Devine Scripture

Proverbs 27:17

What does Proverbs 27:17 mean?

A plain-English look at Proverbs 27:17 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Proverbs 27:17 means

This proverb uses a vivid simile to illustrate the reciprocal, beneficial impact of human relationships. Just as one piece of iron rubs against another to hone and sharpen it, making it more effective, so too do people refine and improve one another through interaction. The sharpening of a “countenance” refers to the improvement of one’s character, wisdom, and overall demeanor. It suggests a process of constructive challenge, encouragement, and accountability that leads to personal growth. This isn't merely about superficial change, but deep-seated development that prepares an individual for life's challenges, much like a sharpened tool is ready for its task.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Iron sharpeneth iron; So a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Iron sharpeneth iron; So a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Iron makes iron sharp; so a man makes sharp his friend.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Iron by iron is sharpened, And a man sharpens the face of his friend.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Iron sharpeneth iron, so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Iron is sharpened by iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

Context

Proverbs 27 is a collection of various short, pithy sayings offering wisdom for daily living, often without a clear linear narrative from one verse to the next. This chapter covers a range of topics including caution against boasting (v. 1), the nature of love and rebuke (v. 5-6), and the value of companionship (v. 9-10). Verse 17, “Iron sharpens iron,” serves as a concise summary of the positive outcomes of wise associations mentioned earlier in the chapter. It specifically emphasizes the mutual benefit of interaction, reinforcing the chapter's overarching theme of practical wisdom through relationships, both familial and communal.

v.16He that would restrain her restraineth the wind; And his right hand encountereth oil.

v.17This passage

v.18Whoso keepeth the fig-tree shall eat the fruit thereof; And he that regardeth his master shall be honored.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • James 1:2

    Count it all joy, my brethren, when ye fall into manifold temptations;

  • 1 Samuel 13:20

    but all the Israelites went down to the Philistines, to sharpen every man his share, and his coulter, and his axe, and his mattock;

  • 2 Timothy 2:3

    Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

  • 1 Peter 4:12

    Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial among you, which cometh upon you to prove you, as though a strange thing happened unto you:

  • 1 Samuel 23:16

    And Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God.

  • 2 Samuel 10:11

    And he said, If the Syrians be too strong for me, then thou shalt help me; but if the children of Ammon be too strong for thee, then I will come and help thee.

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