Quotes from Proverbs

Quotations follow the King James Version translation (Oxford University Press, 1611) — our recommended edition.

1. 2

   Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

2. 3

   The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

3. 4

   Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

4. 5

   A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

5. 6

   Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

6. 7

   He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

7. 8

   Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

8. 9

   Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.

9. 10

   For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.

10. 11

    Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

11. 12

    A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

12. 13

    A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

13. 14

    There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

14. 15

    Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

15. 16

    A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

16. 17

    A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

17. 18

    Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

18. 19

    He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

19. 20

    A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.

20. 21

    Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

21. 22

    Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD.

22. 23

    Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellers there is safety.