Proverbs 12:22
What does Proverbs 12:22 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 12:22 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 12:22 means
Proverbs 12:22 declares that God detests dishonesty, specifically "lying lips," highlighting the profound moral chasm between truth and falsehood in His sight. The term "abomination" signifies something utterly repugnant and offensive to God’s holy character. Conversely, the verse states that those who "deal truly"—meaning those who act with integrity, honesty, and faithfulness in their words and actions—are His "delight." This juxtaposition emphasizes that God not only condemns deceit but actively cherishes and takes pleasure in sincerity and truthfulness. This proverb teaches that our verbal integrity directly impacts our relationship with God, as He values authenticity and despises hypocrisy.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Lying lips are an abomination to Jehovah; But they that deal truly are his delight.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Lying lips are an abomination to Jehovah; But they that deal truly are his delight.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949False lips are hated by the Lord, but those whose acts are true are his delight.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862An abomination to Jehovah <FI>are<Fi> lying lips, And stedfast doers <FI>are<Fi> his delight.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord: but they that deal faithfully, please him.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Lying lips are an abomination to Jehovah; but they that deal truly are his delight.
Context
This proverb is nestled within a chapter that frequently contrasts the righteous and the wicked, exploring the outcomes of their differing behaviors. Preceding verses discuss the consequences of righteousness versus wickedness, and following verses continue this theme by examining speech, diligence, and justice. Proverbs 12:22 reinforces the chapter’s overarching message that wisdom, characterized by truthfulness, leads to God’s favor, while folly, marked by deception, incurs His displeasure. This saying is a direct warning to anyone in positions of influence, as throughout this chapter, the audience is exhorted to live righteously as individuals and in community.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Psalms 5:6
Thou wilt destroy them that speak lies: Jehovah abhorreth the blood-thirsty and deceitful man.
- Proverbs 6:16
There are six things which Jehovah hateth; Yea, seven which are an abomination unto him:
- Proverbs 11:20
They that are perverse in heart are an abomination to Jehovah; But such as are perfect in their way are his delight.
- Ezekiel 13:22
Because with lies ye have grieved the heart of the righteous, whom I have not made sad, and strengthened the hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked way, and be saved alive;
- Proverbs 15:8
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; But the prayer of the upright is his delight.
- Proverbs 11:1
A false balance is an abomination to Jehovah; But a just weight is his delight.
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