Proverbs 25:13

Posted by on August 9, 2018 · Leave a Comment 

As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.
– Proverbs 25:13

The precise meaning of the image is treated variously by commentators, but the point of the proverb is clear from the last phrase. A faithful messenger is one who discharges his duty as appointed. There is a relation to the proverbs of speech in the sense that the messenger is faithful to relay the speech of his master. This would also be wise speech. The result is refreshing, or returning, the soul of his masters. Wisdom also contrasts the negative effects of an unfaithful messenger (Proverbs 13:17; 25:25; 26:6).

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Proverbs 20:6

Posted by on December 19, 2017 · Leave a Comment 

Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?
– Proverbs 20:6

The words for goodness and faithful are both terms that speak of loyalty, or steadfastness. The contrast in the proverb is between talk and reality. Many will claim loyalty but few are truly loyal. A true friend speaks faithfully (Proverbs 27:6), without hurting his friend (Proverbs 29:5). This proverb is counterpart to the saying about the virtuous woman (Proverbs 31:10). The proverb highlights rarity, but not impossibility, for other proverbs speak of faithful friends (Proverbs 17:17; 18:24).

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Proverbs 13:17

Posted by on May 8, 2017 · Leave a Comment 

A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.
– Proverbs 13:17

Relying on an unreliable messenger brings many troubles upon you. The slothful messenger is a serious irritation (Proverbs 10:26) and a foolish messenger does more harm than good, as far accomplishing your purpose is concerned (Proverbs 26:6). Here a wicked messenger causes you trouble, or plunges you into it. The contrast is with the faithful ambassador, or messenger. The word for health has the idea of being curative and so, helpful. The faithful messenger is also presented as being refreshing to the one who sent him (Proverbs 25:13).

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