The Holy Bible Verses

Proverbs 21:20

Cited in 2 topics on this site.

Translations sourced from the public-domain WEB, KJV, and ASV. See all sources.

“There is precious treasure and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man swallows it up.”

— WEB

“There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.”

— KJV

“There is precious treasure and oil in the dwelling of the wise; But a foolish man swalloweth it up.”

— ASV

Share:

Topics that cite this verse

Commentary

Note, 1. Those that are wise will increase what they have and live plentifully; their wisdom will teach them to proportion their expenses to their income and to lay up for hereafter; so that there is a treasure of things to be desired, and as much as needs be desired, a good stock of all things convenient, laid up in season, and particularly of oil, one of the staple commodities of Canaan, Deu 8:8. This is in the habitation, or cottage, of the wise; and it is better to have an old-fashioned house, and have it well furnished, than a fine modern one, with sorry housekeeping. God blesses the endeavors of the wise and then their houses are replenished. 2. Those that are foolish will misspend what they have upon their lusts, and so bring the stock they have to nothing. Those manage wretchedly that are in haste to spend what they had, but not in care which way to get more. Foolish children spend what their wise parents have laid up. One sinner destroys much good, as the prodigal son.

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary (public domain)

The wise, by diligence and care, lay up and increase wealth, while fools spend--literally, "swallow it up," greedily.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary (public domain)

Newsletter

One verse, every Tuesday.

A short reflection, a single passage, three articles to read. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.