“How Do You Like My New Dress?”

(Proverbs 29:5 KJV)  A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.

Whom does flattery trap?  Who is the “he” of this verse?  Who is being warned?

I think this is a warning for both sides.  Today consider the one who “flatters” (2505b).  It would seem that flattery is wrong in this context.  I can’t be totally sure.  Maybe your neighbor needs to be trapped.  But this is not a glowing testimony.

The word has a root meaning of “smooth, slippery.”  I get a picture in my mind of the snake oil salesman who has the glib tongue.  He will say anything to make the sale.  There is an obvious inference of a lack of honesty. 

So?  Be restrained when it comes to flattery.  Our calling is to righteousness and this type of compliment is based on deception.  Simple straight speech is our way.  Of course that brings up the question of how you like your wife’s new dress.