[27:1] 1 tn The form אַל־תִּתְהַלֵּל (’al-tithallel) is the Hitpael jussive negated; it is from the common verb “to praise,” and so in this setting means “to praise oneself” or “to boast.”
[27:1] sn The verse rules out one’s overconfident sense of ability to control the future. No one can presume on the future.
[27:1] 2 sn The word “tomorrow” is a metonymy of subject, meaning what will be done tomorrow, or in the future in general.
[27:1] 3 sn The expression “you do not know” balances the presumption of the first line, reminding the disciple of his ignorance and therefore his need for humility (e.g., Matt 6:34; Luke 12:20; Jas 4:13-16).
[27:2] 4 tn Heb “a stranger.” This does not necessarily refer to a non-Israelite, as has been demonstrated before in the book of Proverbs, but these are people outside the familiar and accepted circles. The point is that such a person would be objective in speaking about your abilities and accomplishments.
[27:2] 5 sn “Mouth” and “lips” are metonymies of cause; they mean “what is said.” People should try to avoid praising themselves. Self praise can easily become a form of pride, even if it begins with trivial things. It does not establish a reputation; reputation comes from what others think about you.
[27:2] 6 tn “a foreigner”; KJV, ASV, NASB, NRSV “a stranger.”
