The Geneva Bible Translation Notes, [1599], at sacred-texts.com
Proverbs Chapter 17
Better [is] a dry morsel, and quietness with it, than an house full of (a) sacrifices [with] strife.
(a) For where there were many sacrifices, there were many portions given to the people, with which they feasted.
A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the (b) inheritance among the brethren.
(b) That is, will be made governor over the children.
A bribe [is as] a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: wherever it (c) turneth, it prospereth.
(c) The reward has great force to gain the hearts of men.
He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth [very] (d) friends.
(d) He that admonishes the prince of his fault makes him his enemy.
An evil [man] seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel (e) messenger shall be sent against him.
(e) By the messenger is meant such means as God uses to punish the rebels.
Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than (f) a fool in his folly.
(f) By which he means the wicked in his rage, who has no fear of God.
Why [is there] a (g) price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing [he hath] no heart [to it]?
(g) What good does it do the wicked to be rich, seeing he does not set his mind to wisdom?
A friend loveth at all times, and a (h) brother is born for adversity.
(h) So that he is more than a friend, even a brother that helps in time of adversity.
A man void of understanding (i) striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.
(i) Read (Pro 6:1).
He loveth transgression that loveth strife: [and] he that exalteth his (k) gate seeketh destruction.
(k) Lifts up himself above his degree.
A wicked [man] taketh a bribe out of the (l) bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.
(l) That is, secretly and out of the bosom of the rich.
Wisdom [is] before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool [are] in the (m) ends of the earth.
(m) That is, wander to and fro, and seek not after wisdom.
Also to punish the just [is] not good, [nor] to strike princes (n) for equity.
(n) For their well doing.