Both the parts of this verse repeat what has been often said, but, on
comparing them together, the sense of them will be enlarged from each
other. 1. Be it observed, to the honour of a virtuous young man, that
he loves wisdom, he is a philosopher (for that signifies a lover of
wisdom), for religion is the best philosophy; he avoids bad company,
and especially the company of lewd women. Hereby he rejoices his
parents, and has the satisfaction of being a comfort to them, and
increases his estate, and is likely to live comfortably. 2. Be it
observed, to the reproach of a vicious young man, that he hates wisdom;
he keeps company with scandalous women, who will be his ruin, both in
soul and body; he grieves his parents, and, like the prodigal son,
devours their living with harlots. Nothing will beggar men sooner than
the lusts of uncleanness; and the best preservative from those ruinous
lusts is wisdom.