V. 1. The proverbs, maxims of instruction, of Solomon.
V. 12. Hatred stirreth up strifes, so that constant quarrels and disputes are the result; but love covereth all sins, by treating transgressions in a kind manner, as diseases of the soul, by being ready to forgive, by endeavoring to gain the sinner from the error of his ways and have him turn to the paths of righteousness, Jas. 5, 20; 1 Cor. 13, 4; 1 Pet. 4, 8.
V. 13. In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found, his utterances will naturally reveal his possession of real wisdom; but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding, that is, he well deserves the punishment which strikes him as the result of his folly.
V. 14. Wise men lay up knowledge, like treasures which are to be put to a good use; but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction, because his foolish suggestions are always breaking forth and bringing misfortune to himself and others, like the sudden collapse of a house.