Proverbs 21:9

Footnotes

1. 25 English versions which translate the Hebrew term as “roof” here sometimes produce amusing images for modern readers: “Better to live on the roof”; “It’s better to stay outside on the roof of your house.” The reference is probably to a small room that would be built on the flat housetop primarily for guests (e.g., 1 Kgs 17:19; 2 Kgs 4:10). It would be cramped and lonely—but peaceful in avoiding strife.
2. 26 The “house of company” has received numerous interpretations. The word “company” or “companionship” would qualify “house” as a place to be shared. The editors propose “spacious house,” which would call for a transposition of letters (cf. “a roomy house”; “a lovely home”). Such an emendation makes good sense, but has no external support.
3. 27 Heb “a wife of contentions”; “a brawling woman”; , “a nagging wife.” The Greek version has no reference to a quarrelsome wife, but instead mentions justice in a common house.