God's Sovereignty Over Human Plans
Proverbs 16:1-33
Pro.16.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לאדם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מערכי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- לב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומיהוה: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מענה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לשון: NOUN,f,sg,constr
Parallels
- Prov.16:9 (verbal): Same contrast: human hearts form plans but the LORD determines/establishes the outcome of one's steps—close verbal and conceptual parallel within Proverbs.
- Prov.19:21 (verbal): Reiterates the theme that many are a man's plans, but the counsel/plan of the LORD stands—emphasizes God's overruling of human intentions.
- Jer.10:23 (thematic): Affirms human inability to direct one's own way apart from the LORD, echoing the dependence of speech/outcome on God's will rather than human planning.
- James 4:13-15 (allusion): New Testament admonition against presumptuous planning ('we will do this or that') and instructs to qualify plans with 'If the Lord wills,' reflecting the same sovereignty over human intentions and speech.
Alternative generated candidates
- To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the answer of the tongue.
- To a man belong the purposes of the heart, but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue.
Pro.16.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כל: DET
- דרכי: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,_,sg
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- זך: ADJ,m,sg
- בעיניו: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs+3ms
- ותכן: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- רוחות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 21:2 (verbal): Very close verbal parallel: 'Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the hearts' — same contrast between human self‑assessment and God's judgment of inner motives.
- Proverbs 20:27 (verbal): Uses similar language about the human spirit and God's scrutiny: 'The spirit of man is the lamp of the LORD, searching all his innermost parts,' resonating with 'the LORD weighs the spirits.'
- 1 Samuel 16:7 (thematic): Contrasts human outward judgment with God's inward judgment: 'Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart,' echoing the idea that God assesses inner motives.
- Jeremiah 17:10 (thematic): God declares he searches hearts and tests minds and repays people according to their ways, reflecting the theme that God examines and judges inner intentions.
- Romans 8:27 (allusion): New Testament echo: 'He who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit,' alluding to God's intimate knowledge and weighing of human inner life (paralleling 'the LORD weighs the spirits').
Alternative generated candidates
- Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the spirit.
- Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the spirit.
Pro.16.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- גל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- מעשיך: NOUN,m,pl,abs,2,ms
- ויכנו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- מחשבתיך: NOUN,f,pl,abs,2,m
Parallels
- Psalm 37:5 (verbal): Nearly identical wording: 'Commit your way to the LORD' — both urge entrusting one's actions/ways to God with the promise of divine response.
- Psalm 20:4 (verbal): Prays that God 'give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed,' closely paralleling the promise that committed plans will be established.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 (thematic): Both stress trusting and acknowledging the LORD in one’s ways/work so that God directs, establishes, or makes paths straight.
- Psalm 55:22 (thematic): Encourages casting burdens on the LORD who will sustain—similarly calling for reliance on God rather than self, with assurance of his sustaining/fulfilling action.
Alternative generated candidates
- Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.
- Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.
Pro.16.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כל: DET
- פעל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- למענהו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- וגם: CONJ
- רשע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ליום: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רעה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Isaiah 45:7 (verbal): God speaks of creating both well‑being and calamity—language closely paralleling Proverbs' claim that the LORD makes all things, including disaster for a purpose.
- Romans 9:22–23 (thematic): Paul depicts God as permitting or preparing 'vessels of wrath' for destruction to display his attributes, echoing the idea that the wicked exist for a day of trouble within divine providence.
- Proverbs 16:9 (structural): Same chapter theme of divine sovereignty over human plans—'the heart plans... but the LORD establishes his steps' complements the statement that God ordains outcomes, even of the wicked.
- Proverbs 16:33 (structural): Within Proverbs' teaching on providence: the casting of lots and their outcome come from the LORD, reinforcing the idea that events (including calamity) are under God's control.
Alternative generated candidates
- The LORD has made all things for their purpose—yes, even the wicked for the day of trouble.
- The LORD has made all things for their purpose; even the wicked for the day of trouble.
Pro.16.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- תועבת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- כל: DET
- גבה: ADJ,m,sg
- לב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ליד: PREP
- לא: PART_NEG
- ינקה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Proverbs 6:16-17 (verbal): Both verses use the language of divine hatred/abomination for pride; Proverbs 6 lists 'haughty eyes' among things the LORD hates, closely paralleling the condemnation of a high-minded heart in Prov 16:5.
- Proverbs 16:18 (thematic): Declares that pride precedes destruction—complements Prov 16:5's theme that the proud will not be acquitted but face judgment or downfall.
- Psalm 101:5 (verbal): Speaks of refusing to tolerate or pardon the one with a haughty look and arrogant heart—very similar wording and the idea that the proud are not acceptable before God.
- James 4:6 (thematic): New Testament echo: 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Reflects the same theological principle that God resists proud hearts and honors humility.
- Obadiah 1:3-4 (thematic): Prophetic denunciation of pride—'the pride of your heart has deceived you' and ensuing judgment—parallels Prov 16:5's assertion that the proud will not be cleared despite alliances or mutual support.
Alternative generated candidates
- Pride is an abomination to the LORD; by no means will he let the proud go unpunished.
- Every proud heart is an abomination to the LORD; he will not let the guilty go unpunished.
Pro.16.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- בחסד: PREP
- ואמת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- יכפר: VERB,pi'el,impf,3,m,sg
- עון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וביראת: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- סור: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- מרע: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 3:3 (verbal): 'Do not let mercy and truth forsake you'—uses the same collocation חֶסֶד וֶאֱמֶת (mercy and truth), echoing the moral weight of these virtues.
- Psalm 85:10-11 (thematic): 'Mercy and truth have met together'—portrays mercy and truth as reconciliatory realities, paralleling Prov 16:6's idea that mercy and truth effect atonement/purging of sin.
- Proverbs 8:13 (thematic): 'The fear of the LORD is to hate evil'—directly parallels Prov 16:6's statement that by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil.
- Proverbs 19:23 (thematic): 'The fear of the LORD leads to life; he will rest satisfied and will not be visited by harm'—connects the fear of the LORD with life-preserving avoidance of evil, similar to Prov 16:6.
- Proverbs 20:28 (verbal): 'Loyal love and faithfulness preserve the king' (רְחָמִים־וֶאֱמֶת) — another close pairing of mercy/loyal love and faithfulness/truth, paralleling the verbal formula and its sustaining/atoning function.
Alternative generated candidates
- By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for; by the fear of the LORD one turns from evil.
- By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for; by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil.
Pro.16.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ברצות: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- דרכי: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,_,sg
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- גם: ADV
- אויביו: NOUN,m,pl,abs,poss3ms
- ישלם: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
Parallels
- Proverbs 3:6 (structural): Both promise that when a person acknowledges/pleases the LORD, God directs or makes straight their ways—God ensures the course of a believer's life.
- Proverbs 16:9 (verbal): Closely related theme: human plans are subordinate to the LORD, who establishes a person's steps—emphasizing God's sovereign settling of outcomes.
- Proverbs 21:1 (allusion): God 'turns the heart' of rulers/people like watercourses; this explains how God can even incline enemies to be at peace with one He favors.
- Psalm 37:23 (verbal): ‘The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way’—a near-verbal parallel highlighting divine approval producing settled, blessed outcomes.
Alternative generated candidates
- When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
- When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies be at peace with him.
Pro.16.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- מעט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בצדקה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מרב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תבואות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- בלא: PREP
- משפט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 28:6 (verbal): Closely parallels the wording and idea: integrity/poverty is better than ill-gotten wealth — values righteousness over riches gained by injustice.
- Proverbs 15:16 (verbal): Contrasts 'little' with a godly disposition vs. 'great' treasure with trouble — similarly prefers moral good over abundant possessions.
- Psalm 37:16 (verbal): Near-verbatim theme: the little of the righteous is better than the abundance of the wicked — same evaluative contrast between righteousness and wealth.
- Proverbs 11:4 (thematic): Emphasizes that riches do not deliver in the day of wrath while righteousness does — thematically contrasts the insufficiency of wealth with the value of righteousness.
Alternative generated candidates
- Better a little with righteousness than great revenue with injustice.
- Better is a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice.
Pro.16.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אדם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יחשב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- דרכו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- ויהוה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יכין: PNOUN,m,sg
- צעדו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
Parallels
- Proverbs 16:1 (verbal): Both verses contrast human planning with the LORD’s control — 'plans of the heart' vs. the LORD’s determining response/way.
- Proverbs 19:21 (verbal): Expresses the same idea that many human plans exist but the LORD’s purpose/word ultimately prevails.
- Proverbs 20:24 (verbal): Declares that a person’s steps are from the LORD and questions human understanding of one’s own way, paralleling divine ordering of steps.
- Psalm 37:23 (verbal): Explicitly states that the LORD establishes/ordains a person’s steps, closely echoing the language and thought of Prov 16:9.
- James 4:13-15 (thematic): Advises against confident planning apart from the Lord's will, affirming that human plans are subject to God's sovereign will (If the Lord wills).
Alternative generated candidates
- A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.
- A man's heart devises his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.
Pro.16.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- קסם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- שפתי: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- מלך: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- במשפט: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- ימעל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- פיו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 17:14-20 (structural): Prescriptive instructions for the Israelite king to keep and apply the law, safeguarding upright judgment and preventing the king from erring in governance—a structural background to the proverb's ideal of a king who does not 'err' in judgment.
- Psalm 72:1-4 (thematic): A royal prayer that the king execute justice and righteousness for the poor and oppressed; echoes the proverb's concern that a king's speech and decisions be just and true.
- Isaiah 11:3-4 (allusion): Prophetic portrait of the ideal Davidic ruler who judges with righteousness and faithfulness, striking down injustice—an expanded, prophetic version of the proverb's ideal of unimpeachable royal judgment.
- Proverbs 8:15-16 (verbal): Wisdom addressed as empowering kings and rulers to decree what is right; connects verbally and thematically with the idea that a king's utterance (his judgment) should be guided by wisdom and justice.
Alternative generated candidates
- A king's lips are an oracle in judgment; his mouth must not err in deciding matters.
- An oracle rests on a king's lips; in matters of justice his mouth must not transgress.
Pro.16.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- פלס: VERB,piel,imp,2,m,sg
- ומאזני: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,const
- משפט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- מעשהו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,suf3m
- כל: DET
- אבני: NOUN,f,pl,cons
- כיס: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Prov.11:1 (verbal): Both verses use the language of balances/weights to contrast dishonest measures with the LORD’s standard—Prov 11:1 calls a false balance an abomination and a just weight the LORD’s delight, echoing Prov 16:11's claim that scales belong to the LORD.
- Prov.20:10 (verbal): Explicitly condemns 'diverse weights' and 'diverse measures' as abominable to the LORD, using the same vocabulary and moral concern about honest weights and measures.
- Deut.25:13–16 (verbal): Legal prohibition against keeping differing weights and measures in your bag; close verbal and conceptual overlap with Prov 16:11’s reference to 'the weights of the bag' (avnei-kis) and the demand for honest measures.
- Lev.19:35–36 (structural): Priestly injunction to use accurate scales and measures ('You shall do no wrong in judgment'), providing the legal/ethical background for the proverb’s praise of honest balances as belonging to the LORD.
- Amos 8:5 (allusion): Prophetic denunciation of merchants who falsify measures (making the ephah small and the shekel great) thematically parallels Prov 16:11’s condemnation of dishonest weights and its affirmation of the LORD’s concern for fair measures.
Alternative generated candidates
- Honest scales and balances are the LORD's; all the weights in the bag are his doing.
- Honest scales and balances are the LORD's; all the weights in the bag are his work.
Pro.16.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- תועבת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מלכים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- עשות: VERB,qal,inf
- רשע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- בצדקה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- יכון: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- כסא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Prov.20:28 (verbal): Parallel wording about a king’s throne being upheld by virtues (here 'mercy and truth' preserve the king; 'throne upholden by mercy'), echoing Prov 16:12’s claim that a throne is established by righteousness.
- Ps.89:14 (verbal): Speaks of 'righteousness and justice' as the foundation of God’s throne, closely mirroring Prov 16:12’s link between righteous rule and the legitimacy/stability of a throne.
- Isa.32:1 (thematic): Foretells a reign 'in righteousness' with princes ruling in justice—the prophetic ideal of kingship that corresponds to Prov 16:12’s assertion that rulers should be upheld by righteousness.
- Ps.72:1-4 (thematic): A royal prayer for a king to 'judge the people with righteousness' and defend the afflicted—reflecting the proverb’s association of good, just rule with the proper establishment and welfare of the throne.
Alternative generated candidates
- It is an abomination for kings to do wickedness; for the throne is established by righteousness.
- It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness, for a throne is established by righteousness.
Pro.16.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- רצון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מלכים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- שפתי: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- צדק: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ודבר: VERB,qal,fut,3,m,sg
- ישרים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- יאהב: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Prov.22:11 (verbal): Close verbal parallel: links purity/grace of lips with gaining the king's friendship or favor (similar wording and idea).
- Prov.14:35 (verbal): Nearly identical proverb: explicitly states the king's favor is toward a wise servant and contrasts with his wrath—very close wording and theme.
- Prov.16:10 (structural): Same chapter and structural context: 16:10 treats the king's utterance as a decisive oracle, framing the theme of kingship and right speech found in 16:13.
- Prov.16:14 (thematic): Thematic contrast within the chapter: 16:13 describes the king's favor for right speech, while 16:14 warns that a king's wrath is severe—together they present favor versus punishment from a ruler.
Alternative generated candidates
- A king delights in truthful lips; he loves those who speak what is right.
- A king delights in a just tongue; he loves those who speak what is right.
Pro.16.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- חמת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- מלך: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- מלאכי: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- מות: VERB,qal,infabs
- ואיש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חכם: ADJ,m,sg
- יכפרנה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Proverbs 20:2 (thematic): Also compares a ruler's rage to a deadly force/terror; underscores danger of provoking royal anger.
- Proverbs 15:1 (verbal): ‘A soft answer turns away wrath’ parallels the idea that a wise person can appease or defuse anger.
- Proverbs 19:11 (thematic): Praises discretion and patience in avoiding anger and resolving offenses—similar to a wise person averting a ruler's wrath.
- Proverbs 25:15 (verbal): Speaks of persuading a ruler by patience and gentle speech—echoes the efficacy of a wise, conciliatory response.
- Psalm 2:12 (allusion): Urges placating the exalted one (‘kiss the Son, lest he be angry’), reflecting the prudential impulse to avert divine/royal wrath.
Alternative generated candidates
- The wrath of a king is like messengers of death; a wise man will appease it.
- The king's wrath is like messengers of death; a wise man will appease it.
Pro.16.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- באור: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פני: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- מלך: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- חיים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- ורצונו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss3ms
- כעב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מלקוש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 19:12 (verbal): Contrasts a king's wrath and favor using meteorological imagery: 'his favor is like dew'—parallels Prov 16:15's comparison of the king's favor to life-bringing rain/seasonal blessing.
- Esther 5:2 (verbal): Uses the phrase 'found/obtained favor in his sight' (the king's face) — parallels the motif of life and blessing coming from the king's favorable look.
- Daniel 1:9 (verbal): 'God gave Daniel favor in the sight of…' — another instance of 'favor in the sight' language, linking the idea that a ruler's favorable disposition secures life, protection, or provision.
- Proverbs 16:13 (thematic): Speaks of what delights a king ('righteous lips are the delight of kings'), echoing the theme that the king's disposition (pleasure/face) determines wellbeing for subjects.
Alternative generated candidates
- In the light of the king's face is life; his favor is like the cloud of the latter rain.
- In the light of a king's face there is life; his favor is like a passing spring rain.
Pro.16.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- קנה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- חכמה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מה: PRON,int
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- מחרוץ: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וקנות: CONJ+VERB,qal,inf
- בינה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- נבחר: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,sg
- מכסף: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Prov.3:13-15 (thematic): Both passages praise wisdom as supremely valuable, stating that finding wisdom is a blessing and more desirable than precious stones or wealth.
- Prov.8:10-11 (verbal): Wisdom speaker declares that her instruction is better than rubies and that wisdom is more precious than all desirable things—close wording and concept to valuing wisdom over gold and silver.
- Job 28:12-18 (thematic): Job’s meditation contrasts the inaccessibility of wisdom with the procurability of gold and jewels, concluding that true wisdom cannot be bought—echoing the claim that wisdom is preferable to precious metals.
- Ps.119:72 (verbal): The psalmist explicitly states that God’s law (instruction/wisdom) is better than thousands of gold and silver, using similar comparative language to elevate wisdom above wealth.
Alternative generated candidates
- How much better to get wisdom than gold; to choose understanding is better than silver.
- How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
Pro.16.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- מסלת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ישרים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- סור: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- מרע: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- נפשו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- נצר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דרכו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Proverbs 3:7 (verbal): Uses the same imperative idea to 'depart from evil' (סור מרע) — both verses command turning away from evil as the way of the righteous.
- Proverbs 4:14-15 (structural): Likewise warns against entering the path of the wicked and instructs to turn aside and pass on — parallel imagery of avoiding a wicked road/path.
- Proverbs 12:28 (thematic): Links the 'path' of righteousness with life and safety, echoing Prov.16:17's connection between right walking and preservation of the soul.
- Proverbs 4:23 (thematic): Both urge vigilance over the inner life/way (keep/guard) because what is kept preserves life — 'guarding' leading to preservation of life/soul.
- Psalm 119:9 (verbal): Poses the question how a young person can 'keep' or 'purify' his way and answers by guarding it according to God's word — echoes the language of guarding one’s way to preserve the self.
Alternative generated candidates
- The highway of the upright is to turn away from evil; whoever guards his way preserves his soul.
- The path of the upright is to turn away from evil; whoever keeps his way preserves his life.
Pro.16.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לפני: PREP
- שבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- גאון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולפני: CONJ+PREP
- כשלון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- גבה: ADJ,m,sg
- רוח: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 11:2 (verbal): Links pride with ensuing disgrace/downfall using very similar causal formula ('when pride comes, then comes disgrace').
- Proverbs 18:12 (verbal): Closely mirrors the wording and thought: haughtiness precedes destruction, while humility precedes honor.
- Proverbs 29:23 (thematic): Affirms the same theme that pride brings a person low, whereas lowliness or humility leads to honor.
- Luke 14:11 (thematic): Jesus' saying that 'everyone who exalts himself will be humbled' echoes the proverb's cause‑and‑effect between pride and downfall.
- James 4:6 (thematic): The New Testament principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble reflects the proverb's contrast between pride (leading to ruin) and humility (leading to favor).
Alternative generated candidates
- Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
- Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
Pro.16.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- שפל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- רוח: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- ענוים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- מחלק: PART,qal,ptc,NA,m,pl,abs
- שלל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- גאים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 28:6 (verbal): Makes the same valuation: better to be poor and upright than rich by crooked means—closely parallels the preference for humility over sharing in the spoils of the proud.
- Proverbs 11:2 (thematic): Contrasts pride and humility (pride brings disgrace; with the humble is wisdom), echoing the moral contrast between the proud and the lowly in 16:19.
- James 4:6 (allusion): ’God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’ — a New Testament reflection of the proverb’s theme that humility is preferable to association with the proud.
- Luke 18:14 (thematic): The parable of the tax collector and the Pharisee reverses expectations—humility is exalted and pride is condemned, paralleling the moral point of 16:19.
- Micah 6:8 (thematic): Summons God’s people to ‘walk humbly’ as a chief ethical demand, resonating with the proverb’s valuation of humility over ill-gotten gain or prideful association.
Alternative generated candidates
- Better to be of a lowly spirit with the humble than to divide spoil with the proud.
- Better to be of a lowly spirit with the humble than to divide the spoil with the proud.
Pro.16.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- משכיל: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- דבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ימצא: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- ובוטח: PART,qal,ptc,0,m,sg
- ביהוה: PREP+PN,sg
- אשריו: NOUN,m,pl,abs+3ms
Parallels
- Jeremiah 17:7 (verbal): Direct verbal/idea parallel: both pronounce blessing on the person who trusts in the LORD (אשרי הבוטח בה׳), closely echoing Proverbs' final clause.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 (thematic): Shared theme of trusting the LORD as the proper response to wisdom/instruction; trust leads to right guidance and well-being.
- Proverbs 8:34-35 (thematic): Promises blessing and reward to the one who listens to wisdom/instruction, paralleling 'he who heeds a matter finds good' in Prov 16:20.
- Psalm 40:4 (allusion): Pronounces blessing on the one who makes the LORD his trust (or takes refuge in him), echoing the felicitation of the trusting person in Proverbs 16:20.
Alternative generated candidates
- The one who heeds instruction finds good; blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD.
- He who heeds a matter finds good; he who trusts in the LORD is blessed.
Pro.16.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לחכם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יקרא: VERB,niphal,impf,3,m,sg
- נבון: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- ומתק: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שפתים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- יסיף: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לקח: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Prov.16:23 (verbal): Very close verbal and conceptual parallel: both link the wise heart with instructive speech—'the heart of the wise teaches his mouth, and adds learning to his lips' echoes 'wise in heart... sweetness of lips increases learning.'
- Prov.15:2 (thematic): Both contrast wise and foolish speech: 'The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly' emphasizes the proper, instructive use of words like the proverb's 'sweetness of lips' that adds instruction.
- Prov.25:11 (thematic): 'A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold' provides a metaphor for apt, pleasant speech, paralleling the value ascribed to 'sweetness of lips' that enhances teaching.
- Prov.15:4 (thematic): 'A wholesome tongue is a tree of life' presents beneficial, life-giving speech—resonant with the proverb's idea that pleasant/sweet speech increases learning and edifies others.
- Ps.19:14 (thematic): Links inner disposition and spoken words—'let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart' connects the heart's orientation with the acceptability and power of one's speech, as Prov 16:21 does.
Alternative generated candidates
- A wise person has an understanding heart, and pleasant words increase instruction.
- A man of understanding is called discerning, and pleasant speech adds instruction.
Pro.16.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- מקור: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חיים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- שכל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בעליו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,3ms
- ומוסר: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אולים: ADV
- אולת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 13:14 (verbal): Uses the same imagery—'the teaching/law of the wise' as a 'fountain of life,' closely echoing Prov 16:22's 'wellspring of life.'
- Proverbs 14:27 (verbal): Declares 'the fear of the LORD is a fountain of life,' repeating the 'fountain/wellspring of life' motif linking reverent wisdom to life.
- Proverbs 3:18 (thematic): Portrays wisdom as life-giving ('a tree of life'), thematically parallel to Prov 16:22's depiction of understanding as a source of life.
- Proverbs 4:22 (thematic): Speaks of wise words as 'life' and 'health to all their flesh,' reinforcing the theme that wisdom/understanding brings life and well‑being.
- Proverbs 2:10-11 (thematic): Describes wisdom entering the heart and providing discretion and preservation—connecting the life‑giving, protective effects of understanding in Prov 16:22.
Alternative generated candidates
- Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but the discipline of fools is folly.
- Understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it; the discipline of fools is folly.
Pro.16.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חכם: ADJ,m,sg
- ישכיל: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- פיהו: NOUN,m,sg,pr3ms
- ועל: CONJ+PREP
- שפתיו: NOUN,f,pl,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- יסיף: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לקח: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Proverbs 15:2 (verbal): Both verses contrast the tongue/lips of the wise with foolish speech, emphasizing that the wise use words imparting knowledge.
- Proverbs 15:7 (verbal): Speaks of the lips of the wise spreading knowledge—closely parallels 'adding instruction to his lips' in Prov 16:23.
- Proverbs 17:27 (thematic): Highlights wise restraint in speech and the connection between understanding/knowledge and measured words.
- James 1:19 (thematic): New Testament exhortation to be quick to hear and slow to speak, aligning with the idea that a wise heart governs prudent speech.
Alternative generated candidates
- The heart of the wise instructs his mouth, and on his lips increases teaching.
- The heart of the wise makes his speech prudent, and he adds instruction to his lips.
Pro.16.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- צוף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דבש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אמרי: VERB,qal,impv,2,f,sg
- נעם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מתוק: ADJ,m,sg
- לנפש: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ומרפא: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לעצם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 15:4 (thematic): Both verses praise wholesome speech—gentle/pleasant words produce life or healing, contrasted with harmful speech.
- Proverbs 25:11 (structural): Uses a simile for well-chosen words ("a word fitly spoken") comparing speech to a valuable, pleasing object—parallel imagery of speech as something sweet/beautiful.
- Psalm 119:103 (verbal): Explicitly compares God's words to honey/sweetness ("sweeter than honey")—a close verbal and sensory parallel to "sweet to the soul."
- Proverbs 4:22 (verbal): Speaks of wisdom/words as "life to those who find them and health to all their flesh," echoing the healing/restorative language of Prov.16:24 ("healing to the bones").
- Ephesians 4:29 (thematic): New Testament exhortation that speech should build up and benefit listeners—thematic parallel stressing that words can heal, edify, and refresh.
Alternative generated candidates
- Pleasant words are like a honeycomb—sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
- Pleasant words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
Pro.16.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- יש: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- דרך: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ישר: ADJ,m,sg
- לפני: PREP
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואחריתה: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs+prn:3fs
- דרכי: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,_,sg
- מות: VERB,qal,infabs
Parallels
- Prov.14.12 (verbal): Almost identical wording: 'There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death' — a near-verbatim parallel within Proverbs.
- Prov.21.2 (thematic): Expresses the same idea that people consider their own ways right ('Every way of a man is right in his own eyes'), highlighting human self‑justification contrasted with divine judgment.
- Prov.12.28 (thematic): Presents the opposite outcome: 'In the way of righteousness is life,' contrasting the 'way to death' of Prov.16:25 and framing the proverb's moral choice.
- Jer.10.23 (thematic): States that 'the way of man is not in himself,' countering human self‑confidence and underscoring dependence on God for right direction — a theological foil to Prov.16:25.
- Ps.1.6 (thematic): Speaks of the divergent destinies of the righteous and the wicked ('the way of the wicked will perish'), resonating with Prov.16:25's linkage of a misled way to death.
Alternative generated candidates
- There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
- There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
Pro.16.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- נפש: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- עמל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עמלה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- אכף: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עליו: PREP,3,m,sg
- פיהו: NOUN,m,sg,pr3ms
Parallels
- Prov.14:23 (thematic): Both stress that honest labor yields profit or results—work produces benefit, aligning with the idea that a laborer’s appetite drives him to work.
- Prov.27:7 (thematic): Speaks of hunger shaping desire and satisfaction—parallels the image of appetite/mouth compelling the laborer to toil.
- Prov.13:4 (verbal): Contrasts craving and reward: the sluggard ‘craves’ but gets nothing while the diligent are supplied; echoes the role of appetite/desire as motive for labor.
- Gen.3:19 (allusion): Links work with the necessity of eating (‘By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread’), providing theological background to the proverb’s claim that hunger drives work.
Alternative generated candidates
- A worker's appetite works for him; for his mouth urges him on.
- The appetite of the laborer works for him; his mouth urges him on.
Pro.16.27 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בליעל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כרה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- רעה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ועל: CONJ+PREP
- שפתו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- כאש: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- צרבת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Prov.26:20-22 (thematic): Both passages depict speech as combustible and destructive—words/gossip as kindling that fuels quarrels and strife (charcoal/embers, burning fire).
- Ps.140:3 (verbal): Uses similar imagery of harmful speech—'the poisonous of vipers is under their lips'—echoing the idea of destructive, burning words on the lips.
- Rom.3:13 (quotation): Paul echoes OT imagery about deceitful, deadly speech ('their throat is an open grave...the poison of vipers is under their lips'), paralleling the portrayal of harmful lips in Prov 16:27.
- James 3:6 (thematic): Describes the tongue as a fire that corrupts the whole person and sets the course of life ablaze—a New Testament treatment of the same motif of speech as destructive fire.
Alternative generated candidates
- A worthless man plots evil; his words are like smoldering fire.
- A worthless man digs up evil, and his lips are like a consuming fire.
Pro.16.28 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תהפכות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ישלח: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- מדון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ונרג: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מפריד: VERB,piel,ptc,ms,sg,abs
- אלוף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 6:19 (verbal): Condemns one who “sows discord among brothers,” using the same image of sowing strife/division as Prov.16:28.
- Proverbs 26:20–22 (thematic): Speaks of quarrels as kindling strife and describes the whisperer/talebearer whose words inflame, paralleling the role of a whisperer who separates friends.
- Proverbs 18:8 (verbal): Calls the words of a whisperer like dainty morsels that penetrate; connects the motif of whispering/gossip and its damaging effects on relationships.
- Proverbs 20:19 (thematic): Warns against the talebearer who reveals secrets and divides close associates—directly echoes the social harm ascribed to a whisperer in Prov.16:28.
Alternative generated candidates
- A man of perverse heart stirs up strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.
- A perverse man stirs up strife, and a gossip separates close friends.
Pro.16.29 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חמס: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יפתה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- רעהו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- והוליכו: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,sg,pref:conj,obj:3ms
- בדרך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 1:10 (verbal): Both verses warn against being enticed by sinners—'If sinners entice you' parallels 'a violent man entices his neighbor.'
- Proverbs 4:14-15 (thematic): Similar counsel to avoid the path of the wicked; both warn not to enter the evil way into which others would lead you.
- Psalm 1:1 (thematic): Contrasts the person who does not 'walk in the counsel of the wicked'—echoes the injunction against following one who leads into wrongdoing.
- Matthew 15:14 (allusion): Image of misguidance—'if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit'—parallels the idea of someone leading another into ruinous ways.
- 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (thematic): Warnings about deceptive leaders/false teachers who lead others astray, comparable to a violent person enticing a neighbor into evil.
Alternative generated candidates
- A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him in a way that is not good.
- A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him in a way that is not good.
Pro.16.30 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- עצה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עיניו: NOUN,f,pl,suff
- לחשב: PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- תהפכות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- קרץ: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- שפתיו: NOUN,f,pl,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- כלה: ADV
- רעה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 26:24-26 (verbal): Describes a person who hides hatred with flattering speech and whose fair words conceal malice — closely parallels 16:30’s motif of winking and curled lips as signs of secret evil intent.
- Proverbs 10:18 (verbal): Speaks of concealing hatred with lying lips; parallels the idea of outward gestures (winking, pursed lips) that mask inner wickedness in 16:30.
- Psalm 12:2 (thematic): Complains of flattering lips and a double heart — echoes the theme of duplicity and pleasant outward expression hiding corrupt intention found in 16:30.
- Jeremiah 9:4-5 (thematic): Warns that neighbors deceive and speak with lying mouths, urging distrust of outward speech — a broader prophetic parallel to the proverb’s link between furtive gestures and plotted evil.
Alternative generated candidates
- A scheming eye plots perverse things; he who winks with his lips brings about ruin.
- One who winks with the eye plots perverse things; he who purses his lips brings calamity to pass.
Pro.16.31 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- עטרת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- תפארת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- שיבה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בדרך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- צדקה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- תמצא: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
Parallels
- Prov.20:29 (verbal): Explicitly links gray hair with glory/splendor: “The glory of young men is their strength, and the splendor of old men is their gray hair,” echoing the imagery of gray hair as an honor.
- Prov.17:6 (verbal): Uses crown imagery for the aged: “Children's children are a crown to the aged,” paralleling the idea of a crown/ornament associated with old age and its honor.
- Job 12:12 (thematic): Connects age with wisdom and respect: “Wisdom is with the aged, and understanding in length of days,” thematically linking advanced age to moral/ethical stature earned over time.
- Prov.3:16 (thematic): Portrays wisdom as granting long life and honor: “Length of days is in her right hand; in her left hand riches and honor,” supporting the idea that a righteous/wisdom-filled life yields honor in old age.
Alternative generated candidates
- Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is found in the way of righteousness.
- Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is found in the way of righteousness.
Pro.16.32 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- ארך: ADJ,m,sg
- אפים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- מגבור: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומשל: CONJ+PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- ברוחו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- מלכד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עיר: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Proverbs 25:28 (verbal): Uses the same city imagery to contrast lack of self-control with a breached city: 'Like a city whose walls are broken through is a man who lacks self-control,' paralleling the value of ruling one's spirit over capturing a city.
- Proverbs 15:18 (thematic): Contrasts patience and anger—'A hot-tempered man stirs up strife,' echoing Proverbs 16:32’s preference for patience over martial prowess.
- James 1:19-20 (allusion): New Testament echo of wisdom teaching: 'be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger,' and that human anger does not produce God's righteousness—paralleling the moral advantage of self-control.
- Ecclesiastes 7:9 (verbal): Direct admonition against quick anger—'Do not be quick in your spirit to become angry'—reinforces the wisdom motif that restraint is better than impulsive force.
Alternative generated candidates
- Better a patient man than the mighty; one who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.
- Better is a patient man than a mighty man; he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.
Pro.16.33 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- בחיק: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יוטל: VERB,niphal,impf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- הגורל: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ומיהוה: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- כל: DET
- משפטו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Acts 1:24-26 (verbal): The apostles cast lots to fill Judas’ place, then accept the lot’s outcome as determined by the Lord—parallels the proverb’s claim that the lot is cast by humans but its decision comes from God.
- Matthew 27:35 (verbal): Roman soldiers cast lots for Jesus’ garments at the crucifixion; an instance of casting lots in salvation-history that highlights divine providence working through human chance.
- Psalm 22:18 (22:19 MT) (allusion): “They cast lots for my garments” is a prophetic scene fulfilled in the Gospels; links the act of casting lots to God’s sovereign plan and foreshadows providential control over outcomes.
- Proverbs 21:1 (thematic): Both verses emphasize God’s sovereignty over human affairs—Proverbs 16:33 about the lot’s outcome, Proverbs 21:1 about the king’s heart being directed by the LORD.
- Ecclesiastes 9:11 (thematic): Ecclesiastes speaks of time and chance affecting people, providing a thematic contrast and dialogue with Proverbs’ assertion that events that appear as chance (the lot) are under divine direction.
Alternative generated candidates
- The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.
- The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.
The preparations of a person's heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.
All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the motives.
Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.
The LORD has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.
Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD; he will not go unpunished.
By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for; and by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil.
When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies be at peace with him.
Better is a little with righteousness than great income with injustice.
A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.
There is an oracle on a king's lips; in judgment his mouth must not mislead.
Honest weights and scales are the LORD's; all the weights of the bag are his work.
It is an abomination for kings to do wickedness, for a throne is established by righteousness.
Righteous lips are the king's delight; he loves one who speaks what is straight.
The wrath of a king is like messengers of death, but a wise man will appease it.
The light of a king's face brings life; his favor is like a cloud of the spring rain.
How much better to get wisdom than gold! To get understanding is chosen rather than silver.
The path of the upright turns away from evil; whoever keeps his way preserves his life.
Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.
Better to be lowly in spirit with the humble than to divide spoil with the proud.
Whoever gives heed to instruction will find good; and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
A man of wise heart is called discerning, and pleasant words increase instruction.
Understanding is a fountain of life to its owner, but the discipline of fools is folly.
The heart of the wise makes his speech prudent; and on his lips he adds instruction.
Gracious words are like a honeycomb—sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
A worker's appetite works for him; for his mouth urges him on.
A worthless person digs up evil, and his words are like a consuming fire.
A perverse person stirs up strife; a gossip separates close companions.
A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him in a way that is not good.
A schemer turns his eyes to devise perverse things; he winks with his lips and brings about ruin.
A crown of glory is a gray head; it is found in the way of righteousness.
Better is a patient man than a mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who captures a city.
The lot is cast into the lap, but from the LORD comes every decision.