1 A false balance [is] abomination to the LORD: but a just weight [is] his delight.
2 [When] pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly [is] wisdom.
3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.
4 Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.
5 The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.
6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in [their own] naughtiness.
7 When a wicked man dieth, [his] expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust [men] perisheth.
8 The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.
9 An hypocrite with [his] mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.
10 When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, [there is] shouting.
11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
12 He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.
14 Where no counsel [is], the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellers [there is] safety.
15 He that is surety for a stranger shall smart [for it]: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.
16 A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong [men] retain riches.
17 The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but [he that is] cruel troubleth his own flesh.
18 The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness [shall be] a sure reward.
19 As righteousness [tendeth] to life: so he that pursueth evil [pursueth it] to his own death.
20 They that are of a froward heart [are] abomination to the LORD: but [such as are] upright in [their] way [are] his delight.
21 [Though] hand [join] in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.
22 [As] a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, [so is] a fair woman which is without discretion.
23 The desire of the righteous [is] only good: [but] the expectation of the wicked [is] wrath.
24 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and [there is] that withholdeth more than is meet, but [it tendeth] to poverty.
25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
26 He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing [shall be] upon the head of him that selleth [it].
27 He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.
28 He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.
29 He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool [shall be] servant to the wise of heart.
30 The fruit of the righteous [is] a tree of life; and he that winneth souls [is] wise.
31 Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.
Overview of Proverbs 11
Proverbs 11 is a chapter that emphasizes the contrast between righteousness and wickedness, providing wisdom on moral conduct, the consequences of one’s actions, and the importance of integrity and honesty. The chapter is structured around various proverbs that highlight the benefits of living a righteous life while warning against the pitfalls of wickedness.
Thematic Elements
- Righteousness vs. Wickedness: The chapter frequently contrasts the outcomes of the righteous and the wicked, illustrating the blessings that come from living a just life.
- Integrity and Honesty: Proverbs 11 emphasizes the importance of honesty in dealings and the value of maintaining one’s integrity.
- Consequences of Actions: The text illustrates that actions have repercussions, both for the individual and for the community.
- Wealth and Generosity: The relationship between wealth and generosity is explored, highlighting the idea that sharing with others leads to greater blessings.
Key Verses and Their Analysis
- Verse 1: “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.”
This verse sets the tone for the chapter, emphasizing the importance of honesty in trade and business. It suggests that God values fairness and integrity over deceit.
- Verse 2: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
This proverb highlights the dangers of pride and the value of humility. It suggests that true wisdom is found in recognizing one’s limitations and being open to learning.
- Verse 4: “Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.”
This verse contrasts material wealth with moral integrity, indicating that in times of crisis, righteousness is far more valuable than riches.
- Verse 11: “Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.”
This highlights the communal impact of individual behavior, suggesting that the righteousness of individuals can elevate an entire community, while wickedness can lead to its downfall.
- Verse 25: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
This verse emphasizes the cyclical nature of generosity, suggesting that those who give to others will ultimately receive blessings in return.
Moral Lessons
- Value of Honesty: The chapter teaches that honesty in all dealings is essential for a good life and is favored by God.
- Humility is Key: It encourages humility as a pathway to wisdom, suggesting that pride leads to downfall.
- Community Impact: Individual actions can have a broader impact on society, reinforcing the idea that personal integrity contributes to communal well-being.
- Consequences of Wickedness: The chapter warns that wickedness leads to destruction, both personally and collectively.
- Generosity Brings Blessings: The text promotes the idea that being generous not only helps others but also enriches one’s own life.
Conclusion
Proverbs 11 serves as a guide to ethical living, emphasizing the importance of righteousness, integrity, and generosity. The chapter’s teachings are timeless, offering wisdom that remains relevant in contemporary discussions about morality and ethics. By contrasting the outcomes of the righteous and the wicked, it encourages readers to reflect on their own actions and their potential impact on themselves and their communities.
