This verse from Proverbs 20:14, "“It’s no good, it’s no good,” says the buyer; but when he is gone his way, then he boasts," describes a common haggling tactic. Here's a breakdown:
"“It’s no good, it’s no good,” says the buyer": This portrays a buyer who heavily criticizes the quality or value of a product. They exaggerate its flaws to try and drive the price down. They might say things like "This is too old," "It's not the right color," or "I could find it cheaper somewhere else."
"but when he is gone his way, then he boasts": Once the buyer successfully negotiates a lower price and walks away with the item, they brag about the great deal they got. They might tell others how cleverly they bargained and how they were able to get such a good price despite the "poor quality" they initially claimed.
The underlying meaning/interpretation:
The proverb points to the hypocrisy and dishonesty in some business transactions. The buyer is insincere and manipulative in their approach. They aren't truly judging the item's worth, but rather feigning dissatisfaction to exploit the seller. The boasting afterward highlights the buyer's pride in their deception rather than genuine satisfaction with the product itself.
Key takeaways:
Deceptive practices: It reveals a common, and perhaps timeless, tactic used in bartering.
Moral judgment: It implicitly condemns this behavior, suggesting that honesty and integrity are more virtuous than trickery.
Human nature: It provides insight into human nature and the desire to get a perceived advantage in transactions, even if it means being dishonest.
Perspective: It reminds us to be wary of those who excessively criticize something they ultimately want to purchase.
In essence, Proverbs 20:14 is a cautionary observation on human behavior, warning against the deceitful tactics some people employ in pursuit of a good bargain and highlighting the importance of ethical dealing.
This verse from Proverbs 20:14, "“It’s no good, it’s no good,” says the buyer; but when he is gone his way, then he boasts," describes a common haggling tactic. Here's a breakdown:
"“It’s no good, it’s no good,” says the buyer": This portrays a buyer who heavily criticizes the quality or value of a product. They exaggerate its flaws to try and drive the price down. They might say things like "This is too old," "It's not the right color," or "I could find it cheaper somewhere else."
"but when he is gone his way, then he boasts": Once the buyer successfully negotiates a lower price and walks away with the item, they brag about the great deal they got. They might tell others how cleverly they bargained and how they were able to get such a good price despite the "poor quality" they initially claimed.
The underlying meaning/interpretation:
The proverb points to the hypocrisy and dishonesty in some business transactions. The buyer is insincere and manipulative in their approach. They aren't truly judging the item's worth, but rather feigning dissatisfaction to exploit the seller. The boasting afterward highlights the buyer's pride in their deception rather than genuine satisfaction with the product itself.
Key takeaways:
Deceptive practices: It reveals a common, and perhaps timeless, tactic used in bartering.
Moral judgment: It implicitly condemns this behavior, suggesting that honesty and integrity are more virtuous than trickery.
Human nature: It provides insight into human nature and the desire to get a perceived advantage in transactions, even if it means being dishonest.
Perspective: It reminds us to be wary of those who excessively criticize something they ultimately want to purchase.
In essence, Proverbs 20:14 is a cautionary observation on human behavior, warning against the deceitful tactics some people employ in pursuit of a good bargain and highlighting the importance of ethical dealing.