Verse 2

A a wise man's heart [is] at his right hand; but a fool's heart [is] at his left.

(a) So that he does all things well and justly, where as the fool does the contrary.

Verse 3

Also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his wisdom faileth [him], and he b saith to every one [that] he [is] a fool.

(b) By his doings he betrays himself.

Verse 4

If the c spirit of the ruler riseth against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offences.

(c) If your superior is angry with you, be discrete and not moved.

Verse 5

There is an evil [which] I have seen under the sun, as an d error [which] proceedeth from the ruler:

(d) Meaning that it is an evil thing when they who are in authority fail and do not do their duty.

Verse 6

Folly is set in great dignity, and the e rich sit in low place.

(e) They who are rich in wisdom and virtue.

Verse 10

If the iron is blunt, and he doth not whet the edge, then must he use more f strength: but wisdom [is] profitable to direct.

(f) Without wisdom, whatever a man takes in hand, turns to his own hurt.

Verse 15

The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because he knoweth not how to go to the g city.

(g) The ignorance and beastliness of the wicked is such that they know not common things, and yet will discuss high matters.

Verse 16

Woe to thee, O land, when thy king [is] a h child, and thy princes i eat in the morning!

(h) That is, without wisdom and counsel.

(i) Are given to their lusts and pleasures.

Verse 17

Blessed [art] thou, O land, when thy king [is] the son k of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!

(k) Meaning, when he is noble for virtue and wisdom and with the gifts of God.

Verse 20

Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a l bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.

(l) You cannot work evil so secretly that it will not be known.