Proverbs 12: Wisdom shows up in the unfinished work

Chapter 12 keeps testing appearances against what conduct actually produces. Love of knowledge is measured by willingness to receive reproof, and the stability of a house grows from inward roots before it becomes visible architecture. Public reputation is punctured by the person who honors himself while lacking bread. Righteousness is noticed in treatment of animals as well as in speech, planning, and work. The tongue receives especially vivid contrasts: it can pierce like a sword or bring health, speak truth that lasts or release deceit that quickly exposes itself. Diligence is also measured at the finish, not just the start. A hunter may catch something and still fail to turn effort into provision. The chapter closes by gathering truthful dealing, restrained speech, useful labor, and completed work into the path of life.