Proverbs 11:17

¶ The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but [he that is] cruel troubleth his own flesh.

The merciful {H2617} man {H376} doeth good {H1580} to his own soul {H5315}: but he that is cruel {H394} troubleth {H5916} his own flesh {H7607}.

A man who is kind does himself good, but the cruel does harm to himself.

A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.

The merciful man doeth good to his own soul; But he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

Commentary

Proverbs 11:17, from the King James Version (KJV), offers a concise yet profound insight into the self-beneficial nature of mercy and the self-destructive consequences of cruelty. This verse is a classic example of proverbial wisdom, presenting a clear contrast to highlight a moral truth.

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient Israelite wisdom literature, primarily attributed to King Solomon. It focuses on practical wisdom for daily living, often contrasting the path of the righteous with that of the wicked, and illustrating the natural consequences of one's actions and character. Chapter 11, in particular, emphasizes themes of righteousness, integrity, and the rewards of virtuous living versus the pitfalls of wickedness and deceit. This verse contributes to the broader message that one's moral choices have direct, often reciprocal, effects on one's own well-being and destiny, both internally and externally.

Key Themes

  • The Reciprocity of Actions: The verse powerfully articulates the principle that how one treats others ultimately impacts oneself. Mercy brings internal peace and benefit, while cruelty brings trouble and distress.
  • Internal vs. External Well-being: It draws a distinction between the "soul" (inner being, emotions, mind) and the "flesh" (physical self, external existence), showing how both are affected by character.
  • Wisdom and Consequences: It reinforces the overarching theme of Proverbs: wisdom (acting righteously) leads to life and blessing, while folly (acting wickedly) leads to harm and destruction.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "merciful" here is related to chesed (often translated as "lovingkindness" or "steadfast love"), which denotes active compassion, loyalty, and goodness. A "merciful man" (ish chesed) is one who consistently demonstrates this deep, faithful kindness. Such a person "doeth good to his own soul" (gomel nafsho), meaning they enrich their inner life, promoting peace, contentment, and spiritual health. Conversely, "cruel" (akhzariy) describes someone harsh, ruthless, or violent. This individual "troubleth his own flesh" (oker she'eroh), implying that their cruelty brings distress, vexation, or even ruin upon their own physical being or outward circumstances. This concept resonates with Proverbs 14:30, which states that a sound heart is the life of the flesh.

Practical Application

Proverbs 11:17 serves as a timeless reminder that our character and actions have profound repercussions on ourselves. It encourages a life lived with active compassion and kindness, not merely as a moral obligation to others, but as a path to personal flourishing and inner peace. Practicing mercy fosters a healthy conscience, reduces internal conflict, and often leads to positive social interactions. Conversely, harboring cruelty, resentment, or harshness corrodes the soul and can manifest as stress, anxiety, or even physical ailments, and often alienates others. The verse calls us to embrace the blessing of being merciful, understanding that true well-being begins with a heart of compassion.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Matthew 5:7

    Blessed [are] the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

  • Matthew 25:34

    Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

  • Matthew 25:40

    And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done [it] unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done [it] unto me.

  • James 2:13

    For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.

  • James 5:1

    ¶ Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you].

  • James 5:5

    Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter.

  • Matthew 6:14

    For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
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