ESV Global Study Bible :: Footnotes for Proverbs 25

Prov. 25:1–29:27 Hezekiah’s Collection of Solomonic Proverbs. The present form of the book of Proverbs came into existence, at earliest, in the reign of Hezekiah (reigned 715–686 b.c.; see Introduction: Author and Date). Hezekiah is credited with reviving Judah’s religious traditions (2 Kings 18:3–7). A new, expanded edition of Solomonic proverbs was apparently part of that revival.

Prov. 25:2–3 God is greater than human beings. He deserves fame, or glory, because he knows things mere humans cannot know (Deut. 29:29). Kings deserve glory for searching for as many answers as possible (Prov. 25:2). But just as no king may know God’s mind completely, no other human can know a king’s mind completely (v. 3). God and human rulers are both mysterious in their own way.

Prov. 25:4–5 take away the wicked from the presence of the king. The close advisers of a ruler must be chosen with careful attention to their moral character (see 13:20).

Prov. 25:6–7b These verses encourage proper humility (see Luke 14:7–11).

Prov. 25:7c–10 This section encourages working out conflict with a neighbor rather than presenting a case in court or reporting a grievance to others (vv. 9b–10). See notes on Matt. 5:25–26; 18:15–20.

Prov. 25:13 The time of harvest for the various crops in ancient Israel ran from June through September, and the heat could be withering. At such a time, the cold of snow—however it was brought—would refresh the workers. A literal snowfall is probably not in view, as that could have been a catastrophe; see 26:1.

Prov. 25:16–17 In context, v. 16 is a metaphor leading into v. 17. One’s presence, even though it may be pleasant, may last too long.

Prov. 25:20 This verse gives three examples of using the wrong solution to a problem.

Prov. 25:21–22 The image of burning coals on the enemy’s head does not imply doing something that harms the enemy, because the phrase further explains the bread and drink, which do him good. Also, the Lord will reward you implies a good result from these “burning coals,” which is most consistent with leading the person to repentance for his or her earlier hostility.

Prov. 25:23 The north wind is not the usual source of rain in Palestine. When it is, it brings unexpected and damaging rain. This is like a backbiting tongue, which brings sudden anger and damage.

Prov. 25:28–26:12 All of these proverbs focus on the fool.

Prov. 25:28 Self-control relates to the passions (such as anger or love), the desires (for food, sex, etc.), and the will (as illustrated by impulsive decisions). Lack of self-control is a mark of a fool. He is like a city . . . left without walls, that is, with no means of defense against enemies.