What does this quote mean?

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

Good relationships can improve judgment and character through challenge, conversation, and mutual influence.

Source note: Proverbs 15:1 in the King James Version; the proverb contrasts a soft answer with speech that intensifies wrath.

“To err is human; to forgive, divine.”

Error is treated as ordinary human limitation, while forgiveness requires an additional act of generosity.

Source note: An Essay on Criticism, Part II; Pope warns that shallow learning can produce premature confidence before deeper study tempers judgment.

“Fair weather friends are not worth much.”

Friendship that exists only while circumstances are easy has little value when loyalty is actually tested by difficulty.

Source note: Moral printed after “The Swallow and the Crow” in the Townsend translation of the fables.

“Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.”

Listening broadly while speaking selectively is presented as a practical discipline for judgment, relationships, and self-control.

Source note: Act 1, Scene 3; Polonius advises Laertes before his departure.

“Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:”

The proverb treats repeated fury as socially contagious, warning that close association can shape habits and judgment.

Source note: Proverbs 22:24 in the King James Version; the next verse warns that a person can learn the ways of the habitually angry.

“The readiness is all.”

The emphasis is not on controlling every outcome but on meeting what comes with preparedness and acceptance.

Source note: Act 5, Scene 2.