King James Version

What Does Proverbs 27:18 Mean?

“Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.”

Context

Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.

As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.

Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied. never: Heb. not

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(18) **Whoso keepeth the fig-tree—***i.e., *tends it carefully year after year, “shall eat the fruit thereof” when it has come to perfection. **So he that waiteth on his master—***i.e.*, attends to him, observes and follows out his wishes, “shall be honoured” for his good service. (Comp. Matthew 25:21.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 27:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.