29:1 being stubborn of neck Describes someone who stubbornly refuses to accept direction or reproof (see Exod 32:9 and note).

suddenly he will be broken, and there will not be healing Emphasizes the severe consequence of ignoring reproof (Prov 13:18; 15:10).

29:2 When the righteous are numerous, the people will rejoice The righteous are characterized by justice and fairness. Righteous leaders cause a nation to rejoice. See note on 11:10–11.

29:4 a man of bribes The Hebrew word used here, terumah, refers to a contribution or tribute (Exod 25:2; Num 31:41). This proverb may be describing a king who takes bribes or a king who oppresses his subjects with heavy taxes (1 Kgs 12:13–15).

29:5 is spreading a net for his feet Portrays flattery as empty and even destructive (compare Prov 28:23).

29:6 In transgression, an evil man is a snare As elsewhere, the wicked are portrayed as falling into their own traps (Psa 9:15; Job 18:8–10).

29:9 there is rankling and ridicule Arguing with a fool is a futile task (Prov 20:3); rather than listening, they despise any reproof or instruction (15:5).

The Fool in Proverbs

29:13 Yahweh gives light to the eyes of them both God makes both the impoverished person and the oppressor. The proverb implies that since both are dependent on God for life, the oppressor should treat the poor person justly.

29:14 A king who judges with truthfulness to the poor A king’s throne is established by righteousness (16:12), faithful love (20:28), and justice (v. 4). Evil and oppression (28:15–16) will destroy it.

29:15 a neglected child is disgraced Proverbs emphasizes discipline because a child needs instruction to avoid folly (22:15; see note on 13:24).

29:17 they will give you rest Not only does discipline help a child (19:18; 23:13–14), it brings rest and delight—rather than shame—to parents (10:1; 27:11; compare v. 15).

29:18 When there is no prophecy Emphasizes the importance of divine revelation for a nation’s well-being. Without it, the people make serious mistakes (Exod 32:25).

instruction The Hebrew word used here, torah, may refer simply to instruction, as elsewhere in Proverbs (e.g., Prov 1:8; 3:1; 4:2; 6:20), or it may refer to God’s law.

29:19 By words This proverb does not advocate abuse. It also does not necessarily advocate for physical discipline; this line could be understood as suggesting seriousness (or be hyperbolic). See note on 13:24.

a servant In the ancient Near East, servants were part of the household in which they worked and were viewed as the responsibility of the household head (the oldest male).

29:23 The pride of a person will bring him humiliation Pride is seen as a destructive attitude throughout Proverbs (11:2; 16:18). Pride prevents people from accepting reproof or advice (12:15; 13:18).

The Fool in Proverbs

Topics in Proverbs Table

29:24 Being a partner with a thief is hating one’s life Because they endanger themselves by keeping company with those who break the law. Proverbs warns against keeping company with several types of people. Besides thieves, righteous people should avoid the company of sinners (1:10–16), fools (13:20; 14:7), slanderers (20:19), and gluttons (28:7).

29:25 The fear of a person Refers to trusting in human power. In juxtaposition to Yahweh’s lasting security, people can only provide temporary security.

29:26 Many are those who seek the favor of a ruler Kings administer justice on earth (see note on 20:8), but ultimately, justice comes from God (16:11; 28:5).