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An unfriendly man pursues selfishness, And defies all sound judgment.
Verse Takeaways
1
The Danger of Selfish Isolation
Most commentators (Barnes, Ellicott, Gill) agree this verse is primarily a warning. It describes a person who isolates themselves from others to pursue their own selfish desires. This self-willed individual becomes hostile to wise counsel and community efforts, with one scholar translating the second phrase as he "shows his teeth" against all improvement. This is a caution against arrogant, anti-social behavior.
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4
18th Century
Presbyterian
The text and the marginal readings indicate the two chief interpretations of this somewhat difficult verse. Other renderings are:
19th Century
Anglican
Through desire a man, having separated himself ...—This should probably be rendered, The separatist seeks after his own desire…
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
Through desire a man having separated himself, seeks Or, "a separated man seeks desire" F7 ; his own desi…
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If we are to get knowledge and grace, we must try all methods of improving ourselves.