V. 1. The proverbs, maxims of instruction, of Solomon.
V. 23. It is as sport to a fool to do mischief, that is, the practice of any form of iniquity is his delight, it agrees with his perverted sense of humor; but a man of understanding hath wisdom, that is his delight, therein he finds his pleasure.
V. 24. The fear of the wicked, that which he dreads, it shall come upon him, cp. Is. 56, 4; Job 3, 25; but the desire of the righteous shall be granted, the good things for which they longed are given them by the Lord.
V. 25. As the whirlwind passeth, rather, “When a storm sweepeth by,” so is the wicked no more, taken away like chaff; but the righteous is an everlasting foundation, set firmly against all storms of adversity.
V. 26. As vinegar to the teeth, affecting the enamel and tending to make the teeth feel dull, and as smoke to the eyes, affecting the sensitive membranes and interfering with sight, so is the sluggard to them that send him, a source of constant vexation and worry.