¶ [As] the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so [is] a man to his praise.
As the fining pot {H4715} for silver {H3701}, and the furnace {H3564} for gold {H2091}; so is a man {H376} to {H6310} his praise {H4110}.
The crucible [tests] silver, and the furnace [tests] gold, but a person [is tested] by [his reaction to] praise.
A crucible for silver and a furnace for gold, but a man is tested by the praise accorded him.
The refining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold; And a man istriedby his praise.
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Proverbs 17:3
¶ The fining pot [is] for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts. -
Zechariah 13:9
And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It [is] my people: and they shall say, The LORD [is] my God. -
Psalms 66:10
For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried. -
Malachi 3:3
And he shall sit [as] a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness. -
1 Peter 1:7
That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: -
1 Peter 4:12
¶ Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: -
2 Samuel 14:25
But in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as Absalom for his beauty: from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him.
Proverbs 27:21 offers a profound analogy from ancient metallurgy to illustrate how a person's character is revealed by how they handle praise. Just as intense heat purifies silver and gold, separating precious metal from dross, so too does the reception of commendation expose the true nature of one's heart.
Context
The book of Proverbs is a rich collection of wisdom sayings, often using vivid imagery from daily life to teach moral and spiritual truths. This particular proverb fits within a section that emphasizes the importance of integrity, self-control, and understanding human nature. It follows verses that speak about the importance of genuine friendship and the testing of individuals. The imagery of the "fining pot" and "furnace" was very familiar in ancient Israel, as metallurgy was a vital craft. This verse highlights that external validation, while seemingly positive, serves as a powerful internal test of a person's character.
Key Themes
The Test of Praise
Praise acts as a spiritual crucible. While criticism or adversity can test resilience, praise tests humility and integrity. It reveals whether a person's identity is rooted in external validation or in their genuine character before God. A truly humble person receives praise gracefully but remains grounded, perhaps even redirecting glory. In contrast, a proud person might become inflated, self-satisfied, or even disdainful of others. This idea resonates with how faith is tested by fire, refining it to be more precious than gold.
Revelation of Character
The proverb suggests that praise doesn't change a person's character but rather exposes it. It brings to light what is truly within. A person who is genuinely humble will remain so, even when lauded, while one who is prone to pride will have that tendency amplified and revealed. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks and actions flow, revealing one's true nature.
The Danger of Pride
The implicit warning in this verse is against the intoxicating effect of praise. If not handled with humility and a proper perspective, praise can lead to arrogance, self-exaltation, and a distorted view of oneself. This echoes the many warnings against pride throughout Proverbs, such as "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall."
Linguistic Insight
The Hebrew word for "praise" here is tehillah (תְּהִלָּה), which can refer to commendation, glory, or even a song of praise. Its usage in this context emphasizes the *spoken* or *received* commendation that a person encounters. The terms "fining pot" (matzref - מַצְרֵף) and "furnace" (kur - כּוּר) vividly describe the intense heat and refining process, highlighting the severity and effectiveness of the test.
Practical Application
This verse serves as a crucial reminder for how we both give and receive praise in our daily lives:
Conclusion
Proverbs 27:21 is a timeless piece of wisdom that uses a relatable metaphor to teach a profound truth about human character. It underscores that praise is not merely a pleasant experience but a powerful test, revealing whether one's foundation is built on humility and integrity or on the shifting sands of vanity.