Proverbs 18:16 (BSB)

A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men.

From Proverbs 18. Also in the ESV.

Commentary on Proverbs 18:16

• Matthew Henry (Presbyterian), Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on Proverbs 18:16: Of what great force gifts (that is, bribes) are he had intimated before, Pro 17:8, Pro 17:23. Here he shows the power of gifts, that is, presents made even by inferiors to those that are above them and have much more than they have. A good present will go far, 1.
• John Gill (Reformed Baptist), Exposition of the Old and New Testaments on Proverbs 18:16: A man's gift maketh room for him,.... Or "enlarges him" (y); brings him out of prison, or, or out of straits and difficulties with which he, has, been pressed; or it makes way for him to a judge, and for a favourable hearing of his cause; or it enlarges his acquaintance, and gains him respect among men; and bringeth him before great men; it opens...
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown (Reformed), Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible on Proverbs 18:16: (Compare Pro 17:8, Pro 17:23). Disapproval of the fact stated is implied.
• Geneva Bible Notes (Reformed), Geneva Bible Study Notes on Proverbs 18:16: A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. (i) Gets him liberty to speak, and the favour of them that are esteemed.