Proverbs 26:18

16 The lazy man is wiser in his own eyes
Than seven men who can answer sensibly.

17 He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own
Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.

18 Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death,

19 Is the man who deceives his neighbor,
And says, ^a“I was only joking!”

20 Where there is no wood, the fire goes out;
And where there is no¹ talebearer, strife ceases.

21 ^aAs charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire,
So is a contentious man to kindle strife.

22 The words of a¹ talebearer are like tasty trifles,
And they go down into the¹ inmost body.

23 Fervent lips with a wicked heart
Are like earthenware covered with silver dross.

24 He who hates, disguises it with his lips,
And lays up deceit within himself;

Commentaries:

Forerunner Commentary
What is the Forerunner Commentary?

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Proverbs 26:19 >>

What Does Proverbs 26:18 Mean?

Proverbs 26:18-19

These two verses begin a section largely devoted to illustrating the fruits of lying. They might be better translated as, "A man who deceives his neighbor and disguises his deception as a joke is as dangerous as a madman shooting arrows at a crowd. Someone will surely get hurt." Lying is never a joke, and someone always gets hurt, even though it may not be immediately apparent. Lying is sin and sin brings death. Do we believe this in the actual practice of life? Though the lie, when discovered, may cause laughter, a reputation has been stained and trust diminishes.

John W. Ritenbaugh
The Ninth Commandment

Proverbs 26:18-19

Foolishness is never a joke when deceit is involved. A person who does such things is as insane as a person who randomly shoots into a crowd. His actions may have serious consequences, even death, though it is not his intention. God considers it no excuse to say, "I didn't mean it."

John W. Ritenbaugh
The Ninth Commandment (1997)

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