Proverbs 11:22

¶ [As] a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, [so is] a fair woman which is without discretion.

As a jewel {H5141} of gold {H2091} in a swine's {H2386} snout {H639}, so is a fair {H3303} woman {H802} which is without {H5493} discretion {H2940}.

Like a gold ring in the snout of a pig is a beautiful woman who lacks good sense.

Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion.

Asa ring of gold in a swine’s snout, So isa fair woman that is without discretion.

Commentary

Proverbs 11:22 delivers a vivid and memorable warning about the deceptive nature of outward appearances when unaccompanied by inner character. It contrasts the shocking image of a valuable gold jewel in an utterly inappropriate and unclean place with the equally incongruous sight of a beautiful woman lacking good judgment or moral sense.

Context

This verse is part of the extensive collection of wisdom literature found in the book of Proverbs, which frequently contrasts the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. Chapter 11, in particular, emphasizes themes of integrity, honesty, and the consequences of one's actions, whether good or bad. This specific proverb highlights the importance of inner qualities over superficial attractiveness, aligning with the broader biblical emphasis on character and discernment. The book of Proverbs consistently teaches that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and true wisdom.

Key Themes

  • The Superiority of Discretion and Wisdom: The core message is that physical beauty, no matter how striking, is rendered worthless or even repulsive when it lacks sound judgment, prudence, and moral integrity. The proverb serves as a powerful caution against superficiality.
  • Incongruity and Misplaced Value: The metaphor of a "jewel of gold in a swine's snout" is intentionally jarring. A beautiful, valuable object is completely degraded and defiled by its inappropriate placement. Similarly, outward beauty is debased and becomes unattractive when coupled with a lack of wisdom or moral sense, highlighting that true value is defined by character and context.
  • Inner Character Over Outer Appearance: This proverb strongly advocates for valuing the heart and mind more than physical attributes. True worth and dignity come from one's conduct, wisdom, and moral fiber, not just outward charm. This resonates with the biblical principle that God looks at the heart, not at outward appearance.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "without discretion" translates the Hebrew word sā·rāh (סָרָה), which literally means "turning aside" or "waywardness." It implies a departure from what is right, sensible, or morally sound. Therefore, a "fair woman which is without discretion" is not merely lacking good judgment but is characterized by a tendency towards foolish, imprudent, or even morally deviant behavior. Her beauty, instead of being an asset, becomes a deceptive façade or even a source of disgrace.

Practical Application

Proverbs 11:22 offers timeless wisdom applicable to all aspects of life:

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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

  • 1 Peter 3:3

    Whose adorning let it not be that outward [adorning] of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

  • 1 Peter 3:4

    But [let it be] the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, [even the ornament] of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

  • Proverbs 31:30

    Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

  • Nahum 3:4

    Because of the multitude of the whoredoms of the wellfavoured harlot, the mistress of witchcrafts, that selleth nations through her whoredoms, and families through her witchcrafts.

  • Nahum 3:6

    And I will cast abominable filth upon thee, and make thee vile, and will set thee as a gazingstock.

  • Proverbs 7:10

    And, behold, there met him a woman [with] the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart.

  • Proverbs 9:13

    ¶ A foolish woman [is] clamorous: [she is] simple, and knoweth nothing.
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