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Proverbs 30:5
Verse
Context
The Words of Agur
4Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in His hands? Who has bound up the waters in His cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name, and what is the name of His Son— surely you know! 5Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. 6Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you and prove you a liar.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
5 Every word of Eloah is pure; A shield is He for those who hide themselves in Him. 6 Add thou not to His words, Lest He convict thee and thou becomest a liar. Although the tetrastich is an independent proverb, yet it is connected to the foregoing Neûm [utterance, Pro 30:1]. The more limited a man is in his knowledge of God - viz. in that which presents itself to him lumine naturae, - so much the more thankful must he be that God has revealed Himself in history, and so much the more firmly has he to hold fast by the pure word of the divine revelation. In the dependent relation of Pro 30:5 to Psa 18:31 (Sa2 22:31), and of Pro 30:6 to Deu 4:2, there is no doubt the self-testimony of God given to Israel, and recorded in the book of the Tôra, is here meant. כּל־אמרת is to be judged after πᾶσα γραφή, Ti2 3:16, not: every declaration of God, wherever promulgated, but: every declaration within the revelation lying before us. The primary passage Psa 18:31 has not כל here, but, instead of it, לכל החסים, and instead of אמרת אלוהּ it has יהוה 'אם; his change of the name of Jahve is also not favourable to the opinion that Pro 30:5. is a part of the Neûm, viz., that it is the answer thereto. The proverb in this contains traces of the Book of Job, with which in many respects that Neûm harmonizes; in the Book of Job, אלוהּ (with שׁדּי) is the prevailing name of God; whereas in the Book of Proverbs it occurs only in the passage before us. Mhlau, p. 41, notes it as an Arabism. צרף (Arab. ṣaraf, to turn, to change) is the usual word for the changing process of smelting; צרוּף signifies solid, pure, i.e., purified by separating: God's word is, without exception, like pure, massive gold. Regarding חסה, to hide oneself, vid., under Psa 2:12;: God is a shield for those who make Him, as revealed in His word, their refuge. The part. חסה occurs, according to the Masora, three times written defectively, - Pro 14:32; Sa2 22:31; Neh 1:7; in the passage before us it is to be written לחוסים; the proverbs of Agur and Lemuel have frequently the plena scriptio of the part. act. Kal, as well as of the fut. Kal, common to the Book of Job (vid., Mhlau, p. 65). In 6a, after Aben Ezra's Moznajim 2b (11b of Heidenheim's edition), and Zachoth 53a (cf. Lipmann's ed.), and other witnesses (vid., Norzi), t sp (the ף with dagesh) is to be written, - the Cod. Jaman. and others defect. without ו, - not tôsf; for, since תּוסף (Exo 10:28) is yet further abbreviated in this way, it necessarily loses (Note: That both Shevas in tôsp are quiesc., vid., Kimchi, Michlol 155 a b, who is finally decided as to this. That the word should be read tôspe'al is the opinion of Chagg in הנוח 'ס (regarding the quiesc. letters), p. 6 of the Ed. by Dukes-Ewald.) the aspiration of the tenuis, as in ילדתּ (= ילדת). The words of God are the announcements of His holy will, measured by His wisdom; they are then to be accepted as they are, and to be recognised and obeyed. He who adds anything to them, either by an overstraining of them or by repressing them, will not escape the righteous judgment of God: God will convict him of falsifying His word (הוכיח, Psa 50:21; only here with ב of the obj.), and expose him as a liar - viz. by the dispensations which unmask the falsifier as such, and make manifest the falsehood of his doctrines as dangerous to souls and destructive to society. An example of this is found in the kingdom of Israel, in the destruction of which the curse of the human institution of its state religion, set up by Jeroboam, had no little share. Also the Jewish traditional law, although in itself necessary for the carrying over of the law into the praxis of private and public life, falls under the Deuteron. prohibition - which the poet here repeats - so far as it claimed for itself the same divine authority as that of the written law, and so far as it hindered obedience to the law - by the straining-at-a-gnat policy - and was hostile to piety. Or, to adduce an example of an addition more dogmatic than legal, what a fearful impulse was given to fleshly security by that overstraining of the promises in Gen 17, which were connected with circumcision by the tradition, "the circumcised come not into hell," or by the overstraining of the prerogative attributed by Paul, Rom 9:4., to his people according to the Scriptures, in the principle, "All Israelites have a part in the future world!" Regarding the accentuation of the perf. consec. after פּן, vid., at Psa 28:1. The penultima accent is always in pausa (cf. Pro 30:9 and Pro 30:10).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Psa 12:6; Psa 119:140).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every word of God is pure,.... The whole word of God. "All Scripture", given by inspiration of God, to which Agur directs, as giving the best account of God, of his name, nature, and perfections; of his Son, person, offices, and grace; being pure, very pure, "purified" (z) like silver, purified in a furnace of earth. The whole of Scripture is pure, free from all falsehood and error; coming from the God of truth, who cannot lie, and therefore called "the Scriptures of truth": every promise is pure as well as precious, made without dissimulation, faithfully performed, and all yea and amen in Christ; every doctrine is pure, free from the mixtures and inventions of men; the sincere milk of the word; consistent and all of a piece, not yea and nay; and tending to promote purity of heart and life; wholesome words, and doctrines according to godliness; see Psa 12:6; he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him; not the word, but God, whose the word is; and which represents him as a proper object of trust, both with respect to things temporal and spiritual, at all times; and as a shield to protect such, by his power and grace, from all their enemies, sin, Satan, and the world, and also from all errors and false doctrines; see Psa 3:3. (z) "purgatus", Pagninus, Montanus, Tigurine version, Gejerus; "purgatissimus", Junius & Tremellius; Heb. "conflatus", Piscator, Mercerus, Cocceius, Schultens.
Proverbs 30:5
The Words of Agur
4Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in His hands? Who has bound up the waters in His cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name, and what is the name of His Son— surely you know! 5Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. 6Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you and prove you a liar.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Relating to Relevant Authority
By A.W. Tozer3.8K38:41AuthorityPRO 30:5ISA 1:18MAT 11:28LUK 16:19ROM 10:9EPH 2:8REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and authority of the word of God. He compares it to a beautiful invitation from God himself, not a decision made by religious leaders. The preacher encourages listeners to enter into a personal relationship with God through the word, promising forgiveness, guidance, and strength. He quotes several Bible verses that highlight God's mercy, the invitation to come to him for rest, and the promise of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
(Guidelines) Inspiration Ii
By J. Vernon McGee3.1K01:43Biblical InspirationAuthority of ScripturePSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 5:18JHN 10:35ROM 15:41TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:21J. Vernon McGee emphasizes the concept of verbal plenary inspiration, asserting that every word of the Scriptures is divinely inspired and authoritative. He references early Church Fathers like Irenaeus and Augustine to support the belief that the Scriptures are perfect and cannot err. McGee encourages believers to recognize the Bible as the voice of God, which speaks directly to our hearts and lives. He also indicates the importance of understanding illumination and interpretation in relation to Scripture, aiming to clarify these concepts further in his sermon.
God's Truth About Satan's Lies
By Russell Kelfer3.0K40:41Satan's LiesPSA 19:7PRO 30:5MAT 6:33ROM 13:1EPH 6:121TI 3:16HEB 12:62PE 3:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the four things that Satan cannot stand: absolute truth, God-derived authority, understanding of the spiritual battle, and recognition of Satan's open and fierce battle since the cross. The preacher uses the analogy of a prisoner facing execution to illustrate Satan's desperation as the end approaches. The timeline of Satan's life is examined, highlighting his fall, conflict with Eve, and lies he spreads. The importance of rejecting Satan's lies and embracing the infallible Word of God is emphasized, along with the nine areas of conflict and the corresponding lies and truths discussed throughout the sermon.
About Leonard Ravenhill Video
By Leonard Ravenhill2.1K01:13PSA 3:3PSA 18:2PSA 91:4PRO 30:5EPH 6:16This sermon emphasizes the power of God's protection and provision in our lives, highlighting the importance of trusting in God's plan rather than seeking external prayers. It delves into the concept of being God's beloved children and the shield of His protection, drawing parallels between David facing Goliath with God as his shield and protector.
The Ideal of the Puritan Hearers
By J.I. Packer1.7K52:14DEU 4:2PSA 119:11PRO 30:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the role of a man named Varsius as a guide in difficult places. Varsius is described as someone who knows and reveals dark things to sinners, and who is dedicated to his master's service. The preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering Varsius' picture as he is the authorized guide in the journey. The sermon also touches on the philosophy of England's national vocation and the belief that God is working in England to bring about a Reformation and create a holy church and people.
Knowing the Bible
By Bob Jennings1.5K10:18JOS 1:8PSA 119:11PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 24:35COL 3:162TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:22REV 22:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of being rich in the Word of God, knowing it intimately, and allowing it to dwell in us richly for wisdom and transformation. It highlights the significance of the Bible in salvation, its self-authenticating nature, and the power it holds to change lives, nations, and conquer sin. The message stresses the eternal and infallible nature of God's Word, urging believers to invest in it wholeheartedly and prioritize its study and application in their lives.
Audio Sermon: (1 Peter - Part 31): Christian's Trial and His Committal
By A.W. Tozer1.1K26:15PRO 30:5JHN 14:6EPH 4:142TI 4:31JN 4:1This sermon focuses on the importance of adhering to correct doctrine and avoiding false teachings, emphasizing the need to have a right concept of God, ourselves, sin, and Christ. It stresses the significance of conforming to the truth revealed in the Bible and not altering it. The speaker highlights the consequences of falsifying spiritual data and the necessity of staying true to God's attributes and teachings.
The Revolution of the Love / Die Revolution Der Liebe - Part 4
By George Verwer1.0K28:43JOB 1:21PRO 1:7PRO 3:5PRO 5:18PRO 6:16PRO 30:5ACT 13:2In this sermon, the speaker shares two stories from their ministry experiences. The first story is about two women who found it difficult to receive encouragement because the speaker reminded them of Adolf Hitler. The second story is about an older man who was impatient during a long sermon and started waving his watch. The speaker used this moment to emphasize the importance of giving for world missions. The sermon also touches on topics such as the ministry of encouragement, the need for prayer and giving, the example of Paul and Barnabas in Acts 13, and the importance of developing biblical wisdom and faith. The speaker also shares their personal struggles with discouragement and the need to rely on God's grace and the Word of God. The sermon concludes with a call to make a commitment to live in the highway of grace, develop biblical relationships, and have a biblical theology of suffering.
Jesus Reigns Supreme - Part 2
By Erlo Stegen9091:17:00God's RuleJOS 1:8PSA 119:11PRO 30:5MAT 6:33REV 19:15In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a young man who turned to the Lord and confessed his sins before being hanged. The young man's parents witnessed his silence and were deeply affected by the experience. The speaker then emphasizes the importance of keeping promises made to the Lord and repenting if a wrong promise is made. The sermon also touches on the concept of God's power and reign, drawing parallels to Napoleon's self-coronation.
Reading the Bible
By John Vissers72331:31Bible ReadingJOS 1:8PSA 119:105PRO 30:5MAT 6:33JHN 1:12TI 3:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of engaging with the Word of God. He encourages listeners to not just be tourists, but explorers in the Bible, investing their lives in studying, memorizing, and meditating on it. The preacher acknowledges that it may be discouraging when we feel like we're not retaining what we read, but reminds us that the Word of God still has a transformative power in our lives. He compares reading the Bible to taking vitamins, emphasizing the long-term benefits rather than expecting an immediate jolt of excitement. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God to prepare our hearts to receive His Word and for us to obey His will.
How We Got Our Bible, What Translation Is Best?
By Shane Idleman58351:15PSA 119:105PRO 3:5PRO 30:5MAT 17:21ROM 10:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:222PE 1:20This sermon delves into the importance of understanding the different translations of the Bible, addressing the controversy surrounding various versions and the impact of translation choices on interpretation. It emphasizes the need for Christians to be well-versed in the Word of God to discern truth and avoid unnecessary division within the body of Christ.
Homiletics: Rightly Handling Scripture - Part 5
By Tim Conway44530:44PRO 30:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of handling Scripture accurately and seeking perfection in articulating the truth of God. It discusses the credibility of preachers when presenting information, the need for precise handling of Scripture, and the impact of making inaccurate statements on the listeners' perception and understanding of God's Word.
Be Sure of His Promises
By Charles E. Cowman0NUM 23:191CH 17:23PSA 18:30PSA 119:140PRO 30:5ROM 4:21HEB 10:232PE 1:4Charles E. Cowman preaches on the power of claiming God's promises in prayer, emphasizing the importance of being specific and confident in our requests, based on the certainty of God's faithfulness. He highlights the beauty and strength of standing on the written Word of God, confidently declaring, 'Do as Thou hast said,' knowing that God will fulfill His promises without fail.
The Book of Books
By Selwyn Hughes0PSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:82TI 3:162PE 1:21Selwyn Hughes emphasizes the eternal nature of God's Word, contrasting it with the temporary nature of earthly things. He delves into the concept of the Bible being 'inspired' and presents five views: natural inspiration, partial inspiration, dictational inspiration, verbal inspiration, and supervisal inspiration. Hughes aligns with the supervisal inspiration view, believing that every word in the Bible came from God and that the writers were guided by the Holy Spirit to ensure accuracy and honesty in their writings.
God's Word Stands Forever
By A.W. Tozer0Authority of ScriptureTimeless TruthPSA 119:89PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 24:35JHN 17:17ROM 15:42TI 3:16HEB 13:81PE 1:252PE 1:20A.W. Tozer emphasizes the enduring truth of God's Word, arguing against the modern tendency to reinterpret Scripture in light of contemporary beliefs and societal changes. He calls for a reformation in the faith of Christians, urging them to affirm the Bible's relevance and authority rather than viewing it as outdated or mistaken. Tozer critiques the notion that the teachings of the prophets and apostles are no longer applicable, asserting that God's truth remains constant and unchanging despite cultural shifts. He challenges believers to reject the idea that the Bible needs to be reassessed and to stand firm in their faith in its timeless message.
God's Great Masterpiece
By Selwyn Hughes0PSA 119:105PRO 30:5JHN 10:352TI 3:162PE 1:21Selwyn Hughes emphasizes the unbreakable nature of Scripture in John 10:35, affirming his belief in the supervisal inspiration of the Bible. He explains that God guided the writers of Scripture to ensure accuracy and truth, protecting them from error and deceit. Hughes compares the divine authorship of the Bible to the construction of St. Paul's Cathedral, where various workers contributed but the ultimate masterpiece belonged to Sir Christopher Wren. Ultimately, Hughes asserts that while humans like Moses, David, and Paul physically wrote the Bible, it is truly God's Word.
The "Gospel" of Barnabas
By Paul Bramsen0PSA 19:7PSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 24:35JHN 14:6ACT 10:432TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 1:25Paul Bramsen delivers a sermon debunking the authenticity of the 'Gospel of Barnabas,' emphasizing that believing in this 'gospel' contradicts both the Holy Bible and the Koran, making it impossible to be a true Muslim or Christian. He explains the historical context behind the accusation of the Bible being changed, highlighting the impossibility of such claims due to the preservation of ancient Bible manuscripts. Bramsen addresses the scientific and geographical inaccuracies in the 'Gospel of Barnabas,' proving its lack of credibility and reinforcing the importance of standing firm on the truth of the Bible, especially regarding Jesus Christ.
Distorting Word Meaning
By A.W. Tozer0Theological ClarityImportance of Language in FaithPRO 30:51CO 14:33A.W. Tozer addresses the alarming trend of distorting biblical word meanings, emphasizing that the misuse of religious terms often occurs without malicious intent. He warns that the shift in meaning of key theological words over generations can lead to confusion and misunderstanding within the church. Tozer stresses the necessity of maintaining fixed meanings for biblical terms to ensure clarity and unity in faith. He critiques the modern approach of simplifying Christian doctrine for broader appeal, arguing that it has only compounded religious confusion rather than alleviating it.
The Reckless Penknife
By T. De Witt Talmage0PSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:8JER 36:23MAT 24:35JHN 1:1ROM 10:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12REV 22:18T. DeWitt Talmage preaches about the importance of honoring and respecting the Word of God, using the story of King Jehoiakim cutting up the scroll with his penknife as a cautionary tale. He emphasizes the impossibility of destroying the Word of God and the consequences of rejecting or altering it. Talmage challenges the audience to accept the Bible in its entirety, highlighting its divine wisdom and the futility of trying to undermine its authority. He warns against infidelity and the dangers of disregarding the Bible's teachings, urging listeners to embrace its truths and find solace and guidance in its promises.
Books Which Will Never Die
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 119:89PRO 30:5ISA 26:14ISA 40:8MAT 24:35JHN 1:12TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 1:24REV 22:18J.C. Philpot discusses the enduring impact of certain books that contain the seeds of self-renewing life, contrasting them with the vast majority that fade into obscurity. He highlights the importance of books that appeal to the universal aspects of human nature, whether secular or spiritual, as they transcend time and remain imperishable. Philpot emphasizes the significance of the Bible, which stands the test of time against all attacks and remains as the eternal word of God, unlike the works of infidel writers that are destined for oblivion.
Talmudic Revisionism and the Struggle for Authority
By Robert Wurtz II0DEU 4:2PRO 30:5ISA 29:13MAT 15:3JHN 1:142CO 3:14Robert Wurtz II delves into the deep-rooted deception of the Rabbi's total authority in Rabbinic Judaism, where they exalted themselves above even God, creating a vicious circle of control through the Oral Law and later the Talmud. This deception obstructs Jews from recognizing Christ for who He truly is, as they were indoctrinated to believe in the ultimate authority of the Rabbi's, surpassing that of God Himself. The Rabbi's distorted the original meaning of the Torah with traditions and doctrines, rendering the Word of God almost meaningless in a literal sense, akin to a shield that blocks the light within the Law from transforming the soul.
The Christian Book
By Olin Alfred Curtis0PSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 24:35JHN 5:39ROM 15:4EPH 6:172TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 1:23Olin Alfred Curtis delves into the deep theological discussions surrounding the authority, inspiration, and extent of the Bible. He explores the different theories of biblical inspiration, emphasizing the importance of the Bible as the ultimate authority on Christ, redemption, and Christian conduct. Curtis highlights the dynamic stages in the authority of the Bible, from moral experience to Christian fellowship, and addresses the regions of liberty in biblical interpretation. He concludes with a comprehensive indorsement theory, asserting that the Bible is the Word of God due to its integral role in the historic process of redemption and its ongoing relevance to Christian consciousness.
The Bible Above All Price
By Edward Payson0PSA 19:7PSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 55:11MAT 24:35JHN 5:39ROM 15:42TI 3:16HEB 4:12Edward Payson preaches about the importance of valuing and distributing the Sacred Scriptures, emphasizing the connection between treasuring the Bible personally and sharing it with others. He highlights the immense value of the Bible as a revelation from heaven and as a human composition, citing testimonies from eminent individuals like Sir William Jones. Payson underscores the historical, moral, and intellectual significance of the Bible, urging listeners to recognize its unrivaled eloquence, sublimity, and impact on various aspects of life. He stresses the intrinsic excellencies of the Bible, its great antiquity, the opposition it has faced, the veneration it has received, and the benefits derived from it by the wise and good throughout history.
A Nervous Unstable Segment
By Vance Havner0Modernism vs. FaithTruth of ScripturePSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 24:35JHN 17:17ACT 17:212TI 3:7HEB 4:121PE 1:242PE 1:20Vance Havner addresses the nervous and unstable segment of the religious community that is constantly seeking new interpretations and trends, much like the Athenians in Paul's time. He critiques the tendency to judge the Bible through the lens of contemporary philosophies and sciences, arguing instead that these should be evaluated in the light of Scripture. Havner emphasizes the importance of returning to the foundational truths of the Bible rather than allowing it to be subjected to the whims of modern thought. He calls for a focus on delivering the core message of the Word to those who are spiritually hungry, rather than getting caught up in theological debates. Ultimately, he urges believers to trust in the timeless truth of the Scriptures rather than the ever-changing opinions of man.
Divine Jealousy for the Truth
By Horatius Bonar0Divine TruthAccountability to GodPSA 119:160PRO 30:5ISA 40:8JER 5:3MAT 24:35JHN 14:6ROM 3:42TI 3:16HEB 13:81JN 2:21Horatius Bonar emphasizes God's divine jealousy for the truth, asserting that His eyes are constantly watching over it to guard and maintain it. He explains that there is only one standard of truth, which is definite, universal, and found in the Bible, and that God holds humanity accountable to this standard. Bonar warns against the laxity of thought in contemporary society, urging individuals to believe in the truth rather than speculate. He calls for a commitment to truthfulness in thought and action, reminding listeners that the day will come when truth will be exalted and error will be condemned. Ultimately, Bonar encourages everyone to align their beliefs with God's unwavering standard of truth.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
5 Every word of Eloah is pure; A shield is He for those who hide themselves in Him. 6 Add thou not to His words, Lest He convict thee and thou becomest a liar. Although the tetrastich is an independent proverb, yet it is connected to the foregoing Neûm [utterance, Pro 30:1]. The more limited a man is in his knowledge of God - viz. in that which presents itself to him lumine naturae, - so much the more thankful must he be that God has revealed Himself in history, and so much the more firmly has he to hold fast by the pure word of the divine revelation. In the dependent relation of Pro 30:5 to Psa 18:31 (Sa2 22:31), and of Pro 30:6 to Deu 4:2, there is no doubt the self-testimony of God given to Israel, and recorded in the book of the Tôra, is here meant. כּל־אמרת is to be judged after πᾶσα γραφή, Ti2 3:16, not: every declaration of God, wherever promulgated, but: every declaration within the revelation lying before us. The primary passage Psa 18:31 has not כל here, but, instead of it, לכל החסים, and instead of אמרת אלוהּ it has יהוה 'אם; his change of the name of Jahve is also not favourable to the opinion that Pro 30:5. is a part of the Neûm, viz., that it is the answer thereto. The proverb in this contains traces of the Book of Job, with which in many respects that Neûm harmonizes; in the Book of Job, אלוהּ (with שׁדּי) is the prevailing name of God; whereas in the Book of Proverbs it occurs only in the passage before us. Mhlau, p. 41, notes it as an Arabism. צרף (Arab. ṣaraf, to turn, to change) is the usual word for the changing process of smelting; צרוּף signifies solid, pure, i.e., purified by separating: God's word is, without exception, like pure, massive gold. Regarding חסה, to hide oneself, vid., under Psa 2:12;: God is a shield for those who make Him, as revealed in His word, their refuge. The part. חסה occurs, according to the Masora, three times written defectively, - Pro 14:32; Sa2 22:31; Neh 1:7; in the passage before us it is to be written לחוסים; the proverbs of Agur and Lemuel have frequently the plena scriptio of the part. act. Kal, as well as of the fut. Kal, common to the Book of Job (vid., Mhlau, p. 65). In 6a, after Aben Ezra's Moznajim 2b (11b of Heidenheim's edition), and Zachoth 53a (cf. Lipmann's ed.), and other witnesses (vid., Norzi), t sp (the ף with dagesh) is to be written, - the Cod. Jaman. and others defect. without ו, - not tôsf; for, since תּוסף (Exo 10:28) is yet further abbreviated in this way, it necessarily loses (Note: That both Shevas in tôsp are quiesc., vid., Kimchi, Michlol 155 a b, who is finally decided as to this. That the word should be read tôspe'al is the opinion of Chagg in הנוח 'ס (regarding the quiesc. letters), p. 6 of the Ed. by Dukes-Ewald.) the aspiration of the tenuis, as in ילדתּ (= ילדת). The words of God are the announcements of His holy will, measured by His wisdom; they are then to be accepted as they are, and to be recognised and obeyed. He who adds anything to them, either by an overstraining of them or by repressing them, will not escape the righteous judgment of God: God will convict him of falsifying His word (הוכיח, Psa 50:21; only here with ב of the obj.), and expose him as a liar - viz. by the dispensations which unmask the falsifier as such, and make manifest the falsehood of his doctrines as dangerous to souls and destructive to society. An example of this is found in the kingdom of Israel, in the destruction of which the curse of the human institution of its state religion, set up by Jeroboam, had no little share. Also the Jewish traditional law, although in itself necessary for the carrying over of the law into the praxis of private and public life, falls under the Deuteron. prohibition - which the poet here repeats - so far as it claimed for itself the same divine authority as that of the written law, and so far as it hindered obedience to the law - by the straining-at-a-gnat policy - and was hostile to piety. Or, to adduce an example of an addition more dogmatic than legal, what a fearful impulse was given to fleshly security by that overstraining of the promises in Gen 17, which were connected with circumcision by the tradition, "the circumcised come not into hell," or by the overstraining of the prerogative attributed by Paul, Rom 9:4., to his people according to the Scriptures, in the principle, "All Israelites have a part in the future world!" Regarding the accentuation of the perf. consec. after פּן, vid., at Psa 28:1. The penultima accent is always in pausa (cf. Pro 30:9 and Pro 30:10).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Psa 12:6; Psa 119:140).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every word of God is pure,.... The whole word of God. "All Scripture", given by inspiration of God, to which Agur directs, as giving the best account of God, of his name, nature, and perfections; of his Son, person, offices, and grace; being pure, very pure, "purified" (z) like silver, purified in a furnace of earth. The whole of Scripture is pure, free from all falsehood and error; coming from the God of truth, who cannot lie, and therefore called "the Scriptures of truth": every promise is pure as well as precious, made without dissimulation, faithfully performed, and all yea and amen in Christ; every doctrine is pure, free from the mixtures and inventions of men; the sincere milk of the word; consistent and all of a piece, not yea and nay; and tending to promote purity of heart and life; wholesome words, and doctrines according to godliness; see Psa 12:6; he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him; not the word, but God, whose the word is; and which represents him as a proper object of trust, both with respect to things temporal and spiritual, at all times; and as a shield to protect such, by his power and grace, from all their enemies, sin, Satan, and the world, and also from all errors and false doctrines; see Psa 3:3. (z) "purgatus", Pagninus, Montanus, Tigurine version, Gejerus; "purgatissimus", Junius & Tremellius; Heb. "conflatus", Piscator, Mercerus, Cocceius, Schultens.