Proverbs 20:14 meaning
In the realm of negotiation, human behavior often reveals a complex interplay of desires and deceit. This verse highlights a common tactic employed by buyers: they will denigrate the value of a product with statements like "It is naught, it is naught" to lower the price, and once the deal is struck, they proudly boast about their savvy purchase. Such actions are not just dishonest; they represent a fundamental moral failing, as both parties engage in dissimulation.
This proverb reflects broader themes in Proverbs about integrity and truthfulness in transactions. The warning here illustrates a societal concern with fairness and honesty; individuals should hold one another accountable and resist the temptation to justify dishonest practices to gain advantage. In light of teachings about ethics and integrity, this verse serves as a reminder that true wisdom values honesty over crafty negotiations. It positions integrity as a necessary foundation for long-term prosperity and mutual respect in human dealings, underscoring that deception, while it may bring temporary gain, ultimately leads to moral and possibly financial detriment. Proverbs 20:14
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Luke 3:10-14 meaning. After John's fiery warnings, the crowds come to John asking what they should do in order to receive forgiveness and avoid the wrath to come. John tells them to put God's commandment to love your neighbor as yourself into practice by being generous with your possessions. When reviled tax collectors and hated soldiers come and ask John the same question as it applies to them, he gives them a similar answer.
- Matthew 22:23-28 meaning. The Sadducees ask Jesus a loaded question about the resurrection. They introduce their question with an extreme scenario about a woman seven-times married. Their scenario was intended to show the ridiculousness of the resurrection.
- Matthew 22:15-22 meaning. The Pharisees send spies to trap Jesus into saying something against Rome. They bring along some pro-Roman Herodians as conspirators in their plot. They ask Jesus whether it is lawful to pay poll-taxes to Caesar or not. Jesus perceives their trap and calls them on it before answering their question. He asks for a coin and whose likeness it bears. When he is told the image belongs to Caesar, Jesus answers "to render to Caesar the things that belong to Caesar's and to God the things that are God's."