What does Proverbs 27:14 mean?
ESV: Whoever blesses his neighbor with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, will be counted as cursing.
NIV: If anyone loudly blesses their neighbor early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse.
NASB: One who blesses his friend with a loud voice early in the morning, It will be considered a curse to him.
CSB: If one blesses his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning, it will be counted as a curse to him.
NLT: A loud and cheerful greeting early in the morning will be taken as a curse!
KJV: He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him.
NKJV: He who blesses his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, It will be counted a curse to him.
Verse Commentary:
A modern English proverb states "timing is everything." The point of that expression, and this Bible verse, is that when and where a person chooses to act is as important as what they are doing. Offering thanks or deserved praise is a good thing, of course (Romans 13:7; Philippians 4:8). Poor timing can turn this into an obnoxious intrusion.
Solomon's poetic example is a person shouting affirmations to a neighbor exceedingly early in the morning. Many people appreciate being complimented—yet few want to lose sleep to hear it. Even if the gesture is meant for good, it will be interpreted negatively. This follows the lessons of other proverbs which note the importance of tact and discretion (Proverbs 1:2–7; 11:12; 15:23).
Verse Context:
Proverbs 27:7–22 continues Solomon's wise sayings (Proverbs 25:1). He reflects on wealth, poverty, friendship, the wisdom of staying away from danger, good neighborly relationships, a nagging spouse, responsibility, and the tendency of foolish people to cling to their errors.
Chapter Summary:
Wise sayings from this chapter warn about overconfidence and bragging. Solomon also encourages positive friendships and the wisdom they provide. He offers several notes about self-examination and the need for personal accountability. Many of the proverbs in this passage touch on the concept of speaking truth in love, even if it's not what the other person would like to hear. The end of the chapter uses the example of livestock to make a point about good stewardship.
Chapter Context:
This continues a collection of approximately one hundred proverbs associated with Solomon. King Hezekiah's men, probably his scribes, copied these from other scrolls (Proverbs 25:1). This chapter includes references to overconfidence, the value of friendships, and the importance of good stewardship. The assembly of Solomon's wise teachings continues through the end of chapter 29.
Book Summary:
Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.
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