27:1 Do not boast about tomorrow Warns against making presumptions about the future. James develops this theme further (Jas 4:13–17).

27:2 May another praise you A warning against self-promotion (compare Prov 25:6–7 and note; and 25:27 and note).

27:5 Better a rebuke that is open Rebuke is shown to be an active form of love (3:12).

27:10 the house of your brother, do not enter A statement on the comparative value of friendship, not a disparaging remark about family. Some friends stick closer than brothers (compare 18:24).

Better is a close neighbor It is better to seek help from someone close to you when in need. A faraway relative may not be in a position to help.

27:12 the simple go on The prudent demonstrate caution and avoid danger or temptation. In contrast, the simple are gullible (14:15; see 1:4 and note) and susceptible to temptation (7:6–9; 9:16–17).

The Fool in Proverbs

27:13 to an adulteress See note on 20:16, which is nearly identical to this proverb.

27:15 a woman of contention Proverbs frequently warns against the frustration caused by a quarrelsome marriage. See note on 21:9.

27:17 As iron sharpens iron Close friends provide constructive criticism and accountability. Just as sharpening an iron blade makes it more effective, close friends sharpen one another’s character.

27:19 the heart of a person reflects the person This phrase could refer to a person’s heart reflecting his or her behavior (compare 16:2; Jer 17:9)—people gain insight about themselves by considering their actions. This phrase could also indicate that a person understands their own character better by observing another person’s heart—meaning that people learn about themselves from the compliments and criticisms of other people (compare Prov 27:2).

27:20 Sheol and Abaddon See note on 15:11.