What does Proverbs 16:31 mean?
An Amish proverb states that "we get too soon old and too late smart." Certain facets of wisdom only come by experience. Unfortunately, some people age more quickly than they mature. In prior eras, numerous factors led to fewer people surviving into old age. Those who did, however, usually acquired some level of wisdom. Solomon says of such people that their "gray hair is a crown of glory." He adds that the crown of glory is more readily acquired by leading a righteous life (Proverbs 3:1–2; 9:10–11).Luke identifies two elderly people who led a righteous life. They were Simeon and Anna. Luke 2:25 describes Simeon as "righteous and devout," and he was "waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him." Anna, a prophetess, was an 84-year-old widow. Luke writes that she "did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer" (Luke 2:37). These two righteous, elderly people rejoiced when Jesus' parents brought Him as an infant to the temple. Both spoke with wisdom concerning Jesus. Simeon told Mary that Jesus was "appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel" (Luke 2:34), and verse 38 informs us that Anna gave thanks to God and spoke of Him "to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem."
Proverbs 16:27–33 closes chapter 16, as Solomon continues his wise sayings. This passage contrasts evil men with men who are righteous, honest, and disciplined. Evil in the heart produces wicked speech, but righteousness in the heart shows itself in righteous living.
This part of Solomon's proverbs emphasizes human motives, self-control, and common sense. Many of these proverbs are arranged in a two-part style. The first and second half of these statements make the same basic point, but from opposite perspectives. Notable verses are verses 9 and 33, speaking of God's sovereignty, and verse 18, a famous warning about arrogance. Also often cited is verse 25, which repeats Proverbs 14:12 and encourages self-reflection.
