Proverbs 12:2 - Exposition

A good man. The word is general, the particular virtue intended being often modified by the context. In view of the contrast in the second clause, it means here "pure," "straightforward." having a heart free from evil thoughts. As the psalm says, "Surely God is good to Israel, even to such as are pure in heart" ( Psalms 73:1 ). Obtaineth favour of the Lord ( Proverbs 8:35 ); Septuagint, "Better is he who findeth favour from the Lord." A man of wicked devices ( Proverbs 14:17 ); one whose thoughts are perverse and artful. Will he —Jehovah— condemn ; Vulgate, "He who trusts to his imaginations doeth wickedly;" Septuagint, "A man that is a sinner shall be passed over in silence ( παρασιωπηθήσεται )."