Charles Ellicott Commentary Proverbs 21

As the rivers of water.— Channels for irrigation . He turns the heart of the king, whose favour is as the latter rain (Proverbs 16:15) and dew (Proverbs 19:12), now towards one suppliant and now towards another, as He thinks fit, for “the hearts of kings are in His rule and governance.”

Every way of a man is right in his own eyes. —See above, on Proverbs 16:2.

To do justice and judgment, etc.— See above on Proverbs 10:2.

Is more acceptable than sacrifice.— See above on Proverbs 15:8.

The plowing of the wicked.— that is, their work, all they do; for it is not done to please God but themselves; nor carried on in His strength, but in reliance upon their own, and therefore it is “sin,” not pleasing to Him. For the word here translated “plowing,” see above on Proverbs 13:23, where it is rendered “tillage.” It may also signify “lamp” (see above on Proverbs 13:9).

The thoughts of every one that is hasty tend only to want. —This proverb is found everywhere: “More haste, worse speed”; “Festina lente”; “Eile mit Weile.”