Proverbs 11:11

By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

By the blessing {H1293} of the upright {H3477} the city {H7176} is exalted {H7311}: but it is overthrown {H2040} by the mouth {H6310} of the wicked {H7563}.

By the blessing of the upright, a city is raised up; but the words of the wicked tear it down.

By the blessing of the upright a city is built up, but by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down.

By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted; But it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

Commentary on Proverbs 11:11 (KJV)

Proverbs 11:11 powerfully illustrates the profound impact of individual character on the well-being of a community or nation. It presents a stark contrast between the constructive influence of the righteous and the destructive power of the wicked, particularly through their words.

Context

As part of the wisdom literature, the Book of Proverbs frequently addresses themes of justice, righteousness, and the consequences of moral choices. This verse fits within a larger section that highlights the societal implications of personal conduct, emphasizing that individual virtue or vice does not remain isolated but reverberates through the entire collective. It speaks to principles of social order and the blessings or curses that come upon a "city" (which can represent any community, town, or nation) based on the moral fabric of its inhabitants, especially those who hold influence.

Key Themes

  • The Exalting Power of Righteousness: The phrase "By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted" signifies that righteous individuals, through their integrity, wise counsel, honest dealings, and prayers, bring divine favor and stability to their community. Their presence fosters an environment of truth, justice, and prosperity, leading to the collective flourishing and renown of the city. This idea resonates with the principle that "Righteousness exalteth a nation" (Proverbs 14:34).
  • The Destructive Force of Wicked Speech: In sharp contrast, "it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked" highlights the ruinous effect of unrighteous speech. The "mouth of the wicked" represents their lies, slander, corrupt counsel, gossip, false teachings, and divisive words. Such speech erodes trust, promotes injustice, incites rebellion, and ultimately leads to the moral decay and literal downfall of a society. The Bible frequently warns about the power of the tongue to bring both life and death (Proverbs 18:21).
  • Societal Impact of Individual Character: The verse underscores that the collective destiny of a city is inextricably linked to the moral choices and public utterances of its citizens, particularly its leaders and influential figures. The character of its people determines its fate.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "upright" (yesharim) denotes those who are straight, just, and morally right. "Exalted" (tarum) implies being lifted up, raised high, or prospered. Conversely, "overthrown" (neheresa) means to be broken down, demolished, or destroyed, vividly portraying the ruin caused by wickedness. The "mouth" (pi) here is a metonymy for speech, counsel, and public pronouncements.

Practical Application

Proverbs 11:11 remains profoundly relevant for individuals, communities, and nations today:

  • For Individuals: It calls believers to live righteously and speak truth, recognizing that their personal integrity and words contribute to the common good. Even seemingly small acts of honesty or words of encouragement can have a ripple effect.
  • For Leaders: The verse serves as a powerful reminder for those in positions of authority that their character and public pronouncements directly shape the destiny of their constituents. Righteous leadership fosters stability and prosperity, while corrupt or deceitful speech leads to societal breakdown.
  • For Communities: It encourages societies to value and promote righteousness, and to be vigilant against the corrosive influence of malicious and deceitful speech. A healthy community thrives on truth, justice, and mutual respect, which are nurtured by upright citizens.

Ultimately, this verse teaches that true societal strength and lasting prosperity are built upon a foundation of righteousness, exemplified by the lives and words of its people, rather than being undermined by the destructive rhetoric and actions of the wicked.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Proverbs 14:34

    ¶ Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin [is] a reproach to any people.

  • Proverbs 29:8

    ¶ Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise [men] turn away wrath.

  • James 3:6

    And the tongue [is] a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

  • Job 22:30

    He shall deliver the island of the innocent: and it is delivered by the pureness of thine hands.

  • Ecclesiastes 9:15

    Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.

  • 2 Chronicles 32:20

    And for this [cause] Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz, prayed and cried to heaven.

  • 2 Chronicles 32:22

    Thus the LORD saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib the king of Assyria, and from the hand of all [other], and guided them on every side.
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