- Does Proverbs 29:1 imply that it is possible to overdo discipline?
- What is the connection between the two parts of Proverbs 29:3?
- JPS renders ish terumot as “a fraudulent man” (Proverbs 29:4). The old translation renders it, “he that exacteth gifts”, deriving terumot from a different root. Which version is more appropriate?
- Does the pronoun “his” in the second half of Proverbs 29:5 refer to the flatterer or the one who is flattered?
- How do “scoffers inflame a city” (Proverbs 29:8)?
- Proverbs 29:10 is difficult. The literal meaning of the second clause is, “the upright seek his life”, which creates ambiguity. What are the possible interpretations?
- In Proverbs 29:11, does the wise man calm his own rage or that of the dullard?
- Explain the second half of Proverbs 29:13. Does it suggest that the Lord treats both the poor man and the fraudulent man equally?
- In Proverbs 29:17, JPS translates ma’adanim literally as “dainties.” The old version translates it figuratively as “delight.” Which rendering is preferable?
- The second half of Proverbs 29:18 makes reference to a person; the first half does not. What clue does hazon (vision) provide for this omission?
- What do Proverbs 29:19 and Proverbs 29:21 suggest about the appropriate relationship between master and slave?
- Compare Proverbs 29:24 with Leviticus 5:1 as suggested by the JPS footnote.
- What kind of fears are alluded to in Proverbs 29:25? The Hebrew word that appears here for “fears” is herdat. The word haredi is derived from the same root. How is haredi used in modern parlance and is it relevant to this verse?
- Compare Proverbs 29:26 with Psalms 118:9.
