24:1–2 This proverb advises against envying wicked people, perhaps for the success and prosperity they enjoy (3:31; 23:17; 24:19; Psa 37:1). They are intent on destruction and deceit, and Proverbs makes clear elsewhere what happens to such people (Prov 1:10–15; 3:31–33; 23:17–18).

24:3–4 This proverb describes the constructive nature of wisdom. Proverbs elsewhere personifies wisdom as an industrious woman who builds her house (9:1). Here, wisdom does not just build the house; she fills it with prosperity and happiness (see note on 3:2).

24:5–6 This proverb praises the power of wisdom. It is more powerful than physical strength and military prowess, a common theme in Proverbs (compare 11:14; 15:22; 20:18).

24:8–9 This proverb describes someone who schemes and says the schemer will acquire a reputation that invites hatred.

24:10–12 This proverb calls for the rescue of people threatened by death. This may refer to instructing people in life-saving wisdom or righteousness—helping others avoid the path that ultimately leads to death (13:14; 14:12). Alternatively, it may instruct that people condemned to execution not be abandoned. The proverb warns against ignoring such people and later claiming ignorance; God weighs the heart and knows the truth.

24:13–14 This proverb compares the sweetness of honey to the sweetness of wisdom. Just as honey is sweet to the mouth, wisdom is sweet to a person’s whole life. Elsewhere, the law is compared to honey (Psa 19:10–11).

24:15–16 This proverb warns that trying to destroy the righteous is futile. While the righteous may be defeated temporarily, ultimately the wicked will be destroyed (Prov 14:32).

24:17–18 Following the warning about trying to destroy the righteous (vv. 15–16), this proverb warns against gloating at the fall of an enemy. Proverbs 20:22 warns against revenge, encouraging the wise to wait for Yahweh. Here, readers are advised not to rejoice when their enemy falls because God may end up having mercy on the enemy.

24:19–20 This proverb warns against envying the wicked (compare vv. 1–2). They will die and may not leave any descendants (13:9; 20:20; 23:18).

24:21–22 This proverb admonishes the son to respect divine and human authority and to avoid those who disregard their authority. Both God and the king have the power to destroy (14:35; 16:14; 19:12; 20:2).

24:23–34 This section of the sayings of the wise is the shortest collection of proverbs (see 22:17–24:22 and note). It addresses the topics of justice in the courts (vv. 23–26, 28–29) and hard work in the home (vv. 27, 30–34).

24:30–34 This proverb describes the consequences of laziness. The sluggard’s laziness results in an overgrown field and broken down wall. This leads to the sluggard being poor and in need. See note on 21:25.