כָם יְשַׂמַּח־אָ֑ב וּ⁠בֵ֥ן כְּ֝סִ֗יל תּוּגַ֥ת אִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the terms son and his are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “Any wise person gladdens that person’s father, but any stupid person is the grief of that person’s mother”

a father

Quote: אָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, father refers specifically to the father of the son mentioned earlier in the sentence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly, as in the UST.

is} the grief of his mother

Quote: תּוּגַ֥ת אִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grief, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “grieves his mother”

Proverbs 10:2

Treasures of wickedness

Quote: אוֹצְר֣וֹת רֶ֑שַׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe Treasures that someone gained by wickedness. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Treasures gained in wicked ways” or “Treasures obtained by wicked means”

do not profit

Quote: לֹא־י֭וֹעִילוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “do not profit those who possess them”

but righteousness … from death

Quote: וּ֝⁠צְדָקָ֗ה & מִ⁠מָּֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns righteousness in 1:3 and death in 2:18.

delivers

Quote: תַּצִּ֥יל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “delivers a person”

Proverbs 10:3

the life of the righteous one

Quote: נֶ֣פֶשׁ צַדִּ֑יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here life refers to the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the righteous person”

he thrusts away

Quote: יֶהְדֹּֽף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of Yahweh preventing the wicked ones from getting what they desire as if the desire were an object that Yahweh thrusts away. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he thwarts”

Proverbs 10:4

A palm of idleness … but the hand of the diligent ones

Quote: כַף־רְמִיָּ֑ה וְ⁠יַ֖ד חָרוּצִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, palm and hand represent the whole person, who works by using a palm or hand. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “A person unwilling to work … but people who work diligently”

poverty

Quote: רָ֗אשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun poverty in 6:11.

Proverbs 10:5

One who gathers in the summer {… in the harvest

Quote: אֹגֵ֣ר בַּ֭⁠קַּיִץ & בַּ֝⁠קָּצִ֗יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the same use of gathers, summer, and harvest in 6:8.

One who gathers

Quote: אֹגֵ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply the word from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “One who gathers food”

who has insight

Quote: מַשְׂכִּ֑יל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun insight in 1:3.

Proverbs 10:6

are} for the head of the righteous one

Quote: לְ⁠רֹ֣אשׁ צַדִּ֑יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, head represents the whole person. In Solomon’s culture people would place their hands on top of the head of the person whom they were blessing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are given to the righteous person”

but the mouth of the wicked ones

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֥י רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, mouth could refer to: (1) what the wicked ones say. Alternate translation: “but the speech of the wicked ones” (2) the wicked ones themselves. Alternate translation: “but the wicked ones themselves”

covers

Quote: יְכַסֶּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to someone concealing violence as if it were an object that someone covers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “conceals”

violence

Quote: חָמָֽס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun violence in 3:31.

Proverbs 10:7

The memory of the righteous one {is} for a blessing

Quote: זֵ֣כֶר צַ֭דִּיק לִ⁠בְרָכָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the memory that other people have about the righteous one. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “The righteous one will be remembered for a blessing”

the righteous one

Quote: צַ֭דִּיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Although righteous one here is singular, it refers to all righteous people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different form. Alternate translation: “any righteous person”

is} for a blessing

Quote: לִ⁠בְרָכָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase indicates that people will be blessed when they remember the righteous one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will be a blessing to others” or “will bless others”

but the name of

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Although name here is singular, it refers to the names of all the wicked ones in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different form. Alternate translation: “but the names of”

but the name of

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name refers to a person’s reputation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the reputation of” or “but what people think of”

will rot

Quote: יִרְקָֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of people forgetting the name of the wicked ones as if that name is an object that rots and disappears. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “will be forgotten” or “will be forgotten like something that rots away”

Proverbs 10:8

The one wise of heart

Quote: חֲכַם־לֵ֭ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase refers to a person who thinks wisely. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “A wise thinker”

receives commands

Quote: יִקַּ֣ח מִצְוֺ֑ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to obeying commands as if they were objects that a person receives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “obeys commands”

commands

Quote: מִצְוֺ֑ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon implies that wise people obey good commands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “good commands”

but the one stupid of lips

Quote: וֶ⁠אֱוִ֥יל שְׂ֝פָתַ֗יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the one stupid of lips refers to someone who speaks foolishly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a similar expression in your language or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but a chattering fool” or “but one who speaks stupidly”

will be thrown down

Quote: יִלָּבֵֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will throw themselves down”

will be thrown down

Quote: יִלָּבֵֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person’s life becoming ruined or destroyed as if that person were thrown down on the ground. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will be destroyed” or “will be made useless”

Proverbs 10:9

One who walks with integrity

Quote: הוֹלֵ֣ךְ בַּ֭⁠תֹּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar phrase “walking with integrity” in 2:7.

will walk securely

Quote: יֵ֣לֶךְ בֶּ֑טַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a similar use of walk in 3:23.

but one who causes his ways to be crooked

Quote: וּ⁠מְעַקֵּ֥שׁ דְּ֝רָכָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar use of “paths” and crooked in 2:15.

will be known

Quote: יִוָּדֵֽעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will know” or “God will know”

will be known

Quote: יִוָּדֵֽעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, known refers to the one who causes his ways being discovered or found out. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will be discovered” or “will be found out”

Proverbs 10:10

One who winks an eye

Quote: קֹ֣רֵֽץ עַ֭יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

See how you translated a similar phrase is 6:13.

gives pain

Quote: יִתֵּ֣ן עַצָּ֑בֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of causing people to feel pain or grief as if pain were an object that someone gives to someone else. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “causes pain”

and one foolish of lips will be thrown down

Quote: וֶ⁠אֱוִ֥יל שְׂ֝פָתַ֗יִם יִלָּבֵֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the nearly identical clause in 10:8.

Proverbs 10:11

A fountain of life

Quote: מְק֣וֹר חַ֭יִּים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a fountain that gives life. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A fountain that gives life”

A fountain of life

Quote: מְק֣וֹר חַ֭יִּים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon is speaking of the mouth of the righteous one as if it were a fountain of life. He means that what a righteous person says is beneficial to a person’s life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Something that benefits a person’s life”

is} the mouth of

Quote: פִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

In this verse, mouth refers to what a person says by using his mouth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is the speech of”

but the mouth of the wicked ones covers violence

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֥י רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים יְכַסֶּ֥ה חָמָֽס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the identical clause in 10:6.

Proverbs 10:12

Hatred stirs up quarrels

Quote: שִׂ֭נְאָה תְּעוֹרֵ֣ר מְדָנִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of Hatred as if it were a person who could cause quarrels. He means that people who hate cause such quarrels. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Being hateful causes one to stir up quarrels”

but love covers over all transgressions

Quote: וְ⁠עַ֥ל כָּל־פְּ֝שָׁעִ֗ים תְּכַסֶּ֥ה אַהֲבָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of love as if it were a person who could cover over transgressions. He means that people who love forgive transgressions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but being hateful causes one to forgive transgressions”

transgressions

Quote: פְּ֝שָׁעִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of transgressions, you could express the same idea in another way. Here, transgressions refers to crimes committed against people. Alternate translation: “that people do to harm others”

Proverbs 10:13

On the lips of the discerning one

Quote: בְּ⁠שִׂפְתֵ֣י נָ֭בוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to what a discerning person says as if it were an object on that person’s lips. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in what a discerning person says”

wisdom is found

Quote: תִּמָּצֵ֣א חָכְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the existence of wisdom as if it were an object that could be found. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “wisdom exists” or “there is wisdom”

wisdom

Quote: חָכְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun wisdom in 1:2.

but a rod {is} for the back of

Quote: וְ֝⁠שֵׁ֗בֶט לְ⁠גֵ֣ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase rod for the back refers to a form of punishment that involved beating a person on the back with a rod. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a general expression for physical punishment. Alternate translation: “but physical punishment is for”

the one lacking of heart

Quote: חֲסַר־לֵֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated lacking of heart in 6:32.

Proverbs 10:14

store up

Quote: יִצְפְּנוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of store up in 2:1.

knowledge

Quote: דָ֑עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun knowledge in 1:4.

but the mouth of

Quote: וּ⁠פִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of mouth in 10:11.

is} near ruin

Quote: מְחִתָּ֥ה קְרֹבָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of what a fool says causing ruin and if that fool’s mouth was near ruin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “causes ruin”

Proverbs 10:15

is} the city of his strength

Quote: קִרְיַ֣ת עֻזּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase city of his strength is an idiom that refers to a city with walls that protect the people inside the city. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is a walled city” or “is a city with strong walls”

is} the city of his strength

Quote: קִרְיַ֣ת עֻזּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to wealth enabling its owners to be safe as if it were a strong city. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is his protection”

the ruin of lowly ones {is} their poverty

Quote: מְחִתַּ֖ת דַּלִּ֣ים רֵישָֽׁ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is a strong contrast with the previous clause. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by contrast, the ruin of lowly ones is their poverty”

lowly ones

Quote: דַּלִּ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase lowly ones refers to poor people as if they were located in a place that is lower than that of people who are not poor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “people who are poor”

is} their poverty

Quote: רֵישָֽׁ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun poverty in 6:11.

Proverbs 10:16

The wage of

Quote: פְּעֻלַּ֣ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the reward that the righteous one receives as if it were a wage. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The reward for”

the righteous one {… the wicked one

Quote: צַדִּ֣יק & רָשָׁ֣ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The phrases the righteous one and the wicked one represent types of people in general, not one particular righteous one or wicked one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “any righteous person … any wicked person”

is} to life; … is} to sin

Quote: לְ⁠חַיִּ֑ים & לְ⁠חַטָּֽאת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

In this verse, the phrase is for indicates that what follows is the result of what was previous stated. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “leads to life … leads to sin” or “results in life … results in sin”

is} to life

Quote: לְ⁠חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to a long life. If it would be helpful in your family, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is to a long life” “is to living a long time”

the income of the wicked one {is} to sin

Quote: תְּבוּאַ֖ת רָשָׁ֣ע לְ⁠חַטָּֽאת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is a strong contrast with the previous clause. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by contrast, the income of the wicked one is to sin”

the income of

Quote: תְּבוּאַ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the recompense or punishment that the wicked one receives as if it were income. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the recompense for”

is} to sin

Quote: לְ⁠חַטָּֽאת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, sin could refer to: (1) the punishment that someone receives for sin, which is suggested by the contrasting parallelism between this clause and the previous clause. Alternate translation: “is for punishment for sin” (2) sin itself. Alternate translation: “is to sin more”

Proverbs 10:17

On} a path

Quote: אֹ֣רַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of path in 8:20.

to life

Quote: לְ֭⁠חַיִּים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, to indicates that what follows is the result of keeping instruction. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “that leads to life” or “that results in life”

instruction, … rebuke

Quote: מוּסָ֑ר & תּוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns instruction in 1:2 and rebuke in 1:25.

but one who forsakes

Quote: וְ⁠עוֹזֵ֖ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

See how you translated the same use of “forsake” in 1:8.

goes astray

Quote: מַתְעֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone deliberately doing wicked things that will result in that person’s destruction as if that person were wandering away from a road. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will do what will result in that person’s destruction”

Proverbs 10:18

One who covers

Quote: מְכַסֶּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of covers in 10:6.

has} lips of falsehood

Quote: שִׂפְתֵי־שָׁ֑קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe lips that are characterized by falsehood. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “has false lips”

has} lips of

Quote: שִׂפְתֵי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, lips refers to what people say by moving their lips. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “tells”

he

Quote: ה֣וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term he is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that could refer to either a man or woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “that person”

Proverbs 10:19

With a multitude of words

Quote: בְּ⁠רֹ֣ב דְּ֭בָרִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies someone speaking a multitude of words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “When someone speaks a multitude of words”

transgression

Quote: פָּ֑שַׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated “transgressions” in 10:12.

does not cease

Quote: לֹ֣א יֶחְדַּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Solomon is using a figure of speech here that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning, forsake. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “continues”

but one who restrains his lips

Quote: וְ⁠חֹשֵׂ֖ךְ שְׂפָתָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to someone who stops himself from speaking. If it would be helpful, you could use an equivalent idiom from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but one who keeps his mouth shut” or “but one who prevents himself from speaking”

Proverbs 10:20

Choice silver

Quote: כֶּ֣סֶף נִ֭בְחָר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the value of what righteous people say as if it were the best quality silver. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “Extremely valuable” or “Like choice silver”

is} the tongue of

Quote: לְשׁ֣וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of tongue in 6:17.

is} the tongue of the righteous one

Quote: לְשׁ֣וֹן צַדִּ֑יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated the righteous one in 10:16.

the heart of the wicked ones {is} like little

Quote: לֵ֖ב רְשָׁעִ֣ים כִּ⁠מְעָֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is a strong contrast with the previous clause. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by contrast, the heart of the wicked ones is like little”

the heart of

Quote: לֵ֖ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

is} like little

Quote: כִּ⁠מְעָֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, like little refers to having little value. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “has little value” or “is not valuable”

Proverbs 10:21

The lips of

Quote: שִׂפְתֵ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, lips refers to what people say by moving their lips. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The sayings of”

the righteous one

Quote: צַ֭דִּיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in 10:16.

shepherd

Quote: יִרְע֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of what righteous people say benefitting people as if it were shepherding them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “help”

die by lack of heart

Quote: בַּ⁠חֲסַר־לֵ֥ב יָמֽוּתוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, by indicates that what follows is the reason why fools die. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a reason. Alternate translation: “die as a result of lacking heart”

heart

Quote: לֵ֥ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 6:32.

Proverbs 10:22

and he does not add pain with it

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־יוֹסִ֖ף עֶ֣צֶב עִמָּֽ⁠הּ (1)

The word translated as pain can also mean “toil.” Some scholars think this word is the subject of the phrase does not add. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT. Alternate translation: “and toil does not add to it” or “and hard work does not add more riches to it”

Proverbs 10:23

Like laughter for a stupid one {is} doing a wicked plan

Quote: כִּ⁠שְׂח֣וֹק לִ֭⁠כְסִיל עֲשׂ֣וֹת זִמָּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon is saying that doing a wicked plan is like laughter because a stupid one enjoys it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Doing a wicked plan is as fun as laughing for a stupid one”

but wisdom, for a man of understanding

Quote: וְ֝⁠חָכְמָ֗ה לְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words in this clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but wisdom is like laughter for a man of understanding”

but wisdom, … understanding

Quote: וְ֝⁠חָכְמָ֗ה & תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and understanding in 1:2.

for a man of understanding

Quote: לְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although man is masculine, here it refers to any person with understanding. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “for a person of understanding”

for a man of understanding

Quote: לְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ תְּבוּנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a man who is characterized by understanding. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “for an understanding man” or “for a person who has understanding”

Proverbs 10:24

The terror of

Quote: מְגוֹרַ֣ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of terror, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “what terrifies”

the wicked one, it will come to him

Quote: רָ֭שָׁע הִ֣יא תְבוֹאֶ֑⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, the wicked one and him refer to wicked people in general. See how you translated the wicked one in 3:33. Alternate translation: “any wicked person, it will come to that person”

it will come to him

Quote: הִ֣יא תְבוֹאֶ֑⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of someone experiencing terror as if terror were a person who could come to someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “it will happen to him”

will be given

Quote: יִתֵּֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “will be given to them”

will be given

Quote: יִתֵּֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will give”

Proverbs 10:25

At the passing over of a whirlwind

Quote: כַּ⁠עֲב֣וֹר ס֭וּפָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This could refer to: (1) any destructive event. Alternate translation: “At the occurring of a disaster” or “When a disaster occurs” (2) a literal storm. Alternate translation: “When a storm occurs”

and there is no wicked one

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֣ין רָשָׁ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

The word translated and here indicates that the event it introduces took place at the same time as the event stated in the previous clause. Use a natural form in your language for introducing an event that happened at the same time as another event. Alternate translation: “at that time there is no wicked one”

and there is no wicked one

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֣ין רָשָׁ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that the whirlwind blew away every wicked one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and there is no wicked one because the whirlwind blew them away”

but a righteous one

Quote: וְ֝⁠צַדִּ֗יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Solomon is speaking of righteous people in general, not of one particular righteous person. If it would be helpful in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “but any righteous person”

is} a foundation of eternity

Quote: יְס֣וֹד עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a righteous one being able to endure disasters as if that person were the foundation of a building that storms do not damage. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “endures to eternity” or “remains forever”

is} a foundation of eternity

Quote: יְס֣וֹד עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a foundation that lasts to eternity. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is an eternal foundation” or “is a foundation that lasts forever”

Proverbs 10:26

Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes

Quote: כַּ⁠חֹ֤מֶץ ׀ לַ⁠שִּׁנַּ֗יִם וְ⁠כֶ⁠עָשָׁ֥ן לָ⁠עֵינָ֑יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon is saying that the lazy one is like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes because vinegar irritates teeth and smoke irritates eyes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Like vinegar is irritating to teeth and smoke is irritating to eyes”

is} the lazy one to one who sends him

Quote: הֶ֝⁠עָצֵ֗ל לְ⁠שֹׁלְחָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, the lazy one and him refer to lazy people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is any lazy person to one who sends that person”

to one who sends him

Quote: לְ⁠שֹׁלְחָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that the lazy one was sent to do some errand for the person who sent him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to one who sends him to do an errand”

Proverbs 10:27

The fear of Yahweh

Quote: יִרְאַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated the fear of Yahweh in 1:7.

will add days

Quote: תּוֹסִ֣יף יָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the fear of Yahweh as if it could add days to a person’s life. He means that fearing Yahweh will enable a person to live a long life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will result in days being added”

will add days

Quote: תּוֹסִ֣יף יָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that days are added to the length of a person’s life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will add days to the length of a person’s life”

but the years of the wicked ones

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁנ֖וֹת רְשָׁעִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses years to refer to the length of time that a person lives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the lifetimes of the wicked ones”

Proverbs 10:28

The hope of … is} joy

Quote: תּוֹחֶ֣לֶת & שִׂמְחָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of hope and joy, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “What is hoped by … what is joyful”

is} joy

Quote: שִׂמְחָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

This could mean: (1) the hope results in joy. Alternate translation: “results in joy” (2) joy is what the righteous ones hope for, as in the ULT.

but the expectation of the wicked ones will perish

Quote: וְ⁠תִקְוַ֖ת רְשָׁעִ֣ים תֹּאבֵֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the wicked ones having unfulfilled expectations as if their expectation will perish. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the expectation of the wicked ones will remain unfulfilled”

Proverbs 10:29

A stronghold

Quote: מָע֣וֹז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the way of Yahweh protecting people as if it were a stronghold. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Protection”

for the one with integrity {… iniquity

Quote: לַ֭⁠תֹּם & אָֽוֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns integrity in 1:3 and iniquity in 6:12.

is} the way of Yahweh

Quote: דֶּ֣רֶךְ יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, way refers to what Yahweh does or his behavior. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is what Yahweh does” or “is the behavior of Yahweh”

but ruin

Quote: וּ֝⁠מְחִתָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but the way of Yahweh is ruin”

Proverbs 10:30

A righteous one

Quote: צַדִּ֣יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated the same phrase in 9:9.

will not falter

Quote: בַּל־יִמּ֑וֹט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Solomon is using a figure of speech here that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “will be secure”

the land

Quote: אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the same use of the land in 2:21.

Proverbs 10:31

The mouth of the righteous one

Quote: פִּֽי־צַ֭דִּיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 10:11.

bears the fruit of wisdom

Quote: יָנ֣וּב חָכְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a righteous person saying wise things as if wisdom were a fruit that a plant bears. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “speaks wisdom” or “speaks wisdom like a plant bears fruit”

but the tongue of

Quote: וּ⁠לְשׁ֥וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of tongue in 6:17.

will be cut off

Quote: תִּכָּרֵֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cut off”

will be cut off

Quote: תִּכָּרֵֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, Solomon speaks of the perverse ones not being permitted to speak as if someone cut off their tongues. He does not mean that someone would literally cut off their tongues. If it would be helpful in your language, you cold express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will not be allowed to speak” or “will be stopped”

Proverbs 10:32

The lips of the righteous one

Quote: שִׂפְתֵ֣י צַ֭דִּיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 10:21.

know favor

Quote: יֵדְע֣וּ⁠ן רָצ֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of a righteous person saying pleasing things as if that person’s lips were people who know favor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “express favor”

favor

Quote: רָצ֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated favor in 3:4.

but the mouth of the wicked ones, perverse things

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֥י רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים תַּהְפֻּכֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but the mouth of the wicked ones knows perverse things” or “but the mouth of the wicked ones expresses perverse things”

but the mouth of the wicked ones

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֥י רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 10:6.

Proverbs 11

Proverbs 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 11 continues the section of the book written by Solomon that is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Contrasting parallelism

Except for 11:7, 10, 22, 25, and 11:29–31, all the proverbs in this chapter consist of two parallel clauses that contrast with each other.

Proverbs 11:1

Scales of … but a whole stone

Quote: מֹאזְנֵ֣י & וְ⁠אֶ֖בֶן שְׁלֵמָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Solomon does not mean that Yahweh actually hates these Scales or has delight in this whole stone. Rather, he means that Yahweh hates people using these Scales and has delight in people using a whole stone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The use of scales of … but the use of a whole stone”

Scales of deceit

Quote: מֹאזְנֵ֣י מִ֭רְמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Scales describes an instrument for determining the weight of an object or comparing the weight of two objects. It consists of a central post with a crossbar from which two pans are hung. An object may be placed in one pan and known weights placed in the other pan until the crossbar remains level, meaning that both pans contain an equal weight. Or one object may be placed in one pan and a different object in the other pan; the pan that hangs lower contains the heavier object. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of weighing instrument, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “a balancing scale of deceit” or “a weighing instrument of deceit”

Scales of deceit

Quote: מֹאזְנֵ֣י מִ֭רְמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe Scales that are used for deceit. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Scales used to deceive people” or “Scales people use to deceive others”

are} an abomination to Yahweh

Quote: תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated an abomination to Yahweh in 3:32.

but a whole stone

Quote: וְ⁠אֶ֖בֶן שְׁלֵמָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, whole stone refers to a stone people use as a weight on a pair of Scales that accurately weighs the whole amount that people expect it to weigh. If it would be helpful in your language you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but an accurate weight” or “but a stone that weighs the correct weight”

is} his delight

Quote: רְצוֹנֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun delight in 8:30.

Proverbs 11:2

When presumptuousness comes, then disgrace comes

Quote: בָּֽא־זָ֭דוֹן וַ⁠יָּבֹ֣א קָל֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of a person acting with presumptuousness and experiencing disgrace as if presumptuousness and disgrace were people who come to someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “When someone acts with presumptuousness then that person experiences disgrace”

presumptuousness

Quote: זָ֭דוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of presumptuousness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “being presumptuous”

then disgrace comes

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֣א קָל֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential

The word translated then at the beginning of this phrase indicates that this event happened after the even described in the previous phrase. Use a natural form in your language for introducing the next event in a sequence of events. Alternate translation: “disgrace comes afterward”

disgrace … is} wisdom

Quote: קָל֑וֹן & חָכְמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns disgrace in 6:33 and wisdom in 1:2.

Proverbs 11:3

The integrity of the upright ones will guide them

Quote: תֻּמַּ֣ת יְשָׁרִ֣ים תַּנְחֵ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of integrity as if it were a person who could guide a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “When upright ones act with integrity, doing so will enable them to know what to do” or “The integrity of the upright ones is like a guide for them”

The integrity of

Quote: תֻּמַּ֣ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun integrity in 1:3.

but the crookedness of the treacherous ones will destroy them

Quote: וְ⁠סֶ֖לֶף בּוֹגְדִ֣ים יְשָׁדֵּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of crookedness as if it were a person who could destroy a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use similes. Alternate translation: “but when treacherous ones act with crookedness, doing so will destroy them” or “but the crookedness of the treacherous ones is like a person who destroys them”

but the crookedness of

Quote: וְ⁠סֶ֖לֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a similar use of “crooked” in 2:15.

Proverbs 11:4

Wealth will not profit in the day of rage, but righteousness will deliver from death

Quote: לֹא־יוֹעִ֣יל ה֭וֹן בְּ⁠י֣וֹם עֶבְרָ֑ה וּ֝⁠צְדָקָ֗ה תַּצִּ֥יל מִ⁠מָּֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages both of these clauses would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Wealth will not profit you in the day of rage, but righteousness will deliver you from death” or “Wealth will not profit people in the day of rage, but righteousness will deliver people from death”

will not profit

Quote: לֹא־יוֹעִ֣יל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of profit in 3:14.

in the day of rage

Quote: בְּ⁠י֣וֹם עֶבְרָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the day of rage refers to a time when God will judge wicked people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the day of Yahweh’s judgment”

but righteousness will deliver from death

Quote: וּ֝⁠צְדָקָ֗ה תַּצִּ֥יל מִ⁠מָּֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of righteousness enabling a person to escape death as if it were a person who could deliver that person from death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “but righteousness will enable someone to be delivered from death” or “but righteousness is like someone who delivers a person from death”

but righteousness … from death

Quote: וּ֝⁠צְדָקָ֗ה & מִ⁠מָּֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns righteousness in 1:3 and death in 2:18.

Proverbs 11:5

The righteousness of … but by his wickedness

Quote: צִדְקַ֣ת & וּ֝⁠בְ⁠רִשְׁעָת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns righteousness in 1:3 and wickedness in 4:17.

a blameless one

Quote: תָּ֭מִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The phrase a blameless one represents blameless people in general, not one particular blameless one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “any blameless person”

will make his way straight

Quote: תְּיַשֵּׁ֣ר דַּרְכּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to enabling someone to know what that person should do as making that person’s way straight. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated a similar idea in 3:6. Alternate translation: “will cause that person to know what to do”

a wicked one

Quote: רָשָֽׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in 9:7.

will fall

Quote: יִפֹּ֥ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of someone experiencing disaster as if that person were falling down. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will experience disaster”

Proverbs 11:6

The righteousness of

Quote: צִדְקַ֣ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun righteousness in 1:2.

The righteousness of the upright ones will deliver them

Quote: צִדְקַ֣ת יְ֭שָׁרִים תַּצִּילֵ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of righteousness enabling a person to escape something as if it were a person who could deliver that person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. See how you translated a similar expression in 11:4. Alternate translation: “The righteousness of the upright ones will enable them to be delivered” or “The righteousness of the upright ones is like someone who delivers them”

they will be captured

Quote: יִלָּכֵֽדוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they here refers to the treacherous ones. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those treacherous ones will be captured”

they will be captured

Quote: יִלָּכֵֽדוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone will capture them”

Proverbs 11:7

At the death of a wicked man

Quote: בְּ⁠מ֤וֹת אָדָ֣ם רָ֭שָׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of death, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “When a wicked man dies”

a wicked man

Quote: אָדָ֣ם רָ֭שָׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “a wicked person”

will perish, … perishes

Quote: תֹּאבַ֣ד & אָבָֽדָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

In this verse, Solomon speaks of expectation and hope remaining unfulfilled as if they were people who could perish. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use similes. Alternate translation: “will remain unfulfilled … remains unfulfilled” or “will be like someone who perishes … is like someone who perishes”

and the hope of

Quote: וְ⁠תוֹחֶ֖לֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun hope in 10:28.

strong ones

Quote: אוֹנִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, strong ones could refer to: (1) people who rely on their own strength to get what they hope for. Alternate translation: “those who rely on their own strength” (2) people who rely on their wealth to get what they hope for. Alternate translation: “those who rely on their wealth”

Proverbs 11:8

A righteous one … a wicked one

Quote: צַ֭דִּיק & רָשָׁ֣ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated A righteous one in 9:9 and a wicked one in 9:7.

A righteous one is drawn away from distress, but a wicked one enters instead of him

Quote: צַ֭דִּיק מִ⁠צָּרָ֣ה נֶחֱלָ֑ץ וַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א רָשָׁ֣ע תַּחְתָּֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Solomon speaks of avoiding and experience distress as if distress were a place that someone could be drawn away from or enter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “A righteous one is prevented from experiencing distress, but a wicked one experiences it instead of him”

A righteous one is drawn away

Quote: צַ֭דִּיק & נֶחֱלָ֑ץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh draws away a righteous one”

from distress

Quote: מִ⁠צָּרָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun distress in 1:27.

but a wicked one enters

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א רָשָׁ֣ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but a wicked one enters distress”

Proverbs 11:9

With a mouth

Quote: בְּ⁠פֶ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of mouth in 10:11.

a godless one

Quote: חָ֭נֵף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The phrase a godless one represents godless people in general, not one particular godless one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “any godless person”

a godless one

Quote: חָ֭נֵף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, a godless one refers to any person who rebels against God or behaves as if God does not exist. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a person who rebels against God”

his neighbor

Quote: רֵעֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term his is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “that person’s neighbor”

but with knowledge

Quote: וּ֝⁠בְ⁠דַ֗עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun knowledge in 1:4.

but with knowledge righteous ones will be delivered

Quote: וּ֝⁠בְ⁠דַ֗עַת צַדִּיקִ֥ים יֵחָלֵֽצוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but knowledge will deliver righteous ones”

Proverbs 11:10

In the good of the righteous ones

Quote: בְּ⁠ט֣וּב צַ֭דִּיקִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the good things that happen to the righteous ones. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In the good things that happen to righteous ones” or “When good things happen to the righteous ones”

a city exults

Quote: תַּעֲלֹ֣ץ קִרְיָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, city refers to the people who live in a city. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the people of a city exult”

and when wicked ones perish, a shout of joy

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠אֲבֹ֖ד רְשָׁעִ֣ים רִנָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and when wicked ones perish, there is a shout of joy” or “and when wicked ones perish, a city gives a shout of joy”

Proverbs 11:11

With the blessing of the upright ones a city is raised up, but with the mouth of the wicked ones it is torn down

Quote: בְּ⁠בִרְכַּ֣ת יְ֭שָׁרִים תָּר֣וּם קָ֑רֶת וּ⁠בְ⁠פִ֥י רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים תֵּהָרֵֽס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The blessing of the upright ones raises up a city, but the mouth of the wicked ones tears down a city”

With the blessing of the upright ones

Quote: בְּ⁠בִרְכַּ֣ת יְ֭שָׁרִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the blessing of the upright ones could refer to: (1) the blessing that the upright ones give to a city. Alternate translation: “With the blessing given by the upright ones” (2) the blessing that God gives the upright ones. Alternate translation: “With the blessing God gives the upright ones”

a city is raised up

Quote: תָּר֣וּם קָ֑רֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a city becoming great as if it were raised up. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a city is made great”

but with the mouth of

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠פִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of mouth in 10:11.

it is torn down

Quote: תֵּהָרֵֽס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses a city being torn down to refer to it being destroyed, which could include tearing down its walls and buildings. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a city is destroyed”

Proverbs 11:12

One who despises his neighbor

Quote: בָּז־לְ⁠רֵעֵ֥⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Contrasting this clause with the second clause indicates that Solomon is referring to someone who despises his neighbor by what he says. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “One who vocally despises his neighbor” or “One who despises his neighbor in what he says”

his neighbor {… but a man of understanding

Quote: לְ⁠רֵעֵ֥⁠הוּ & וְ⁠אִ֖ישׁ תְּבוּנ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although he and man are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that could refer to either a man or woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “that person’s neighbor … but a person of understanding”

is} lacking of heart

Quote: חֲסַר־לֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 6:32.

but a man of understanding

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֖ישׁ תְּבוּנ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated a man of understanding in 10:23.

Proverbs 11:13

A gossip

Quote: רָ֭כִיל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Solomon is using the adjective gossip as a noun to mean “someone who gossips.” Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “Someone who gossips”

uncovering

Quote: מְגַלֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to revealing secret information as if that information were a hidden object that people were uncovering. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “speaking about”

but one who is faithful of spirit

Quote: וְ⁠נֶאֱמַן־ר֝֗וּחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe someone who is characterized by being faithful. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “but a faithful one”

is} one who covers

Quote: מְכַסֶּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of covers in 10:6.

Proverbs 11:14

When there are no directions … but salvation {is} in an abundance of counsel

Quote: בְּ⁠אֵ֣ין תַּ֭חְבֻּלוֹת & וּ֝⁠תְשׁוּעָ֗ה בְּ⁠רֹ֣ב יוֹעֵֽץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of directions, salvation, abundance, and counsel, you could express the same ideas in other ways. See how you translated abundance in 5:23 and counsel in 1:25. Alternate translation: “When no one directs … but many people counseling someone will save that person”

falls

Quote: יִפָּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of “fall” in 11:5.

but salvation {is} in an abundance of counsel

Quote: וּ֝⁠תְשׁוּעָ֗ה בְּ⁠רֹ֣ב יוֹעֵֽץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon is speaking of salvation as if it were an object that could be found in an abundance of counsel. He means that an abundance of counsel can result in salvation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but salvation is the result of an abundance of counsel”

Proverbs 11:15

he pledges for

Quote: עָ֣רַב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term he is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “one pledged for” or “that person pledges for”

he pledges for

Quote: עָ֣רַב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the same use of “pledge” in 6:1.

hand clasps

Quote: תֹקְעִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

The function of this action in this culture was to confirm a contractual agreement with someone. If there is a gesture with similar meaning in your culture, you could consider using it here in your translation, or you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar phrase “clasp your palms” in 6:1. Alternate translation: “shaking hands to confirm an agreement” or “confirming an agreement”

Proverbs 11:16

A woman of grace

Quote: אֵֽשֶׁת־חֵ֭ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, woman refers to a type of woman in general, not one particular woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Any woman of grace”

A woman of grace

Quote: אֵֽשֶׁת־חֵ֭ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a woman who is characterized by grace. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A woman who is gracious”

will grasp … will grasp

Quote: תִּתְמֹ֣ךְ & יִתְמְכוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of people obtaining honor and riches as if they were objects that someone could grasp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will obtain … will obtain”

honor

Quote: כָּב֑וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun honor in 3:16.

will grasp riches

Quote: יִתְמְכוּ־עֹֽשֶׁר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon contrasts this clause from the previous clause in order to imply that riches are not as important as honor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will merely grasp riches”

Proverbs 11:17

A man of covenant faithfulness deals fully with his soul, … his flesh

Quote: גֹּמֵ֣ל נַ֭פְשׁ⁠וֹ אִ֣ישׁ חָ֑סֶד & שְׁ֝אֵר֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although man and his are masculine, Solomon is using the words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “A person of covenant faithfulness deals fully with that person’s soul … that person’s flesh”

A man of covenant faithfulness

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ חָ֑סֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a man who is characterized by covenant faithfulness. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A man who has covenant faithfulness”

deals fully with

Quote: גֹּמֵ֣ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the phrase deals fully refers to rewarding or benefiting someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “rewards”

his soul, … his flesh

Quote: נַ֭פְשׁ⁠וֹ & שְׁ֝אֵר֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, soul and flesh refer to people who have a soul and flesh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly, as in the UST.

a cruel one

Quote: אַכְזָרִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The phrase a cruel one represents cruel people in general, not one particular person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “any cruel person”

Proverbs 11:18

A wicked one

Quote: רָשָׁ֗ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in 9:7.

a wage of falsehood, … a wage of truth

Quote: פְעֻלַּת־שָׁ֑קֶר & שֶׂ֣כֶר אֱמֶֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

In this verse, Solomon is using possessive forms to describe a wage that is characterized by falsehood and to describe a wage that is characterized by truth. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use different expressions. Alternate translation: “a false wage … a true wage”

a wage of falsehood, … a wage of truth

Quote: פְעֻלַּת־שָׁ֑קֶר & שֶׂ֣כֶר אֱמֶֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of results or rewards as if they were a wage. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a false reward … a true reward”

but one who sows righteousness, a wage of truth

Quote: וְ⁠זֹרֵ֥עַ צְ֝דָקָ֗ה שֶׂ֣כֶר אֱמֶֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “makes a wage of truth”

but one who sows righteousness

Quote: וְ⁠זֹרֵ֥עַ צְ֝דָקָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to doing righteous deeds as if one were sowing seeds in a field. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but one who does righteous deeds”

Proverbs 11:19

Veritable righteousness

Quote: כֵּן־צְדָקָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words in this clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the next clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Pursuing veritable righteousness” or “Behaving with veritable righteousness”

is} to life, … is} to his death

Quote: לְ⁠חַיִּ֑ים & לְ⁠מוֹתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

In this verse, is to indicates that what follows is the result of the preceding phrase. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “leads to life … leads him to death”

is} to life

Quote: לְ⁠חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the same use of life in 10:16.

but one who pursues evil

Quote: וּ⁠מְרַדֵּ֖ף רָעָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone who eagerly does evil as if that person were pursuing it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but one who eagerly does evil”

is} to his death

Quote: לְ⁠מוֹתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun death in 2:18.

Proverbs 11:20

An abomination to Yahweh

Quote: תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated this phrase in 3:32.

is} those crooked of

Quote: עִקְּשֵׁי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of crooked in 2:15.

heart

Quote: לֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

but his delight

Quote: וּ֝⁠רְצוֹנ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun delight in 8:30.

is} those blameless of way

Quote: תְּמִ֣ימֵי דָֽרֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a way that is characterized by being blameless. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is those whose way is blameless”

way

Quote: דָֽרֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of way in 1:15.

Proverbs 11:21

Hand to hand

Quote: יָ֣ד לְ֭⁠יָד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to something being certain. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “As sure as the sun comes up” or “Assuredly”

a wicked one

Quote: רָּ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in 9:7.

will not remain blameless

Quote: לֹא־יִנָּ֣קֶה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

See how you translated this phrase in 6:29.

but the seed of

Quote: וְ⁠זֶ֖רַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Here, the word seed is singular in form, but it refers to all seeds as a group. If it would be helpful in your language, you could say this plainly. Alternate translation: “but the seeds of”

but the seed of

Quote: וְ⁠זֶ֖רַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the descendants of the righteous ones as if they were the seed of a plant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the descendants of”

will safely escape

Quote: נִמְלָֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies escape from punishment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will escape punishment” or “will not be punished”

Proverbs 11:22

A ring of gold in the nose of a pig is} a beautiful woman that turns away {from} discretion

Quote: נֶ֣זֶם זָ֭הָב בְּ⁠אַ֣ף חֲזִ֑יר אִשָּׁ֥ה יָ֝פָ֗ה וְ⁠סָ֣רַת טָֽעַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “A beautiful woman that turns away from discretion is a ring of gold in the nose of a pig”

A ring of gold in the nose of a pig is} a beautiful woman that turns away {from} discretion

Quote: נֶ֣זֶם זָ֭הָב בְּ⁠אַ֣ף חֲזִ֑יר אִשָּׁ֥ה יָ֝פָ֗ה וְ⁠סָ֣רַת טָֽעַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Solomon speaks of how inappropriate it is for a beautiful woman to not have discretion as if that woman were a ring of gold in a pig’s nose. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “A beautiful woman that turns away from discretion is inappropriate, like a ring of gold in the nose of a pig”

a pig

Quote: חֲזִ֑יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

A pig is an animal that is considered to be unclean and disgusting by Jews and many cultures of the Ancient Near East. Therefore, it would be very inappropriate for a pig to have a ring of gold in its nose. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of animal, you could use the name of a similar disgusting animal in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “a disgusting animal”

that turns away {from} discretion

Quote: וְ⁠סָ֣רַת טָֽעַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of refusing to act with discretion as if the person were turning away from it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “that does not act with discretion”

discretion

Quote: טָֽעַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun discretion in 1:4.

Proverbs 11:23

The desire of the righteous ones {is} only good; the expectation of the wicked ones {is} rage

Quote: תַּאֲוַ֣ת צַדִּיקִ֣ים אַךְ־ט֑וֹב תִּקְוַ֖ת רְשָׁעִ֣ים עֶבְרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This verse could mean: (1) The desire of righteous people results in what is good, but the expectation of wicked people results in rage. Alternate translation: “The desire of the righteous ones leads only to good; the expectation of the wicked ones leads to rage” (2) righteous people only desire what is good, but wicked people expect anger. Alternate translation: “The righteous ones only desire good; the wicked ones expect rage”

the expectation of the wicked ones {is} rage

Quote: תִּקְוַ֖ת רְשָׁעִ֣ים עֶבְרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is a strong contrast with the previous clause. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by contrast, the expectation of the wicked ones is rage”

is} rage

Quote: עֶבְרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, rage could refer to: (1) Yahweh’s wrath. Alternate translation: “is the wrath of Yahweh” (2) the wrath of other people. Alternate translation: “is the wrath of other people”

is} rage

Quote: עֶבְרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of rage, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “is being enraged” or “enrages”

Proverbs 11:24

There is one who scatters and adds more

Quote: יֵ֣שׁ מְ֭פַזֵּר וְ⁠נוֹסָ֥ף ע֑וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. The context is about a person sharing what they have with others. Alternate translation: “There is one who scatters what he has and adds more to what he has”

one who scatters … but one who withholds

Quote: מְ֭פַזֵּר & וְ⁠חוֹשֵׂ֥ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, one refers to one type of person. It does not mean that there is only one person who does each of these two things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a type of person who scatters … but a type of person who withholds”

and adds more

Quote: וְ⁠נוֹסָ֥ף ע֑וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, and introduces the result of what was stated in the previous clause. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a result. Alternate translation: “and it results in that person having more”

but one who withholds more than {what is} right

Quote: וְ⁠חוֹשֵׂ֥ךְ מִ֝⁠יֹּ֗שֶׁר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. The context is about a person not sharing what they have with others. Alternate translation: “but one who withholds from those in need more of what he has than is right”

only for lack

Quote: אַךְ־לְ⁠מַחְסֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, for introduces the result of what was stated earlier in the clause. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate a result. Alternate translation: “will only lack as a result”

Proverbs 11:25

A life of … and the one who drenches, he

Quote: נֶֽפֶשׁ & וּ֝⁠מַרְוֶ֗ה & ה֥וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, A life, the one, and he refer to types of people in general. They do not refer to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Any life of … and any person who drenches, that person”

A life of blessing

Quote: נֶֽפֶשׁ־בְּרָכָ֥ה (1)

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a life that is characterized by blessing. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A life that blesses”

A life of

Quote: נֶֽפֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, life refers to the person himself. See how you translated the same use of life in 8:36.

blessing

Quote: בְּרָכָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies blessing other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “blessing other people”

will be fattened, … will be drenched

Quote: תְדֻשָּׁ֑ן & יוֹרֶֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will fatten … Yahweh will drench”

will be fattened

Quote: תְדֻשָּׁ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person becoming prosperous as if they were fattened. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will become prosperous”

and the one who drenches, he also will be drenched

Quote: וּ֝⁠מַרְוֶ֗ה גַּם־ה֥וּא יוֹרֶֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone giving and receiving a generous amount of water as if that person were drenching others with water and being drenched. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning carefully. Alternate translation: “and the one who freely gives water to others will also freely receive water”

Proverbs 11:26

One who withholds … will curse him, … the seller

Quote: מֹ֣נֵֽעַ & יִקְּבֻ֣⁠הוּ & מַשְׁבִּֽיר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, One, him, and the seller refer to types of people in general. They do not refer to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Any person who withholds … will curse that person … any seller”

One who withholds grain

Quote: מֹ֣נֵֽעַ בָּ֭ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that this person selfishly withholds grain in order to sell it later for a greater profit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “One who selfishly withholds grain”

but a blessing {is} for the head of

Quote: וּ֝⁠בְרָכָ֗ה לְ⁠רֹ֣אשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the similar expression in 10:6.

the seller

Quote: מַשְׁבִּֽיר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that the seller sells grain. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one who sells grain”

Proverbs 11:27

One who diligently seeks … but one who searches {for} … it will come {to} him

Quote: שֹׁ֣חֵֽר & וְ⁠דֹרֵ֖שׁ & תְבוֹאֶֽ⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, One who diligently seeks, one who search for, and him refer to types of people in general. They do not refer to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Any person who diligently seeks … but any person who searches for … it will come to that person”

One who diligently seeks … but one who searches {for

Quote: שֹׁ֣חֵֽר & וְ⁠דֹרֵ֖שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Solomon refers to people trying to do good and trying to do evil as if good and evil were objects that someone seeks or searches for. If it would be helpful in your language you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “One who diligently tries to do good … but one who tries to do evil”

good … favor, … evil

Quote: ט֭וֹב & רָצ֑וֹן & רָעָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of good, favor, and evil, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “what is good … to be favored … what is evil”

seeks favor

Quote: יְבַקֵּ֣שׁ רָצ֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon implies that the one who diligently seeks good also seeks favor and receives it from Yahweh and other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “finds favor from Yahweh and people”

it will come {to} him

Quote: תְבוֹאֶֽ⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of someone experiencing evil as if evil were a person who could come to that person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly Alternate translation: “he will experience it” or “it will happen to him”

Proverbs 11:28

One who trusts in his riches, he himself will fall

Quote: בּוֹטֵ֣חַ בְּ֭⁠עָשְׁר⁠וֹ ה֣וּא יִפֹּ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One, his, and he in this verse refer to a type of person in general. They do not refer to a specific person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Any person who trusts in that person’s own riches, that person will fall”

he himself will fall

Quote: ה֣וּא יִפֹּ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Solomon uses the word himself to emphasize who will fall. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “that very person will fall”

he himself will fall

Quote: ה֣וּא יִפֹּ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of fall in 11:5.

but like a leaf righteous ones will sprout

Quote: וְ֝⁠כֶ⁠עָלֶ֗ה צַדִּיקִ֥ים יִפְרָֽחוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon is saying that righteous ones are like a leaf that sprouts out of a plant because they prosper and thrive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “but righteous ones prosper like a leaf sprouts and grows”

but like a leaf

Quote: וְ֝⁠כֶ⁠עָלֶ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon refers to a green leaf that is growing, rather than a fallen or withered leaf. If it would be helpful in your language, or if you language uses different words for a fresh or withered leaf, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but like a healthy leaf”

Proverbs 11:29

One who troubles his house

Quote: עוֹכֵ֣ר בֵּ֭ית⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One and his in this verse refer to a type of person in general. They do not refer to a specific person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Any person who troubles that person’s own house”

his house

Quote: בֵּ֭ית⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, house represents the family who lives in his house. See how you translated the same use of house in 3:33.

will inherit wind

Quote: יִנְחַל־ר֑וּחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of wind as if it were property that someone could inherit. He means that someone who troubles his house will not inherit anything. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will inherit nothing”

to the wise of heart

Quote: לַ⁠חֲכַם־לֵֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated wise of heart in 10:8.

Proverbs 11:30

The fruit of the righteous one

Quote: פְּֽרִי־צַ֭דִּיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe fruit that is produced by the righteous one. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “The fruit produced by the righteous one”

The fruit of

Quote: פְּֽרִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to what righteous people do as if it were fruit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The deeds of”

the righteous one {… and the taker of souls

Quote: צַ֭דִּיק & וְ⁠לֹקֵ֖חַ נְפָשׂ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, the righteous one and the taker of souls refer to types of people in general. They do not refer to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. See how you translated the righteous one in 10:3. Alternate translation: “any righteous person … and any person who takes souls”

is} a tree of life

Quote: עֵ֣ץ חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 3:18.

and the taker of souls is wise

Quote: וְ⁠לֹקֵ֖חַ נְפָשׂ֣וֹת חָכָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

Some ancient translations translate this clause as “and the one who takes away lives is violent.” That would be indicating that this clause refers to violent people who kill others, which is in contrast with the type of person described in the previous clause. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of ULT.

and the taker of souls

Quote: וְ⁠לֹקֵ֖חַ נְפָשׂ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, taker of souls refers to someone who influences other people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and the one who influences others”

Proverbs 11:31

Behold

Quote: הֵ֣ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of Behold in 1:23.

a righteous one … a wicked one and a sinner

Quote: צַ֭דִּיק & רָשָׁ֥ע וְ⁠חוֹטֵֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

In this verse, a righteous one, a wicked one, and a sinner refer to types of people in general. They do not refer to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. See how you translated a righteous one in 9:9 and a wicked one in 9:7. Alternate translation: “any righteous person … any wicked person and any sinner”

in the land

Quote: בָּ⁠אָ֣רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the land refers to the earth in general. It does not refer to the land of Israel, as it does in 2:21–22 and 10:30. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the earth”

will be repaid

Quote: יְשֻׁלָּ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will repay”

will be repaid

Quote: יְשֻׁלָּ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to people receiving what they deserve for their actions as if they were being repaid for what they have done. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will receive what is due to them”

how much more a wicked one and a sinner

Quote: אַ֝֗ף כִּֽי־רָשָׁ֥ע וְ⁠חוֹטֵֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “how much more will a wicked one and a sinner be repaid”

Proverbs 12

Proverbs 12 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 12 continues the section of the book written by Solomon that is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Contrasting parallelism

Except for 12:7, 14, 28, all the proverbs in this chapter consist of two parallel clauses that contrast with each other.

Proverbs 12:1

correction … knowledge, … rebuke

Quote: מ֭וּסָר & דָּ֑עַת & תוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns correction in 3:11, knowledge in 1:4, and rebuke in 1:25.

Proverbs 12:2

A good one

Quote: ט֗וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A good one here does not refer to a specific person, but refers to this type of person in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Any good person”

favor

Quote: רָ֭צוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun favor in 3:4.

but a man of

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֖ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Although the term man is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that could refer to either a man or woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “but a person of”

but a man of schemes

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֖ישׁ מְזִמּ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a man who makes schemes. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “but a man who schemes”

Proverbs 12:3

A man

Quote: אָדָ֣ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that could refer to either a man or woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “A person”

will not be established … will not be shaken

Quote: לֹא־יִכּ֣וֹן & בַּל־יִמּֽוֹט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will not establish himself … nobody will shake”

will not be established

Quote: לֹא־יִכּ֣וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the word translated as established refers to having a stable and secure life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will not be secure”

by wickedness

Quote: בְּ⁠רֶ֑שַׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun wickedness in 4:17.

but the root of the righteous ones will not be shaken

Quote: וְ⁠שֹׁ֥רֶשׁ צַ֝דִּיקִ֗ים בַּל־יִמּֽוֹט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone’s life remaining secure as if that person’s security was a root that could not be shaken. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the security of the righteous ones will not end” or “but the security of the righteous ones will remain”

Proverbs 12:4

A wife of worth

Quote: אֵֽשֶׁת־חַ֭יִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a wife that is characterized by worth. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A worthy wife”

is} the crown of her husband

Quote: עֲטֶ֣רֶת בַּעְלָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a woman causing her husband to be honored as if she were his crown. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “is a sign of great honor for her husband” or “honors her husband as if she were his crown”

but she who causes shame {is} like rottenness in his bones

Quote: וּ⁠כְ⁠רָקָ֖ב בְּ⁠עַצְמוֹתָ֣י⁠ו מְבִישָֽׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon is saying that a woman who causes shame for her husband is like rottenness in his bones because she gradually ruins his life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but she who causes shame is what makes his life miserable”

but … is} like rottenness in his bones

Quote: וּ⁠כְ⁠רָקָ֖ב בְּ⁠עַצְמוֹתָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, rottenness refers to a disease like cancer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is like cancer in his bones”

in his bones

Quote: בְּ⁠עַצְמוֹתָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the pronoun his refers to the husband of the woman who causes shame. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in her husband’s bones”

Proverbs 12:5

are} justice

Quote: מִשְׁפָּ֑ט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun justice in 1:3.

the directions of the wicked ones {are} deceit

Quote: תַּחְבֻּל֖וֹת רְשָׁעִ֣ים מִרְמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is a strong contrast with the previous clause. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “by contrast, the directions of the wicked ones are deceit”

Proverbs 12:6

The words of … but the mouth of

Quote: דִּבְרֵ֣י & וּ⁠פִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of words in 1:23 and mouth in 10:11.

lie in wait {for} blood

Quote: אֱרָב־דָּ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to the wicked ones saying things that will cause others to be killed as if what they say is a person who waits to ambush someone on the road. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. See how you translated this phrase in 1:11. Alternate translation: “result in people dying” or “are like someone who lies in wait to murder someone”

will deliver them

Quote: יַצִּילֵֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to the upright ones rescuing themselves from trouble through what they say as if what they say were a person who could deliver them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will result in them delivering themselves”

Proverbs 12:7

are overthrown

Quote: הָפ֣וֹךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The word overthrown here refers to being ruined or destroyed. Alternate translation: “Wicked people experience destruction”

but the house of

Quote: וּ⁠בֵ֖ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of house in 3:33.

will stand

Quote: יַעֲמֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the families of the righteous ones continuing to exist as if they were a house that would continue to stand. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will remain” or “will keep on existing”

Proverbs 12:8

For the mouth of

Quote: לְֽ⁠פִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

For the mouth of is an idiom that means “According to.” If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “In proportion to”

his insight a man

Quote: שִׂ֭כְל⁠וֹ & אִ֑ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although his and man are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “that person’s insight that person”

his insight

Quote: שִׂ֭כְל⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun insight in 1:3.

a man will be praised

Quote: יְהֻלַּל־אִ֑ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will praise that man”

but one who is twisted of heart

Quote: וְ⁠נַעֲוֵה־לֵ֝֗ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Solomon is speaking of people who think wrongly as if they have a twisted heart. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but one who thinks wrongly”

will be for contempt

Quote: יִהְיֶ֥ה לָ⁠בֽוּז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that people will have contempt for this type of person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will be held in contempt” or “will be despised by people”

Proverbs 12:9

is} the one dishonored

Quote: נִ֭קְלֶה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the one whom others dishonor”

and has a servant … and lacking of bread

Quote: וְ⁠עֶ֣בֶד ל֑⁠וֹ & וַ⁠חֲסַר־לָֽחֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

In both of these phrases, and indicates that what follows is in contrast to what precedes it. In your translation, indicate this contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but has a servant … but is lacking of bread”

bread

Quote: לָֽחֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the same use of bread in 9:5.

Proverbs 12:10

A righteous one

Quote: צַ֭דִּיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in 9:9.

knows the life of

Quote: יוֹדֵ֣עַ & נֶ֣פֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the phrase knows the life refers to being concerned with the wellbeing of one’s animal. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is concerned with the wellbeing of” or “cares about the life of”

his animal

Quote: בְּהֶמְתּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term his is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “that person’s animal”

but the compassion of the wicked ones

Quote: וְֽ⁠רַחֲמֵ֥י רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of compassion, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “but something compassionate that wicked people do”

Proverbs 12:11

Bread

Quote: לָ֑חֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the same use of bread in 9:5.

one who works his ground

Quote: עֹבֵ֣ד אַ֭דְמָת⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to a farmer who plants, cultivates, and harvests crops on his ground. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly or you could use a general expression for working hard. Alternate translation: “a farmer who cultivates his land” or “someone who works hard at their job”

his ground

Quote: אַ֭דְמָת⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term his is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “that person’s ground”

empty things

Quote: רֵיקִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to worthless things that people do as if they were empty containers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “worthless activities”

is} lacking of heart

Quote: חֲסַר־לֵֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated lacking of heart in 6:32.

Proverbs 12:12

A wicked one

Quote: רָ֭שָׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in 9:7.

the snare of

Quote: מְצ֣וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to what the evil ones catch in a snare as if it were the snare itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the plunder of”

but the root of the righteous ones

Quote: וְ⁠שֹׁ֖רֶשׁ צַדִּיקִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 12:3.

will give

Quote: יִתֵּֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon uses give to refer to producing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will produce fruit” or “will be productive”

Proverbs 12:13

In the transgression of lips

Quote: בְּ⁠פֶ֣שַׁע שְׂ֭פָתַיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe lips that are characterized by transgression. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In the lips that speak transgression” or “In the lips that speak transgression”

lips

Quote: שְׂ֭פָתַיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of lips in 10:18.

is} the snare of the evil one

Quote: מוֹקֵ֣שׁ רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to the disasters that the evil one experiences because of what he says as if it were a snare he was trapped in. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is what destroys an evil one”

the evil one, … the righteous one

Quote: רָ֑ע & צַדִּֽיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated the righteous one in 10:16 and the wicked one in 3:33.

but the righteous one will go out from distress

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֖א מִ⁠צָּרָ֣ה צַדִּֽיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to avoiding distress as if it were a place that one could go out from. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the righteous one will avoid distress”

from distress

Quote: מִ⁠צָּרָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun distress in 1:27.

Proverbs 12:14

From the fruit of the mouth of a man

Quote: מִ⁠פְּרִ֣י פִי־אִ֭ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to what a person says as if it were fruit from that person’s mouth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “From what a man says”

a man will he be satisfied {with} … a man will return to him

Quote: אִ֭ישׁ יִשְׂבַּע & אָ֝דָ֗ם יָשִׁ֥יב לֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although a man, he, and him are masculine, Solomon is using the words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “a person will that person be satisfied with … a person will return to that person”

From the fruit of the mouth of a man will he be satisfied {with} good

Quote: מִ⁠פְּרִ֣י פִי־אִ֭ישׁ יִשְׂבַּע־ט֑וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you need to say who did the action, it is clear from the context that it was God. Alternate translation: “The fruit of the mouth of a man will satisfy him with good”

good

Quote: ט֑וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun good in 11:27.

and the accomplishment of the hands of a man

Quote: וּ⁠גְמ֥וּל יְדֵי־אָ֝דָ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to what a person accomplishes through physical labor as if it were the accomplishment of that person’s hands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and what a man accomplishes through physical labor”

will return to him

Quote: יָשִׁ֥יב לֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to the benefits that a person receives as a result of working hard as if that accomplishment were a person who could return to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will benefit him”

Proverbs 12:15

The way of

Quote: דֶּ֣רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this use of way in 1:15.

is} right in his eyes

Quote: יָשָׁ֣ר בְּ⁠עֵינָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of eyes in 3:7.

to counsel

Quote: לְ⁠עֵצָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun counsel in 1:25.

Proverbs 12:16

his anger

Quote: כַּעְס֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term his is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “that person’s anger”

his anger

Quote: כַּעְס֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of anger, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “when he is angry”

is known

Quote: יִוָּדַ֣ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people know”

on the day

Quote: בַּ֭⁠יּוֹם (1)

Alternate translation: “on the same day” or “right away”

but … covers

Quote: וְ⁠כֹסֶ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of covers in 10:6.

dishonor

Quote: קָל֣וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun dishonor in 3:35.

Proverbs 12:17

He who breathes out

Quote: יָפִ֣יחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term He is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “A person who breathes out”

He who breathes out

Quote: יָפִ֣יחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of breathes out in 6:19.

faithfulness tells righteousness, … falsehoods, deceit

Quote: אֱ֭מוּנָה יַגִּ֣יד צֶ֑דֶק & שְׁקָרִ֣ים מִרְמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of faithfulness and righteousness, falsehoods, and deceit, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “what is faithful tells what is righteous … false things, what is deceitful”

but a witness of falsehoods, deceit

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֖ד שְׁקָרִ֣ים מִרְמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word in this clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but a witness of falsehoods tells deceit”

but a witness of falsehoods

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֖ד שְׁקָרִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Althougha witness here is singular, it refers to any witness of falsehoods in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different form. Alternate translation: “but any witness of falsehoods”

but a witness of falsehoods

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֖ד שְׁקָרִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a witness who speaks falsehoods. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “but a witness who speaks falsehoods”

Proverbs 12:18

one who speaks thoughtlessly

Quote: בּ֭וֹטֶה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, one refers to one type of person. It does not mean that there is only one person who does this thing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a type of person who speaks thoughtlessly”

like the thrusts of a sword

Quote: כְּ⁠מַדְקְר֣וֹת חָ֑רֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Solomon is saying that what people who speak thoughtlessly say is like the thrusts of a sword because it hurts people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “and hurt others as if he stabbed them with a sword”

but the tongue of

Quote: וּ⁠לְשׁ֖וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word tongue represents tongues in general, not one particular tongue. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “but the tongues of”

but the tongue of

Quote: וּ⁠לְשׁ֖וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of tongue in 6:17.

Proverbs 12:19

A lip of

Quote: שְֽׂפַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the word lip represents lips in general, not one particular lip. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Lips of”

A lip of

Quote: שְֽׂפַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, lip refers to what people say by moving their lips. See how you translated the same use of “lips” in 10:18.

A lip of truth

Quote: שְֽׂפַת־אֱ֭מֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a lip that speaks truth. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A lip that speaks truth” or “True sayings”

will be established

Quote: תִּכּ֣וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will exist”

to perpetuity

Quote: לָ⁠עַ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of perpetuity, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “perpetually”

but a tongue of falsehood as long as I would blink

Quote: וְ⁠עַד־אַ֝רְגִּ֗יעָה לְשׁ֣וֹן שָֽׁקֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word in this clause that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but a tongue of falsehood will be established for as long as I would blink” or “but a tongue of falsehood will exist for as long as I would blink”

a tongue of falsehood

Quote: לְשׁ֣וֹן שָֽׁקֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 6:17.

but … as long as I would blink

Quote: וְ⁠עַד־אַ֝רְגִּ֗יעָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase as long as I would blink is an idiom that refers to a short amount of time. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but … in the blink of an eye” or “but … for a brief time”

Proverbs 12:20

Deceit {… evil, … joy {… peace

Quote: מִ֭רְמָה & רָ֑ע & שָׁל֣וֹם שִׂמְחָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns Deceit in 11:1, evil in 1:16, joy in 10:28, and peace in 3:1.

is} in the heart of

Quote: בְּ⁠לֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

but joy {is} for advisers of peace

Quote: וּֽ⁠לְ⁠יֹעֲצֵ֖י שָׁל֣וֹם שִׂמְחָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe advisers who advise others to do what results in peace. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “but joy is for people who advise others to do what will result in peace”

Proverbs 12:21

iniquity

Quote: אָ֑וֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, iniquity refers to harm that someone might experience as a result of iniquity. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “harm”

will not be allowed to happen

Quote: לֹא־יְאֻנֶּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will not allow to happen”

to the righteous one

Quote: לַ⁠צַּדִּ֣יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated the righteous one in 10:16.

are full of evil

Quote: מָ֣לְאוּ רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase full of evil could mean: (1) the wicked ones experience much evil. Alternate translation: “experience much evil” (2) the wicked ones do much evil. Alternate translation: “do much evil”

evil

Quote: רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, evil refers to trouble that someone might experience as a result of evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “trouble”

Proverbs 12:22

An abomination to Yahweh

Quote: תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated this phrase in 3:32.

are} lips of falsehood

Quote: שִׂפְתֵי־שָׁ֑קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 10:18.

faithfulness {are} his delight

Quote: אֱמוּנָ֣ה רְצוֹנֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns faithfulness in 12:17 and delight in 8:30.

Proverbs 12:23

A prudent man

Quote: אָדָ֣ם עָ֭רוּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although man is masculine, here it refers to any prudent person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “A prudent person”

covers

Quote: כֹּ֣סֶה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of covers in 10:6.

knowledge, … folly

Quote: דָּ֑עַת & אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns knowledge in 1:4 and folly in 5:23.

but the heart of stupid ones

Quote: וְ⁠לֵ֥ב כְּ֝סִילִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, heart refers to the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the stupid ones”

Proverbs 12:24

The hand of the diligent ones

Quote: יַד־חָרוּצִ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the same phrase in 10:4.

but an idle one

Quote: ו֝⁠רְמִיָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Although an idle one here is singular, it refers to all idle people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different form. Alternate translation: “any idle person”

Proverbs 12:25

Concern

Quote: דְּאָגָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of Concern, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “What is concerning”

in the heart of

Quote: בְ⁠לֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

a man

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although man is masculine, here it refers to any person in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a person”

weighs it down

Quote: יַשְׁחֶ֑⁠נָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to Concern making a person depressed as if it were something that weighs down a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “causes the heart of a man to become sad”

but a good word

Quote: וְ⁠דָבָ֖ר ט֣וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses the phrase good word to describe something kind that someone says by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but kind words that someone speaks”

Proverbs 12:26

A righteous one

Quote: צַדִּ֑יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in 9:9.

searches out from his neighbor

Quote: יָתֵ֣ר מֵ⁠רֵעֵ֣⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) A righteous one guides his neighbor. Alternate translation: “guides his neighbor” (2) A righteous one carefully examines a person before choosing that person to be his neighbor. Alternate translation: “examines carefully whom he chooses to be his neighbor”

from his neighbor

Quote: מֵ⁠רֵעֵ֣⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term his is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “from that person’s neighbor”

but the way of the wicked ones

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֖רֶךְ רְשָׁעִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the way of the wicked ones in 4:19.

will lead them astray

Quote: תַּתְעֵֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to wicked ones deliberately doing what wicked things that will result in their destruction as if their behavior is a person who leads them astray. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated a similar meaning for astray in 10:17. Alternate translation: “will cause them to do what will result in their destruction”

Proverbs 12:27

A negligent one

Quote: רְמִיָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A negligent one here does not refer to a specific person, but refers to a type of person in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Any negligent one”

will not roast his game

Quote: לֹא־יַחֲרֹ֣ךְ & צֵיד֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, game refers to animals that someone has hunted and killed in order to eat their meat. And “roast” refers to cooking food over a fire. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will not use fire to cook the meat from the animals he has hunted”

but the wealth of a man {is} precious for a diligent one

Quote: וְ⁠הוֹן־אָדָ֖ם יָקָ֣ר חָרֽוּץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) a diligent one will acquire precious wealth. Alternate translation: “but a diligent one will acquire precious wealth” (2) a diligent one considers his wealth to be precious. Alternate translation: “but a diligent one’s wealth is precious to him”

a man {… for a diligent one

Quote: אָדָ֖ם & חָרֽוּץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a man and a diligent one do not refer to a specific person, but refer to a type of person in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “any person … for any diligent person”

Proverbs 12:28

In the path of righteousness {is} life, and the way of the beaten path {is} no death

Quote: בְּ⁠אֹֽרַח־צְדָקָ֥ה חַיִּ֑ים וְ⁠דֶ֖רֶךְ נְתִיבָ֣ה אַל־מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two clauses mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could connect the phrases with a word other than and that shows that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: “In the path of righteousness is life, yes, the way of the beaten path is not death”

In the path of righteousness

Quote: בְּ⁠אֹֽרַח־צְדָקָ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the path of righteousness in 8:20.

is} life, … is} no death

Quote: חַיִּ֑ים & אַל־מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

In this verse, is indicates that what follows is the result of the preceding phrase. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “results in life … results in no death”

is} life

Quote: חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the same use of life in 10:16.

and the way of the beaten path

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֖רֶךְ נְתִיבָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon uses the possessive form to indicate that the way is the beaten path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and the way that is the beaten path”

and the way of the beaten path

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֖רֶךְ נְתִיבָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the way of the beaten path refers to the path of righteousness in the previous clause. Solomon refers to living righteously as if one were walking on a beaten path that is safe because it was made well. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and living righteously”

is} no death

Quote: אַל־מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, no death could refer to: (1) a person not dying earlier than expected, which is the opposite way of saying the same idea used for life in the previous clause. Alternate translation: “is not dying early” (2) a person having immortality. Alternate translation: “is immortality”

Proverbs 13

Proverbs 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 13 continues the section of the book written by Solomon that is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Contrasting parallelism

Except for 13:14, all the proverbs in this chapter consist of two parallel clauses that contrast with each other.

Proverbs 13:1

A wise son, the instruction of a father

Quote: בֵּ֣ן חָ֭כָם מ֣וּסַר אָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving a word that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “A wise son listens to the instruction of a father”

the instruction of … rebuke

Quote: מ֣וּסַר & גְּעָרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns instruction in 1:2 and rebuke in 1:25.

a father

Quote: אָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, father refers to the father of the son mentioned earlier in the clause. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his father”

Proverbs 13:2

From the fruit of the mouth of a man

Quote: מִ⁠פְּרִ֣י פִי־אִ֭ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same phrase in 12:14.

good, but the appetite of … is for} violence

Quote: ט֑וֹב & וְ⁠נֶ֖פֶשׁ & חָמָֽס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns good in 11:27, appetite in 6:30, and violence in 3:31.

but the appetite of

Quote: וְ⁠נֶ֖פֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the desire of the treacherous ones as if it were their appetite. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the desire of”

Proverbs 13:3

One who guards his mouth keeps his life; one who opens his lips {is} ruin for him

Quote: נֹצֵ֣ר פִּ֭י⁠ו שֹׁמֵ֣ר נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ פֹּשֵׂ֥ק שְׂ֝פָתָ֗י⁠ו מְחִתָּה־לֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One who guards his mouth, his, one who opens his lips, and him here do not refer to specific people, but to types of people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Anyone who guards one’s mouth keeps one’s life; anyone who opens one’s lips is ruin for that person”

One who guards his mouth

Quote: נֹצֵ֣ר פִּ֭י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase guards his mouth is an idiom that refers to being careful about what one says. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “One who speaks carefully”

keeps his life

Quote: שֹׁמֵ֣ר נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of someone preserving one’s life as if one’s life were an object that one keeps. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “preserves his life”

one who opens his lips {is} ruin for him

Quote: פֹּשֵׂ֥ק שְׂ֝פָתָ֗י⁠ו מְחִתָּה־לֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

This clause is a strong contrast to the previous clause. In your translation, indicate this strong contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “on the contrary, one who opens his lips is ruin for him”

one who opens his lips

Quote: פֹּשֵׂ֥ק שְׂ֝פָתָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase opens his lips is an idiom that could refer to: (1) speaking carelessly, which would be in contrast to the meaning of guards his mouth in the previous clause. Alternate translation: “one who talks without thinking” (2) speaking too much. Alternate translation: “one who talks too much”

is} ruin for him

Quote: מְחִתָּה־לֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of ruin, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “ruins himself”

Proverbs 13:4

A lazy one, his appetite

Quote: נַפְשׁ֣⁠וֹ עָצֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A lazy one and his do not refer to a specific person, put to a type of person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Anyone who is lazy, that one’s appetite”

his appetite … but the appetite of

Quote: נַפְשׁ֣⁠וֹ & וְ⁠נֶ֖פֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun appetite in 6:30.

his appetite is craving

Quote: מִתְאַוָּ֣ה & נַפְשׁ֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, craving describes the appetite of a lazy person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he has a craving appetite” or “he craves”

and there is nothing

Quote: וָ֭⁠אַיִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that there is nothing to satisfy the lazy person’s craving. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and there is nothing to satisfy that craving”

will be fattened

Quote: תְּדֻשָּֽׁן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will become fat”

will be fattened

Quote: תְּדֻשָּֽׁן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to the appetite of the diligent ones being satisfied and if the appetite were a person who could be fattened. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will be satisfied”

Proverbs 13:5

A righteous one

Quote: צַדִּ֑יק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated A righteous one in 9:9.

a word of falsehood

Quote: דְּבַר־שֶׁ֭קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a word that is characterized by falsehood. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a false word”

a word of

Quote: דְּבַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar use of word in 12:25.

but a wicked one

Quote: וְ֝⁠רָשָׁ֗ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated a wicked one in 9:7.

causes a stink

Quote: יַבְאִ֥ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to people causing others to feel disgust for them as if they smell bad. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “causes others to feel disgust for him” or “disgusts others”

Proverbs 13:6

Righteousness … but wickedness

Quote: צְ֭דָקָה & וְ֝⁠רִשְׁעָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns Righteousness in 1:3 and wickedness in 4:17.

guards the blameless of way

Quote: תִּצֹּ֣ר תָּם־דָּ֑רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to people protecting themselves by acting righteously as if Righteousness were a person who guards them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “enables the blameless of way to be protected”

the blameless of way

Quote: תָּם־דָּ֑רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 11:20.

leads a sinful one astray

Quote: תְּסַלֵּ֥ף חַטָּֽאת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to people deliberately doing wicked things that will result in their destruction as if wickedness were a person who leads them astray. See how you translated the same use of leads astray in 12:16.

Proverbs 13:7

There is one who pretends to be rich … one who pretends to be poor

Quote: יֵ֣שׁ מִ֭תְעַשֵּׁר & מִ֝תְרוֹשֵׁ֗שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The phrases one who pretends to be rich and one who pretends to be poor do not refer to specific people, but to types of people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use different expressions. Alternate translation: “There are people who pretend to be rich … people who pretend to be poor”

but there is nothing {at} all

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֣ין כֹּ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Solomon says nothing at all here as a generalization for emphasis. He means either that this person has nothing valuable or has very few possessions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “but has nothing valuable at all” or “but truly does not have much wealth”

Proverbs 13:8

The ransom of the life of a man

Quote: כֹּ֣פֶר נֶֽפֶשׁ־אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a ransom that must be paid to redeem the life of a man. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “The ransom that must be paid to redeem the life of a man” or “What a man must pay to buy back his own life”

a man {is} his riches

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ עָשְׁר֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although a man and his are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that could refer to either a man or woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “a person is that person’s riches”

but a poor one

Quote: וְ֝⁠רָ֗שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Solomon is speaking of poor people in general, not of one particular poor one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “but any poor person”

does not hear

Quote: לֹא־שָׁמַ֥ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon refers to a poor one completely ignoring a rebuke as if that person didn’t even hear it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “ignores” or “ignores as if he did not even hear”

a rebuke

Quote: גְּעָרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the word translated rebuke refers to a threat that someone makes against the life of a poor one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “a threat”

Proverbs 13:9

The light of … but the lamp of

Quote: אוֹר & וְ⁠נֵ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The light and the lamp refer to lights and lamps in general, not one particular light and lamp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “The lights of … but the lamps of”

The light of the righteous ones will be glad

Quote: אוֹר־צַדִּיקִ֥ים יִשְׂמָ֑ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the lives of the righteous ones being enjoyable as if their lives were a light that could be glad. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “The lives of the righteous ones will be enjoyable” or “The lives of the righteous ones will be enjoyable like a brightly shining light”

but the lamp of the wicked ones will be extinguished

Quote: וְ⁠נֵ֖ר רְשָׁעִ֣ים יִדְעָֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the death of the wicked ones as if their lives were lamps that stop burning to produce light. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “but the life of the wicked ones will end” or “but the life of the wicked ones is like a lamp that will be extinguished”

will be extinguished

Quote: יִדְעָֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “will stop shining” or “will stop producing light”

Proverbs 13:10

With presumptuousness … contention, … wisdom

Quote: בְּ֭⁠זָדוֹן & מַצָּ֑ה & חָכְמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of presumptuousness, contention, and wisdom, you could express the same ideas in other ways. See how you translated presumptuousness in 11:2 and wisdom in 1:2. Alternate translation: “with being presumptuous … contending with others … being wise”

but with those who are counseled, wisdom

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־נ֖וֹעָצִ֣ים חָכְמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but with those who are counseled comes wisdom”

those who are counseled

Quote: נ֖וֹעָצִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “those whom people counsel”

Proverbs 13:11

from emptiness

Quote: מֵ⁠הֶ֣בֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, from emptiness refers to obtaining something easily or without effort. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “obtained easily” or “that someone gains without effort”

but one who gathers by hand

Quote: וְ⁠קֹבֵ֖ץ עַל־יָ֣ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Solomon is speaking of people who gather by hand in general, not of one particular person who gathers by hand. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “but any person who gathers by hand”

but one who gathers by hand

Quote: וְ⁠קֹבֵ֖ץ עַל־יָ֣ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, gathers by hand could refer to: (1) working hard to gather something, as if one were using one’s hands to do the work. Alternate translation: “but one who gathers by laboring” (2) gathering something gradually in small amounts as if one were gathering it in one’s hand. Alternate translation: “but one who gathers gradually”

will increase

Quote: יַרְבֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “will increase wealth”

Proverbs 13:12

Hope

Quote: תּוֹחֶ֣לֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun hope in 10:28.

deferred … fulfilled

Quote: מְ֭מֻשָּׁכָה & בָאָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that does not yet become reality … that becomes reality” or “that is not yet realized … that is realized”

makes a heart sick

Quote: מַחֲלָה־לֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This phrase is an idiom that refers to someone despairing or feeling sad. If it would be helpful in you language, you could express the meaning plainly or use an equivalent idiom in your language. Alternate translation: “makes a person sad” or “breaks a person’s heart”

but … is} a tree of life

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֥ץ חַ֝יִּ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a tree of life in 3:18.

Proverbs 13:13

One who despises

Quote: בָּ֣ז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Solomon is speaking of people who despise advice in general, not of one particular person who despises. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Anyone who despises”

a word

Quote: לְ֭⁠דָבָר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, word refers to instructions or advice that people say by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “instruction” or “people instructing him”

will be pledged to pay for it

Quote: יֵחָ֣בֶל ל֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “must pay for it”

will be pledged to pay for it

Quote: יֵחָ֣בֶל ל֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone experiencing the negative consequences of despising a word as if they were paying money for doing so. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will experience the consequences for doing so”

but {he with} fear of a command, he himself will be rewarded

Quote: וִ⁠ירֵ֥א מִ֝צְוָ֗ה ה֣וּא יְשֻׁלָּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the terms he and himself are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “but someone with fear of a command, that one will be rewarded”

he himself will be rewarded

Quote: ה֣וּא יְשֻׁלָּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will reward that very person”

Proverbs 13:14

The law of

Quote: תּוֹרַ֣ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The law here does not refer to a specific law, but refers to lessons or instructions in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “The instructions of”

the wise

Quote: חָ֭כָם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Solomon is using the adjective wise as a noun to mean wise people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “the wise ones”

is} a fountain of life

Quote: מְק֣וֹר חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 10:11.

to turn away from the snares of death

Quote: לָ֝⁠ס֗וּר מִ⁠מֹּ֥קְשֵׁי מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of someone avoiding dangerous situations that could result in one dying as if that person were turning away from the snares of death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “to avoid the snares of death”

to turn away

Quote: לָ֝⁠ס֗וּר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “the law of the wise turns people away”

from the snares of death

Quote: מִ⁠מֹּ֥קְשֵׁי מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to dangerous situations that could result in someone dying as if they were snares. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “from deadly situations” or “from dangers that are like traps that lead to death”

Proverbs 13:15

Good insight gives favor

Quote: שֵֽׂכֶל־ט֭וֹב יִתֶּן־חֵ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon speaks of a person receiving favor because that person has Good insight as if the insight were a person who could give favor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Good insight causes the person who has it to be favored by others”

insight … favor

Quote: שֵֽׂכֶל & חֵ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns insight in 1:3 and favor in 3:4.

but the way of

Quote: וְ⁠דֶ֖רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this use of way in 1:15.

is} permanent

Quote: אֵיתָֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the word translated permanent refers to something that is unrelenting. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is unrelenting” or “does not relent”

is} permanent

Quote: אֵיתָֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

Instead of permanent, some ancient translations read “their ruin.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

Proverbs 13:16

with knowledge, … folly

Quote: בְ⁠דָ֑עַת & אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns knowledge in 1:4 and folly in 5:23.

spreads folly

Quote: יִפְרֹ֥שׂ אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a stupid one displaying how foolish he is as if his folly were an object that he spreads out for other people to see. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “displays his folly”

spreads folly

Quote: יִפְרֹ֥שׂ אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that a stupid one spreads folly by how he acts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “spreads folly by what he says and does”

Proverbs 13:17

A wicked messenger

Quote: מַלְאָ֣ךְ רָ֭שָׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, wicked messenger specifically refers to a messenger who is unreliable. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “An unreliable messenger”

falls into evil

Quote: יִפֹּ֣ל בְּ⁠רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone experiencing evil as if it were a place into which that person falls. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “experiences evil”

into evil

Quote: בְּ⁠רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, evil refers to trouble that someone might experience as a result of evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “into trouble”

but an envoy of faithfulness

Quote: וְ⁠צִ֖יר אֱמוּנִ֣ים (1)

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe an envoy that is characterized by faithfulness. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “but a faithful envoy”

Proverbs 13:18

Poverty and shame {… correction, … a rebuke

Quote: רֵ֣ישׁ וְ֭⁠קָלוֹן & מוּסָ֑ר & תּוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns Poverty in 6:11, shame in 6:33, and correction and rebuke in 3:11.

are for} one who avoids … but one who keeps

Quote: פּוֹרֵ֣עַ & וְ⁠שׁוֹמֵ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, one who avoids and one who keeps refer to people who do these things in general, not to any specific one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “are for those who avoid … but those who keep”

but one who keeps

Quote: וְ⁠שׁוֹמֵ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone accepting a rebuke from someone else as if a rebuke were an object that one keeps. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but one who accepts”

will be honored

Quote: יְכֻבָּֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will honor”

Proverbs 13:19

to the self

Quote: לְ⁠נָ֑פֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that self refers to the same person who has the desire mentioned earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “to one’s self”

but the abomination to … from evil

Quote: וְ⁠תוֹעֲבַ֥ת & מֵ⁠רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns abomination in 3:32 and evil in 1:16.

is} turning away from evil

Quote: ס֣וּר מֵ⁠רָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated “turn away from evil” in 3:7.

Proverbs 13:20

One who walks {… but one who associates with

Quote: הוֹלֵ֣ךְ & וְ⁠רֹעֶ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One who walks and one who associates with refer to people who do these things in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Those who walk … but those who associate with”

One who walks

Quote: הוֹלֵ֣ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of “walk” in 1:15.

Proverbs 13:21

Evil … goodness

Quote: רָעָ֑ה & טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of Evil and goodness, you could express the same ideas in other ways. See how you translated Evil in 1:16. Alternate translation: “What is evil … what is good”

will pursue

Quote: תְּרַדֵּ֣ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to sinners experiencing Evil as if Evil were a person who could pursue them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will happen to” or “will be experienced by”

will reward

Quote: יְשַׁלֶּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to righteous ones experiencing goodness as if goodness were a person who could reward them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will happen to” or “will be experienced by”

Proverbs 13:22

A good one … a sinner … for the righteous one

Quote: ט֗וֹב & לַ֝⁠צַּדִּ֗יק & חוֹטֵֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A good one, a sinner, and the righteous one refer to types of people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “Any good one … any sinner … for any righteous person”

will cause sons of sons to inherit

Quote: יַנְחִ֥יל בְּנֵֽי־בָנִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the next clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “will cause sons of sons to inherit his wealth”

sons of sons

Quote: בְּנֵֽי־בָנִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that sons of sons refers to the grandchildren of A good one mentioned earlier in the verse. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “his sons of sons”

but the wealth of a sinner is stored up for the righteous one

Quote: וְ⁠צָפ֥וּן לַ֝⁠צַּדִּ֗יק חֵ֣יל חוֹטֵֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but the righteous one will receive the wealth that a sinner has stored up”

Proverbs 13:23

is in} the unplowed field of

Quote: נִ֣יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

An unplowed field is a field that has not been prepared for growing crops. If your readers would not be familiar with plowing fields for farming, you could use the name of a similar farming practice in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “is in the field that is not prepared for food production”

but there is a being swept away

Quote: וְ⁠יֵ֥שׁ נִ֝סְפֶּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from earlier in the sentence if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but there is a being swept away of the poor ones’ food”

a being swept away by no justice

Quote: נִ֝סְפֶּ֗ה בְּ⁠לֹ֣א מִשְׁפָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no justice sweeping it away”

a being swept away

Quote: נִ֝סְפֶּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, swept away refers to completely removing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a removal”

by no justice

Quote: בְּ⁠לֹ֣א מִשְׁפָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to no justice as if it were a person who causes the food of poor people to be swept away. He means that injustice results in poor people lacking food. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “because of injustice” or “because people act unjustly”

Proverbs 13:24

One who withholds his rod hates his son, but one who loves him

Quote: חוֹשֵׂ֣ךְ שִׁ֭בְט⁠וֹ שׂוֹנֵ֣א בְנ֑⁠וֹ וְ֝⁠אֹהֲב֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One who withholds, his, one who loves, and him here do not refer to specific people, but refer to these types of people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Those who withhold their rods hate their sons, but those who love them”

hates

Quote: שׂוֹנֵ֣א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Solomon says hates here as an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “acts unlovingly toward”

his son, but one who loves him diligently seeks him

Quote: בְנ֑⁠וֹ & וְ֝⁠אֹהֲב֗⁠וֹ שִֽׁחֲר֥⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term son and him are masculine, Solomon is using those words in a generic sense that could refer to either a male or female child. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “his child, but one who loves that child diligently seeks that child”

diligently seeks him {with} discipline

Quote: שִֽׁחֲר֥⁠וֹ מוּסָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a parent diligently disciplining that parent’s child as if that parent were diligently seeking that child with discipline. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “diligently disciplines him”

Proverbs 13:25

A righteous one … his appetite

Quote: צַדִּ֗יק & נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A righteous one andhis here do not refer to specific people, but refer to a type of person in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Any righteous one … that person’s appetite”

but the stomach of

Quote: וּ⁠בֶ֖טֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word stomach represents stomachs in general, not one particular stomach. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “but the stomachs of”

but the stomach of the wicked ones will lack

Quote: וּ⁠בֶ֖טֶן רְשָׁעִ֣ים תֶּחְסָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to the wicked ones always being hungry as if their stomachs lack. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the wicked ones can never eat enough” or “but the hunger of the wicked ones is never satisfied”

Proverbs 14

Proverbs 14 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 14 continues the section of the book written by Solomon that is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Contrasting parallelism

Except for 14:7, 10, 13, 17, 26, 27, and 34, all the proverbs in this chapter consist of two parallel clauses that contrast with each other.

Proverbs 14:1

The wisest of women … her house

Quote: חַכְמ֣וֹת נָ֭שִׁים & בֵיתָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The wisest of women and her here do not refer to a specific person, but refer to a type of person in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Those women who are most wise … the houses of those women”

builds her house

Quote: בָּנְתָ֣ה בֵיתָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a woman making her family prosper as if she were building a house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “causes her house to prosper”

her house

Quote: בֵיתָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, house represents the family who lives in the house. See how you translated the same use of house in 3:33.

but a foolish woman tears it down with her hands

Quote: וְ֝⁠אִוֶּ֗לֶת בְּ⁠יָדֶ֥י⁠הָ תֶהֶרְסֶֽ⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a foolish woman and her do not refer to a specific person, but refer to a type of person in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “but those women who are foolish tear it down with their hands”

tears it down

Quote: תֶהֶרְסֶֽ⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a woman ruining her family as if she were tearing down a house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “harms it”

with her hands

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדֶ֥י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, hands refers to what a person does, which often involves using hands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “by her deeds”

Proverbs 14:2

One who walks in his uprightness … but one who is crooked in his ways

Quote: הוֹלֵ֣ךְ בְּ֭⁠יָשְׁר⁠וֹ & וּ⁠נְל֖וֹז דְּרָכָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One who walks, his, and one who is crooked refers to types of people in general, not to any specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “The person who walks in that person’s uprightness … but any person who is crooked in that person’s ways”

One who walks in his uprightness

Quote: הוֹלֵ֣ךְ בְּ֭⁠יָשְׁר⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone behaving in a upright manner as if that person walks in his uprightness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated a similar use of “walk” in 3:23. Alternate translation: “One who conducts his life in an upright manner”

but one who is crooked in his ways

Quote: וּ⁠נְל֖וֹז דְּרָכָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses the phrase crooked in his ways to refer to someone who acts deceptively. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar use of crooked in 2:15. Alternate translation: “but one who is deceptive”

Proverbs 14:3

In the mouth of a fool {is} a rod of pride

Quote: בְּֽ⁠פִי־אֱ֭וִיל חֹ֣טֶר גַּאֲוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this clause, Solomon refers to what a fool says with his mouth resulting in him being punished with a rod as if a rod were in his mouth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Because of what a fool says, he is punished for pride” or “A fool is punished because of the proud things he says”

is} a rod of pride

Quote: חֹ֣טֶר גַּאֲוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a rod that is used to punish someone for having pride. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is a rod for punishing proud people”

but the lips of

Quote: וְ⁠שִׂפְתֵ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of lips in 10:21.

will preserve them

Quote: תִּשְׁמוּרֵֽ⁠ם (1)

Alternate translation: “will keep them from harm” or “will keep them safe”

Proverbs 14:4

is} a trough of cleanness

Quote: אֵב֣וּס בָּ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a trough that is characterized by cleanness. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is a clean trough”

is} a trough of

Quote: אֵב֣וּס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A trough is a container that contains food for domesticated animals, such as cattle. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of animal food container, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “is a container of”

but an abundance of

Quote: וְ⁠רָב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun abundance in 5:23.

is} by the strength of an ox

Quote: בְּ⁠כֹ֣חַ שֽׁוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “is produced by the strength of an ox”

is} by the strength of an ox

Quote: בְּ⁠כֹ֣חַ שֽׁוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, strength refers to the work an ox does that involves using strength. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is by the work an ox does”

an ox

Quote: שֽׁוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the word ox represents oxen in general, not one particular ox. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression, as in the UST.

Proverbs 14:5

A witness of faithfulness

Quote: עֵ֣ד אֱ֭מוּנִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a witness who is characterized by faithfulness. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A faithful witness”

a witness of falsehood

Quote: עֵ֣ד שָֽׁקֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 6:19.

but … breathes out lies

Quote: וְ⁠יָפִ֥יחַ כְּ֝זָבִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated breathes out lies in 6:19.

Proverbs 14:6

A mocker … for the understanding one

Quote: לֵ֣ץ & לְ⁠נָב֣וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated a mocker in 9:7 and the understanding one in 1:5.

seeks

Quote: בִּקֶּשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, people trying to be wise are described as if wisdom were an object that people can “seek”. See how you translated the same use of seeks in 11:27.

wisdom … but knowledge

Quote: חָכְמָ֣ה & וְ⁠דַ֖עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom in 1:2 and knowledge in 1:4.

and there is none

Quote: וָ⁠אָ֑יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon means that a mocker cannot acquire wisdom, not that wisdom does not exist. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and he finds none” or “and there is no wisdom for him”

but knowledge

Quote: וְ⁠דַ֖עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of a word that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but finding knowledge” or “but acquiring knowledge”

Proverbs 14:7

from before

Quote: מִ֭⁠נֶּגֶד (1)

Alternate translation: “from in front of” or “from the presence of”

a man of stupidity

Quote: לְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ כְּסִ֑יל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a man who is characterized by stupidity. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “a stupid man”

a man of

Quote: לְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a man represents a type of people in general, not one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “any person of”

for you will not know

Quote: וּ⁠בַל־יָ֝דַ֗עְתָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to you not receiving knowledge from what a stupid person says as if you did not know such knowledge. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “for you will not receive”

lips of knowledge

Quote: שִׂפְתֵי־דָֽעַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, lips refers to what people say by moving their lips. Solomon is referring to words that express knowledge. See how you translated the same use of lips in 10:18. Alternate translation: “words that express knowledge”

Proverbs 14:8

The wisdom of … but the folly of … is} deceit

Quote: חָכְמַ֣ת & וְ⁠אִוֶּ֖לֶת & מִרְמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom in 1:2, folly in 5:23, and deceit in 11:1.

a prudent one

Quote: עָ֭רוּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated this phrase in 12:16.

his way

Quote: דַּרְכּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of way in 1:15.

Proverbs 14:9

the guilt offering

Quote: אָשָׁ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Mocking the guilt offering implies that Fools mock the need for people to offer the guilt offering in order to ask God to forgive them for sinning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “offering guilt offerings to God for forgiveness”

is} favor

Quote: רָצֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated favor in 3:4.

is} favor

Quote: רָצֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that this favor is from Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is Yahweh’s favor”

Proverbs 14:10

A heart … itself, and in its joy

Quote: לֵ֗ב & נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ & וּ֝⁠בְ⁠שִׂמְחָת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

A heart, itself, and its refer to the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “A person … that person, and in that person’s joy”

the bitterness of … and in its joy

Quote: מָרַּ֣ת & וּ֝⁠בְ⁠שִׂמְחָת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of bitterness and joy, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “how bitter it is … and in its feeling joyful”

Proverbs 14:11

The house of … but the tent of

Quote: בֵּ֣ית & וְ⁠אֹ֖הֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

In this verse, house and tent refer to the people who live in them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The household of … but the household of”

will be destroyed

Quote: יִשָּׁמֵ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will destroy” or “will become ruined”

will flourish

Quote: יַפְרִֽיחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a family prospering as if it were a plant with blooming flowers that flourish. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will prosper”

Proverbs 14:12

a … way

Quote: דֶּ֣רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of way in 1:15.

before the face of a man

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵי־אִ֑ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, before the face of refers to what a person perceives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “that a man perceives”

a man

Quote: אִ֑ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word man represents a person in general, not one particular man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “a person”

but its end

Quote: וְ֝⁠אַחֲרִיתָ֗⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, end refers to a final result. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but its result”

is} the ways of death

Quote: דַּרְכֵי־מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses ways to refer to the destiny of those people who live according to what they think is a right way. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is the destiny of death”

is} the ways of death

Quote: דַּרְכֵי־מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the ways that are death. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is the ways that are death” or “is the destiny that is death”

Proverbs 14:13

in laughter … may be in pain, … joy may be grief

Quote: בִּ⁠שְׂח֥וֹק יִכְאַב & שִׂמְחָ֣ה תוּגָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of laughter, pain, joy, and grief, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “when laughing … may feel painful … feeling joyful may be feeling sad”

a heart

Quote: לֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, heart refers to the whole person. See how you translated the same use of heart in 14:10.

Proverbs 14:14

The turning away of heart … from his ways, but a good man from himself

Quote: מִ⁠דְּרָכָ֣י⁠ו & ס֣וּג לֵ֑ב וּ֝⁠מֵ⁠עָלָ֗י⁠ו אִ֣ישׁ טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The turning away of heart, his, and a good man refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “Any person turning away of heart … from that person’s ways, but any good person from that person”

The turning away of heart

Quote: ס֣וּג לֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person who has stopped behaving righteously and is behaving wickedly as if that person’s heart is turning away from behaving righteously. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The person who stops living righteously”

will be filled

Quote: יִ֭שְׂבַּע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will fill”

will be filled

Quote: יִ֭שְׂבַּע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this clause, the word translated filled implies that the turning away of heart will fully experience the negative consequences of his ways. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “will experience the negative consequences” or “will be repaid”

from his ways

Quote: מִ⁠דְּרָכָ֣י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of ways in 3:6.

but a good man from himself

Quote: וּ֝⁠מֵ⁠עָלָ֗י⁠ו אִ֣ישׁ טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “but a good man will be filled from his ways”

Proverbs 14:15

A naive one … but a prudent one

Quote: פֶּ֭תִי & וְ֝⁠עָר֗וּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A naive one and a prudent one refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use more natural phrases. See how you translated a prudent one in 12:16. Alternate translation: “Any naive person … but any prudent person”

word

Quote: דָּבָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of word in 12:25.

his step

Quote: לַ⁠אֲשֻׁרֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, step refers to a person’s behavior. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “his behavior”

Proverbs 14:16

A wise one … but a stupid one

Quote: חָכָ֣ם & וּ֝⁠כְסִ֗יל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated a wise one in 1:5 and a stupid one in 10:18.

and turns away from evil

Quote: וְ⁠סָ֣ר מֵ⁠רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar phrase “turn away from evil” in 3:7.

and {is} confident

Quote: וּ⁠בוֹטֵֽחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, confident refers to the negative quality of being unreasonably self-confident or careless. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and is overly confident” or “and is careless”

Proverbs 14:17

One short of nostrils

Quote: קְֽצַר־אַ֭פַּיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase short of nostrils is an idiom that refers to a person who gets angry quickly. The word nostrils means “anger” by association with the way that a person who is angry breathes heavily through his nose, causing his nostrils to open wide. Your language and culture may also associate anger with a particular part of the body. If so, you could use an expression involving that part of the body in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: “One who easily vents his spleen” or “One who gets angry quickly”

One short of nostrils … and a man of schemes

Quote: קְֽצַר־אַ֭פַּיִם & וְ⁠אִ֥ישׁ מְ֝זִמּ֗וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One short of nostrils and a man of schemes refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use more natural phrases. See how you translated a man of schemes in 12:2. Alternate translation: “Any person short of nostrils … and any person of schemes” or “Any person who gets angry quickly … and any person who schemes”

folly

Quote: אִוֶּ֑לֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun folly in 5:23.

and a man of schemes

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֥ישׁ מְ֝זִמּ֗וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated a man of schemes in 12:2.

is hated

Quote: יִשָּׂנֵֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language, as in the UST.

Proverbs 14:18

inherit folly

Quote: נָחֲל֣וּ & אִוֶּ֑לֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon speaks of Naive ones becoming foolish as if folly were property or wealth that they could inherit from a family member. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar use of inherit in 3:35. Alternate translation: “become foolish”

folly, … knowledge

Quote: אִוֶּ֑לֶת & דָֽעַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns folly in 5:23 and knowledge in 1:4.

will wear a crown of knowledge

Quote: יַכְתִּ֥רוּ דָֽעַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of people being rewarded with knowledge as if knowledge were a crown they will wear. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “will be rewarded with knowledge” or “will be rewarded with knowledge as if it were a crown they wore”

Proverbs 14:19

will bow down

Quote: שַׁח֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Bowing down is a symbolic action that shows humble respect or submission to someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could explain the significance of this action in the text or in a footnote. Alternate translation: “will bow down to show respect”

before the face of

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the word face represents the presence of a person by association with the way people can see the face of someone who is present. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in the presence of”

and wicked ones at the gates of the righteous one

Quote: וּ֝⁠רְשָׁעִ֗ים עַֽל־שַׁעֲרֵ֥י צַדִּֽיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a clause would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “and wicked ones will bow down at the gates of the righteous one”

at the gates of

Quote: עַֽל־שַׁעֲרֵ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, gates refers to the doorway of the house of the righteous one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the gates of the house of”

the righteous one

Quote: צַדִּֽיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated the same use of this phrase in 10:3.

Proverbs 14:20

One who is poor … by his neighbor, … the rich one

Quote: לְ֭⁠רֵעֵ⁠הוּ & רָ֑שׁ & עָשִׁ֣יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One who is poor, his neighbor, and the rich one refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “Any person who is poor … by that person’s neighbors … any rich person”

One who is poor is hated even by his neighbor

Quote: גַּם־לְ֭⁠רֵעֵ⁠הוּ יִשָּׂ֣נֵא רָ֑שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “A poor person’s neighbor even hates him”

Proverbs 14:21

One who sins despises his neighbor, but one who shows favor to afflicted ones, happy {is} he

Quote: בָּז־לְ⁠רֵעֵ֥⁠הוּ חוֹטֵ֑א וּ⁠מְחוֹנֵ֖ן עניים אַשְׁרָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One who sins, his neighbor, one who shows favor, and he refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “Any person who sins despises that person’s neighbors, but any person who shows favor to afflicted ones, happy is that person”

but one who shows favor to

Quote: וּ⁠מְחוֹנֵ֖ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, shows favor refers to being kind to someone, not to favoring one person over another. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but the one who is compassionate to”

Proverbs 14:22

Do not devisers of evil go astray

Quote: הֲֽ⁠לוֹא־יִ֭תְעוּ חֹ֣רְשֵׁי רָ֑ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Solomon is using the question form to emphasize what he is saying. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “Devisers of evil surely go astray!”

evil … But covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness {… good

Quote: רָ֑ע וְ⁠חֶ֥סֶד וֶ֝⁠אֱמֶ֗ת & טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns evil in 1:16, covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness in 3:3, and good in 11:27.

Do not … go astray

Quote: הֲֽ⁠לוֹא־יִ֭תְעוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon uses the phrase go astray to refer to being deceptive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Are not … deceptive”

are for} devisers of good

Quote: חֹ֣רְשֵׁי טֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, are for indicates that devisers of good are those who will benefit from receiving the covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness of others. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “benefit devisers of good”

Proverbs 14:23

toil … profit, … is} … for lack

Quote: עֶ֭צֶב & מוֹתָ֑ר & לְ⁠מַחְסֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns “toils” in 5:10, profit in 3:14, and lack in 6:11.

but the word of lips

Quote: וּ⁠דְבַר־שְׂ֝פָתַ֗יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies that this refers to the words of lips without any toil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but the word of lips without toil” or “but the word of lips by itself”

but the word of lips

Quote: וּ⁠דְבַר־שְׂ֝פָתַ֗יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe the word that is spoken with lips. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “but the word spoken by lips”

but the word of

Quote: וּ⁠דְבַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar use of word in 12:25.

lips

Quote: שְׂ֝פָתַ֗יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the same use of lips in 10:18.

is} only for lack

Quote: אַךְ־לְ⁠מַחְסֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, is only indicates that lack is the result of the preceding phrase. Use the most natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “results only in lack”

Proverbs 14:24

The crown of

Quote: עֲטֶ֣רֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of the reward of the wise ones as if it were a crown they wear. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. See how you translated the similar use of crown in 14:18. Alternate translation: “The reward of” or “The reward that is like a crown of”

the folly of stupid ones

Quote: אִוֶּ֖לֶת כְּסִילִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated this phrase in 14:8.

the folly of … is} folly

Quote: אִוֶּ֖לֶת & אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun folly in 5:23.

Proverbs 14:25

A witness of truth

Quote: עֵ֣ד אֱמֶ֑ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated the same use of A witness of in 14:5.

but one who breathes out lies

Quote: וְ⁠יָפִ֖חַ כְּזָבִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated breathes out lies in 6:19.

Proverbs 14:26

In the fear of Yahweh {is} the confidence of the strong one

Quote: בְּ⁠יִרְאַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה מִבְטַח־עֹ֑ז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone having confidence because that person has the fear of Yahweh as if the fear of Yahweh were a location in which confidence resided. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The fear of Yahweh is the source of the confidence of the strong one” or “The confidence of the strong one is because he has the fear of Yahweh”

In the fear of Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠יִרְאַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated the fear of Yahweh in 1:7.

is} the confidence of

Quote: מִבְטַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun confidence in 3:26.

the strong one, and for his sons he will be

Quote: עֹ֑ז וּ֝⁠לְ⁠בָנָ֗י⁠ו יִהְיֶ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the strong one, his, and he refer to a type of person in general, not to one specific person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “any strong person, and for that person’s sons that person will be”

and for his sons

Quote: וּ֝⁠לְ⁠בָנָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term sons is masculine, Solomon is using the word here in a generic sense that could refer to either male or female children. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “and for his children”

he will be a refuge

Quote: יִהְיֶ֥ה מַחְסֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person protecting his children as if he were a refuge for them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “he will provide protection” or “he will be like a refuge”

a refuge

Quote: מַחְסֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of refuge, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “someone who protects”

Proverbs 14:27

The fear of Yahweh

Quote: יִרְאַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 1:7 and in the previous verse.

is} a fountain of life

Quote: מְק֣וֹר חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a fountain of life in 10:11 and 13:14.

to turn away from the snares of death

Quote: לָ֝⁠ס֗וּר מִ⁠מֹּ֥קְשֵׁי מָֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same clause in 13:14.

Proverbs 14:28

With the abundance of people {is} the majesty of a king

Quote: בְּ⁠רָב־עָ֥ם הַדְרַת־מֶ֑לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of abundance and majesty, you could express the same ideas in other ways. Alternate translation: “An abundant amount of people is what makes a king majestic”

a king, … the potentate

Quote: מֶ֑לֶךְ & רָזֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a king and the potentate refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “any king … any potentate”

but with the end of

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠אֶ֥פֶס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, end refers to a lack of people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but with the lack of”

Proverbs 14:29

One long of nostrils {… but one short of spirit

Quote: אֶ֣רֶךְ אַ֭פַּיִם & וּ⁠קְצַר־ר֝֗וּחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One long of nostrils and one short of spirit refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “Any person long of nostrils … but any person short of spirit”

One long of nostrils

Quote: אֶ֣רֶךְ אַ֭פַּיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase long of nostrils is an idiom that refers to a type of person who does not get angry quickly. The word nostrils means “anger” by association with the way that a person who is angry breathes heavily through his nose, causing his nostrils to open wide. Your language and culture may also associate anger with a particular part of the body. If so, you could use an expression involving that part of the body in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: “One who does not easily vent his spleen” or “One who does not get angry quickly”

understanding, … folly

Quote: תְּבוּנָ֑ה & אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns understanding in 1:2 and folly in 5:23.

but one short of spirit

Quote: וּ⁠קְצַר־ר֝֗וּחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase short of spirit is an idiom that refers to a type of person who gets angry quickly. Your language and culture may also associate anger with a particular part of the body. If this phrase does not have that meaning in your language, you could use an idiom from your language that does have this meaning or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but a short-tempered person” or “but one who gets angry quickly”

lifts up

Quote: מֵרִ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of someone publicly showing folly as if folly were an object that someone lifts up for everyone to see. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “publicly displays” or “lets everyone observe”

Proverbs 14:30

A heart of healing

Quote: לֵ֣ב מַרְפֵּ֑א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a heart that is characterized by healing. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “A healed heart”

A heart of

Quote: לֵ֣ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses heart to refer to a person’s inner being or mind. See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

A heart of … the body

Quote: בְ֭שָׂרִים לֵ֣ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A heart of healing and the body refer to hearts and bodies in general, not to a specific heart and body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “Any heart of … any body”

is} life to the body

Quote: חַיֵּ֣י בְ֭שָׂרִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life to the body refers to a something being healthy for a person’s body. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “is healthy for one’s body” or “causes one’s body to be healthy”

but envy {is} the decay of bones

Quote: וּ⁠רְקַ֖ב עֲצָמ֣וֹת קִנְאָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Solomon is saying that envy harms a person’s health like a disease that causes the decay of bones. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly or use a simile. Alternate translation: “but envy ruins a person’s health” or “but envy harms one’s health like decay in one’s bones”

envy

Quote: קִנְאָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of envy, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “being envious”

Proverbs 14:31

The oppressor of a lowly one … his maker, … one showing favor to a needy one

Quote: עֹ֣שֵֽׁק דָּ֭ל & עֹשֵׂ֑⁠הוּ & חֹנֵ֥ן אֶבְיֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The oppressor. a lowly one, his, one showing favor, and a needy one refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “Any oppressor of any lowly person … that person’s maker … any person who shows favor to any needy person”

a lowly one

Quote: דָּ֭ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase lowly one refers to a poor person. See how you translated the same use of “lowly ones” in 10:15.

his maker

Quote: עֹשֵׂ֑⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, maker refers to Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “God, his maker” or “his maker, who is God” or “his Maker”

but … honors him

Quote: וּ֝⁠מְכַבְּד֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, him refers to Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but … honors Yahweh”

one showing favor to

Quote: חֹנֵ֥ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the same use of “shows favor to” in 14:21.

Proverbs 14:32

By his evil the wicked one … the righteous one … in his death

Quote: בְּֽ֭⁠רָעָת⁠וֹ & רָשָׁ֑ע & בְ⁠מוֹת֣⁠וֹ צַדִּֽיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, his, the wicked one, and the righteous one refer to types of people in general, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. See how you translated the wicked one in 3:33 and the righteous one in 10:16. Alternate translation: “By the evil of any wicked person that person … any righteous person … in that person’s death”

By his evil … in his death

Quote: בְּֽ֭⁠רָעָת⁠וֹ & בְ⁠מוֹת֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns evil in 1:16 and death in 2:18.

is thrust down

Quote: יִדָּחֶ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “thrusts himself down”

is thrust down

Quote: יִדָּחֶ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person’s life becoming ruined or destroyed as if that person were thrust down on the ground. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar use of “thrown down” in 10:8. Alternate translation: “is destroyed”

but the righteous one finds refuge

Quote: וְ⁠חֹסֶ֖ה & צַדִּֽיק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to refuge as if it were an object that someone finds. He means that someone feels safe or protected. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the righteous one feels protected”

in his death

Quote: בְ⁠מוֹת֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the time when someone dies as if death were a place where that person enters. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “when dying”

Proverbs 14:33

In the heart of the understanding one rests wisdom

Quote: בְּ⁠לֵ֣ב נָ֭בוֹן תָּנ֣וּחַ חָכְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the understanding one thinking wisely as if wisdom were an object that rests inside that person’s heart. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2. Alternate translation: “The understanding one thinks with wisdom”

the understanding one

Quote: נָ֭בוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated the understanding one in 1:5.

wisdom

Quote: חָכְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun wisdom in 1:2.

she will be known

Quote: תִּוָּדֵֽעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will know her”

she will be known

Quote: תִּוָּדֵֽעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, she refers to wisdom as if it were a woman. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “wisdom will be known”

Proverbs 14:34

Righteousness … but sin {is} shame

Quote: צְדָקָ֥ה & וְ⁠חֶ֖סֶד & חַטָּֽאת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns Righteousness in 1:3, sin in 5:22, and shame in 6:33.

raises a nation

Quote: תְרֽוֹמֵֽם־גּ֑וֹי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a nation becoming great as if it were an object that Righteousness raises up. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar use of “raised up” in 11:11. Alternate translation: “makes a nation great”

Proverbs 14:35

The delight of … who has insight, but his rage

Quote: רְֽצוֹן & מַשְׂכִּ֑יל וְ֝⁠עֶבְרָת֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns delight in 8:30, insight in 1:3, and rage in 11:23.

a king {is} for the servant … but his rage is {for} one who acts shamefully

Quote: מֶ֭לֶךְ לְ⁠עֶ֣בֶד & וְ֝⁠עֶבְרָת֗⁠וֹ תִּהְיֶ֥ה מֵבִֽישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, a king, the servant, his, and one who acts shamefully refer to types of people, not to specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “any king is for any servant … but any king’s rage is for any person who acts shamefully”

Proverbs 15

Proverbs 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 15 continues the section of the book written by Solomon that is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Contrasting parallelism

Except for 15:3, 10–12, 16–17, 23–24, 30–31, and 33, all the proverbs in this chapter consist of two parallel clauses that contrast with each other.

Proverbs 15:1

A gentle answer turns back heat, but a word of pain lifts up a nose

Quote: מַֽעֲנֶה־רַּ֭ךְ יָשִׁ֣יב חֵמָ֑ה וּ⁠דְבַר־עֶ֝֗צֶב יַעֲלֶה־אָֽף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this verse, Solomon implies that the gentle answer and word of pain are spoken to an angry person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “A gentle answer spoken to an angry person turns back that person’s heat, but a word of pain spoken to an angry person lifts up that person’s nose”

A gentle answer … but a word of pain

Quote: מַֽעֲנֶה־רַּ֭ךְ & וּ⁠דְבַר־עֶ֝֗צֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A gentle answer and a word of pain refer to types of things people say, not to a specific answer or word. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “Any gentle answer … but any word of pain”

turns back heat

Quote: יָשִׁ֣יב חֵמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase is an idiom that refers to decreasing a person’s anger as if that anger were heat that someone turns back. The word heat means “anger” by association with the way that an angry person’s body increases in heat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “decreases anger” or “causes an angry person to become calm”

but a word of pain

Quote: וּ⁠דְבַר־עֶ֝֗צֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase word of pain refers to something that is spoken harshly as if what is spoken causes pain to the listener. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but what is spoken harshly”

lifts up a nose

Quote: יַעֲלֶה־אָֽף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase is an idiom that refers to increasing a person’s anger. The word nose means “anger” by association with the way that a person who is angry breathes heavily through his nose. Your language and culture may also associate anger with a particular part of the body. If so, you could use an expression involving that part of the body in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: “increases anger” or “causes an angry person to become angrier”

Proverbs 15:2

The tongue of the wise ones … but the mouth of stupid ones

Quote: לְשׁ֣וֹן חֲ֭כָמִים & וּ⁠פִ֥י כְ֝סִילִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The tongue of the wise ones and the mouth of stupid ones refer to what these types of people say in general, not to a specific tongue or mouth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use phrases that make this clear. Alternate translation: “The tongues of wise ones … but the mouths of stupid ones”

The tongue of the wise ones

Quote: לְשׁ֣וֹן חֲ֭כָמִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 12:18.

makes knowledge good

Quote: תֵּיטִ֣יב דָּ֑עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase makes knowledge good refers to speaking knowledge in a way that makes knowledge pleasant or attractive to others. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “makes knowledge pleasing to others”

knowledge … folly

Quote: דָּ֑עַת & אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns knowledge in 1:4 and folly in 5:23.

but the mouth of stupid ones gushes forth folly

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֥י כְ֝סִילִ֗ים יַבִּ֥יעַ אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to stupid people always saying foolish things as if their mouths were places from which folly gushes forth like water. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the mouths of stupid ones are always speaking folly”

but the mouth of stupid ones

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֥י כְ֝סִילִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of the mouth of in 10:6.

Proverbs 15:3

The eyes of Yahweh {are} in every place

Quote: בְּֽ⁠כָל־מָ֭קוֹם עֵינֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to Yahweh’s ability to see everything as if Yahweh had eyes that are located in every place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh sees what is happening everywhere”

Proverbs 15:4

A healing tongue {… but crookedness in it {is} a breaking in the spirit

Quote: מַרְפֵּ֣א לָ֭שׁוֹן & וְ⁠סֶ֥לֶף בָּ֝֗⁠הּ שֶׁ֣בֶר בְּ⁠רֽוּחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A healing tongue, it, and a breaking in the spirit do not refer to specific things but represent these things in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Any healing tongue … but crookedness in any such tongue is what breaks spirits”

A healing tongue

Quote: מַרְפֵּ֣א לָ֭שׁוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

A healing tongue refers to what someone says that soothes the listener. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar use of tongue in 6:17. Alternate translation: “What comforting thing someone says”

is} a tree of life

Quote: עֵ֣ץ חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated a tree of life in 3:18.

but crookedness in it

Quote: וְ⁠סֶ֥לֶף בָּ֝֗⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to deceitful speech as if it were a crooked tongue. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but what deceitful thing someone says”

is} a breaking in the spirit

Quote: שֶׁ֣בֶר בְּ⁠רֽוּחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase a breaking in the spirit is an idiom that refers to making a person despair. If it would be helpful, you could use an equivalent idiom from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “makes a person feel down in the dumps” or “makes a person despair”

Proverbs 15:5

A fool … his father, but one who keeps rebuke

Quote: אֱוִ֗יל & אָבִ֑י⁠ו וְ⁠שֹׁמֵ֖ר תּוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A fool, his, and one who keeps rebuke do not refer to specific people but represent types of people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Any fool … that fool’s father, but any person who keeps rebuke”

the correction of … rebuke

Quote: מוּסַ֣ר & תּוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns correction in 3:11 and rebuke in 1:25.

but one who keeps rebuke

Quote: וְ⁠שֹׁמֵ֖ר תּוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated one who keeps rebuke in 13:18.

Proverbs 15:6

The house of the righteous one {… but in the produce of the wicked one

Quote: בֵּ֣ית צַ֭דִּיק & וּ⁠בִ⁠תְבוּאַ֖ת רָשָׁ֣ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The house of the righteous one and the produce of the wicked one do not refer to specific things and people, but represent those things and types of people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Any house of righteous ones … but any produce of wicked ones”

but in the produce of

Quote: וּ⁠בִ⁠תְבוּאַ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, produce refers to the income that is gained from selling produce. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but in the income of”

but in the produce of the wicked one is being troubled

Quote: וּ⁠בִ⁠תְבוּאַ֖ת רָשָׁ֣ע נֶעְכָּֽרֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the produce of the wicked one causing the wicked one to be troubled as if being troubled was an object located in the produce. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the produce of the wicked one causes them trouble”

Proverbs 15:7

The lips of the wise ones

Quote: שִׂפְתֵ֣י חֲ֭כָמִים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this phrase in 14:3.

scatter knowledge

Quote: יְזָ֣רוּ דָ֑עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to teaching other people knowledge as if knowledge were seeds that a farmer scatters around in a field. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “teach others knowledge”

knowledge

Quote: דָ֑עַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun knowledge in 1:4.

but the heart of stupid ones

Quote: וְ⁠לֵ֖ב כְּסִילִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the heart of stupid ones in 12:23.

Proverbs 15:8

The sacrifice of … but the prayer of

Quote: זֶ֣בַח & וּ⁠תְפִלַּ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The sacrifice and the prayer represent sacrifices and prayers in general, not one particular sacrifice or prayer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “The sacrifices of … but the prayers of”

The sacrifice of the wicked ones {… but the prayer of the upright ones

Quote: זֶ֣בַח רְ֭שָׁעִים & וּ⁠תְפִלַּ֖ת יְשָׁרִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of sacrifice and prayer, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “What the wicked ones sacrifice … but what the upright ones pray”

is} an abomination to Yahweh

Quote: תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated an abomination to Yahweh in 3:32.

is} his delight

Quote: רְצוֹנֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun delight in 11:1.

Proverbs 15:9

An abomination to Yahweh

Quote: תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated this phrase in the previous verse.

is} the way of

Quote: דֶּ֣רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of way in 1:15.

the wicked one, but a pursuer of

Quote: רָשָׁ֑ע & וּ⁠מְרַדֵּ֖ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the wicked one and a persuer represent types of people, not one particular wicked one or persuer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “the wicked ones … but the persuers of”

but a pursuer of righteousness

Quote: וּ⁠מְרַדֵּ֖ף צְדָקָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone being diligent to live righteously as if that person were a persuer of it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but someone who strives to be righteous”

righteousness

Quote: צְדָקָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun righteousness in 1:3.

Proverbs 15:10

discipline {… rebuke

Quote: מוּסָ֣ר & תוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns discipline in 13:24 and rebuke in 1:25.

is} for one who forsakes … one who hates

Quote: לְ⁠עֹזֵ֣ב & שׂוֹנֵ֖א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, one who forsakes and one who hates represent types of people, not specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “is for any person who forsakes … any person who hates”

is} for one who forsakes the path

Quote: לְ⁠עֹזֵ֣ב אֹ֑רַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person no longer behaving righteously but behaving wickedly as if that person forsakes the righteous path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is for one who stops living righteously”

Proverbs 15:11

Sheol and Abaddon

Quote: שְׁא֣וֹל וַ֭⁠אֲבַדּוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Sheol and Abaddon both refer to the place where people’s spirits go when they die. Solomon is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. See how you translated Sheol in 1:12. Alternate translation: “the place where the spirits of dead people dwell” or “the place of the dead”

are} before

Quote: נֶ֣גֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to Yahweh knowing everything about Sheol and Abaddon as if they were in front of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are fully known by”

how much more the hearts of the sons of man

Quote: אַ֝֗ף כִּֽי־לִבּ֥וֹת בְּֽנֵי־אָדָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Solomon is using the question form to emphasize that, since Yahweh knows everything about the place of the dead, it is more obvious that he knows everything about the hearts of the sons of man. If you would not use the question form for this purpose in your language, you could translate this as a statement or an exclamation. Alternate translation: “so he certainly knows the hearts of the sons of man!”

the hearts of

Quote: לִבּ֥וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of “heart” in 2:2.

the sons of man

Quote: בְּֽנֵי־אָדָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

See how you translated this phrase in 8:4.

Proverbs 15:12

A mocker … one who rebukes him; … he will not go

Quote: לֵ֭ץ הוֹכֵ֣חַֽ ל֑⁠וֹ & לֹ֣א יֵלֵֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

A mocker, one who rebukes, he, and him represent types of people, not specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Any mocker … any person who rebukes that person … that person will not go”

does not love

Quote: לֹ֣א יֶאֱהַב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Solomon is using a figure of speech here that expresses a strongly positive meaning by using a negative word, not, together with an expression that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the positive meaning. Alternate translation: “really hates”

he will not go

Quote: לֹ֣א יֵלֵֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, Solomon implies going to the wise ones in order to get advice from them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “he will not go to receive their advice”

Proverbs 15:13

A joyful heart

Quote: לֵ֣ב שָׂ֭מֵחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses heart to refer a person’s inner being or mind. See how you translated the same use of heart in 2:2.

makes a face glad

Quote: יֵיטִ֣ב פָּנִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to someone smiling as if that person’s face were a person who is glad. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “causes one to smile”

but by pain of heart

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠עַצְּבַת־לֵ֝ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to a person feeling sad as if they that person has pain of heart. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but by feeling sad”

a spirit {is} stricken

Quote: ר֣וּחַ נְכֵאָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person despairing as if that person’s spirit were hit or crushed by something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “a person feels despair”

Proverbs 15:14

The heart of the understanding one seeks knowledge, but the mouth of

Quote: לֵ֣ב נָ֭בוֹן יְבַקֶּשׁ־דָּ֑עַת וּפִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The heart, the understanding one, and the mouth represent these things and type of people in general, not one particular heart, understanding one, or mouth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “The hearts of the understanding ones seek knowledge … but the mouths of”

The heart of … but the mouth of

Quote: לֵ֣ב & וּפִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

In this verse, heart and mouth refer to the whole person. See how you translated the same use of heart in 6:18 and mouth in 4:5.

seeks

Quote: יְבַקֶּשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of seeks in 11:27.

knowledge, … folly

Quote: דָּ֑עַת & אִוֶּֽלֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns knowledge in 1:4 and folly in 5:23.

feeds on

Quote: יִרְעֶ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to stupid ones being satisfied with folly as if folly were something they feed on like cattle feed on grass. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are satisfied by”

Proverbs 15:15

All the days of the afflicted one

Quote: כָּל־יְמֵ֣י עָנִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

All the days here refers to what happens during the days that the afflicted one is alive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “What happens during all the days that the afflicted one is alive”

the afflicted one {… but the good of heart

Quote: עָנִ֣י & וְ⁠טֽוֹב־לֵ֝֗ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the afflicted one and the good of heart represent types of people, not specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “any afflicted one … but any person who is good of heart”

are} evil ones

Quote: רָעִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, evil refers to what is miserable or troublesome. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “are troublesome ones” or “are troublesome”

but the good of heart

Quote: וְ⁠טֽוֹב־לֵ֝֗ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the good of heart refers to a person who feels cheerful. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but the one who feels cheerful”

has} a feast continually

Quote: מִשְׁתֶּ֥ה תָמִֽיד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person enjoying life as if that person is always eating at a feast. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a simile or express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “lives as if he is continually feasting” or “is always enjoying life”

Proverbs 15:16

is} a little … than much treasure

Quote: מְ֭עַט & מֵ⁠אוֹצָ֥ר רָ֝֗ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “is having a little … than having much treasure”

is} a little

Quote: מְ֭עַט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Solomon is using the adjective little as a noun to refer to a small amount of something. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this word with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: “is having a small amount”

with the fear of Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠יִרְאַ֣ת יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to fearing Yahweh as if that fear were an object that someone could have with a little. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “while having fear of Yahweh” or “and fearing Yahweh”

with the fear of Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠יִרְאַ֣ת יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the fear of Yahweh in 1:7.

and anxiety with it

Quote: וּ⁠מְה֥וּמָה בֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to feeling anxiety as if that anxiety were an object that someone could have with much treasure. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “and having anxiety” or “and having anxiety”

and anxiety

Quote: וּ⁠מְה֥וּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of anxiety, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “and being anxious”

Proverbs 15:17

is} a portion of vegetables and love … than a fattened ox and hatred

Quote: אֲרֻחַ֣ת יָ֭רָק וְ⁠אַהֲבָה & מִ⁠שּׁ֥וֹר אָ֝ב֗וּס וְ⁠שִׂנְאָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “is having a portion of vegetables and having love … than having a fattened ox and having hatred”

is} a portion of vegetables

Quote: אֲרֻחַ֣ת יָ֭רָק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, a portion of vegetables refers to a small meal without much food. This kind of meal would be eaten by someone who cannot afford to buy meat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is very little food” or “is a poor person’s meal”

and love … and hatred

Quote: וְ⁠אַהֲבָה & וְ⁠שִׂנְאָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns love and hatred in 10:12.

than a fattened ox

Quote: מִ⁠שּׁ֥וֹר אָ֝ב֗וּס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, a fattened ox refers to a large meal with much food that includes a fattened ox. This kind of meal would be eaten by a wealthy person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “than very much food” or “than a wealthy person’s meal”

and hatred with it

Quote: וְ⁠שִׂנְאָה־בֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to feeling hatred as if that hatred were an object that someone could have with a fattened ox. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “while having hatred”

Proverbs 15:18

A man of heat

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ חֵ֭מָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although the term man is masculine, Solomon is using the word in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “People of heat”

A man of heat

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ חֵ֭מָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

A man of heat refers to someone who gets angry easily. Here, heat refers to extreme anger, which causes the angry person’s body to become hot. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar use of heat in 6:34. Alternate translation: “A person who gets angry easily”

stirs up

Quote: יְגָרֶ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to starting a quarrel as if it were something that a person stirs up. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “starts” or “causes”

a quarrel, … a dispute

Quote: מָד֑וֹן & רִֽיב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of quarrel and dispute, you could express the same ideas in another way. See how you translated “quarrels” in 6:14. Alternate translation: “quarreling … disputing”

a quarrel, but one long of nostrils … a dispute

Quote: מָד֑וֹן וְ⁠אֶ֥רֶך אַ֝פַּ֗יִם & רִֽיב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, quarrel, the long of nostrils, and dispute represent events and a type of person in general, not a specific event or person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “quarrels, but any person long of nostrils … disputes”

but one long of nostrils

Quote: וְ⁠אֶ֥רֶך אַ֝פַּ֗יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated one long of nostrils in 14:29.

will quiet a dispute

Quote: יַשְׁקִ֥יט רִֽיב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to someone causing people who are arguing to become calm and stop arguing as if that person were causing the dispute to become quiet. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will calm disputing people”

Proverbs 15:19

The way of the lazy one {… but the path of

Quote: דֶּ֣רֶךְ עָ֭צֵל & וְ⁠אֹ֖רַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The way of the lazy one and the path do not refer to specific things and people, but represent those things and types of people in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. See how you translated the lazy one in 10:26. Alternate translation: “The ways of lazy ones … but the paths of”

The way of … but the path of

Quote: דֶּ֣רֶךְ & וְ⁠אֹ֖רַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this verse, Solomon uses way and path to refer to a person’s progress throughout that person’s lifetime. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The life progress of … the life progress of”

is} like a hedge of brier

Quote: כִּ⁠מְשֻׂ֣כַת חָ֑דֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here, Solomon compares the difficult and unproductive lifestyle of a lazy person with a hedge of brier that prevents someone from walking down a path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “is difficult”

is} like a hedge of brier

Quote: כִּ⁠מְשֻׂ֣כַת חָ֑דֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The phrase hedge of brier refers to a dense group of bushes that contains sharp thorns. Because the hedge is thick and has thorns, people cannot walk through it. If your readers would not be familiar with this type of plant, you could use the name of something similar in your area or you could use a more general term. Alternate translation: “is like a large thorn bush” or “is like a plant that blocks the way”

is} a built-up highway

Quote: סְלֻלָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to the productive lifestyle of the upright ones as if it were a highway that was made well and easy to walk on. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “is productive”

Proverbs 15:20

A wise son gladdens a father

Quote: בֵּ֣ן חָ֭כָם יְשַׂמַּח־אָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this clause in 10:1.

but a stupid man despises his mother

Quote: וּ⁠כְסִ֥יל אָ֝דָ֗ם בּוֹזֶ֥ה אִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Although a stupid man and his are masculine, Solomon is using these words in a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “but any stupid person despises that person’s mother”

Proverbs 15:21

Folly {is} a joy … understanding

Quote: אִ֭וֶּלֶת שִׂמְחָ֣ה & תְּ֝בוּנָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns Folly in 5:23, joy in 10:28, and understanding in 1:2.

to the lacking of heart, but the man of understanding

Quote: לַ⁠חֲסַר־לֵ֑ב וְ⁠אִ֥ישׁ תְּ֝בוּנָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated the lacking of heart in 9:16 and man of understanding in 10:23.

makes to go straight

Quote: יְיַשֶׁר־לָֽכֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “makes himself to go straight”

makes to go straight

Quote: יְיַשֶׁר־לָֽכֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a person doing what is right as if he were walking straight ahead on a path. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “does what is right”

Proverbs 15:22

Plans are broken

Quote: הָפֵ֣ר מַ֭חֲשָׁבוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Plans fail”

counsel

Quote: ס֑וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun counsel in 1:25.

it will stand

Quote: תָּקֽוּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun it refers to the Plans in the previous clause. If this is not clear for your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “those plans will stand”

it will stand

Quote: תָּקֽוּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here, Solomon refers to Plans that are successful as if they were a person who would continue to stand. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will be successful”

Proverbs 15:23

Joy {is} for the man in the answer of his mouth

Quote: שִׂמְחָ֣ה לָ֭⁠אִישׁ בְּ⁠מַעֲנֵה־פִ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a person feeling joyful because of the answer that person says as if that person’s Joy were an object that could be found in the answer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The man has joy because of the answer of his mouth”

Joy {is} for the man in the answer of his mouth

Quote: שִׂמְחָ֣ה לָ֭⁠אִישׁ בְּ⁠מַעֲנֵה־פִ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the man, the answer, and his refer to a type of people and answers in general, not a specific man or answer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Any person has joy because of an answer of that person’s mouth”

Joy

Quote: שִׂמְחָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun joy in 10:28.

in the answer of his mouth

Quote: בְּ⁠מַעֲנֵה־פִ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase a word in its time in the second clause implies that the answer in the first clause is a good or fitting answer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the good answer of his mouth” or “in the fitting reply of his mouth”

in the answer of his mouth

Quote: בְּ⁠מַעֲנֵה־פִ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe an answer that someone says with his mouth. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “in the good answer he says” or “in what he says well in reply”

and how good {is} a word in its time

Quote: וְ⁠דָבָ֖ר בְּ⁠עִתּ֣⁠וֹ מַה־טּֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

This is a positive exclamation that emphasizes that something spoken at the right time is very good. If it would be helpful in your language, you could show this by making it a separate sentence and using a positive exclamation that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “A word in its time is very good!”

and how good {is} a word in its time

Quote: וְ⁠דָבָ֖ר בְּ⁠עִתּ֣⁠וֹ מַה־טּֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase a word in its time refers to a word that is spoken at the appropriate time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “and how good is a word spoken at the appropriate time”

and how good {is} a word

Quote: וְ⁠דָבָ֖ר & מַה־טּֽוֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar use of word in 12:25.

Proverbs 15:24

The path of life {is} upward for the insightful one

Quote: אֹ֣רַח חַ֭יִּים לְ⁠מַ֣עְלָ⁠ה לְ⁠מַשְׂכִּ֑יל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The path of life and the insightful one represent paths and insightful people in general, not a specific path or insightful one. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “The paths of lives are upward for those who are insightful”

The path of life {is} upward

Quote: אֹ֣רַח חַ֭יִּים לְ⁠מַ֣עְלָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of a lifestyle that results in a long life as if it were a path that goes upward. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “The lifestyle results in a long life”

life

Quote: חַ֭יִּים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to a long life. See how you translated the same use of life in 10:16.

in order to turn away

Quote: לְמַ֥עַן ס֝֗וּר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply these words from the previous clause if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “in order for the insightful one to turn away”

in order to turn away from Sheol

Quote: לְמַ֥עַן ס֝֗וּר מִ⁠שְּׁא֥וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of avoiding Sheol as if Sheol were a place that a person could turn away from. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “in order to avoid going to Sheol”

from Sheol below

Quote: מִ⁠שְּׁא֥וֹל מָֽטָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The Israelites referred to dying as going down to Sheol, which is the place where people’s spirits go when they die. Here, Solomon refers to Sheol as if it were below the place where living people are. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state that explicitly. See how you translated Sheol in 1:12. Alternate translation: “from the place where the spirits of dead people dwell” or “from the place of the dead”

Proverbs 15:25

will tear down

Quote: יִסַּ֥ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to Yahweh destroying the house of the proud ones as if he were tearing it down. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will ruin”

the house of the proud ones, … the boundary of the widow

Quote: בֵּ֣ית גֵּ֭אִים & גְּב֣וּל אַלְמָנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Here, the house, the boundary, and the widow refer to houses, boundaries, and widows in general, not one particular house, boundary, or widow. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “the houses of the proud ones … the boundaries of the widows”

the house of

Quote: בֵּ֣ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, house refers to both the building someone lives in and the items within that house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the property of”

but he will set up

Quote: וְ֝⁠יַצֵּ֗ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to Yahweh protecting or maintaining the boundary of the widow as if it were an object that he set up. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “but he will protect”

the boundary of

Quote: גְּב֣וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word boundary refers to stones that were used to mark the borders of the land that a person owns. Here, Solomon uses boundary to refer to all the land and possessions within the boundary of the land that the widow owns. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “the property of”

the widow

Quote: אַלְמָנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon assumes that his readers will understand that the widow is helpless and poor because widows were some of the poorest people in ancient societies. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “the helpless widow”

Proverbs 15:26

are} an abomination to Yahweh

Quote: תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated an abomination to Yahweh in 3:32.

words of pleasantness

Quote: אִמְרֵי־נֹֽעַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe words that are characterized by pleasantness. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “pleasant words”

words of

Quote: אִמְרֵי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of words in 1:23.

Proverbs 15:27

One who unjustly gains … his house, but one who hates

Quote: בֵּ֭ית⁠וֹ בּוֹצֵ֣עַ & וְ⁠שׂוֹנֵ֖א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One who unjustly gains, his, and one who hates represent types of people in general, not specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Any person who unjustly gains … that person’s house, but any person who hates”

One who unjustly gains unjust gain

Quote: בּוֹצֵ֣עַ בָּ֑צַע (1)

See how you translated a similar phrase in 1:19.

his house

Quote: בֵּ֭ית⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of house in 3:33.

but one who hates bribes

Quote: וְ⁠שׂוֹנֵ֖א מַתָּנֹ֣ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase one who hates bribes refers to a person who refuses to receive bribes that someone else might offer them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but one who refuses to accept bribes”

will live

Quote: יִחְיֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, live refers to living a long life. See how you translated the same use of live in 9:6.

Proverbs 15:28

The heart of the righteous one considers {how} … but the mouth of the wicked ones gushes forth

Quote: לֵ֣ב צַ֭דִּיק יֶהְגֶּ֣ה & וּ⁠פִ֥י רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים יַבִּ֥יעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The heart, the righteous one, and the mouth represent things and a type of people in general, not a specific heart, righteous one or mouth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “The hearts of any righteous ones consider how … but the mouths of the wicked ones gush out”

The heart of

Quote: לֵ֣ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, heart refers to the whole person. See how you translated the same use of heart in 6:18.

to answer

Quote: לַ⁠עֲנ֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Solomon is leaving out a word that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You could supply this word from the context if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “to answer a person”

but the mouth of

Quote: וּ⁠פִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the same use of the mouth of in 10:6.

gushes forth

Quote: יַבִּ֥יעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same use of gushes forth in 15:2.

evils

Quote: רָעֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of evils, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “evil sayings”

Proverbs 15:29

Yahweh {is} far from the wicked ones

Quote: רָח֣וֹק יְ֭הוָה מֵ⁠רְשָׁעִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon speaks of Yahweh not listening to the wicked ones as if he were physically far away from them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh does not heed wicked people”

but the prayer of

Quote: וּ⁠תְפִלַּ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The word prayer represents prayers in general, not one particular prayer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “but the prayers of”

but the prayer of

Quote: וּ⁠תְפִלַּ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun prayer in 15:8.

he hears

Quote: יִשְׁמָֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, hears implies that Yahweh hears and responds to what he hears. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “he hears and responds”

Proverbs 15:30

The luminary of the eyes gladdens the heart; … the bone

Quote: מְֽאוֹר־עֵ֭ינַיִם יְשַׂמַּֽח־לֵ֑ב & עָֽצֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The luminary, the heart, and the bone represents those things in general, not one particular luminary, heart, or bone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Luminaries of the eyes gladdens hearts … bones”

The luminary of the eyes

Quote: מְֽאוֹר־עֵ֭ינַיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon assumes that his readers will understand that he is referring to someone seeing The luminary of the eyes. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “Seeing the luminary of the eyes”

The luminary of the eyes

Quote: מְֽאוֹר־עֵ֭ינַיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, Solomon refers to a joyful facial expression as if the person’s eyes shined brightly like a luminary body, such as the Sun. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “A cheerful expression”

the heart

Quote: לֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, heart refers to the whole person. See how you translated the same use of heart in 6:18.

good news

Quote: שְׁמוּעָ֥ה ט֝וֹבָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Solomon assumes that his readers will understand that he is referring to someone hearing good news. You could include this information if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: “hearing good news”

fattens the bone

Quote: תְּדַשֶּׁן־עָֽצֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, Solomon refers to good news making people feel healthy as if it fattens their bones. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “causes people to feel healthy”

Proverbs 15:31

An ear … the rebuke of

Quote: אֹ֗זֶן & תּוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

An ear and the rebuke represent those things in general, not one particular ear or rebuke. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Ears … rebukes of”

An ear

Quote: אֹ֗זֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, ear refers to the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “A person”

the rebuke of life

Quote: תּוֹכַ֣חַת חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe a rebuke that results in life. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “the rebuke that leads to life”

the rebuke of

Quote: תּוֹכַ֣חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract noun rebuke in 1:25.

the rebuke of life

Quote: תּוֹכַ֣חַת חַיִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, life refers to remaining alive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the rebuke that keeps one alive”

will lodge in the midst of the wise ones

Quote: בְּ⁠קֶ֖רֶב חֲכָמִ֣ים תָּלִֽין (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon refers to a person being considered wise as if that person were dwelling with the wise ones. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “will be considered one of the wise ones”

Proverbs 15:32

One who avoids … his life, but one who hears

Quote: פּוֹרֵ֣עַ & נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ וְ⁠שׁוֹמֵ֥עַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

One who avoids, his, and one who hears represent types of people in general, not specific people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a more natural expression. Alternate translation: “Any person who avoids … that person’s life, but any person who hears”

correction … rebuke

Quote: מ֭וּסָר & תּ֝וֹכַ֗חַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns correction in 3:11 and rebuke in 1:25.

rejects

Quote: מוֹאֵ֣ס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Solomon says rejects here as an overstatement for emphasis. He means that someone who avoids correction is doing what will ruin his life, as if he actually despises his life. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a different way to express the emphasis. Alternate translation: “behaves as if he rejects”

his life

Quote: נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here, his life refers to the person himself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: “himself”

heart

Quote: לֵּֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, Solomon uses heart to refer to a person’s ability to think. See how you translated the same use of heart in 6:32.

Proverbs 15:33

The fear of Yahweh

Quote: יִרְאַ֣ת יְ֭הוָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

See how you translated this phrase in 1:7.

is} instruction of wisdom, … honor

Quote: מוּסַ֣ר חָכְמָ֑ה & כָב֣וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the abstract nouns wisdom and instruction in 1:2 and honor in 3:16.

is} instruction of wisdom

Quote: מוּסַ֣ר חָכְמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Solomon is using the possessive form to describe instruction that results in wisdom. If your language would not use the possessive form for this, you could use a different expression. Alternate translation: “is instruction that results in wisdom”

and before the face of honor {is} humility

Quote: וְ⁠לִ⁠פְנֵ֖י כָב֣וֹד עֲנָוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, Solomon refers to a person having humility before honor as if humility were before the face of honor. See how you translated the same use of before the face of in 8:25. Alternate translation: “and humility exists before the honor exists”

is} humility

Quote: עֲנָוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of humility, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “is being humble”

Proverbs 16

Proverbs 16 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 16 continues the section of the book which is attributed to Solomon and is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

King and royalty

Some of these proverbs mention a king. As in other cases, this is intended to apply to all rulers.

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 16:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The plans of the heart belong to a person (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “heart” represents the person’s mind and thoughts. Alternate translation: “A person makes plans in his mind”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: from Yahweh comes the answer from his tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This could mean: (1) Yahweh speaks his answer to a person’s plans, which is a metaphor meaning that Yahweh determines the outcome of that person’s plans or (2) Yahweh enables a person to speak words about the plans that he has made.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the answer from his tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The person is represented by his “tongue” to emphasize his speech. Alternate translation: “the answer that he speaks”

Proverbs 16:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: All of a person’s ways are pure in his own eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. The writer speaks of what a person does as if that person were walking down a path. Alternate translation: “A person thinks that everything he does is pure” or “A person judges everything he does as pure”

Proverbs 16:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: even the wicked for the day of trouble (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The verbal phrase may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “he has made even the wicked for the day of trouble”

Proverbs 16:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: everyone who has an arrogant heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here the word “heart” represents the person. Alternate translation: “everyone who is arrogant”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: they will not go unpunished (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

The two negatives in this phrase strongly emphasize the positive. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will certainly punish them” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

Proverbs 16:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: By covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness iniquity is atoned for (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The abstract nouns “faithfulness” and “trustworthiness” can be stated as “faithful” and “trustworthy.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: “Because Yahweh is faithful to his covenant and trustworthy he forgives people’s sins” or (2) Alternate translation: “Yahweh will forgive the sins of those who are faithful to the covenant and trustworthy” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: people turn away from evil (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of people no longer doing evil things as if they were turning away from evil. Alternate translation: “people stop doing evil things”

Proverbs 16:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he makes (0)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh makes”

Proverbs 16:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a large income (0)

Alternate translation: “earning a lot of money”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: with injustice (0)

Alternate translation: “with wrongdoing”

Proverbs 16:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: In his heart a person plans out his way (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “heart” represents the mind and thoughts. The writer speaks of a person’s actions as if the person were walking on a path. Alternate translation: “A person plans in his mind what he will do” (See also: Метафора)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Yahweh directs his steps (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of Yahweh determining the outcome of a person’s plans as if Yahweh were telling that person where to walk.

Proverbs 16:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Insightful decisions are on the lips of a king (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “lips” is a metonym for what the king says. Alternate translation: “What a king says are insightful decisions”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his mouth should not betray justice (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The word “mouth” represents the king himself. Alternate translation: “he should not speak deceitfully when he judges”

Proverbs 16:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Honest scales come from Yahweh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh requires justice and fairness when doing business. Dishonest people used heavier or lighter weights in their scales in order to gain more when buying or selling.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: all the weights in the bag are his work (0)

Merchants carried their weights in bags. This could mean: (1) Yahweh has determined how much every weight must weigh or (2) Yahweh is concerned with every weight that a merchant uses.

Proverbs 16:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: that is something to be despised (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that is something that people despise” or “that is something that Yahweh despises”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: for a throne is established by doing what is right (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “throne” represents the king’s rule. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for the king establishes his reign by doing what is right” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

Proverbs 16:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lips that say what is right (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here the word “lips” represents the person who speaks. Alternate translation: “a person who speaks the truth”

Proverbs 16:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A king’s wrath is a messenger of death (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of an angry king causing someone to die as if the king’s wrath were a messenger that he sends out to kill someone. Alternate translation: “An angry king can put people to death”

Proverbs 16:15

General Information:

Verse 15 contrasts with verse 14.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: In the light of a king’s face is life (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of an expression of joy on the king’s face as if his face emitted light. Alternate translation: “When the king is cheerful, people live”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his favor is like a cloud that brings a spring rain (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The writer compares the king showing favor towards someone with a cloud that brings rain to make crops grow. Both promise blessing to those who receive them.

Proverbs 16:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: How much better it is to get wisdom than gold (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

This exclamation emphasizes that having wisdom is much better than having gold. Alternate translation: “It is much better to get wisdom than to get gold”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: To get understanding should be chosen more than silver (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “A person should choose to get understanding more than to get silver”

Proverbs 16:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The highway of upright people (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of the lifestyle of upright people as if it were a well-built road, free of obstacles. Alternate translation: “The righteous way that upright people live”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: turns away from evil (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of avoiding or no longer doing evil things as if it were turning away from evil. Alternate translation: “keeps them from doing evil”

Proverbs 16:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a haughty spirit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “spirit” represents the person’s attitude and temperament. Alternate translation: “an arrogant attitude”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a downfall (0)

Alternate translation: “ruin” or “failure”

Proverbs 16:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: spoil (0)

goods taken in battle

Proverbs 16:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: what they are taught (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “what someone has taught them” or “what they have learned”

Proverbs 16:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The one who is wise in heart is called discerning (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This person will have a reputation of being a discerning person. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People will call the one who is wise in heart discerning” or “The one who is wise in heart will have a reputation of being a discerning person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The one who is wise in heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the heart represents the mind and thoughts. Alternate translation: “The one who is wise” or “The one who is wise in his thinking”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: sweetness of speech (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of kind or pleasant speech as if it were something that tastes sweet. Alternate translation: “kind speech” or “pleasant speech”

Proverbs 16:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Understanding is a fountain of life (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of “Understanding” as if it were a fountain that continuously flows with water and which sustains the life of those who drink from it. Alternate translation: “Understanding is like a fountain flowing with life-giving water”

Proverbs 16:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The heart of a wise person gives (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “heart” represents the mind and thoughts. Alternate translation: “The thoughts of a wise person gives”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gives insight to his mouth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “mouth” is a metonym for speech. Alternate translation: “makes his speech wise”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to his lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “lips” is a metonym for speech. Alternate translation: “to what he says”

Proverbs 16:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: healing to the bones (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here the word “bones” represent a person’s body. Alternate translation: “healing to the body”

Proverbs 16:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There is a way that seems right to a man (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The writer speaks of a person’s conduct or behavior as if it were a road on which the person is traveling. Alternate translation: “A person thinks that the way he is living is right”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but its end is the way to death (0)

The word “its” refers to “way” in the previous line. This “way” is the road that leads to death.

Proverbs 16:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The laborer’s appetite works for him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The writer speaks of the appetite as if it were a person who works on behalf of the laborer. This means that the person who labors is motivated by his desire to eat. Alternate translation: “The laborer works to satisfy his appetite”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his hunger urges him on (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The writer speaks of “hunger” as if it were a person who urges the laborer to continue working. Alternate translation: “he keeps on working because he is hungry”

Proverbs 16:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A worthless person digs up mischief (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of a person trying to find ways to harm other people as if that person were digging in the ground to find something buried. Alternate translation: “A worthless person looks for mischief as if he were digging for something in the ground”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: worthless (0)

Alternate translation: “useless” or “wicked”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: mischief (0)

trouble

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his speech is like a scorching fire (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The writer compares the way this person’s words hurt others with the way that fire burns things. Alternate translation: “he hurts people with his words, like a fire scorches the things it touches”

Proverbs 16:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a gossip (0)

a person who gossips or spreads rumors

Proverbs 16:29

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A man of violence lies to his neighbor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is implied that this man lies to his neighbor in order to get his neighbor to join him in violent actions. Alternate translation: “A man of violence entices his neighbor”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A man of violence (0)

Alternate translation: “A violent man” or “A man who practices violence”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: leads him down a path that is not good (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of a person’s actions as if they were a road on which the person walks. Alternate translation: “gets him to do things that are not good”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a path that is not good (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The writer uses an understatement to emphasize how bad this path is. Alternate translation: “a very bad path” or “a terrible path”

Proverbs 16:30

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The one who winks the eye … those who purse the lips (0)

Both of these are facial gestures which people might use to signal their plans to others. See how you translated “winks the eye” in Proverbs 10:10.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will bring evil to pass (0)

Alternate translation: “will do evil things”

Proverbs 16:31

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Gray hair is a crown of glory (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of gray hair as if it were a crown. “Gray hair” is a metonym for old age. Alternate translation: “A person who has lived long enough to have gray hair is like one who wears a glorious crown on his head” (See also: Метонимия)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it is gained (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “a person gains it”

Proverbs 16:32

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: one who rules his spirit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of a person being able to control his own temper and emotions as if he ruled over his spirit like a king rules his people. Alternate translation: “one who controls his temper”

Proverbs 16:33

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The lots are cast into the lap (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “A person throws the lots into his lap”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the decision is from Yahweh (0)

This could mean: (1) Yahweh decides how the lots will land or (2) it is not the lots, but Yahweh who determines what will happen.

Proverbs 17

Proverbs 17 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 17 continues the section of the book which is attributed to Solomon and is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 17:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to have quiet (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “quiet” refers to “peace.” Alternate translation: “to have peace”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: than a house full of feasting with strife (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The words “to have” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated. Alternate translation: “than to have a house full of feasting with strife” or “than to be in a house full of feasting where there is strife”

Proverbs 17:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The crucible is for silver and the furnace is for gold (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to how gold and silver are refined. A metal is refined by heating it to a high temperature so that it melts and the impurities may be removed. Alternate translation: “The crucible is used to refine silver and the furnace is used to refine gold”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: crucible (0)

a pot in which metals are melted at a very high temperature

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Quote: Yahweh refines hearts (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of Yahweh testing people to help them stop being evil and foolish as if their hearts were a metal that Yahweh was refining to remove everything that is impure. Alternate translation: “Yahweh tests peoples’ hearts”

Proverbs 17:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: wicked lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The word lips can be translated as either: (1) a synecdoche for the person or (2) a metonym for the words that come out from those lips. Alternate translation: “a wicked person” or “wicked talk” (See also: Метонимия)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gives ear (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means “listens.”

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Quote: destructive tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The word tongue can be translated as either: (1) a synecdoche for the person or (2) a metonym for the words that the tongue produces. Alternate translation: “a destructive person” or “destructive talk” (See also: Метонимия)

Proverbs 17:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the poor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to poor people. Alternate translation: “those who are poor”

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Quote: his Maker (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

This is a name that refers to Yahweh. This is also an abstract noun that can be written as a verb. Alternate translation: “the one who made him”

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Quote: at misfortune (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to the misfortune of others. Alternate translation: “at others’ misfortune” or “at other peoples’ troubles”

Proverbs 17:6

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Quote: are the crown of (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of older peoples’ grandchildren being a sign of honor for them as if their grandchildren were a crown. Alternate translation: “bring honor and respect to”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the aged (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to older people. Alternate translation: “those who are older” or “older people”

Proverbs 17:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Eloquent speech (0)

Alternate translation: “Fine speech” or “Excellent speech”

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Quote: much less are lying lips suitable for royalty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This describes people lying as if it were actually their “lips” that were lying. Alternate translation: “even more it is not suitable for royalty to lie”

Proverbs 17:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: wherever he turns (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here “turning” refers to the various things the person does. Specifically, this refers to the different things the person does by bribery. Alternate translation: “in whatever he does” or “in everything he tries to do by giving bribes” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

Proverbs 17:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: an offense (0)

an action or word that has hurt him

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Quote: who repeats a matter (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to bringing up a past situation in which a friend was hurt or offended. Alternate translation: “who repeats a past offense”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: alienates close friends (0)

Alternate translation: “causes people to stop being close friends” or “causes close friends to stop liking each other”

Proverbs 17:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A rebuke goes deeper into a person … than a hundred blows go into a fool (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This compares how a rebuke effects a man of understanding to how a beating effects a fool. This speaks of the effect on these people as if it could be measured by the depth that it goes into them. Alternate translation: “A rebuke has more effect on a person … than a hundred blows have on a fool”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a person who has understanding (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

“a person who has good judgment.” The word “understand” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “a person who understands”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a hundred blows go (0)

Alternate translation: “a beating of a hundred blows goes”

Proverbs 17:11

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Quote: seeks rebellion (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The word “rebellion” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “seeks to rebel”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a cruel messenger will be sent against him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “a cruel messenger will come against him”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will be sent against him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

To be “sent against” someone means to be sent to harm them. Alternate translation: “will be sent to harm him”

Proverbs 17:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a bear robbed of her cubs (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “a bear who has just lost her cubs”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in his foolishness (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The word “foolishness” can be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “who is acting foolish”

Proverbs 17:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: evil will never leave his house (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here “evil” is spoken of as if it were a person who would not leave the man’s house. Here the word “house” may be taken literally, but it is also a metonym for his family. Alternate translation: “bad things will continue to happen to him and his family” or “bad things will never stop happening to him and his family” (See also: Метонимия)

Proverbs 17:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The beginning of conflict is like one who releases water everywhere (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This compares how easily a conflict spreads to how spilled water flows everywhere. Alternate translation: “Starting a conflict is like pumping water and letting it run everywhere”

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Quote: has broken out (0)

Alternate translation: “starts”or “begins”

Proverbs 17:15

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Quote: acquits (0)

justifies, declares someone not guilty

Proverbs 17:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Why should a fool pay money to learn about wisdom, when he has no ability to learn it? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This rhetorical question emphasizes that the fool should not do this. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “A fool should not pay money to learn about wisdom because he does not have the ability to learn it.”

Proverbs 17:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a brother is born for times of trouble (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

One of the purposes of a brother is to be there to help his brother or sister in times of trouble. Alternate translation: “a brother is there for times of trouble”

Proverbs 17:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: no sense (0)

Alternate translation: “no good judgement”

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Quote: binding promises (0)

This refers to promises that must be kept and are often a burden on the person who made them.

Proverbs 17:19

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Quote: causes bones to be broken (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This means that someone will trip on the threshold and break bones, probably in their foot. Alternate translation: “is sure to cause someone trip and break their the bones in their foot” or “is sure to cause someone to trip and injure himself”

Proverbs 17:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who has a crooked heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The “heart” represents a person’s feelings, attitudes and motivations. Alternate translation: “who is deceptive” or “who is dishonest”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: has a perverse tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The “tongue” represents a person’s speech. Alternate translation: “speaks perversely” or “speaks wickedly”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: falls into calamity (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

“falls into trouble” To “fall into” something means to get into that situation. Alternate translation: “will have calamity”

Proverbs 17:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A cheerful heart is good medicine (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a cheerful heart as being good medicine because it makes you feel better. Alternate translation: “A cheerful heart is like medicine that makes you feel better”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A cheerful heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The “heart” represents a person’s feelings, attitudes and motivations. Alternate translation: “Being cheerful”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a broken spirit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the “spirit” represents a person’s feelings and emotional state. A broken spirit refers to a poor emotional state. Alternate translation: “depression”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: dries up the bones (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

A person’s bones represent their physical health and strength. If a person’s bones dry up it means that they are very sick and unhealthy. Alternate translation: “makes a person unhealthy and weak”

Proverbs 17:23

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Quote: to pervert the ways of justice (0)

Alternate translation: “to prevent justice from being rendered” or “to pervert justice”

Proverbs 17:24

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Quote: sets his face toward wisdom (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a person’s focus on acting wisely as if he were looking at wisdom. Alternate translation: “focuses on acting wisely”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the eyes of a fool are (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This refers to a fool by his eyes to emphasize what he is focusing on. Alternate translation: “the fool is”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the ends of the earth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a fool’s impossible dreams as if they were the ends of the earth to emphasize that they are unrealistic. Alternate translation: “strive for things that are as far from him as the ends of the earth” or “focus on impossible things”

Proverbs 17:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A foolish son is a grief to his father (0)

This speaks of a son causing his father grief as if the son himself were “grief.” Alternate translation: “A foolish son brings grief to his father”

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Quote: A foolish son … and bitterness to the woman (0)

This speaks of a son causing his mother bitterness as if the son himself were “bitterness.” Alternate translation: “A foolish son … and brings bitterness to the woman”

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Quote: who bore him (0)

Alternate translation: “who gave birth to him”

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Quote: bitterness (0)

emotional pain, sorrow

Proverbs 17:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it is never good … neither is it good (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

These statements can be written in positive form. Alternate translation: “it is always wrong … and it is evil”

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Quote: the righteous person (0)

Another possible meaning is “the innocent person,” anyone whom others have accused of a crime that he did not commit.

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Quote: flog (0)

whip severely

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Quote: who have integrity (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The word “integrity” can be expressed with the adjective “honest.” Alternate translation: “who are honest”

Proverbs 17:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: uses few words (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to the way he speaks. Alternate translation: “speaks with few words”

Proverbs 17:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Even a fool is thought to be wise (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “People even think a fool is wise”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: keeps his mouth shut (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This means that he does not speak. Alternate translation: “does not speak”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he is considered to be intelligent (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “people consider him to be intelligent”

Proverbs 18

Proverbs 18 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 18 continues the section of the book which is attributed to Solomon and is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 18:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: isolates himself (0)

Alternate translation: “keeps away from other people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: quarrels with all sound judgment (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

This speaks of a person disagreeing with sound judgment as if “sound judgment” were a person he fought with. Alternate translation: “he disagrees with all sound judgment”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: sound judgment (0)

Alternate translation: “good judgment” or “wise choices”

Proverbs 18:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A fool finds no pleasure in understanding, but only (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

“A fool does not care about understanding, but only about” This means the fool considers “understanding” the opposite of pleasure. Alternate translation: “A fool detests understanding and only finds pleasure in”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but only in revealing what is in his own heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This means that the fool only finds pleasure in telling other people what he feels and desires in his heart. Alternate translation: “but only in telling others what is in his own heart”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: what is in his own heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The contents of a person’s heart refers to the person’s thoughts and feelings. Alternate translation: “what he thinks”

Proverbs 18:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: contempt comes with him—along with shame and reproach (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Here “contempt,” “shame,” and “reproach” are spoken of as if they are people who accompany a wicked man. This could mean: (1) people show contempt towards the wicked man and cause him to feel shame and reproach. Alternate translation: “people feel contempt for him along with shame and reproach” or (2) the wicked man shows contempt for others and causes them to feel shame and reproach. Alternate translation: “he shows his contempt for other people and causes them to feel shame and reproach”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: shame and reproach (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two words have similar meaning and are used together to emphasize the “shame” felt by either the wicked man or other people.

Proverbs 18:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; & the fountain of wisdom is a flowing stream (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two lines are parallel and it is implied that the man in the first line is a wise man. Alternate translation: “The words of a wise man’s mouth are deep waters; … the fountain of wisdom is a flowing stream” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a wise man’s words being profound as if they were profound and as deep as deep waters. Alternate translation: “The words of a man’s mouth are as profound as deep waters” or “The words of a man’s mouth are deep and profound”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a man’s mouth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here the man is referred to by his mouth to emphasize what he says. Alternate translation: “of a man”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the fountain of wisdom is a flowing stream (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the source of wisdom being plentiful as if it were a gushing spring. The gushing of the spring is spoken of as if it were a flowing stream. Alternate translation: “the source of wisdom is as plentiful as the water of a gushing spring”

Proverbs 18:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is not good to … to the righteous person (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

These phrases can be written in positive form. Alternate translation: “It is good to treat the wicked person as he deserves, and to be just to the righteous person”

Proverbs 18:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A fool’s lips bring (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here the fool is referred to by his “lips” to emphasize what he says. Alternate translation: “what a fool says brings”

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Quote: bring (0)

Alternate translation: “cause”

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Quote: his mouth invites a beating (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the fool saying things that cause people to want to beat him as if he were inviting them to beat him. Alternate translation: “his mouth makes people want to beat him”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his mouth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here what the fool says is referred to as his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “what he says”

Proverbs 18:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A fool’s mouth … with his lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Both of these phrases refer to what a fool says. Alternate translation: “What a fool says … by what he says”

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Quote: is his ruin (0)

Alternate translation: “will ruin him”

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Quote: he ensnares himself (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the man causing problems and trouble for himself as if he were trapping himself like a man traps an animal. Alternate translation: “he will cause problems for himself”

Proverbs 18:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The words of a gossip are like delicious morsels (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This speaks of the words of a gossip being desirable to listen to as if they were delicious food to eat. Alternate translation: “The words of a gossip are desirable to listen to” or

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The words of a gossip (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

This refers to what a gossiping person says. Alternate translation: “The words that a gossiping person speaks”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: morsels (0)

small bites of food

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Quote: they go down into the inner parts of the body (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the words of a gossip going into a person’s mind and affecting his thoughts as if they were food that was going into his stomach. Alternate translation: “and they enter a person’s mind and affect his thoughts”

Proverbs 18:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: one who is slack in his work is a brother to the one who destroys (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the one who is slack being similar to the one who destroys as if they were actually related. Alternate translation: “is closely related to” or “is very similar to”

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Quote: is slack (0)

Alternate translation: “is lazy” or “is not interested”

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Quote: the one who destroys the most (0)

Alternate translation: “the one who destroys everything” or “the one who is always destructive”

Proverbs 18:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The name of Yahweh is a strong tower (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of Yahweh protecting his people as if he were a strong tower in which they could take refuge. Alternate translation: “Yahweh protects like a strong tower” or “Yahweh protects his people like a strong tower”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The name of Yahweh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here Yahweh is referred to by his name. Alternate translation: “Yahweh”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the righteous (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to righteous people. Alternate translation: “those who are righteous” or “righteous people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: runs into it and is safe (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of people seeking safety from Yahweh and Yahweh protecting them as if he were a strong tower that they ran into for safety. Alternate translation: “run to him and they are safe” or “seek him and they are safe”

Proverbs 18:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The wealth of the rich is his fortified city (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a rich person depending on his wealth as if his wealth were a fortified wall that protects him. Alternate translation: “The wealthy person depends on his wealth as a city depends on its fortified wall”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the rich (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to people who are rich. Alternate translation: “the rich person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: fortified city (0)

a city with strong defenses like walls and towers

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in his imagination it is like a high wall (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This speaks of the rich person believing his wealth will keep him safe like a high wall keeps those inside a city safe. Alternate translation: “he thinks it protects him as well as a high wall”

Proverbs 18:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Before his downfall a person’s heart is proud (0)

Alternate translation: “First a person’s heart is proud, but then comes his downfall”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: downfall (0)

This refers to a significant decline in a person’s reputation or health.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a person’s heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here a person is referred to by his heart to emphasize his thoughts and feelings. Alternate translation: “a person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: humility comes before honor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The word “humility” may be expressed as an adjective and the word “honor” may be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “a person must be humble before he can be honored”

Proverbs 18:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it is his folly and shame (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The abstract nouns “folly” and “shame” may be expressed as adjectives. Alternate translation: “it is foolish of him, and he should be ashamed”

Proverbs 18:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A person’s spirit will survive sickness (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here a person is referred to by his spirit to emphasize his attitude. Alternate translation: “A person who is hopeful will survive sickness” or “If a person is full of hope in his inner being, he will survive being sick”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but a broken spirit who can bear it? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This is a rhetorical question, expecting the answer that few can bear it. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “but it is very hard to bear a broken spirit.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a broken spirit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This refers to being depressed. Alternate translation: “being depressed”

Proverbs 18:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The heart of the intelligent acquires (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here the intelligent person is referred to by his heart to emphasize his desires. Alternate translation: “The intelligent desire to acquire”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the intelligent (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to people who are intelligent. Alternate translation: “those who are intelligent” or “intelligent people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: acquires (0)

Alternate translation: “gains” or “obtains”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the hearing of the wise seeks it out (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the wise person is referred to by his hearing to emphasize what he desires to listen to. Alternate translation: “the wise seeks to learn about it”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the wise (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to people who are wise. Alternate translation: “those who are wise” or “wise people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: seeks it out (0)

Here the word “it” refers to “knowledge”

Proverbs 18:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: may open the way (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here to “open the way” means to create an opportunity. Alternate translation: “may create an opportunity for him”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: bring him before (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This means to be allowed to see someone. Alternate translation: “let him meet” or “let him be introduced to”

Proverbs 18:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The first to plead his case (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

This refers to the person who pleads his case before his opponent pleads his case. Alternate translation: “The first person to plead his case” or “The person who pleads his case first” (See also: Имя прилагательное, выполняющее роль существительного)

Proverbs 18:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Casting the lot (0)

Alternate translation: “Casting lots”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: separates strong opponents (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to people who are fighting harshly over a dispute. When they are separated, they are no longer fighting over their dispute. Alternate translation: “causes opponents to stop fighting over their dispute”

Proverbs 18:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: An offended brother is harder to be won than a strong city (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the difficulty of making peace with a brother you have offended by comparing it to the difficulty of winning a war against a strong city. Alternate translation: “If you offend your brother, finding a way to have peace with him again may be harder than waging a battle to win a city”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: quarreling is like the bars of a castle (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This speaks of the difficulty of resolving quarreling by comparing it to the difficulty of breaking down the bars of a castle. Alternate translation: “resolving quarreling is as difficult as breaking down the bars of a castle”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: castle (0)

a fortified palace

Proverbs 18:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: From the fruit of his mouth one’s stomach is filled; with the harvest of his lips he is satisfied (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two lines have the same meaning and are used together to emphasize what is said. They can be combined. Alternate translation: “A person is satisfied by the results of the good things that he says”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the fruit of his mouth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the good things that a person says as if they were fruit that came from his mouth. Alternate translation: “his wise speech” or “his good words”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: one’s stomach is filled (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a person being satisfied or content by the result of what they have said as if they had eaten and become satisfied” Alternate translation: “a person is satisfied”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the harvest of his lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This speaks of the good things that a person says as if they were fruit that is harvested. Alternate translation: “his wise speech” or “his good words”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he is satisfied (0)

Alternate translation: “he is pleased”

Proverbs 18:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Death and life are controlled by the tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “The tongue can lead to life of death” or “What people say can lead to life or death”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: by the tongue … love the tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the “tongue” refers to speech. Alternate translation: “by what people say … love speaking”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will eat its fruit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a person receiving the consequence for what he says as if the consequences were fruit that he receives. Alternate translation: “will receive its consequences”

Proverbs 18:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: many friends is brought to ruin by them (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “many friends--they will bring him to ruin” or “many friends--his friends will destroy him”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: comes closer than (0)

Alternate translation: “is more faithful than” or “stays more loyal than”

Proverbs 19

Proverbs 19 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 19 continues the section of the book which is attributed to Solomon and is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 19:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Better is a poor person (0)

Alternate translation: “It is better to be a poor person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who walks in his integrity (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Here walking refers to living. Alternate translation: “who lives in his integrity” or “who lives an honest life”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is perverse in speech (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The word “speech” may be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “speaks perversely” or “speaks in an evil way”

Proverbs 19:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to have desire without knowledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to people trying to do something without the knowledge for how to correctly do it. Alternate translation: “to work hard without knowing what you are doing”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who runs too fast misses the path (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a person doing something too quickly and making mistakes as if running too quickly and missing the path. Alternate translation: “the one who acts too quickly makes mistakes” or “the one who acts too quickly makes poor choices”

Proverbs 19:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his heart rages (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here a person is referred to by his “heart” to emphasize his emotions. Alternate translation: “he rages”

Proverbs 19:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Wealth adds many friends (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This means that a person who is wealthy will have many friends because wealth attracts people. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Those who are wealthy easily find many friends”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a poor person is separated from his friends (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

A poor person is separated from many of his friends because of his poverty. The meaning of this can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “poverty causes a person to lose his friends”

Proverbs 19:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A false witness will not go unpunished (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

This can be written in positive and active form. Alternate translation: “They will certainly punish a false witness” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he who breathes out lies will not escape (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

This means that he will be captured. Alternate translation: “they will capture the one who breathes out lies”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: breathes out lies (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Here “breathes” refers to lying constantly. See how you translated this phrase in Proverbs 6:19. Alternate translation: “constantly lies”

Proverbs 19:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a generous person (0)

someone who often gives away things

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: everyone is a friend (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The word “everyone” is an exaggeration. Alternate translation: “it seems that everyone is a friend” or “almost everyone is a friend”

Proverbs 19:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: how much more do his friends who go far away from him! (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase is an exclamation to show that this is more likely than the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “therefore his friends will certainly hate him and go far away from him!”

Proverbs 19:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: loves his own life (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the person is referred to by his “life” to emphasize himself being alive. Alternate translation: “loves himself”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: keeps understanding (0)

Alternate translation: “has understanding”

Proverbs 19:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A false witness will not go unpunished (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

This can be written in positive and active form. See how you translated this phrase in Proverbs 19:5. Alternate translation: “They will certainly punish a false witness” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: breathes out lies (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This figure of speech uses “breathes” to refer to lying constantly. See how you translated this phrase in Proverbs 6:19. Alternate translation: “constantly lies”

Proverbs 19:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is not fitting (0)

Alternate translation: “It is not right”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: much less for a slave (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The words “it is” and “fitting” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated. Alternate translation: “it is much less fitting for a slave” or “it is even worse for a slave”

Proverbs 19:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Discretion makes a person slow to anger (0)

Alternate translation: “A person who has discretion is slow to become angry”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Discretion (0)

This means to know what should be done in a particular situation. See how you translated this word in Proverbs 1:4.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it is his glory to overlook (0)

Alternate translation: “it will bring him glory to overlook” or “others will consider it honorable if he overlooks”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to overlook (0)

to forget on purpose

Proverbs 19:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The wrath of the king is like the roaring of a young lion (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here the lion’s roaring refers to attacking. The wrath of a king is compared to the unpredictable and dangerous attack of a young lion. Alternate translation: “The wrath of the king is as dangerous as the attack of a young lion” (See also: Метонимия)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but his favor is like dew on the grass (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The favor of the king is compared to the refreshing water that appears on grass in the morning. Alternate translation: “but his favor is refreshing like dew on grass” or “but his favor is refreshing like the dew on the ground in the morning”

Proverbs 19:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is ruin to his father (0)

Alternate translation: “will ruin a father”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a quarreling wife is a constant dripping of water (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of an annoying wife as if she were the constant dripping of water. Alternate translation: “a quarreling wife is as annoying and distracting as a constant dripping of water”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a quarreling wife (0)

Alternate translation: “an arguing wife” or “a disagreeing wife”

Proverbs 19:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A house and wealth are inherited from parents (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Children inherit a house and wealth from their parents”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: prudent (0)

See how you translated this word in Proverbs 12:23.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a prudent wife is from Yahweh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gives a prudent wife”

Proverbs 19:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Laziness throws a person into a deep sleep (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

This speaks of how laziness causes a person to sleep a lot as if laziness forcefully throws the person into sleep. Alternate translation: “Laziness makes a person sleep a lot” or “A lazy person sleeps a lot”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: go hungry (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom which means to not eat. Alternate translation: “not eat” or “be hungry”

Proverbs 19:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the command (0)

Alternate translation: “the command that he was taught”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: guards his life (0)

Alternate translation: “protects his life”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his ways (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom which refers to how he lives. Alternate translation: “the way that he lives” or “how he lives”

Proverbs 19:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever is kind to the poor lends to Yahweh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh considers kindness shown to the poor to be kindness shown to him. One of the ways people are kind to the poor is by giving. Alternate translation: “The person who gives to the poor is giving to Yahweh”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the poor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to poor people. Alternate translation: “those who are poor” or “poor people”

Proverbs 19:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: while there is hope (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to while the child is young and will still accept discipline and instruction. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “while he is young” or “while he can still be taught”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: and do not set your desire on putting him to death (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) this phrase describes punishing your child. Alternate translation: “but do not punish him so severely that he might die” or (2) this phrase describes what it is like if you do not punish your child. Alternate translation: “for if you do not punish him you are helping him destroy himself”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: set your desire on putting him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means to be determined to cause something to happen. Alternate translation: “be determined to put him”

Proverbs 19:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A hot-tempered person (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom refers to a person who is easily angered. Alternate translation: “A person who does not control his temper” or “A person who becomes angry quickly”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: must pay the penalty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This refers to the person bearing the consequences for what happens when he gets angry. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “must bear the consequences of his anger” or “must bear the consequences of what he does in his anger” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: if you rescue him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

“if you save him.” This refers to rescuing him when he has acted out of his anger. The meaning of this can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “if you rescue him after he has had an outburst”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a second time (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

“another time” or “again”

Proverbs 19:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Listen to advice and accept instruction (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same and are repeated to emphasize how important it is.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Listen to advice (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Here “listening” does not mean to merely listen, but to learn from the advice you are given and to follow it. Alternate translation: “Pay attention to advice” or “Follow advice”

Proverbs 19:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in a person’s heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the “heart” is used to refer to the “mind” to emphasize a person’s desire. Alternate translation: “in a person’s mind” or “that a person desires”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the purpose of Yahweh (0)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s purpose” or “Yahweh’s plans”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: that will stand (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means to “happen.” Alternate translation: “that will happen”

Proverbs 19:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Honor for Yahweh leads people to life; anyone who has it will be satisfied (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This means that they will live a long time if they honor Yahweh. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Those who honor Yahweh will live a long time; anyone who honors Yahweh will be satisfied”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: anyone who has it (0)

Here the word “it” refers to “honor for Yahweh.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: satisfied and not afflicted by harm (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “satisfied; nothing will harm him” or “satisfied; he will be safe”

Proverbs 19:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: sluggard (0)

See how you translated this word in Proverbs 10:26.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: buries his hand in the dish (0)

“dips his hand in the dish” or “puts his hand in his plate.” In the Biblical culture people usually ate with their hands as people do in many cultures today.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will not even bring it back up to his mouth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

He does not bring his hand back to his mouth because he is too lazy. Alternate translation: “but he is too lazy to bring his hand up to his mouth to feed himself”

Proverbs 19:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Strike a mocker, and the naive person (0)

Alternate translation: “If you strike a mocker, the naive person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Strike a mocker (0)

Alternate translation: “Punish a mocker”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: naive person (0)

Alternate translation: “inexperienced person” or “immature person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: prudent (0)

See how you translated this word in Proverbs 12:23.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: discipline one who is discerning, and (0)

Alternate translation: “if you discipline one who is discerning,”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will gain knowledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word knowledge, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “know.” Alternate translation: “he will know more”

Proverbs 19:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: brings shame and reproach (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) he brings it to himself. Alternate translation: “brings shame and reproach to himself” or (2) he brings it to his family. Alternate translation: “brings shame and reproach to his family”

Proverbs 19:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: If you cease to hear instruction (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “listening and obeying” is spoken of as if it were “hearing.” Alternate translation: “If you stop paying attention to instruction” or “If you stop obeying instruction”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: you will stray from (0)

Alternate translation: “you will abandon” or “you will turn your back on”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the words of knowledge (0)

Alternate translation: “knowledge”

Proverbs 19:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the mouth of the wicked swallows iniquity (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of how wicked people enjoy doing evil by saying that they swallow iniquity as easily as they swallow food. Alternate translation: “the wicked enjoy doing evil as much as they enjoy eating food”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the mouth of the wicked swallows (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The phrase “the mouth of the wicked” represents wicked people. Alternate translation: “wicked people swallow” or “the wicked swallow”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the wicked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to wicked people. Alternate translation: “the wicked person”

Proverbs 19:29

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Condemnation is ready for mockers and flogging for (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The words “condemnation” and “flogging” may be expressed as verbs. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is ready to condemn mockers and to flog”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: flogging for the backs of fools (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The words “is ready” are understood from the previous phrase and may be repeated. Alternate translation: “flogging is ready for the backs of fools” or “he is ready to flog the backs”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: flogging (0)

beating with a whip or stick

Proverbs 20

Proverbs 20 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 20 continues the section of the book which is attributed to Solomon and is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 20:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Wine is a mocker and strong drink is a brawler (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize the danger of too much alcohol.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Wine is a mocker (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “wine” refers to the person who is drunk with wine. Alternate translation: “A person who is drunk with wine mocks”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: strong drink is a brawler (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “strong drink” refers to a person who is drunk with strong drink. Alternate translation: “a person who is drunk with strong drink starts fights”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a brawler (0)

a person who fights noisily, usually in a public place

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: whoever is led astray by drink is not wise (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whoever drinks until they can no longer think clearly”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: by drink (0)

Here “drink” refers to alcoholic drinks

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is not wise (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

This means the opposite of “wise” which is “foolish.” Alternate translation: “is foolish”

Proverbs 20:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The fear of a king is like the fear of a young lion that is roaring (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This compares how people fear a king’s wrath to how they fear a young roaring lion. Alternate translation: “The king’s wrath makes people as afraid as if they were facing a young lion roaring at them”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: makes him angry (0)

Alternate translation: “makes the king angry”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: forfeits his life (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

This refers to being killed. “Life” here refers to physical life. Alternate translation: “will die”

Proverbs 20:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is an honor (0)

“It is honorable.” This means that a person will be honored.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: every fool jumps into an argument (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of entering an argument quickly as if the argument were something the fool physically jumped into. Alternate translation: “every fool quickly gets into an argument” or “every fool is quick to join an argument”

Proverbs 20:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: plow (0)

to prepare land for planting

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in autumn (0)

Alternate translation: “during the season for planting crops”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but will have nothing (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This means that there will be nothing growing in his field for him to harvest. Alternate translation: “but will have nothing to harvest”

Proverbs 20:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The purpose in a human heart is like deep water (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This speaks of how difficult it is to understand the reasons for a person’s actions by comparing it to the difficulty of reaching the water in a deep well. Alternate translation: “It is as difficult to understand the purpose in the human heart as it is to reach the water in a deep well” or “The purpose of in the human heart is very difficult to understand”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: someone with understanding (0)

Alternate translation: “a person who has understanding”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will draw it out (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of figuring out the purpose of the human heart as if it was water being drawn from a deep well. Alternate translation: “will cause the purpose to be known” or “will figure it out”

Proverbs 20:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is loyal (0)

Alternate translation: “is faithful” or “is trustworthy”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but who can find one who is faithful? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The implicit answer is “few can find someone like that.” This rhetorical question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “but few men can find a person who is faithful!” or “but it is hard to find a person who really is faithful!”

Proverbs 20:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: walks in his integrity (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here walking refers to living. See how you translated this phrase in Proverbs 19:1. Alternate translation: “lives by his integrity” or “lives an honest life”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his sons who follow after him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This simply means that they “follow after him” since they are younger than he and his children. If this phrase is awkward in your language it may be left to be implied. Alternate translation: “his sons after him” or “his sons”

Proverbs 20:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is winnowing with his eyes all the evil that is before him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the king judging between various types of evil as if he were separating them as a person winnows grain. Alternate translation: “sees and sorts the different kinds of evils that are brought before him”

Proverbs 20:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am clean from my sin”? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The implicit answer to this question is, “No one can say that.” This rhetorical question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can say that his heart is clean and that he is free from sin”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: my heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here a person’s “heart” refers to his thoughts and desires. Alternate translation: “my thoughts”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: clean (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

A person who God considers spiritually acceptable is spoken of as if the person where physically clean.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: I am clean from my sin (0)

Alternate translation: “I am without sin” or “I have not sinned”

Proverbs 20:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Even a youth is known by his actions (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People know a young man by his actions”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: whether his conduct is pure and upright (0)

Alternate translation: “whether his conduct is pure and upright or not”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his conduct (0)

Alternate translation: “his deeds” or “what he does”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: pure and upright (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two words basically mean the same thing and emphasize how good this young person is. They can be combined into one word if necessary. Alternate translation: “pure”

Proverbs 20:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: come to poverty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase “come to” here means to transition into a new situation; to become. Alternate translation: “become poor”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: open your eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “opening one’s eyes” is spoken of as “being awake.” Alternate translation: “stay awake” or “be alert”

Proverbs 20:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: “Bad! Bad!” says the buyer, but when he goes away he boasts (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here a buyer is criticizing what someone is selling to get a low price from him. After he buys he boasts about the good price that he pursuaded the seller to give him. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “‘Bad! Bad!’ says the buyer criticizing the seller’s wares, but after he buys he goes away he boasting about the low price that he paid”

Proverbs 20:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lips of knowledge are a precious jewel (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the value of lips of knowledge by comparing them to a precious jewel. Alternate translation: “lips of knowledge are as valuable as an expensive jewel”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lips of knowledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “words” are referred to as “lips.” Alternate translation: “wise words” or “words of knowledge”

Proverbs 20:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Take a garment of one who has put up security for a stranger (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

When lending money, the lender would take something from the borrower, such as a garment, as a guarantee of repayment. He would return it after the money was repaid. If the borrower was too poor, someone else could give something to the lender as a guarantee for him. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Take a garment as security from the one who guarantees that what a stranger has borrowed will be paid back”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: puts up security (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. It means that someone gives something to a lender as a guarantee that what was borrowed will be paid. Alternate translation: “guarantees that what has been borrowed will be paid back” or “promises to pay a loan”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: hold it in pledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. To “hold something in pledge” means to hold on to something that someone has given as a pledge, or promise, that he will pay a debt. Alternate translation: “hold onto his coat as a guarantee of repayment”

Proverbs 20:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Bread gained by deceit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Bread that someone gained by deceit”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: by deceit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The word “deceit” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “by deceiving others”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Bread (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “bread” refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “Food”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: tastes sweet (0)

Alternate translation: “tastes good”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but afterward his mouth will be full of gravel (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the food tasting unpleasant as if his mouth were actually full of gravel instead of food. Alternate translation: “but afterwards it tastes like gravel in his mouth” or “but soon it tastes like sand in his mouth”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gravel (0)

small pieces of rock

Proverbs 20:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Plans are established by advice (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People establish plans based on advice”

Proverbs 20:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A gossip (0)

This means someone who gossips a lot.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: you should not associate with (0)

Alternate translation: “you should not be friends with”

Proverbs 20:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: If a person curses (0)

This means if a someone express a desire that bad things will happen to someone else.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his lamp will be snuffed out in the middle of darkness (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a person dying suddenly and unexpectedly as if his life were a lamp snuffed out in the dark. Alternate translation: “his life will end as suddenly as the light of a lamp that is snuffed out in the dark” or “he will die suddenly”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his lamp will be snuffed out (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “his lamp will go out”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his lamp (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This refers to a lamp with a burning flame. Here the lamp’s flame is referred to as the lamp itself. Alternate translation: “the flame of his lamp”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: snuffed out (0)

to cause a flame to go out

Proverbs 20:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: at the beginning (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to a person receiving his inheritance before he is supposed to receive it. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “before the right time”

Proverbs 20:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: I will pay you back (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This means to do wrong to someone because they have done wrong to you. Alternate translation: “I will punish you”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Wait for Yahweh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This means to have faith that Yahweh will deal with the situation. Alternate translation: “Have faith in Yahweh” or “Hope in Yahweh”

Proverbs 20:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Yahweh hates unequal weights and dishonest scales are not good (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases basically mean the same thing and are combined to emphasize how bad this is.

Proverbs 20:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A person’s steps are directed by Yahweh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh directs a person’s steps”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A person’s steps (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This refers to the various things a person does. Alternate translation: “A person’s actions”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: how then can he understand his way? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The implicit answer is that he cannot understand it. This rhetorical question may be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “therefore, a person cannot understand his way”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: understand his way (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. The phrase “his way” refers to the person’s life. Alternate translation: “understand why some things happen in his life”

Proverbs 20:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is a snare (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of something being dangerous as if it were a trap or a snare. Alternate translation: “It is dangerous”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to say rashly (0)

to say something quickly and without careful consideration of what it might mean

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: making his vow (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The person has made a vow declaring that something is holy and dedicated to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “dedicating it to Yahweh” or “declaring it holy”

Proverbs 20:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: winnows the wicked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the king separating the wicked people as if they were grain that he was winnowing. Alternate translation: “separates the wicked”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the wicked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to wicked people. Alternate translation: “those who are wicked” or “the wicked people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he turns a threshing wheel over them (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the king punishing the wicked as if he were driving a threshing wheel over them. Alternate translation: “he severely punishes them”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: threshing wheel (0)

“threshing cart.” This is a tool used to crush grain and help separate it from the chaff.

Proverbs 20:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The spirit of a person is the lamp of Yahweh, searching all his inmost parts (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of a person’s spirit as if it were a lamp. A person’s spirit helps him to understand his inner self. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has given us a spirit to understand our deepest selves, just as a lamp makes you see in the dark”

Proverbs 20:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Covenant faithfulness and trustworthiness preserve the king (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

The abstract nouns “faithfulness” and “trustworthiness” can be stated as “faithful” and “trustworthy.” This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The king preserves himself by being trustworthy and faithful to the covenant” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: preserve the king (0)

keep the king safe from harm

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his throne is made secure by love (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “throne” represents the king’s power to rule. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word love, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Also, If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “a king ensures that he will rule for a long time by loving others” (See also: Абстрактные существительные and Активные и пассивные конструкции)

Proverbs 20:30

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Blows that make a wound cleanse away evil and beatings make the innermost parts clean (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

Both statements mean the same thing and are repeated for emphasis. Using physical punishment to correct a person is spoken of as if the evil were dirt and the beatings cleansed him. Alternate translation: “Beating a person who has done wrong will correct him and cause him to be a better person” (See also: Метафора)

Proverbs 21

Proverbs 21 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 21 continues the section of the book which is attributed to Solomon and is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 21:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of Yahweh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of the king’s heart as if it were an irrigation ditch in a dry area through which people direct water to plants that need it. Alternate translation: “Yahweh controls the king’s heart as a man directs water for irrigation”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The king’s heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The heart is a metaphor for what a person thinks and what he wants to do. Alternate translation: “The king’s thoughts and actions” or “What the king thinks and what he wants to do”

Proverbs 21:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Every person’s way is right in his own eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. The writer speaks of what a person does as if it that person were walking down a path. Alternate translation: “Every person thinks that what he does is good” or “Every person judges what he does as good”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who weighs the hearts (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of Yahweh deciding whether a person desires to do what is right as if Yahweh were looking at a physical object and deciding whether it is of good quality. Alternate translation: “who will judge the motives” (See also: Метонимия)

Proverbs 21:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: To do what is right (0)

Alternate translation: “To do what Yahweh thinks is right”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: To do what is … just (0)

Alternate translation: “To treat people the way Yahweh wants people to treat other people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: just is more acceptable to Yahweh (0)

Alternate translation: “just—Yahweh wants this more”

Proverbs 21:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Haughty eyes and a proud heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The words “eyes” and “heart” are synecdoches for a person who considers himself better than other people and wants other people to know it. Alternate translation: “People who want others to think that they are better than other people” (See also: Дублет)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Haughty eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This is a synecdoche for a person who wants others to know that he thinks he is better than they are.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: proud heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This is a synecdoche for a person who thinks he is better than others.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the lamp of the wicked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The things that help the wicked are spoken of as a lamp. Alternate translation: “the things that help a wicked person like a lamp helps to see in the dark”

Proverbs 21:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the diligent (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “a diligent man” or “a man who works hard”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: comes only to poverty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word poverty, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “only becomes poor”

Proverbs 21:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Acquiring riches (0)

Alternate translation: “Gaining wealth”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a lying tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The tongue is a metonym for the words a person uses the tongue to speak. Alternate translation: “speaking lies”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a fleeting vapor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer likens the riches a person gains by lying to a mist that quickly goes away in the morning. Alternate translation: “a disappearing mist”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a snare that kills (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of the riches that a person gains by lying as if it were the bait in a hunter’s trap; the word “snare” is a metonym for the bait that attracts the animal into the snare. (See also: Метонимия)

Proverbs 21:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The violence of the wicked will drag them away (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The writer speaks as though violence were a person who could drag other people away. God will punish wicked people who harm their innocent neighbors.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: violence of the wicked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, violence refers to violent deeds or things people do to harm their innocent neighbors. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word violence, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. The word wicked is a nominal adjective that refers to wicked people. Alternate translation: “The violent actions of wicked people” (See also: Имя прилагательное, выполняющее роль существительного)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: drag them away (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase refers to dragging a net through water to catch fish. The wicked being destroyed by their own actions is spoken of as if their actions trapped them in a net like one would catch fish. AT “drag them away like fish” or “destroy them as easily as one catches fish in a net” (See also: Метафора)

Proverbs 21:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The way of a guilty person is crooked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This compares the way one lives to a crooked road one may travel. This is also an idiom. Alternate translation: “The way a guilty person lives is crooked” (See also: Метафора)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: crooked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here “crooked” means bent or not straight. This is a metaphor for morally wrong. Alternate translation: “wrong”

Proverbs 21:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a corner of the roof (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Houses in those days had flat roofs. Ancient Israelites spent much time on their roofs, where it was often cooler than inside the house, and sometimes people would build a shelter large enough for a person to sleep in on one corner of the roof.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: quarrelsome wife (0)

Alternate translation: “wife who often argues and complains”

Proverbs 21:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The appetite of the wicked craves evil (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The writer speaks of a person’s appetite, the physical desire for food and drink, as if it were a person who could desire something. The word “wicked” is a nominal adjective that refers to evil people, and the word “evil” is a nominal adjective that refers to evil deeds. Alternate translation: “Evil people desire to do evil deeds just as they desire to eat and drink” (See also: Имя прилагательное, выполняющее роль существительного)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: craves (0)

desires strongly

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his neighbor finds no favor in his eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The idiom to “find favor” means to have someone approve of and act kindly towards the one who finds favor. Also, the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents a person’s thoughts and attitude towards another person. Alternate translation: “his neighbor does not receive favor from him” or “he does not act kindly towards his neighbor” (See also: Метафора)

Proverbs 21:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: When the mocker is punished (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “When someone punishes the mocker”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the naive (0)

Alternate translation: “those who have no experience” or “those who are not mature”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the mocker (0)

Alternate translation: “the person who mocks others”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: when the wise person is instructed (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “when someone instructs the wise person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lays hold of knowledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here knowledge is spoken of as if it were an object that someone could grasp and keep for himself.

Proverbs 21:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The righteous (0)

This could mean: (1) any righteous person or (2) “Yahweh the one who is righteous.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: watches the house (0)

Alternate translation: “pays careful attention to the house” “looks to see what happens to the house”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he brings wicked people to disaster (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here disaster is spoken of as if it were a place that someone could be brought to. Alternate translation: “he destroys them”

Proverbs 21:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The one who shuts his ears to the cry of the poor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “The one who will not listen when poor people ask for help”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will not be answered (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “answered” is a metonym for a person hearing another person ask for help and acting to help. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “no one will do anything to help him” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

Proverbs 21:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: appeases anger (0)

Alternate translation: “makes an angry person feel better so he is no longer angry”

Proverbs 21:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: When justice is done (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word justice, you could express the same idea with a noun phrase. These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “When rulers do what is just” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

Proverbs 21:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: wanders from the way of understanding (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “no longer lives wisely”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will rest in the assembly of the dead (0)

Alternate translation: “he will remain in the assembly of dead spirits”

Proverbs 21:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is ransom for (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word “ransom” is a metaphor for one person who takes the place of another person. Here the person who does what is wrong is punished instead of the person who does what is right.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the treacherous (0)

a person who harms those who trust him by lying and otherwise dealing falsely

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: upright people (0)

Alternate translation: “righteous people” or “honest people” or “just people”

Proverbs 21:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: wise (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “wise person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: swallows it all up (0)

Alternate translation: “uses it all for no good purpose” or “wastes it”

Proverbs 21:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: scales the city (0)

Alternate translation: “climbs up and over the wall that surrounds the city”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the city of the mighty ones (0)

Alternate translation: “a city in which mighty men are living” or “a city of mighty warriors”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he brings down (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “he destroys”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the stronghold in which they trusted (0)

Alternate translation: “the walls and towers around the city that they did not think anyone would be able to get past into the city, so they felt safe”

Proverbs 21:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever guards his mouth and tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

Both “mouth” and “tongue” refer to what a person says. Alternate translation: “Whoever is careful in what he says” (See also: Метонимия)

Proverbs 21:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The proud and haughty person … acts with arrogant pride (0)

Alternate translation: “You can expect a proud and haughty people to act with arrogant pride”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: proud and haughty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how prideful the person is.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: “Mocker” is his name (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “name” is a metonym for what people would call him. Alternate translation: “a mocker is what you should call him”

Proverbs 21:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The desire of the lazy kills him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The writer speaks of what a person wants as if it were a person who could kill a lazy person. Here the lazy person wants to be idle and not work. Alternate translation: “A lazy person only wants to be idle, and because of that he will die” or “A lazy person will die because he does not want to work” (See also: Имя прилагательное, выполняющее роль существительного)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his hands refuse (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The hand is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “he refuses”

Proverbs 21:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: craves (0)

desires strongly

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gives and does not hold back (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

The phrase “does not hold back” can be stated positively, and what he gives can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “gives everything he should” or “gives generously”

Proverbs 21:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable (0)

The writer does not mention Yahweh here, as in Proverbs 15:8, but the reader should understand that it is Yahweh who detests the sacrifice of the wicked.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the wicked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The nominal adjective “wicked” can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “the wicked person” or “wicked people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it is even more detestable (0)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh detests the sacrifice even more”

Proverbs 21:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will speak for all time (0)

This is because people will never forget what he said.

Proverbs 21:29

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: makes his face hard (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This could mean: (1) “pretends to be courageous” or (2) “will not listen to correction.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is certain about his ways (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

A person’s actions are spoken of as if they were a path upon which the person walks. Alternate translation: “is certain about what he does” or “is confident about what he does”

Proverbs 21:30

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There is no wisdom, there is no understanding, and there is no advice that (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The words “there is” are repeated to emphasize the abstract nouns “wisdom,” “understanding,” and “advice.” Yahweh is greater than anything that anyone can know or think or say. Your language may require that you not repeat “there is no.” The abstract nouns can be translated as adjectives or verbs. Alternate translation: “There is no wise person, there is no one who understands anything, and there is no one who tells others what to do who” or “There is no wisdom, understanding, or advice that”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: stand against Yahweh (0)

Alternate translation: “defeat Yahweh” or “work against what Yahweh wants to do” or “show that he is right and Yahweh is wrong”

Proverbs 21:31

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The horse is prepared for the day of battle (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Soldiers prepare horses for the day of battle”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the day of battle (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The word “day” refers to time that may be longer or shorter than a day. Alternate translation: “when there is a battle”

Proverbs 22

Proverbs 22 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 22 ends the section of the book which is attributed to Solomon and is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

The second half of this chapter and the first half of the next chapter are attributed to the “Wise Men.” The exact identity of the men is unknown.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical questions

With this new section of proverbs, the author begins to use many rhetorical questions. The obvious answers should convince the reader. (See: Риторический вопрос)

Proverbs 22:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A good name is to be chosen over great riches (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “A person should choose a good name rather than great riches”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A good name (0)

Alternate translation: “To have others think that one is a good person”

Proverbs 22:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A prudent man (0)

“A man who is wise” or “A man who has good sense.” See how you translated “prudent” in Proverbs 12:16.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the naive (0)

Alternate translation: “the inexperienced and immature”

Proverbs 22:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Thorns and snares lie in the path of the perverse (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of the way perverse people live as if it were a path on which the perverse will have trouble because of the natural “thorns” and man-made “snares.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: snares (0)

traps to catch animals

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the perverse (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “perverse people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: whoever guards his life (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

A person doing what he needs to do so he can live a long time is spoken of as if that person were keeping thieves away from a physical object. Alternate translation: “people who want to live a long time”

Proverbs 22:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the way he should go (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

How a person lives is spoken of as if it were a path on which he walks. Alternate translation: “how he should live”

Proverbs 22:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: borrows … lends (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

You may need to make explicit what it is that is borrowed or lent. Alternate translation: “borrows money … lends money”

Proverbs 22:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: He who sows injustice will reap trouble (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of a ruler or other powerful person treating those less powerful unjustly as if he were planting seeds that will give birth to plants that bring trouble. Alternate translation: “If a person treats those less powerful than he is unjustly, they will cause him trouble later on”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the rod of his fury will fade away (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “rod” is a metonym for power over other people. This could mean: (1) the unjust ruler will lose the power that he had that allowed him to treat other people unjustly or (2) when the people respond to the injustice he had done by harming him, he will have no power to stop them. Alternate translation: “he will no longer have the power that he had used to harm people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: rod of his fury (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “rod” is a metonym for power over other people. The unjust man was harming innocent people as if he were very angry with them. Alternate translation: “the rod he had used as if he were punishing people” or “the power he used to harm others”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will fade away (0)

The word translated “fade away” is also used of plants drying up.

Proverbs 22:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The one who has a generous eye will be blessed (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will bless the one who has a generous eye”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: one who has a generous eye (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The eye is a metonym for seeing what other people need, and the “generous eye” not only sees but gives what the other people need. The eye is also a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “generous person” or “person who is willing to give things to other people” (See also: Синекдоха)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: bread (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Since bread was the main food for many people in biblical times, it is often used to refer to food in general.

Proverbs 22:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: disputes and insults will cease (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The abstract nouns “disputes” and “insults” can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: “people will no longer argue with each other or say things to hurt each other”

Proverbs 22:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: loves a pure heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

It is his own heart that the person wants to be pure. The heart is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “loves having a pure heart” or “wants to be pure”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is gracious (0)

Alternate translation: “is kind”

Proverbs 22:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The eyes of Yahweh keep watch over (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The eyes are a synecdoche for the person. The writer speaks as if Yahweh had physical eyes like a person. Alternate translation: “Yahweh keeps watch over” or “Yahweh guards knowledge” (See also: Олицетворение)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: keep watch over knowledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Keeping watch is s metonym for protecting. Alternate translation: “protect knowledge”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he overthrows (0)

Alternate translation: “he destroys”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the treacherous (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The nominal adjective treacherous can be translated as a noun phrase. Translate “treacherous” as in Proverbs 11:3. Alternate translation: “a treacherous person”

Proverbs 22:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The lazy person says (0)

The quote that follows is a lie and an excuse for not working. If your language introduces false statements in a special way, you can use that here.

Proverbs 22:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “mouth” is a metonym for the words that come out of the mouth. The writer speaks of a person being unable to escape having people punish him for evil deeds as if that person had fallen into a hole someone had dug in the ground from which he could not escape. Alternate translation: “The words spoken by an adulteress will draw you in, and it will be as if you have fallen into a deep and dangerous pit” (See also: Метафора)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: an adulteress (0)

See how you translated this in Proverbs 5:3.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Yahweh’s anger is stirred up (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here “stirred up” means that his anger increased. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is angry”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: falls into it (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Adultery is spoken of as if it is something that a person can fall into. Alternate translation: “sins because of the adulteress”

Proverbs 22:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child (0)

Alternate translation: “The heart of a child is full of foolish things”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the rod of discipline (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The writer speaks of a parent using any form of discipline as if that parent were hitting the child with a wooden rod.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: drives it far away (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks as if foolishness were a person that another person could use a physical rod to drive away. Alternate translation: “will make a child wise”

Proverbs 22:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to increase his wealth (0)

Alternate translation: “to become richer” or “to gain more money”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gives to rich people (0)

Alternate translation: “gives money to rich people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will come to poverty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “will become poor”

Proverbs 22:17

General Information:

Verse 17 begins the introduction to a new section of the Book of Proverbs.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Incline your ear and listen (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Here the word “ear” represents the person who is listening. The writer speaks of listening attentively to someone as if it were leaning forward so that the ear is closer to the one speaking. See how you translated “incline your ear” in Proverbs 4:20. Alternate translation: “Pay attention and listen” or “Listen attentively” (See also: Метафора)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the words of the wise (0)

Alternate translation: “what wise people say”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: apply your heart to (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “do your best to understand and remember”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: my knowledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The person speaking is probably the same as the father from Proverbs 1:8. He may be speaking of “the words of the wise” as “my knowledge.” If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word knowledge, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “know.” Alternate translation: “the knowledge I have, which I am sharing with you” or “what I know”

Proverbs 22:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: all of them are ready on your lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The person being ready to speak is spoken of as if it were the words that were ready. Alternate translation: “you are able to speak of them at any time”

Proverbs 22:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: today—even to you (0)

“today. Yes, I am teaching you,” The speaker is emphasizing that it is the hearer, not someone else whom he is teaching, and he is teaching the hearer because the hearer needs to learn. If it is awkward in your language to emphasize in this way, you can emphasize in another way or the words “even to you” can be left untranslated.

Proverbs 22:20

General Information:

These verses continue and end the introduction that began in Proverbs 22:17.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: thirty sayings (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

Some translations read, “excellent sayings.”

Proverbs 22:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to teach you … who sent you? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

These words end the rhetorical question that began with the words “Have I not written” in Proverbs 22:20. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. “You need to know that I have written … to teach you … who sent you.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to those who sent you (0)

This implies that the hearer is or will be one whom others send to gain and bring back information.

Proverbs 22:22

General Information:

These verses begin the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do not rob … or crush (0)

If your language has a way of showing that this is the way one person would speak strongly to another, different from a general rule that people are supposed to obey, you should use it here.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the poor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “any poor person” or “poor people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: crush (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

grind into powder. This is a metaphor for “treat unjustly.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the needy (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “any needy person” or “any person who does not have what he needs to live”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: at the gate (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The place where people bought and sold items and settled legal arguments is used as a metonym for business and legal activity. Alternate translation: “in court”

Proverbs 22:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Yahweh will plead their case (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The metaphor is of a lawyer defending the needy in front of a judge. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will defend the needy from those who oppress them” or “Yahweh will see that the needy receive justice”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will rob of life those who robbed them (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is not a thief, but like a thief he will take life from those who do not choose to give it. Alternate translation: “he will destroy those who oppress poor people”

Proverbs 22:24

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: someone who is ruled by anger (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

someone who is unable to control his anger

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: rages (0)

shows violent anger

Proverbs 22:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: you will take bait for your soul (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

A person who wants to be like an angry person is like an animal taking the bait in a trap. Alternate translation: “you will be like an animal that eats the bait that closes a trap and is unable to escape”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: bait for your soul (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The soul is a metonym for the person’s life. Alternate translation: “bait that someone has put out so he can kill you”

Proverbs 22:26

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: strikes hands (0)

A person would strike his hand against another person’s hand to bind himself to do what he had agreed to do. Here the speaker warns the hearer not to strike hands as a way to promise to pay off someone’s debts.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in making a pledge (0)

Alternate translation: “and agree to pay what someone owes to another person”

Proverbs 22:28

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ancient (0)

very old

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: boundary stone (0)

a large stone that shows where one person’s land ends and another person’s land begins

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: fathers (0)

ancestors

Proverbs 22:29

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do you see a man skilled at his work? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This rhetorical question is actually a command. Alternate translation: “Think of someone you know who is skilled at his work”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: stand before (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This represents becoming a servant of the important person. Kings and other important people will think so highly of him that they will use his services.

Proverbs 23

Proverbs 23 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 23 continues the section beginning in the previous chapter of the book and is filled mainly with short, individual proverbs.

The second half of this chapter and the first half of the next chapter are attributed to general sayings.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 23:1

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

Proverbs 23:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: put a knife to your throat (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Possible meanings of this exaggeration are: (1) “be very careful not to eat too much” or (2) “do not eat anything at all” (See also: Идиома)

Proverbs 23:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do not crave (0)

“Do not strongly desire.” See how you translated “craves” in Proverbs 21:9.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his delicacies (0)

Alternate translation: “his special and expensive food”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it is the food of lies (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. “he is giving it to you so he can deceive you”

Proverbs 23:4

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do not work too hard (0)

Alternate translation: “Do not work so much that you are always tired”

Proverbs 23:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: light upon it (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

land like a bird upon the wealth (verse 4). This is a metaphor for looking at the wealth for a short time.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it will surely take up wings like an eagle and fly off (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

A person losing his wealth is spoken of as if the wealth were a bird. Alternate translation: “the wealth will disappear as quickly as an eagle can fly away”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: wings like an eagle (0)

wings like an eagle’s wings

Proverbs 23:6

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: do not crave (0)

“do not strongly desire.” See how you translated “craves” in Proverbs 21:9.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his delicacies (0)

“his special and expensive food.” See how you translated this in Proverbs 23:3.

Proverbs 23:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his heart is not with you (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “he really does not want you to enjoy the meal”

Proverbs 23:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: You will vomit up the little you have eaten (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

This is an exaggeration for wishing one had not eaten anything. Alternate translation: “You will wish that you had not eaten anything”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: you will have wasted your compliments (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Compliments are spoken of as if they were valuable objects. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word compliments, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “he will not be happy even if you say good things about him and the food” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

Proverbs 23:9

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in the hearing of a fool (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word hearing, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “where a fool can hear you”

Proverbs 23:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ancient (0)

very old. See how you translated this in Proverbs 22:28.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: boundary stone (0)

This is a large stone to show where one person’s land ends and another person’s land begins. See how you translated this in Proverbs 22:28.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: encroach (0)

This means to slowly take or begin to use land (or some thing) that belongs to someone else.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: orphans (0)

children whose parents are dead

Proverbs 23:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: their Redeemer (0)

Yahweh

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will plead their case against you (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The metaphor is of a lawyer defending the needy in front of a judge. Alternate translation: “he will defend the orphans against you” or “he will see that the orphans receive justice and punish you”

Proverbs 23:12

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Apply your heart to (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. See how you translated this in Proverbs 22:17. Alternate translation: “Do your best to understand and remember”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: instruction (0)

This could mean: (1) “what people who know what is right and what is wrong tell you” or (2) “what people say and do when they correct you.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your ears (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The ellipsis can be filled in. Alternate translation: “apply your ears” or “listen carefully”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to words of knowledge (0)

Alternate translation: “to me when I tell you what I know”

Proverbs 23:13

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do not withhold instruction from a child (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word instruction, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “Do not neglect to instruct a child” or “Do not refuse to instruct a child”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: withhold (0)

refuse to give something that one knows another person needs

Proverbs 23:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: rod (0)

piece of wood

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is you who must beat him … and save his soul (0)

“You are the one who must beat him … and save his soul.” No one else will do it. The hearer is responsible to save the child’s soul from Sheol, and the way to save him is to beat him.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: save his soul from Sheol (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

If the hearer beats his children with the rod, they will not die young because they have done foolish or evil things. The word “soul” is a metonym for the person. Sheol is the world of the dead; going to the world of the dead is a euphemism for dying. Alternate translation: “you will keep him from the world of the dead” or “you will keep him from dying” (See also: Эвфемизм)

Proverbs 23:15

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

Proverbs 23:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: when your lips speak (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

“Your lips” means the whole person. Alternate translation: “when you speak”

Proverbs 23:17

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do not let your heart envy sinners (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The word “heart” is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “Do not allow yourself to envy sinners” or “Make sure you do not envy sinners”

Proverbs 23:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your hope will not be cut off (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will not allow anyone to cut off your hope” or “God will keep the promises he made to you”

Proverbs 23:19

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Hear—you!—my son (0)

“Listen carefully, my son.” The speaker speaks an extra word to make sure the hearer is paying attention.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: direct your heart in the way (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Deciding to do what is right is spoken of as if one person were showing another person the correct path to follow. Alternate translation: “make sure you do what is wise”

Proverbs 23:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gluttonous eaters of meat (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This could mean: (1) “people who eat more meat than they need to” or (2) “meat” represents food in general. Alternate translation: “people who eat more food than they need to”

Proverbs 23:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: slumber will clothe them with rags (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The word “slumber” is an exaggeration for a person spending so much time enjoying food and drink that he does not do necessary work. This activity is spoken of as if it were a parent putting clothes on a child. Alternate translation: “because they spend so much time eating and drinking, they will do no work and so will become poor” (See also: Гипербола и обобщение)

Proverbs 23:22

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: do not despise (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “show respect for”

Proverbs 23:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Buy the truth, but do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Another possible meaning is “Buy the truth, and do not sell wisdom, instruction, or understanding.” The words “truth,” “wisdom,” “instruction,” and “understanding” are abstract nouns that are spoken of as if they were physical items that a person can buy and sell in a market. They can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: “Do what you need to do so you can know what is true, so you can be wise, so you can learn how to act, and so you can tell good from bad; never think of anything else as more important than these things” (See also: Метафора)

Proverbs 23:24

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The father of the righteous person will greatly rejoice, and he who begets a wise child will be glad in him (0)

Another possible meaning is that the words “he that begets a wise child” explain who “the father of the righteous person” is. Alternate translation: “The father of the righteous person, he who begets a wise child, will greatly rejoice and will be glad in him”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will be glad in him (0)

Alternate translation: “will be glad because of him”

Proverbs 23:26

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: give me your heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “heart” is a metonym for what a person thinks and decides to do. This could mean: (1) “pay careful attention” or (2) “trust me completely.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: let your eyes observe (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The eyes are a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “observe” or “look carefully at”

Proverbs 23:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: prostitute … immoral woman (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

There are two types of sexually immoral women. The “prostitute” is unmarried, “another man’s wife” is married. Together they form a merism for any kind of sexually immoral woman.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a prostitute is a deep pit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word “pit” is a metaphor for what happens to men who sleep with prostitutes. Alternate translation: “sleeping with a prostitute is like falling into a deep pit”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: prostitute (0)

Here the word refers to any unmarried woman who engages in sexual activity, not only those who do so for money.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: deep pit … narrow well (0)

These are two places easy to fall into and hard to get out of, the “pit” because it is “deep” and the “well” because it is “narrow.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: an immoral woman is a narrow well (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Doing evil for which one will be punished is spoken of as falling into a narrow place from which one cannot escape. Alternate translation: “Sleeping with another man’s wife is like falling into a narrow well”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: well (0)

a hole in the ground that people have dug to get to water

Proverbs 23:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lies in wait (0)

stays hidden, ready to attack when a victim approaches

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the treacherous (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This nominal adjective can be translated as an adjective or verb. Alternate translation: “treacherous people” or “those who harm others by deceiving them”

Proverbs 23:29

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has fights? Who has complaining? Who has wounds for no reason? Who has bloodshot eyes? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer uses these questions to prepare the reader for the point he is about to make about a particular type of person. He does not expect an answer to each question. Your language may have a different way of introducing a lesson. Alternate translation: “Listen to me while I tell you what kind of person has woe, sorrow, fights, complaining, wounds for no reason, and bloodshot eyes.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: bloodshot eyes (0)

Alternate translation: “eyes red, like the color of blood”

Proverbs 23:30

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Those who linger over wine, those who try the mixed wine (0)

These words answer the questions in verse 29 and describe people who drink too much wine.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: linger over wine (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

spend much time drinking wine and so drink much wine

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the mixed wine (0)

This could mean: (1) different wines mixed together or (2) other drinks that are stronger than wine.

Proverbs 23:31

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

Proverbs 23:32

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: In the last (0)

Alternate translation: “After you drink it”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it bites like a serpent … it stings like an adder (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word “it” refers to “the wine when it is red.” “Bites” and “stings” are metaphors for the way too much wine makes people feel. Alternate translation: “it makes you feel as bad as if a serpent had bitten you or an adder had stung you” (See also: Сравнение)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: adder (0)

a type of poisonous snake

Proverbs 23:33

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your heart will utter perverse things (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The “heart” represents the person and emphasize what he thinks and decides to do. Alternate translation: “you will think about and decide to do perverse things”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: perverse things (0)

things that God says are morally wrong and bad; things that are wicked

Proverbs 23:34

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20). It is the continuation of the description of a drunk person.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lies on the top of a mast (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The place on the mast where the person lies can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “lies in the basket near the top of a mast” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: mast (0)

the long wooden pole to which are attached the sails of a sailing ship

Proverbs 23:35

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: They hit me, & but I was not hurt. They beat me, but I did not feel it. (0)

Because the drunk person is not thinking clearly, he is imagining that people are hitting and beating him, yet he feels no pain and cannot remember anything.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: When will I wake up? (0)

The drunk person is wondering when he will be sober again; when the effect of the wine will stop.

Proverbs 24

Proverbs 24 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 24 continues the section beginning in the previous chapter and is mainly filled with short, individual proverbs.

The second half of this chapter finishes the section.

Special concepts in this chapter

Lazy man story

Unlike much of Proverbs, verses 30–34 tell a short story about a lazy man, which ends in a very memorable proverb.

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 24:1

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

Proverbs 24:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: their hearts (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The words “their hearts” refer to the whole person. Alternate translation: “they”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: their lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The words “their lips” refer to the whole person. Alternate translation: “they”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: talk about trouble (0)

Alternate translation: “talk about causing harm” or “talk about creating problems”

Proverbs 24:3

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Through wisdom a house is built (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word wisdom, you could express the same idea with an adjective. These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “People need to be wise if they are to build a good house” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: by understanding it is established (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word understanding, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “People need to understand what is morally good and what is morally bad if they are to establish a house” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции and Предположение и имплицитная информация)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: it is established (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “established” means made stable and strong. The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house, and the house being physically stable and strong is a metaphor for a family that lives in peace. (See also: Метафора)

Proverbs 24:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: By knowledge the rooms are filled (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word knowledge, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “People need to know what is precious and pleasant if they are to fill their rooms” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции and Предположение и имплицитная информация)

Proverbs 24:5

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: warrior of wisdom (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word wisdom, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “wise.” Alternate translation: “wise warrior”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a man of knowledge increases his strength (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The abstract nouns “knowledge” and “strength” can be translated as the verb “know” and the adjective “strong.” Alternate translation: “a man who knows many things is stronger because he knows these things”

Proverbs 24:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: by wise direction (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word direction, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “if you have wise people telling you what to do”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: wage your war (0)

Alternate translation: “fight your war”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: advisors (0)

those who tell government officials what those officials should do

Proverbs 24:7

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: too high for a fool (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. “too difficult for a fool to understand”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: open his mouth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The mouth is a metonym for the words that come from the mouth. Alternate translation: “speak”

Proverbs 24:8

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a master of schemes (0)

one who is skillful at making evil plans. Alternate translation: “a mischievous person” or “a troublemaker”

Proverbs 24:10

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your strength is small (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “you have very little strength” or “you are certainly weak”

Proverbs 24:11

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: those who are being taken away (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

These words can be translated in active form by using the term “they” which could be anyone, but are probably government officials. Alternate translation: “those whom they are taking away”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: taken away (0)

Another possible meaning is “dragged away.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: staggering (0)

walking unsteadily and almost falling. This word would also describe the way a person walks when he is being dragged away.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the slaughter (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word slaughter, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. The writer speaks as if those who take them away think of them as no better than animals. If your language has a word for killing animals that would fit here, you might want to use it. Alternate translation: “where people will kill them as they would kill animals” (See also: Метафора)

Proverbs 24:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: If you say, “Behold, & this,” does (0)

The writer is answering something that the reader may wrongly be thinking. Alternate translation: “You may say, ‘Behold, … this,’ but does”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Behold, we (0)

Alternate translation: “Listen to us! We” or “But we” or “We have done nothing wrong, because we”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: does not the one who weighs the heart understand what you are saying? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer assumes the readers know the answer and asks this for emphasis. Alternate translation: “the one who weighs the heart understands what you are saying.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

The writer expects the reader to know that “the one” is Yahweh. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, who”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: weighs the heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “heart” is a metonym for what a person thinks and desires. The writer speaks as if what a person thinks and desires were a physical object that a person could weigh, and weighing an object is a metaphor for looking closely at something to see how good it is. Alternate translation: “knows how good what people really think and desire is” (See also: Метафора)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The one who guards your life, does he not know it? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer assumes the readers know the answer and asks this for emphasis. Alternate translation: “The one who guards your life knows it.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Will God not give to each one what he deserves? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer assumes the readers know the answer and asks this for emphasis. Alternate translation: “God will give to each one what he deserves.”

Proverbs 24:13

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

Proverbs 24:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your hope will not be cut off (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This could mean: (1) this is a simple passive that can be translated as in active form. Alternate translation: “no one will take your hope away” or (2) this is litotes that can be translated in positive form. Alternate translation: “your hope will surely continue” (See also: Идиоматическое отрицание)

Proverbs 24:15

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do not lie in wait (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The words “lie in wait” are an idiom. Translate “lie in wait” as in Proverbs 1:11. Alternate translation: “Do not hide and wait for the right time”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his home (0)

the home of the righteous person

Proverbs 24:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: rises again (0)

Alternate translation: “gets back on his feet” or “stands up again”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: wicked people are brought down by calamity (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The writer speaks as if “calamity” were a person who could do bad things to other people. These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will use calamity to bring down the wicked people” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: are brought down (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This is a metaphor of a person who was standing but someone has brought him down to the ground or made him fall.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: calamity (0)

times when bad things happen to people and their property

Proverbs 24:17

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your enemy falls (0)

Alternate translation: “something bad happens to your enemy”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: let not your heart be glad (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This is a strong command. The word “heart” represents the person. Alternate translation: “do not allow yourself to be glad” or “stop yourself from being glad”

Proverbs 24:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: turn away his wrath from him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The words “turn away his wrath” are an idiom for no longer being angry. What Yahweh would do instead can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “stop being angry with him and be angry with you instead” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

Proverbs 24:19

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

Proverbs 24:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the lamp of wicked people will go out (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The lamp is used as a metaphor for life. The life of wicked people will end just as a lamp goes out.

Proverbs 24:21

General Information:

These verses continue the “thirty sayings” (Proverbs 22:20).

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Fear (0)

a deep respect and awe for a person in authority

Proverbs 24:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who knows the extent of the destruction that will come from both of them? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer asks this question to emphasize the disaster. Alternate translation: “no one knows the extent of the destruction that will come from both of them.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: both of them (0)

these words refer to Yahweh and the king

Proverbs 24:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: These also are sayings of the wise (0)

This sentence starts a new collection of proverbs.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a case at law (0)

a situation that is brought before a judge in which someone is accused of breaking the law

Proverbs 24:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever says to the wicked person, & will be cursed by peoples and hated by nations (0)

The word “nations” is a metonym for the people who live in the nations. These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “People will curse whoever says to the wicked person, … , and the people of other nations will hate him”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the wicked person … a righteous person (0)

This could mean: (1) people should never call any wicked person a righteous person or (2) no one should say of a person guilty of a crime that he is innocent. Alternate translation: “a person guilty of a crime … innocent”

Proverbs 24:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will have delight (0)

Alternate translation: “will be very happy”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gifts of goodness will come to them (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Gifts are spoken of as if they were people who could move by themselves. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word goodness, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “people will give them good gifts” (See also: andАбстрактные существительные)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gifts of goodness (0)

Alternate translation: “good things” or “blessings”

Proverbs 24:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gives a kiss on the lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

A kiss was a sign of respect and devotion in that culture. Alternate translation: “shows true friendship”

Proverbs 24:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: with your lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The lips are a metonym for the words a person speaks. Alternate translation: “by what you say”

Proverbs 24:29

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: pay him back (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. “take revenge against him”

Proverbs 24:31

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Thorns (0)

useless plants with sharp spines

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: nettles (0)

plants that are covered with stinging leaves and hairs

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: was broken down (0)

Alternate translation: “had fallen down”

Proverbs 24:32

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: received instruction (0)

Alternate translation: “learned a lesson”

Proverbs 24:34

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: and poverty comes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

This finishes a thought begun with the words “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest” (Proverbs 24:33). You may need to fill in the omitted words. “You may say to yourself, ‘A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest,’ but then poverty will come”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: poverty comes marching upon you (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Some translations read, “poverty comes upon you like a robber.” Poverty is spoken of as if it were a person or animal that can attack a lazy person.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your needs like an armed soldier (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Needs are spoken of as if they were a person who could attack the lazy person. Alternate translation: “your needs will come to you like an armed soldier” (See also: Олицетворение)

Proverbs 25

Proverbs 25 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 25 begins the second section of the book (Chapter 25–29) which is attributed to Solomon.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 25:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to conceal a matter (0)

Alternate translation: “to keep some things secret”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but the glory (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The ellipsis can be filled in. Alternate translation: “but it is the glory”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: search it out (0)

Alternate translation: “search that matter out” or “search for those things that God has concealed”

Proverbs 25:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like the heavens are for height and the earth is for depth, so the heart of kings is unsearchable (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The hearts of kings are compared to the size of the heavens and the earth. Alternate translation: “Just as no one can measure the height of the heavens or the depth of the earth, even so no one can understand the heart of kings”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: heavens (0)

This refers to everything we see above the earth, including the sun, moon, and stars.

Proverbs 25:4

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Quote: dross (0)

the material in a metal that people do not want and they remove by heating the metal

Proverbs 25:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his throne will be established by doing (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The throne is a metonym for the power to rule. These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “the king will establish his throne by doing” or “he will have the power to rule because he does” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

Proverbs 25:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is better for him to say to you, “Come up here,” than (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here “up” means to move to a place at the table that is closer to the king. It is a great honor for a person to sit closer to the king. Alternate translation: “It is better for someone to invite you to sit closer to the king than”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: before a nobleman (0)

Alternate translation: “in front of a nobleman”

Proverbs 25:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: For what will you do in the end when your neighbor puts you to shame? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This question is asked to make the reader consider the possibility that he may have misunderstood the situation. The way in which the neighbor might put the reader to shame can be stated plainly. Alternate translation: “For you will not know what to do in the end when your neighbor puts you to shame.” or “For if your neighbor has an explanation, he will put you to shame, and you will have nothing to say to defend yourself.” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

Proverbs 25:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your case (0)

Alternate translation: “your disagreement”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: do not disclose another’s secret (0)

Alternate translation: “do not share your neighbor’s secret with other people”

Proverbs 25:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: an evil report about you that cannot be silenced (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

Here “evil report” refers to harmful things that the person will tell others. The phrase “cannot be silenced” can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you will not be able to stop him from telling other people harmful things about you” or “he will tell people evil things about you and you will never have a good reputation again”

Proverbs 25:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Apples of gold in settings of silver is a word spoken in the right situation (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The goodness of “a word spoken at the right time” is spoken of as if it were the physical beauty of “apples of gold in settings of silver.” Most translations translate this metaphor as a simile and change the order of the phrases. Alternate translation: “A word spoken at the right time is beautiful like apples of gold in settings of silver”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Apples of gold in settings of silver (0)

The ancient Israelites did not know the apples that most people know today. This could mean: (1) “apples” should be translated as “design.” Alternate translation: “a golden design carved into a silver bowl” or (2) “apples” refers to another type of fruit with a golden color that someone has placed on a silver plate or bowl. Alternate translation: “Golden colored fruit placed in a silver bowl”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is a word spoken (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “is a message that someone speaks”

Proverbs 25:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A gold ring or jewelry made of fine gold is a wise rebuke to a listening ear (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The value and importance of “a wise rebuke” is spoken of as if it had the beauty and value of gold. Most translations translate this metaphor as a simile and change the order of the phrases. Alternate translation: “A wise rebuke to a listening ear is beautiful and valuable like a golden ring or golden jewelry”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: listening ear (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The ear is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “person who is willing to listen”

Proverbs 25:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like the cold of snow at harvest time is a faithful messenger (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Here a faithful messenger is being compared to the cold of snow, because both are pleasant.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the cold of snow (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Snow only fell on the tops of mountains, and the harvest took place in hot weather, so this is probably a metaphor for cool, fresh water from a clean stream. If your language has no word for snow, consider “cool, fresh, clean water.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: snow (0)

white flakes of ice that fall from the sky like rain

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Quote: brings back the life of his masters (0)

This means he makes his masters, who are weak and tired, to be strong and rested again.

Proverbs 25:14

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Quote: Clouds and wind without rain is the one who boasts … not give (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Most translations translate this metaphor as a simile and change the order of the phrases. Rain was important to the Israelites because only small amounts of it fell, so a cloud without rain was useless and brought disappointment to the Israelites. Alternate translation: “The one who boasts … not give is like clouds and wind without rain” or “The one who boasts … not give is useless and a disappointment, like clouds and wind without rain” (See also: Сравнение)

Proverbs 25:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: With patience a ruler can be persuaded (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

These words can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone who is patient can persuade a ruler” or “Someone who is patient can speak to a ruler and change his mind”

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Quote: a soft tongue can break a bone (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word “tongue” is a metonym for the words the person speaks using the tongue. The word “bone” is a metaphor for strong opposition. Alternate translation: “gentle speech can overcome strong opposition”

Proverbs 25:16

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

General Information:

Verse 16 states a general principle, and verse 17 gives one specific example. The idea of eating too much honey and then vomiting it up is a metaphor for taking too much of any good thing and regretting it later.

Proverbs 25:18

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Quote: A man who bears false witness against his neighbor is like a club used in war, or a sword, or a sharp arrow (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

A false witness is compared to three weapons that can hurt or kill people.

Proverbs 25:19

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Quote: An unfaithful man in whom you trust in a time of trouble is like a bad tooth or a foot that slips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

A foolish man is compared to a part of the body that causes trouble for a person. Alternate translation: “Trusting in an unfaithful man in time of trouble will bring you pain like a bad tooth or a foot that slips”

Proverbs 25:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: carbonate of soda (0)

This is a kind of mineral that hisses and bubbles violently when it comes into contact with acids like vinegar. Many translations translate this phrase as “a wound.”

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Quote: sings songs (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

You may need to make explicit what kind of songs the singer sings. Alternate translation: “sings happy songs”

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Quote: a heavy heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The heart is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “a sad person”

Proverbs 25:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: shovel coals of fire on his head (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “cause him to have a guilty conscience and be ashamed of what he has done”

Proverbs 25:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the north wind (0)

In Israel, wind from the north often brought rain. Translators are free to substitute different kinds of wind for the same effect, for example, “a cold wind.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a tongue that tells secrets (0)

Some versions read “someone who tells secrets.”

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Quote: result in angry faces (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The face is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “makes other people so angry you can see it in their faces”

Proverbs 25:24

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Quote: a corner of the roof (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Houses in those days had flat roofs. Ancient Israelites spent much time on their roofs, where it was often cooler than inside the house, and sometimes people would build a shelter large enough for a person to sleep in on one corner of the roof.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a quarreling wife (0)

a wife who often argues or complains

Proverbs 25:25

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Quote: Like cold waters to one who is thirsty, so is good news from a far country (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Cold water is compared to good news that is both refreshing and delightful.

Proverbs 25:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like a fouled spring or a ruined fountain is a righteous person tottering before wicked people (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

One expects a spring or fountain to have clear water, just as one expects a righteous man to stand for what he believes. A polluted spring or fountain is compared to a righteous man who falls.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: tottering before wicked people (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Tottering is a metaphor for either: (1) refusing to fight wicked people or (2) joining in their wickedness. Alternate translation: “who allows wicked people to do wickedness” or “who starts to do what wicked people do”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: tottering (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This is a metaphor for being unable to continue to do good. Alternate translation: “unable to stand”

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Quote: before wicked people (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This could mean: (1) “when wicked people attack him” or (2) “when wicked people urge him to do evil.”

Proverbs 25:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is not good to eat too much honey; that is like searching for honor after honor. (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Both wanting others to honor you and eating honey are good, but you can eat too much honey, and you can try too hard to have people honor you.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is not good (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “It is a bad thing”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: that is like searching for honor after honor (0)

The meaning of the original language is uncertain. Some versions of the Bible translate this as “that is like speaking too many compliments to people.” Alternate translation: “that is like always thinking about how others should honor you”

Proverbs 25:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A person without self-control is like a city breached and without walls. (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Both a person without self-control and a city without walls are weak and vulnerable.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: breached and without walls (0)

Alternate translation: “whose walls an army has knocked down and destroyed”

Proverbs 26

Proverbs 26 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 26 continues the second section of the book (Chapter 25–29) which is attributed to Solomon.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. Wisdom and folly are particularly prominent in this chapter.(See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 26:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like snow in summer or rain in harvest (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Normally snow does not fall during the summer and rain does not fall during the harvest. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Just as it would be very strange to have snow in summer or rain during the harvest” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

Proverbs 26:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: so an undeserved curse does not alight (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

A curse that does not harm a person is spoken of as if it were a bird that does not land. Alternate translation: “so an undeserved curse does not land on its mark”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: an undeserved curse (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be stated with an active form. Alternate translation: “a curse on a person who does not deserve it”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: alight (0)

land on someone or something

Proverbs 26:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A whip is for the horse, a bridle is for the donkey and a rod is for the back of fools (0)

A whip, a bridle, and a rod are things that people use to make the horse, donkey, and fool do what they want.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a bridle is for the donkey (0)

A bridle is made of straps. People put it on a donkey’s head and hold one of the straps to make the donkey go the way they want it to go.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a rod is for the back of fools (0)

In the Bible, people would hit their children or their slaves with a wooden rod in order to discipline them.

Proverbs 26:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Answer a fool and join in on his folly (0)

Joining in on a fool’s folly when answering him represents answering him in a foolish way. Alternate translation: “Answer a fool according to his folly” or “Answer a fool foolishly”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: so he will not become wise in his own eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “so that he will not become wise according to his judgement” or “so that he does not consider himself to be wise”

Proverbs 26:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever sends a message by the hand of a fool (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the hand represents the fool’s responsibility to deliver the message. Alternate translation: “Whoever sends a fool to deliver a message”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: cuts off his own feet (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Cutting off one’s own feet is an exaggeration for harming one’s self. Alternate translation: “harms himself like a person who cuts off his own feet and drinks violence” (See also: Гипербола и обобщение)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: drinks violence (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Violence is spoken of as if it were a poisonous liquid that someone might drink. Alternate translation: “harms himself by being violent”

Proverbs 26:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like the legs … is a proverb in the mouth of fools (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The phrases can be reordered. Alternate translation: “A proverb in the mouth of fools is like the legs of a paralytic which hang down” or “A proverb in the mouth of fools is as useless as the legs of a paralytic which hang down”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a paralytic (0)

a person who is unable to move or feel all or part of his body

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in the mouth of fools (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “mouth” is a metonym for speaking. Alternate translation: “in the speech of fools” or “that fools say”

Proverbs 26:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: tying a stone in a sling (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In order to throw a stone very far, people put it into a sling and swing the sling so that the stone will fly from it very quickly. The result of tying a stone in a sling can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “tying a stone in a sling so that it cannot be thrown”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: giving honor to a fool (0)

Alternate translation: “honoring a fool”

Proverbs 26:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like a thorn … is a proverb in the mouth of fools (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

How the two are alike can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “A proverb in the mouth of fools is as dangerous as a thorn that goes into the hand of a drunkard”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a thorn that goes into the hand of a drunkard (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This could mean: (1) if a drunk person holds a thornbush, a thorn will prick his hand, or (2) if a drunk person is angry, he will pick up a thornbush and swing it at people. For the second meaning, the word “thorn” represents a thornbush.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in the mouth of fools (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “mouth” is a metonym for speaking. Alternate translation: “in the speech of fools” or “that fools say”

Proverbs 26:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: hires a fool (0)

Alternate translation: “gives a job to a fool”

Proverbs 26:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: As a dog returns to his own vomit (0)

Alternate translation: “As a dog eats its own vomit”

Proverbs 26:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do you see someone who is wise in his own eyes? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This question is used to lead the reader to think about someone who is wise in his own eyes. The phrase “is wise in his own eyes” means “thinks he is wise,” and here it implies that the person is not truly wise. Alternate translation: “Consider the person who thinks he is wise but is not.” (See also: Метафора)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There is more hope for a fool than for him (0)

Alternate translation: “A fool can become wise more easily than he can”

Proverbs 26:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The lazy person says, “There is a lion … between the open places!” (0)

The lazy person lies and says that he cannot go outside and work because there is a lion on the road or between the open places.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There is a lion on the road (0)

See how you translated this in Proverbs 22:13.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the open places (0)

This refers to the places in town where there is a lot of room for people to walk around or where people gather. Alternate translation: “the town plazas” or “the streets”

Proverbs 26:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: hinges (0)

metal pieces that attach a door to something and allow it to open and close

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: As the door turns on its hinges, so is the lazy person upon his bed (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Both the door and the lazy person move, but they do not go anywhere.

Proverbs 26:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: puts his hand into the dish (0)

Alternate translation: “puts his hand into the dish to get food” or “reaches for food”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he has no strength to lift it up to his mouth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

This is an exaggeration for doing necessary work that would clearly do him good.

Proverbs 26:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The lazy person is wiser in his own eyes than seven men (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The phrase “his own eyes” represents his thoughts. Alternate translation: “The lazy person thinks he is wiser than seven men”

Proverbs 26:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like one who takes hold of the ears of a dog, is a passerby who becomes angry at a dispute that is not his own (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This can be reordered. Alternate translation: “A passerby who becomes angry at some other people’s dispute is like a person who grabs hold of a dog’s ears”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like one who takes hold of the ears of a dog (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that the dog will get angry and bite the person. Alternate translation: “Like a person who angers a dog by grabbing its ears” or “Like a person who grabs a dog’s ears and is bitten by the dog”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is a passerby who becomes angry at a dispute that is not his own (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that the passerby will start arguing, and the people who were fighting will get angry with him and hurt him.

Proverbs 26:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who deceives (0)

Both the “madman” (Proverbs 26:18) and the one who deceives hurt people but do not take responsibility for it.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Was I not telling a joke? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The deceiver uses this question to imply that since he his joke was only for fun, he should not be blamed for any harm he has caused. Alternate translation: “I did nothing wrong. I was only telling a joke.” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

Proverbs 26:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gossiper (0)

a person who gossips a lot

Proverbs 26:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: As charcoal is to burning coals and wood is to fire (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

What charcoal does to coals and what wood does to fire can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “As charcoal helps coals burn and as wood helps fire burn”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: kindling strife (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

To kindle something means to set it on fire. Setting strife on fire is a metaphor for causing people to fight or argue. Alternate translation: “causing people to fight” or “causing people to argue”

Proverbs 26:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The words of a gossip are like delicious morsels (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This speaks of gossip being desirable to listen to as if it were delicious food to eat. Alternate translation: “The words of a gossip are desirable to listen to” or

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: they go down into the inner parts of the body (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This speaks of the words that a gossip says going into a person’s mind and affecting his thoughts as if they were food that was going into his stomach. This sentence is equivalent to Proverbs 18:8. Alternate translation: “and they enter a person’s mind and affect his thoughts”

Proverbs 26:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like the glaze overlaying an earthen vessel so are burning lips and an evil heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

This simile means that a person who says things to hide the evil in their heart are like a earthen vessel covered in glaze to make it look good. These phrases can be reordered. Alternate translation: “People who have burning lips and an evil heart are like an earthen vessel covered with glaze”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the glaze overlaying an earthen vessel (0)

“the shiny glaze that covers a clay pot.” A clay pot is cheap and common. So people covered it was a glaze to make it shiny and appear more expensive.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: so are burning lips and an evil heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This represents a person who has burning lips and an evil heart. Alternate translation: “so is a person who has burning lips and an evil heart” or “so is a person who says nice things but whose heart is evil”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: burning lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word “burning” is a metaphor for “strongly emotional” and the word “lips” is a metonym for “speech.” Alternate translation: “emotional speech” or “saying nice things” (See also: Метонимия)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: an evil heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The heart represents a person’s thoughts, attitudes, desires, or feelings. Alternate translation: “evil thoughts” or “evil desires”

Proverbs 26:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: disguises his feelings with his lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Disguising his feelings represents keeping people from knowing what his feelings are. The phrase “his lips” is a metonym for what he says. Alternate translation: “hides his feelings with what he says” or “speaks in such a way that people cannot know his true feelings” (See also: Метонимия)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he lays up deceit within himself (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Being deceitful is spoken of as if he were storing deceit within himself. Possible meanings are that “deceit” refers to lies. Alternate translation: (1) “he likes his many lies” or (2) deceit refers secret plans to harm people. Alternate translation: “he secretly plans to harm people”

Proverbs 26:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but do not believe him (0)

Alternate translation: “but do not believe what he says”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: for there are seven abominations in his heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The number seven represents completeness. This could mean: (1) “abominations” refers to attitudes that God hates. Alternate translation: “for his heart is completely filled with hateful things” or (2) “abominations” refers to his hatred for people. Alternate translation: “for his heart is completely filled with hatred”

Proverbs 26:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Though his hatred is covered with deception (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be stated actively. Alternate translation: “Though deception covers his hatred” or “Though he covers his hatred with deception”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Though his hatred is covered with deception (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Keeping people from knowing that he hates them is spoken of as covering his hatred. Alternate translation: “Though he lies to keep people from knowing that he hates them” or “Though he lies so that people will not know that he hates them”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Being exposed represents being discovered or becoming known. Alternate translation: “his wickedness will become known in the assembly” or “the assembly will discover his wickedness” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the assembly (0)

Alternate translation: “the community of Israel”

Proverbs 26:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever digs a pit will fall into it (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is implied that the person digs the pit as a trap so that someone will fall into it. Alternate translation: “Whoever digs a pit to trap someone will fall into it” or “If someone digs a pit in order to trap someone, the one who dug it will fall into it”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the stone will roll back on the one who pushed it (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is implied that the person pushed a large stone so that it would roll downhill and crush someone there. Alternate translation: “if someone pushed a stone so that it would roll downhill and crush someone, the stone will roll back on him instead” or “if someone maked a stone roll so that it would hurt someone, the stone will crush him instead”

Proverbs 26:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A lying tongue hates the people it crushes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The phrase “a lying tongue” represents a person who tells lies. Crushing people represents causing them trouble. Alternate translation: “A liar hates those he hurts by his lies” (See also: Метафора)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a flattering mouth brings about ruin (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The phrase “a flattering mouth” represents a person who flatters people. This could mean: (1) a person who flatters others causes trouble or (2) a person who flatters others ruins them

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: flattering (0)

praising someone in a manner that is not sincere, or praising someone about things that are not true

Proverbs 27

Proverbs 27 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 27 continues the second section of the book (Chapter 25–29) which is attributed to Solomon.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 27:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do not boast about tomorrow (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This is a warning not to brag about what you expect to happen tomorrow. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Do not speak proudly about your plans for tomorrow”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: what a day may bring (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Something happening on a certain day is spoken of as if the day were to bring that event. Alternate translation: “what will happen on a day” or “what will happen tomorrow”

Proverbs 27:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: and not your own mouth … and not your own lips (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The words “let praise you” are understood from the first phrase. They can be repeated. Here a person is represented by his “mouth” and “lips” because those are the parts of the body used to speak. Alternate translation: “and do not let your own mouth praise you … and do not let your own lips praise you” or “and do not praise yourself … and do not praise yourself” (See also: Синекдоха)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a stranger (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The words “let praise you” are understood from the first phrase. The words can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “let a stranger praise you”

Proverbs 27:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the provocation of a fool is heavier than both (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The difficulty of being patient with a fool who provokes you is spoken of as if that difficulty were heavy. Alternate translation: “the provocation of a fool is harder to tolerate than either of them” or “It is harder to be patient when a fool provokes you than it is to be patient while carrying them”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the provocation of a fool (0)

“the trouble caused by a fool.” “Provocation” means actions or words that cause anger or irritation.

Proverbs 27:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There is the cruelty of rage and the flood of anger, but who is able to stand before jealousy? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The abstract nouns “rage”, “anger” and “jealousy” can be translated as adjectives. Alternate translation: “A raging person is cruel and an angry person is overwhelming, but who can stand before a jealous person?”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: cruelty (0)

Alternate translation: “harshness”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the flood of anger (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

“the destructiveness of anger.” Anger is spoken of here as if it were a powerful flood.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but who is able to stand before jealousy? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This question implies that no one can stand before jealousy. It can be reworded as a statement. Alternate translation: “but no one is able to stand before jealousy”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to stand before jealousy (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here standing represents being strong and resisting being harmed by a jealous person who attacks. Alternate translation: “to resist a jealous person” or “to remain strong when a jealous person attacks him”

Proverbs 27:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Better is an open rebuke (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word rebuke, you could express the same idea with the verb “rebuke.” Alternate translation: “It is better to be openly rebuked”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: than hidden love (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

“than love that is not openly shown.” If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word love, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “than to be loved secretly”

Proverbs 27:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Faithful are the wounds caused by a friend (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

“The wounds that a friend causes are trustworthy.” The word “wounds” here represents the pain and sadness that a person feels when a friend rebukes or corrects him.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Faithful are the wounds caused by a friend (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The trustworthiness of a friend’s rebuke is spoken of as if the sadness that his rebuke causes is trustworthy. Alternate translation: “Though it causes sadness, a friend’s rebuke is trustworthy”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but an enemy may kiss you profusely (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It can be stated clearly that the enemy’s kisses are not trustworthy. Alternate translation: “but the enemy’s many kisses are not trustworthy” or “but an enemy may try to deceive you by kissing you profusely” or

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: profusely (0)

Alternate translation: “abundantly” or “too many times”

Proverbs 27:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A person who has eaten to the full (0)

Alternate translation: “A person who is satisfied” or “A person who has eaten enough to be full”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: rejects even a honeycomb (0)

A honeycomb would normally be desirable, but not to the person who has already eaten enough to be satisfied.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: every bitter thing is sweet (0)

Alternate translation: “everything that is bitter tastes sweet”

Proverbs 27:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like a bird that wanders from its nest is a man who strays from where he lives (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The words “wanders” and “strays” mean the same thing in this verse.

Proverbs 27:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Perfume (0)

The word “perfume” here means a desirable oil or ointment.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: make the heart rejoice (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “the heart” represents the feelings or emotions of a person. Alternate translation: “make a person feel joyful” or “make a person glad”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the sweetness of a friend comes from his sincere counsel (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This could mean: (1) “sweetness” represents kindness. Alternate translation: “we recognize our friend’s kindness by his counsel” or (2) “sweetness” represents what we appreciate about a person. Alternate translation: “what we appreciate about a friend is his advice”

Proverbs 27:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your brother’s house (0)

Here the word “brother” is a general reference to relatives, such as members of the same tribe, clan, or people group.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: calamity (0)

extreme troubles and misfortune

Proverbs 27:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: make my heart rejoice (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the “heart” represents the person’s feelings or emotions. Alternate translation: “make me feel joyful” or “make me glad”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: then I will give back an answer to the one who mocks me (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here “answer” does not mean to answer a question. It means to respond or to reply to someone who is mocking. How this relates to the clause before it can be made clear. AT “then I will reply to the one who mocks me by telling him about you”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: mocks (0)

makes fun of someone, especially in a cruel way

Proverbs 27:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A prudent man sees trouble and hides himself, but the naive people go on and suffer because of it (0)

See how you translated a similar phrase in Proverbs 22:3.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A prudent man (0)

Alternate translation: “A man who is wise” or “A man who has good sense”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the naive people (0)

Alternate translation: “the inexperienced and immature people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: suffer (0)

experience something very unpleasant, such as illness, pain, or other hardships

Proverbs 27:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Take a garment of one who has put up security for a stranger (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

When lending money, a lender would take something from the borrower, such as a garment, as a guarantee of repayment. He would return it after the money was repaid. If the borrower was too poor, someone else could give something to the lender as a guarantee for him. See how you translated this in Proverbs 20:16. Alternate translation: “Take a garment as security from the one who guarantees that what a stranger has borrowed will be paid back”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who has put up security (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This means for someone to give something to a lender as a guarantee that what was borrowed will be paid. See how you translated this in Proverbs 20:16. Alternate translation: “who has guaranteed that what has been borrowed will be paid back” or “who has promised to pay a loan”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: hold it in pledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

To “hold something in pledge” means to hold on to something that someone has given as a pledge, or promise, that he will pay a debt. See how you translated this in Proverbs 20:16. Alternate translation: “hold onto his coat as a guarantee of repayment”

Proverbs 27:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever gives his neighbor a blessing (0)

Alternate translation: “If anyone gives his neighbor a blessing”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: that blessing will be considered to be a curse (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the neighbor will consider that blessing to be a curse”

Proverbs 27:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: quarreling (0)

This means making people angry with each other or causing strong disagreements between people.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the constant dripping (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that it is rain that is constantly dripping. Alternate translation: “the constant dripping of rain”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a rainy day (0)

Alternate translation: “a day of continual rain”

Proverbs 27:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: restraining her is like restraining the wind, or trying to catch oil in your right hand (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The implied information is that it is as difficult or useless to try and restrain her as it is to try to restrain the wind or catch oil in your hand (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: restraining her (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

“holding her back” or “keeping her under control.” The implied information is that it is trying to stop her from quarreling. Alternate translation: “restraining her from quarreling”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: restraining the wind (0)

Alternate translation: “holding back the wind” or “keeping the wind under control”

Proverbs 27:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Iron sharpens iron; in the same way, a man sharpens his friend. (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

These two phrases are comparing how iron and a man can be improved. Alternate translation: “As iron can sharpen another piece of iron, so a man’s character is improved by contact with his friend”

Proverbs 27:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who tends (0)

Alternate translation: “who takes care of”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who protects his master will be honored (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “a master will honor the one who protects him”

Proverbs 27:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a person’s heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here this means a person’s thoughts. Alternate translation: “what a person thinks”

Proverbs 27:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Abaddon (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

This is a name that means “destroyer.” Alternate translation: “the Destroyer”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: are never satisfied (0)

Alternate translation: “are never filled up”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a man’s eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the “eyes” represent a man’s desires. Alternate translation: “a man’s desires”

Proverbs 27:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A crucible is for silver and a furnace is for gold (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This refers to how gold and silver are refined. A metal is refined by heating it to a high temperature so that it melts and the impurities may be removed. See how you translated the very similar phrase in Proverbs 17:3. Alternate translation: “A crucible is used to refine silver and a furnace is used to refine gold”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: crucible (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

a container used for heating substances to very high temperatures

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: furnace (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

an oven that can be made extremely hot

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a person is tested when he is praised (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when one praises a person, they are also testing that person”

Proverbs 27:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Even if you crush a fool … yet his foolishness will not leave him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This means that even if a fool is made to suffer hardship or pain (being crushed is often a metaphor for suffering in Hebrew), he will remain foolish.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: pestle (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

a hard tool with a rounded end, used for crushing things in a bowl

Proverbs 27:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Be sure you know the condition of your flocks and be concerned about your herds (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases have basically the same meaning and are used together for emphasis.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your flocks (0)

Alternate translation: “flocks of sheep”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your herds (0)

Alternate translation: “herds of goats”

Proverbs 27:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Does a crown endure for all generations? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

This question expects a negative answer to make the point that the reign of earthly rulers does not last forever. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “A crown does not endure for all generations”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a crown (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “crown” is a metonym for a king’s rule over his kingdom. Alternate translation: “a king’s rule”

Proverbs 27:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the new growth appears (0)

Alternate translation: “the new sprouts appear” or “the new grass starts to grow”

Proverbs 27:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)

Connecting Statement:

Verses 26 and 27 go together with verses 23 to 25 as one proverb.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Those lambs will provide your clothing (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that the wool (hair) from the lambs can be used to make clothing. Alternate translation: “The lambs’ wool will provide you with clothing”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the goats will provide the price of the field (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that the money received by selling the goats will be enough to buy a field. Alternate translation: “selling your goats will provide the price of the field”

Proverbs 27:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: nourishment for your servant girls (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that there will also be enough goats’ milk to feed the servant girls. Alternate translation: “there will be goat’s milk to nourish your servant girls”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: nourishment (0)

Alternate translation: “food”

Proverbs 28

Proverbs 28 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 28 continues the second section of the book (Chapter 25–29) which is attributed to Solomon.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 28:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Because of the transgression of a land (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word transgression, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “Because of how a land transgresses”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the transgression of a land (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This is a metonym for the sins of the people living in a land. Alternate translation: “the transgression of the people of a land”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: with a man of understanding and knowledge (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that this man is a ruler or leader. The abstract nouns “understanding” and “knowledge” can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: “with a man who understands and knows how to rule” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

Proverbs 28:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who oppresses (0)

Alternate translation: “who severely mistreats”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: like a beating rain that leaves no food (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The poor man who oppresses other poor people is compared to a rain that falls so hard that it leaves no crop to harvest.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: beating rain (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This is a metaphor for a rain coming down hard enough to cause crops to be driven down. Alternate translation: “damaging rain”

Proverbs 28:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: forsake the law (0)

Alternate translation: “forsake God’s law”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: those who keep the law (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

To “keep the law” means to do what God’s law requires. Alternate translation: “those who obey God’s law”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: fight against them (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

“struggle against them.” This means to strongly oppose or resist them.

Proverbs 28:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Evil men (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here “men” means people in general. Alternate translation: “People who do evil things”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: do not understand justice (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word justice, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “do not understand what is just”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: those who seek Yahweh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Those who want to know Yahweh and please him are spoken of as if they are literally seeking to find Yahweh.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: understand everything (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that those who seek Yahweh understand all about justice. Alternate translation: “completely understand what is just”

Proverbs 28:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: It is better for a poor person … than for a rich person (0)

Alternate translation: “It is better to be a poor person … than it is to be a rich person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: walks in his integrity (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This represents a person living a life of integrity. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word integrity, you could express the same idea with an adverb. Alternate translation: “walks honestly” or “lives honestly” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who is crooked in his ways (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Rich people who are dishonest are spoken of as if they walk on crooked or twisted paths. Alternate translation: “who is not honest in what he does”

Proverbs 28:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: He who keeps the law (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

To “keep the law” means to do what God’s law requires. Alternate translation: “He who obeys God’s law”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a son who has understanding (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word understanding, you could express the same idea with a verb. Alternate translation: “a son who understands”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: of gluttons (0)

“of people who eat too much.” A “glutton” is a person who often eats and drinks excessively.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: shames his father (0)

Alternate translation: “puts his father to shame” or “dishonors his father”

Proverbs 28:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: makes his fortune (0)

Alternate translation: “increases his wealth”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: charging too much interest (0)

Alternate translation: “charging extra money to borrow”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: interest (0)

money paid by a borrower for the use of someone else’s money

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gathers his wealth (0)

Alternate translation: “brings his wealth together”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: for another (0)

Alternate translation: “for another person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: pity (0)

a strong feeling of sadness or sympathy for someone

Proverbs 28:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: If one (0)

Alternate translation: “If a person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: turns away his ear from hearing the law (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This represents the whole person turning away from and rejecting God’s law. Alternate translation: “turns away from hearing and obeying the law”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: even his prayer is detestable (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

“even his prayer is offensive to God.” This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “God detests even his prayer”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: detestable (0)

See how you translated this in Proverbs 3:32.

Proverbs 28:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever misleads the upright into an evil way (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This is a metaphor for leading upright people in an evil direction. Alternate translation: “Whoever causes the upright to go in an evil direction”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever misleads … evil way will fall (0)

Alternate translation: “If anyone misleads … evil way, he will fall”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the upright (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to upright persons in general. Alternate translation: “upright persons”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will fall into his own pit (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

“will fall into the trap that he has dug.” This is a metaphor for ending up in the same bad place as others had been led toward. Alternate translation: “will end up in the same evil place toward which he guided other people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the blameless (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to blameless persons in general. Alternate translation: “blameless persons”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will have a good inheritance (0)

Alternate translation: “will inherit what is good”

Proverbs 28:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: be wise in his own eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “be wise in his own thoughts” or “think he is wise”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who has understanding (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word understanding, you could express the same idea with a verb. Alternate translation: “who understands”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will find him out (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom that means the poor person will be able to determine whether or not the rich person is really wise. Alternate translation: “will see his true nature”

Proverbs 28:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: When the righteous triumph (0)

Alternate translation: “When righteous people succeed”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: when the wicked arise (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom that means when the wicked gain power or start to rule. Alternate translation: “when the wicked rise to power”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the wicked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to wicked people in general. Alternate translation: “wicked people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: people are sought out (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

You may need to make explicit that those who “are sought out” have hidden themselves to escape from the wicked. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they seek people out” or “they seek out the people who hide from them” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

Proverbs 28:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: hides his sins (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

“covers his sins.” This is the opposite of confessing and forsaking sins, and is spoken of as covering sins rather than bringing them into the open

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will not prosper (0)

Alternate translation: “will not succeed” or “will not advance”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who confesses them and forsakes them will be shown mercy (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will show mercy to the one who confesses and forsakes them”

Proverbs 28:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The one who always lives with reverence is blessed (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “God will bless the one who always lives with reverence”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lives with reverence (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word reverence, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “lives a reverent life”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: reverence (0)

This refers to deeply respecting Yahweh and showing that respect by obeying him.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: whoever hardens his heart (0)

Alternate translation: “the one who hardens his heart”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: hardens his heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom that means to be stubborn or unwilling to obey God. Alternate translation: “refuses to obey God”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will fall into trouble (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This represents ending up in misery and distress. Alternate translation: “will end up in trouble”

Proverbs 28:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over poor people (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

Poor people who are helpless against an evil ruler are compared to people who have a lion roaring at them or a bear attacking them.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a charging bear (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A bear is a large, furry, dangerous animal that walks on four legs and has sharp claws and teeth.

Proverbs 28:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The ruler who lacks understanding (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word understanding, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “The ruler who does not understand”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: oppressor (0)

a person who treats people harshly and makes their lives very difficult

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who hates dishonesty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word dishonesty, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “the one who hates being dishonest”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: prolong his days (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This could mean: (1) this is an idiom that means his living for more time. Alternate translation: “live longer” or (2) this is an idiom that means extending the length of his reign. Alternate translation: “rule for a longer time”

Proverbs 28:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he has shed someone’s blood (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “blood” represents a person’s life. To “shed blood” means to murder someone. Alternate translation: “he has killed someone” or “he has murdered someone”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: fugitive (0)

a person who is running away to avoid being captured

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: until death (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

“until he dies.” This means for the rest of his life. Alternate translation: “all of his life”

Proverbs 28:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever walks with integrity will be kept safe (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “God will keep safe anyone who walks with integrity”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever (0)

Alternate translation: “Anyone who”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: walks with integrity (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This represents a person living a life of integrity. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word integrity, you could express the same idea with an adverb. Alternate translation: “walks honestly” or “lives honestly” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one whose way is crooked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

A dishonest person is spoken of as if he walks on crooked or twisted paths. Alternate translation: “the one who does not live honestly”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will suddenly fall (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

What will happen to a dishonest person is spoken of as if he suddenly fell down. Alternate translation: “will suddenly be ruined” or “will suddenly perish”

Proverbs 28:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: works his land (0)

This means to till, sow, and care for his crops.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: whoever follows (0)

Alternate translation: “anyone who follows”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: follows worthless pursuits (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

“chases after worthless projects.” The person who is busy doing things that do not produce anything is spoken of as chasing after useless things.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will have plenty of poverty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony

The person following worthless pursuits is spoken of as getting the opposite of plenty of food. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word poverty, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “will be very poor” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

Proverbs 28:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who gets rich quickly will not go unpunished (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

The double negative “will not go unpunished” is used for emphasis. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will certainly punish the one who gets rich quickly” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who gets rich quickly (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implied information is that this person gains wealth by unfaithful or dishonest means. Alternate translation: “the one who tries to get rich quickly”

Proverbs 28:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: for a piece of bread a man will do wrong (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

“A piece of bread” here is an exaggeration for a very small bribe or reward. Alternate translation: “a man will sin for very little gain”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: do wrong (0)

Alternate translation: “sin”

Proverbs 28:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A stingy man (0)

“A selfish man.” This is a person who does not like to share his possessions or spend money.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: hurries after riches (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The stingy man is spoken of as if he was chasing after wealth. Alternate translation: “is greedy for riches”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: poverty will come upon him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The result of being stingy is spoken of as if poverty was overtaking the stingy person. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word poverty, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “he will suddenly become poor” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

Proverbs 28:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever disciplines someone, afterward will find more favor from him than from the one who flatters him with his tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word favor, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “A person will favor the one who disciplines him more than he favors the person who flatters him with his tongue” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever disciplines (0)

Alternate translation: “If a person disciplines”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: disciplines (0)

trains people to obey a set of guidelines for moral behavior

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: flatters him with his tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The tongue here represents speaking. Alternate translation: “flatters him with words”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: flatters (0)

praises someone in a manner that is not sincere, or praises someone about things that are not true

Proverbs 28:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Whoever robs (0)

Alternate translation: “The one who robs”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: says, “That is no sin,” he (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

This can be expressed as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “says that it is not a sin, he”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the companion of (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Possible meanings are: (1) “the friend of” or (2) an idiom that means having the same character as. Alternate translation: “the same kind of person as”

Proverbs 28:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A greedy man (0)

a person who selfishly wants more things, money or food than what he needs

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: stirs up conflict (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The action of the greedy man is spoken of as if he were stirring up or awakening conflict. Alternate translation: “causes conflict”

Proverbs 28:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: One who trusts in his own heart (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Depending on one’s self is spoken of as trusting in one’s own heart. Alternate translation: “The person who relies on himself”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: whoever walks (0)

Alternate translation: “any person who walks”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: walks in wisdom (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This could mean: (1) this is an idiom that means to live wisely. Alternate translation: “lives wisely” or (2) this is an idiom that means to follow the teachings of wise people. Alternate translation: “follows wise teachings”

Proverbs 28:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The one (0)

Alternate translation: “The person”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the poor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

This refers to poor people in general. Alternate translation: “poor people”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lack nothing (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

This double negative is used for emphasis. Alternate translation: “have everything they need”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: whoever closes his eyes to them will receive many curses (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (1) they will receive many curses from the poor. Alternate translation: “the poor will give many curses to whoever closes his eyes to them” or (2) they will receive many curses from people in general. Alternate translation: “people will give many curses to whoever closes his eyes to the poor” or (3) they will receive many curses from God. Alternate translation: “God will give many curses to whoever closes his eyes to the poor”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: whoever closes (0)

Alternate translation: “anyone who closes”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: closes his eyes to (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Closing the eyes represents not responding to the needs of the poor. Alternate translation: “ignores” or “chooses not to help”

Proverbs 28:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: When the wicked arise (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an idiom that means when wicked people gain power or start to rule. Alternate translation: “When wicked people rise to power”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: people hide themselves (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

This is an exaggeration for doing everything they can to avoid having wicked people harm them. Alternate translation: “people go into hiding” (See also: Возвратные местоимения)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: perish (0)

This could mean: (1) “go away” or (2) “fall from power” or (3) “are destroyed.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: increase (0)

This could mean: (1) “multiply” or (2) “rise to power.”

Proverbs 29

Proverbs 29 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 29 concludes the second section of the book (Chapter 25–29) which is attributed to Solomon.

Special concepts in this chapter

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 29:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who stiffens his neck (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

A person becoming stubborn is spoken of as if he stiffens his neck. Alternate translation: “who becomes stubborn” or “who refuses to listen”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: will be broken in a moment (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will suddenly break him”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: beyond healing (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

“and no one will be able to heal him.” Sickness is a metaphor for any kind of bad situation. Alternate translation: “and no one will be able to help him”

Proverbs 29:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the people sigh (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The people let out long, loud breaths that show that they are weary and sad. Alternate translation: “the people will be weary and sad”

Proverbs 29:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: by justice (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word justice, you could express the same idea with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “by doing what is just” or “by making just laws”

Proverbs 29:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: flatters his neighbor (0)

knowingly tells his neighbor things that are not true so that the neighbor will do what the speaker wants him to do

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: spreading a net for his feet (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer compares the flattery of a person to setting that person up to being caught in a trap. Alternate translation: “setting a trap to catch that person”

Proverbs 29:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: In the sin of an evil person is a trap (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

When an evil person sins, it is as if he is stepping into a trap. He desires to do evil to other people, but God will use what he does to punish him.

Proverbs 29:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: set a city on fire (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word “city” represents the people who live in the city. Mockers causing the people to experience turmoil and possibly to become violent is spoken of as if they set the city on fire. Alternate translation: “create turmoil for the people of a city” (See also: Метафора)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: turn away wrath (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means to cause angry people no longer to be angry. Alternate translation: “calm the wrath of angry people”

Proverbs 29:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: has an argument with (0)

Another possible meaning is “goes to court against.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he rages and laughs (0)

The fool becomes very angry and tries to keep the wise person from speaking or the court judge from judging.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: rages (0)

This means to be loud and excited and to move with powerful movements like a strong storm. This is a negative word.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: there will be no rest (0)

Alternate translation: “they will not be able to settle the problem”

Proverbs 29:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: seek the life of (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means to “want to kill.”

Proverbs 29:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: pays attention (0)

“listens.” See how you translated this in Proverbs 17:4.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: all his officials will be wicked (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The actions of the ruler are spoken of by stating the result they will cause. Alternate translation: “it is as if he is teaching his officials to be wicked”

Proverbs 29:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: oppressor (0)

a person who treats people harshly and makes their lives very difficult

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Yahweh gives light to the eyes of them both (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means “Yahweh makes both of them alive.”

Proverbs 29:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his throne (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The throne is a metonym for the kingdom he rules from his throne. Alternate translation: “his kingdom”

Proverbs 29:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The rod and reproof give wisdom (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The writer speaks as if a rod and reproof were people who could give wisdom as a physical gift. Alternate translation: “If a parent uses the rod on his child and reproves him, the child will become wise” or “If parents discipline their child and tell him when he has done wrong, the child will learn to live wisely”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The rod (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Parents in Israel used wooden rods as instruments to discipline children by striking them. Alternate translation: “discipline”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: reproof (0)

When a person gives reproof to another person, or reproves that person, he tells that person that he does not approve of what that other person is doing.

Proverbs 29:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: transgression increases (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word transgression, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “more people will transgress and their sins will become worse”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the downfall of those wicked people (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word downfall, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “fall,” which is a metaphor for losing the power to rule. Alternate translation: “those wicked people fall” or “those wicked people lose their power to rule” (See also: Метафора)

Proverbs 29:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who keeps the law is blessed (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will bless the one who keeps the law”

Proverbs 29:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: A slave will not be corrected by words (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form.”You will not be able to correct a slave simply by talking to him”

Proverbs 29:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: See a man who is hasty in his words? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer is using a question to get the reader’s attention. Alternate translation: “You should notice what happens to a man who is hasty in his words.”

Proverbs 29:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: who pampers his slave (0)

Alternate translation: “who allows his slave to avoid work and who treats his slave better than he treats other slaves”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: at the end of it (0)

Alternate translation: “at the end of the slave’s youth” or “when the slave is grown”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: there will be trouble (0)

These words translate a Hebrew word whose meaning no one knows for sure. Some understand it to mean that the slave will be weak, others that the slave will rule the household.

Proverbs 29:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: stirs up strife (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Causing people to argue more is spoken of as if it were stirring up or awakening arguments. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word strife, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “argue.” See how you translated similar words in Proverbs 15:18. Alternate translation: “causes people to argue more” or “causes people to argue and fight” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a master of rage (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This idiom means “a person who becomes angry easily.”

Proverbs 29:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: one who has a humble spirit will be given honor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “men will give honor to a person who has a humble spirit” or “a person who has a humble spirit will receive honor from men” or “Yahweh will cause men to honor a person who has a humble spirit”

Proverbs 29:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: hates his own life (0)

Alternate translation: “becomes his own enemy”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he hears the curse and says nothing (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) people have put the “one who shares with a thief” under oath to tell the truth about what he knows about what the thief stole, and he knows he will be punished if he tells the truth. Alternate translation: “he does not dare to testify under oath” or (2) people do not know who the thief is but they call on God to curse the thief, and the “one who shares” is afraid to confess and so come out from under the curse because he is afraid of the thief. Alternate translation: “he says nothing even after people have cursed him”

Proverbs 29:25

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The fear of man makes a snare (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Being afraid of what other people might do is spoken of as stepping into a trap. Alternate translation: “Anyone who is afraid of what other people might do to him is like a person who has become snared in a trap”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a snare (0)

a trap that catches animals with ropes

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the one who trusts in Yahweh will be protected (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will protect the one who trusts in him”

Proverbs 29:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Many are those who seek the face of the ruler (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The word “face” is a metonym for the ruler listening to people telling him what they want him to do and then doing it. Alternate translation: “Many people want their ruler to pay attention to them”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: from Yahweh is justice for a person (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

It is Yahweh, not human rulers, who will see that people treat a person justly. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word justice, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “just.” Alternate translation: “it is Yahweh who is truly just towards a person”

Proverbs 29:27

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: detestable (0)

a person who should be hated. See how you translated this in Proverbs 3:32.

Proverbs 30

Proverbs 30 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 30 is a chapter in Proverbs attributed to Agur, who is a person otherwise unknown.

Special concepts in this chapter

Agur

His full title is Agur, Son of Jakeh. Agur comes from a Hebrew word that means “gatherer” and so some scholars believe this is not a real name, but possibly a way of referring to Solomon as a gatherer of proverbs. However, it is still prudent to simply use this as a name.

Three things and four

From verses 15 through 32, the author uses a specific technique to explain some things. He says there are three things and even four and lists items that exemplify a feature like “small and yet wise.” The numbering is not meant to be so literal, but as a memory device that introduces the items. (See: мудрий, мудрість)

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 30:1

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Agur … Jakeh … Ithiel … Ucal (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

These are the names of men.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Agur son of Jakeh (0)

This is the literal son of Jakeh, not a grandchild.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the utterance (0)

Alternate translation: “the message”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: to Ithiel, to Ithiel and Ucal (0)

Alternate translation: “to Ithiel—that is, to Ithiel and Ucal”

Proverbs 30:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Surely (0)

Alternate translation: “Certainly” or “There is no doubt that”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: I do not have the understanding of a human being (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word understanding, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “I do not understand anything the way human beings are supposed to understand them”

Proverbs 30:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: nor do I have knowledge of the Holy One (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word knowledge, you could express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “nor do I really know anything about the Holy One”

Proverbs 30:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Who has … down? Who has … hands? Who has … cloak? Who has … earth? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer asks these questions to get the reader thinking about how much greater Yahweh is than people. Alternate translation: “No person has ever … down. No person has ever … hands. No person has ever … cloak. No person has ever … earth.” or “Who has … down? Who has … hands? Who has … cloak? Who has … earth? No one has ever done any of these things.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: heaven (0)

where God lives

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks of the wind as if it were something that a person could catch and hold in his hand. Alternate translation: “has caught the wind in his hands”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the hollow of his hands (0)

the way his hands are shaped when he is scooping up, for example, water or sand. “his cupped hands”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: gathered up (0)

brought small scattered objects into a pile so they can be lifted

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: has established all the ends of the earth (0)

Alternate translation: “has set up the limits for where the earth ends” or “has marked the boundaries for the ends of the earth”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: What is his name, and what is the name of his son? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer uses these questions to command the reader to give an answer. Alternate translation: “Tell me his name and the name of his son, if you know them.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Surely you know! (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony

The writer uses irony to show that neither he nor the reader know any person who can do what the “who” in the earlier questions can do. Alternate translation: “I do not think you really know anyone who can do those things.”

Proverbs 30:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is tested (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Words are spoken of as if they were metals that need someone to clean the bad parts out of them. Alternate translation: “is like a precious metal from which someone has removed all the useless material” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he is a shield to those who take refuge in him (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word “shield” is a metaphor for something that protects a person. Alternate translation: “he protects those who come and ask him to protect them”

Proverbs 30:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: add to his words (0)

say more than he has said

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: you will be proved to be (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “he will prove that you are”

Proverbs 30:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Put vanity and lies far away from me (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This could mean: (1) “Do not allow people to speak vanity and lies to me” or (2) “Do not allow me to speak vanity and lies”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: vanity (0)

false, useless words

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Give me neither poverty nor riches (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The writer speaks as if “poverty” and “riches” were physical objects that someone could give to another. They are also abstract nouns that can be stated as “poor” and “rich.” Alternate translation: “Do not allow me to be either very poor or very rich” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

Proverbs 30:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: if I have too much, I might deny you and say (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo

This describes a hypothetical situation that has not happened but is possible if the writer becomes rich.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: if I become poor, I might steal and profane (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo

This describes a hypothetical situation that has not happened but is possible if the writer becomes poor.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: I might steal and profane the name of my God (0)

Alternate translation: “I might make people who know that I have stolen things think that there is no God” or “I might harm God’s reputation by stealing”

Proverbs 30:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: slander (0)

speak falsely about another person with the desire to harm him

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will curse (0)

Alternate translation: “the servant will curse”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: you will be held guilty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will hold you guilty”

Proverbs 30:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a generation that curses … and does not bless (0)

Alternate translation: “a generation of people who curse … and do not bless”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: generation (0)

type or class or group

Proverbs 30:12

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a generation that is (0)

Alternate translation: “a generation of people that are”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: is pure in their own eyes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “considers themselves pure” or “believes they are pure”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: they are not washed of their filth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The words “washed” and “filth” speak of God forgiving people who sin as if he were washing physical filth off of the people. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has not forgiven them of their sins” (See also: Активные и пассивные конструкции)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: filth (0)

This should be translated with a polite term that includes human or animal vomit and waste.

Proverbs 30:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: eyes are raised up … their eyelids lifted up (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This describes people who think that they are better than other people. Their eyes show that they are proud, and the way they look at others shows that they think they are better than those other people.

Proverbs 30:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There is a generation whose teeth are swords, and their jawbones are like knives, so they may devour the poor … and the needy (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The people of the generation who speak very harmful things is spoken of as if they were wild animals with teeth and jawbones made of swords and knives, and they eat the poor and needy.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: jawbones (0)

the bones of the face where teeth grow

Proverbs 30:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The leech has two daughters (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

This is an example of something that always wants more. Alternate translation: “Greed has two daughters”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: leech (0)

a type of worm that attaches itself to the skin and sucks blood

Another possible meaning is “and they are both named Give Me.” Alternate translation: “Give and give”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, “Enough” (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

This use of the numbers “three” and “four” together here is likely a poetic device. Alternate translation: “There are four things that are never satisfied, who never say, ‘Enough’”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: are never satisfied (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “always want more”

Proverbs 30:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: land that is never satisfied with water (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Land that is no longer producing food because there has been no rain is spoken of as if it were a person who does not have enough water to drink.

Proverbs 30:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: scorns obedience to a mother (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The word “obedience” is a metonym for the mother herself. It is also an abstract noun that can be stated as “obey.” Alternate translation: “considers his mother worthless and will not obey her” (See also: Метонимия)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his eyes … the vultures (0)

The writer says that the person will die by giving two pictures of what happens to people who die away from where people live.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his eyes will be pecked out by the ravens of the valley (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “the ravens of the valley will peck out his eyes”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: ravens (0)

large, shiny, black birds that eat plants and dead animals

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will be eaten by the vultures (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “the vultures will eat him”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: vultures (0)

any one of several large birds that eat dead animals and have small, featherless heads

Proverbs 30:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There are three things that are … four that I do not understand: (0)

The use of the numbers “three” and “four” here is likely a poetic device. Alternate translation: “There are some things that are too wonderful for me that I do not understand—four of them are:”

Proverbs 30:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in the heart of the sea (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The “heart” refers to the middle. Alternate translation: “in the middle of the sea” or “on the open sea”

Proverbs 30:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: she eats and she wipes her mouth (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

This seems to be both a euphemism and a metaphor for committing adultery and then taking a bath. (See also: Метафора)

Proverbs 30:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Under three things the earth trembles, and under four it cannot bear up (0)

The use of the numbers “three” and “four” here is likely a poetic device. “There are some things that make the earth tremble, that it cannot endure. Four of these are:”

Proverbs 30:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a fool when he is filled with food (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a fool who has had enough to eat”

Proverbs 30:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: a hated woman when she marries (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

That is, people rightly hated her before she married; once she marries, she will be worse than she was before she married. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “a woman whom good people have hated when she marries” or “an outcast woman when she marries”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: takes the place of her mistress (0)

rules the household

Proverbs 30:26

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: rock badgers (0)

an animal with small, rounded ears, short legs, and no tail

Proverbs 30:28

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: lizard (0)

a small reptile that has four legs, a long, slender body, and a tail

Proverbs 30:29

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: There are three things that are … four that are stately in how they walk (0)

The use of the numbers “three” and “four” here is likely a poetic device. Alternate translation: “There are some things that walk stately. Four of these are”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: stately (0)

majestic or dignified, like a king

Proverbs 30:31

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: strutting rooster (0)

an adult male chicken that walks proudly

Proverbs 30:33

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: churning (0)

strongly stirring

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: butter (0)

Animal milk that someone has stirred and made thick.

Proverbs 31

Proverbs 31 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapter 31 begins with 9 verses from King Lemuel. The last portion of this chapter is a poem about a godly wife. (See: благочестя, благочестиво, благочестивий, богошанування, безбожність, , той, хто не боїться Бога)

King Lemuel

This person is unknown in Scripture, other than here. It is important to recognize that the words in this chapter are words of his mother addressed to him. They are formed like advice of a mother to her son.

Special concepts in this chapter

An acrostic poem

Verse 10 through 31 is tightly formed as a poem in the original language. There are 22 lines in the Hebrew language that each begin with a successive letter of the alphabet. However, each language will have a different set of letters. Therefore, it is important to realize this was a single composition with a single theme of a noble or godly wife.

Themes

There are individual proverbs that run along common themes, often including contrasting elements: wise/foolish, money, lazy/diligent, truth telling, wicked/righteous, sluggard, pride/humility, integrity/crookedness. (See: мудрий, мудрість, дурний, нерозумний, безумний, безумство and зло, злість, злість, злий, поганий, злитися, лихо, досада, прикрий and праведність, праведний, праведник, неправедність)

Proverbs 31:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: What, my son? What is it, son of my womb? What do you want, son of my vows? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The rhetorical question What could mean: (1) “What are you doing?” or “You should not be doing what you are doing” or (2) “What shall I tell you?” or “Listen to what I am telling you” or (3) “Do not do the things I am about to warn you against.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: my son … son of my womb … son of my vows (0)

The speaker wants the hearer to notice carefully and to respect the one who is talking to him.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: son of my womb (0)

The womb is a synecdoche for the person. It is best to use a polite term for the body part in which babies grow before they are born.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: son of my vows (0)

Here, vows could mean: (1) the mother’s marriage vows or (2) a vow after she married that if God allowed her to have a child she would dedicate him to God.

Proverbs 31:3

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Do not give your strength to women (0)

“Do not work hard trying to have sex with women,” either outside of marriage or with concubines.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: or your ways to those who destroy kings (0)

Alternate translation: “or allow those who destroy kings to advise you”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: your ways (0)

This could mean: (1) “the way you live your life” or (2) “the work you do”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: those who destroy kings (0)

probably the immoral “women” to whom he is not to give his strength

Proverbs 31:4

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Lemuel (0)

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in Proverbs 31:1.

Proverbs 31:5

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: what has been decreed (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. This could mean: (1) “what God has decreed” or (2) “what the kings themselves have decreed”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: pervert the rights of all the afflicted (0)

Alternate translation: “deny afflicted people their legal rights”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: pervert (0)

exchange good for evil

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: all the afflicted (0)

Alternate translation: “all those people whom others wrongfully harm”

Proverbs 31:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: and wine (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The ellipsis can be filled in. Alternate translation: “and give wine”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: in bitter distress (0)

Alternate translation: “who’s souls are bitter” or “who are in misery”

Proverbs 31:7

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his poverty (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word poverty, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “how poor he is”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: his trouble (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word trouble, you could express the same idea with a clause. Alternate translation: “the bad things that are happening to him”

Proverbs 31:8

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Speak for those who cannot speak (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Speaking is a metonym for using words to defend innocent people. Alternate translation: “Defend those who cannot defend themselves”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: for the causes of all who are perishing (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The cause represents the person whose cause it is. Alternate translation: “so that people will treat all who are perishing justly”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: for the causes (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The ellipsis can be filled in. Alternate translation: “speak for the causes” or “speak out for”

Proverbs 31:9

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: poor and needy people (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two words have basically the same meaning and are used together for emphasis. Alternate translation: “people who are poor and cannot get the things that they need”

Proverbs 31:10

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Who can find a capable wife? (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The writer asks a question to show that he is beginning a new section. Alternate translation: “Not many men can find a capable wife.” or “Not many men can find a wife who is able to do many things well.”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Her value is far more than jewels (0)

Alternate translation: “She is more precious than jewels”

Proverbs 31:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: he will never be poor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

This litotes can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “he will always have what he needs”

Proverbs 31:13

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: wool (0)

sheep’s hair that is used to make cloth

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: flax (0)

a plant whose fiber is used to make linen

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: with the delight of her hands (0)

Possible meanings are that the word delight describes: (1) how she feels as she works, “gladly with her hands,” or (2) how she feels about the wool and flax, “with her hands on things that she enjoys working with”

Proverbs 31:14

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: merchant (0)

someone who buys and sells

Proverbs 31:15

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: distributes the work for her female servants (0)

Alternate translation: “tells her female servants what work each of them is to do that day”

Proverbs 31:16

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the fruit of her hands (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The money she has earned from the work she did with wool and flax (Proverbs 31:13) is spoken of as if it were fruit growing off a tree. The hands are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “the money she has earned” (See also: Синекдоха)

Proverbs 31:17

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: She dresses herself with strength (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Putting on clothes is a metonym for preparing for work. Alternate translation: “She prepares herself for hard physical work”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: makes her arms strong (0)

Alternate translation: “she strengthens her arms by doing her work”

Proverbs 31:18

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: perceives (0)

sees by looking carefully

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: all night long her lamp is not extinguished (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

This is probably an exaggeration: she works late into the night, but not from dusk to dawn. Alternate translation: “She burns a lamp through the night as she works” (See also: Предположение и имплицитная информация)

Proverbs 31:19

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: spindle (0)

a thin rod or stick with pointed ends that is used in making thread

Proverbs 31:20

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: reaches out with her hand to poor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The hand is a metonym for the help the woman uses her hand to give. Alternate translation: “helps poor”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: reaches out with her hands to (0)

These words translate the same words translated “puts her hands on” in Proverbs 31:19.

Proverbs 31:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: are clothed in scarlet (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here “scarlet” does not refer to the color of the cloth, but that the clothing is expensive and warm. Alternate translation: “have expensive, warm clothing”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: scarlet (0)

The color red, but with a hint of orange.

Proverbs 31:22

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: linen (0)

cloth made of flax yarn

Proverbs 31:23

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Her husband is known (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. The verb “know” is a metonym for respect. Alternate translation: “People respect her husband” (See also: Метонимия)

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: when he sits with the elders of the land (0)

to make laws and settle arguments

Proverbs 31:24

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: linen (0)

cloth made from flax yarn

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: sashes (0)

long pieces of cloth worn around the waist or over one shoulder

Proverbs 31:25

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Quote: She is clothed with strength and honor (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Having strength and honor is spoken of as if the woman were wearing them. This can be translated in active form. The abstract nouns “strength” and “honor” can be translated by an adjective and a verb, respectively. Alternate translation: “Everyone can see that she is strong, and so they honor her” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

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Quote: laughs at the time to come (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

This is probably an exaggeration to show that she is not afraid. Alternate translation: “is not afraid of what will happen in the future”

Proverbs 31:26

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Quote: opens her mouth with wisdom (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The act of opening her mouth is a metonym for speaking. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word wisdom, you could express the same idea with an adverb or an adjective. Alternate translation: “she speaks wisely” or “she speaks wise words” (See also: Абстрактные существительные)

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Quote: the law of kindness is on her tongue (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase “on her tongue” refers to her speaking, as the tongue is part of the mouth. The phrase “the law of kindness” refers to her teaching people to be kind. Alternate translation: “she teaches people to be kind”

Proverbs 31:27

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Quote: watches over the ways of her household (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The word “ways” refers to the way people live. Alternate translation: “makes sure her whole family lives in a way that pleases God”

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Quote: does not eat the bread of idleness (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

To “eat the bread of” something means to do something. Alternate translation: “she is not idle”

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Quote: idleness (0)

doing nothing and being lazy

Proverbs 31:28

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Quote: rise up and (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

This could mean: (1) literally “stand up and” or (2) as a metonym, “actively.”

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Quote: call her blessed (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

saying that good things have happened to her because she has done good things. This can be translated as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “congratulate her” or “say, ‘Yay, Mom!’”

Proverbs 31:29

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Quote: you surpassed (0)

Alternate translation: “you have done better than”

Proverbs 31:30

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Quote: Elegance is deceptive (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word elegance, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “A gracious woman can deceive people” or “A woman with good manners could really be evil” See how you translated this in Proverbs 11:16.

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Quote: beauty is vain (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word beauty, you could express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “a woman who is beautiful now will not always be beautiful”

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Quote: she will be praised (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will praise her”

Proverbs 31:31

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Quote: the fruit of her hands (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The money she has earned from the work she did with wool and flax (Proverbs 31:13) is spoken of as if it were fruit growing off a tree. The hands are a synecdoche for the person. See how you translated this in Proverbs 31:16. Alternate translation: “the money she has earned” (See also: Синекдоха)

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Quote: let her works praise her in the gates (0)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

She will be praised for her works, not by her works. Those “in the gates” are the important people of the city who conduct business and legal affairs near the gates of the city. Alternate translation: “may the important people of the city praise her because of the works she has done”

Proverbs 9

Proverbs 9:3

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Quote: her maids (0)

Proverbs 14

Proverbs 14:2

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Quote: in his ways despises him ()

The word “his” refers to the dishonest man and “him” refers to Yahweh.