Proverbs 11:29

KJV

¶ He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool [shall be] servant to the wise of heart.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that troubleth {H5916} his own house {H1004} shall inherit {H5157} the wind {H7307}: and the fool {H191} shall be servant {H5650} to the wise {H2450} of heart {H3820}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Those who trouble their families inherit the wind, and the fool becomes slave to the wise.

Berean Standard Bible

He who brings trouble on his house will inherit the wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.

American Standard Version

He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind; And the foolish shall be servant to the wise of heart.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 11:29 powerfully delineates the inevitable consequences of domestic mismanagement and foolishness, contrasting the futility awaiting those who sow discord within their own household with the natural order where wisdom ultimately prevails and leads to positions of influence and stability. This proverb serves as a profound warning against internal strife and a call to cultivate prudence, highlighting how personal character directly shapes one's immediate environment and future legacy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 11:29 is situated within a larger collection of Solomon's proverbs, which frequently employ antithetical parallelism to contrast the ways and outcomes of the righteous and the wicked, the wise and the foolish. Chapter 11, in particular, emphasizes themes of integrity, justice, generosity, and the consequences of their opposites. Verses immediately preceding this one discuss the blessings of the righteous and the downfall of the wicked (e.g., [Proverbs 11:28](/proverbs/11-28 "Proverbs 11:28 - Trust in Riches vs. Righteousness")), while subsequent verses continue to explore the societal impact of individual character (e.g., [Proverbs 11:30](/proverbs/11-30 "Proverbs 11:30 - The Fruit of the Righteous")). This specific proverb focuses the broad principles of wisdom and folly onto the intimate sphere of the household, which was the foundational unit of Israelite society and the primary locus for transmitting values and securing one's legacy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the household (`bayith`) was more than just a dwelling; it was the primary economic, social, and religious unit. It encompassed the extended family, servants, and all associated property. The patriarch (or matriarch in some cases, as seen in [Proverbs 14:1](/proverbs/14-1 "Proverbs 14:1 - The Wise Woman Builds Her House")) was responsible for its well-being, order, and prosperity. Causing "trouble" within this unit could mean financial mismanagement, fostering internal strife, moral corruption, or failing to provide proper leadership, all of which had severe long-term repercussions for the entire family line. The concept of "inheritance" was deeply tied to land, legacy, and the continuation of the family name, making the idea of inheriting "wind" (i.e., nothing) a dire warning against the loss of all that was culturally significant.
* **Key Themes:** This proverb contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the Book of Proverbs. Firstly, it underscores the **Principle of Consequences**, demonstrating that actions, especially within the domestic sphere, have inevitable and often proportional outcomes. Secondly, it highlights the stark contrast between **Wisdom and Folly**, portraying wisdom as leading to stability and influence, while folly results in servitude and emptiness. The "wise of heart" are those who possess discernment and moral uprightness, capable of managing their affairs and guiding others, whereas the "fool" (`ʼĕvîyl`) is characterized by stubbornness and a rejection of instruction, leading to self-inflicted disadvantage. Finally, the proverb speaks to the theme of **Stewardship and Responsibility**, emphasizing that proper management of one's household is not merely a practical matter but a moral imperative with spiritual implications for one's legacy and the well-being of future generations.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **troubleth (Hebrew, _ʻâkar'_):** From H5916, this word literally means "to roil water," and figuratively, "to disturb or afflict." It implies causing agitation, confusion, or distress. When applied to a house, it suggests someone who actively or habitually creates chaos, strife, or disarray, muddying the clear waters of domestic peace and order. This is not a passive mistake but an active disruption.
* **wind (Hebrew, _rûwach'_):** From H7307, `rûwach` can mean physical wind, breath, or spirit. In this context, it carries the figurative sense of unsubstantiality, emptiness, or futility. To "inherit the wind" is to gain nothing tangible or lasting, to have one's efforts amount to naught, or to grasp at something that has no substance. It signifies a barren legacy, a void where substance should be.
* **fool (Hebrew, _ʼĕvîyl'_):** From H191, this term describes a specific type of fool in Proverbs: one who is perverse, silly, and resistant to instruction. Unlike a simpleton who lacks knowledge, the `ʼĕvîyl` is morally deficient, arrogant, and stubbornly set in their own destructive ways, often actively rejecting wisdom and counsel. Their foolishness is a character flaw that leads to predictable negative outcomes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that troubleth his own house":** This clause identifies the subject of the proverb: an individual whose actions or character cause disturbance, strife, or ruin within their own family or household. This "troubling" can manifest as financial mismanagement, emotional abuse, fostering division, or simply neglecting responsibilities, all of which destabilize the foundational unit of society.
* **"shall inherit the wind":** This is the direct consequence of troubling one's house. The "inheritance" here is not of wealth or legacy, but of emptiness, futility, and nothingness. All efforts, possessions, or even the family itself, are rendered insubstantial, leaving behind a void. It signifies a complete lack of lasting fruit or beneficial outcome, a legacy of barrenness.
* **"and the fool [shall be] servant to the wise of heart":** This second clause introduces a contrasting outcome, highlighting the natural societal hierarchy that emerges from wisdom and folly. The "fool" (the `ʼĕvîyl`, who is stubbornly perverse) will, by virtue of their poor judgment and inability to manage their own affairs, inevitably find themselves in a subordinate, dependent, or disadvantaged position. Conversely, those who are "wise of heart" (possessing discernment, prudence, and moral integrity) naturally rise to positions of leadership, influence, or authority, to whom the foolish become subject.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 11:29 employs several potent **literary devices**. The most prominent is **Metaphor** in the phrase "inherit the wind." This vivid image conveys the utter futility and lack of substance that results from troubling one's household. Wind, being intangible and fleeting, perfectly symbolizes a barren legacy or a life's work that amounts to nothing. The proverb also utilizes **Antithetical Parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew wisdom literature. It presents two contrasting scenarios and their outcomes: the one who causes domestic strife versus the wise, and the fool versus the wise. This juxtaposition highlights the clear moral and practical choice presented to the reader and the distinct consequences of each path. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** in the "inheritance" of wind – an inheritance is typically something valuable and tangible passed down, but here it is a void, underscoring the tragic self-inflicted loss.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply embeds itself in the biblical understanding of stewardship, consequences, and the nature of true wisdom. It teaches that the way we manage our most intimate sphere – our home and family – is a direct reflection of our character and has profound spiritual implications. A home filled with strife or mismanaged affairs is not merely a personal failure but a disruption of God's intended order, leading to a barren "inheritance." Conversely, the "wise of heart" embody a divine wisdom that orders life, brings peace, and leads to flourishing, not just for themselves but for those around them. This wisdom is rooted in the fear of the Lord and manifests in practical, relational, and administrative prudence.

* [Ecclesiastes 1:14](/ecclesiastes/1-14 "Ecclesiastes 1:14 - All is Vanity")
* [Proverbs 14:1](/proverbs/14-1 "Proverbs 14:1 - The Wise Woman Builds Her House")
* [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 11:29 offers a timeless mirror for self-examination, urging us to consider the impact of our character and choices within our most immediate and influential sphere: our home. Are we cultivating an atmosphere of peace, order, and love, or are our actions, words, or neglect sowing discord and instability? The proverb reminds us that true prosperity is not merely financial but relational and spiritual, rooted in wise stewardship of our family unit. To "inherit the wind" is a stark warning against the futility of a life that gains the world but loses its soul, or in this case, a life that gains nothing of lasting value within its own walls. Embracing wisdom, which begins with reverence for God, empowers us to build up rather than tear down, ensuring a legacy of substance and blessing for generations to come.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways might I be "troubling" my own house, whether through neglect, anger, or poor management?**
* **What does "inheriting the wind" look like in a modern context, and what steps can I take to avoid such a barren outcome?**
* **How can I actively cultivate "wisdom of heart" in my daily interactions and decisions, particularly within my family?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to "inherit the wind"?**

Answer: To "inherit the wind" is a powerful metaphor signifying gaining nothing of substance, experiencing futility, or having one's efforts amount to naught. In the context of Proverbs 11:29, it means that a person who causes trouble, strife, or mismanagement within their own household will ultimately receive a barren, empty legacy. Despite their potential efforts or possessions, their life's work and influence within their family will be as insubstantial and fleeting as the wind, leaving no lasting positive impact or inheritance. This concept is similar to the theme of vanity (`hebel`) found in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](/ecclesiastes/1-14 "Ecclesiastes 1:14 - All is Vanity"), where pursuits apart from God are described as "chasing after the wind."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 11:29, like all wisdom literature, points to Christ as the ultimate embodiment of wisdom and the source of true, lasting inheritance. The "fool" who troubles his house and inherits the wind stands in stark contrast to those who build their lives on the solid foundation of Christ's teachings, as described in [Matthew 7:24-27](/matthew/7-24 "Matthew 7:24-27 - The Wise and Foolish Builders"). Jesus Himself is revealed as the very "wisdom of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")), and those who follow Him are made wise unto salvation. While the proverb warns of inheriting nothing but emptiness, believers in Christ are promised an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance")). The one who "troubleth his own house" reflects a life lived apart from divine order, leading to futility; but Christ, through His sacrificial work, brings reconciliation and peace, establishing a spiritual household ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")) built on love, not strife. In Him, the "wise of heart" find their ultimate fulfillment, as He is the one who perfectly manages all things and grants His followers a share in His eternal kingdom, an inheritance far richer than any earthly possession or legacy.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ecclesiastes 5:16

And this also [is] a sore evil, [that] in all points as he came, so shall he go: and what profit hath he that hath laboured for the wind?

Proverbs 14:19

¶ The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

Habakkuk 2:9

Woe to him that coveteth an evil covetousness to his house, that he may set his nest on high, that he may be delivered from the power of evil!

Habakkuk 2:10

Thou hast consulted shame to thy house by cutting off many people, and hast sinned [against] thy soul.

Proverbs 15:27

¶ He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

Hosea 8:7

For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind: it hath no stalk: the bud shall yield no meal: if so be it yield, the strangers shall swallow it up.

1 Samuel 25:3

Now the name of the man [was] Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and [she was] a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man [was] churlish and evil in his doings; and he [was] of the house of Caleb.