Proverbs 13:17

KJV

¶ A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador [is] health.

KJV (with Strong's)

A wicked {H7563} messenger {H4397} falleth {H5307} into mischief {H7451}: but a faithful {H529} ambassador {H6735} is health {H4832}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A wicked messenger falls into evil, but a faithful envoy brings healing.

Berean Standard Bible

A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful envoy brings healing.

American Standard Version

A wicked messenger falleth into evil; But a faithful ambassador is health.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 13:17 presents a sharp antithesis, illustrating the divergent consequences of integrity versus deceit in communication and representation. It declares that a messenger characterized by wickedness inevitably encounters trouble and harm, while an ambassador distinguished by faithfulness brings about well-being, healing, and flourishing. This proverb underscores the profound impact of character on outcomes, particularly in roles of trust and influence, highlighting the critical importance of truthfulness and reliability for the benefit of both the individual and those they serve.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 13 is part of the larger collection of Solomonic proverbs (Proverbs 10-22:16), which primarily consists of two-line antithetical parallelism. This structure, where the second line contrasts or completes the first, is clearly evident in [Proverbs 13:17](/proverbs/13-17 "Proverbs 13:17 - Wicked Messenger vs. Faithful Ambassador"). The chapter itself is replete with contrasts between the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, and the diligent and the lazy, detailing the practical consequences of each path. For example, [Proverbs 13:6](/proverbs/13-6 "Proverbs 13:6 - Righteousness vs. Sin") speaks of righteousness guarding the upright, while sin overthrows the wicked. Similarly, [Proverbs 13:14](/proverbs/13-14 "Proverbs 13:14 - Law of the Wise") links the "law of the wise" to a "fountain of life." Within this literary framework, [Proverbs 13:17](/proverbs/13-17 "Proverbs 13:17 - The Impact of Messengers") serves as a specific application of the overarching theme: good character yields good results, and bad character yields bad results, particularly in the vital realm of communication and diplomacy.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, messengers (`mălʼâk`) and ambassadors (`tsîyr`) were indispensable figures in inter-city and international relations. They served as the primary means of communication between rulers, armies, and even families. Their role was fraught with danger and immense responsibility, as they often carried messages of war or peace, life or death. The integrity of a messenger was paramount; any deviation from the original message, whether intentional or accidental, could lead to catastrophic consequences, including war, betrayal, or the breakdown of vital alliances. The concept of "health" (`marpêʼ`) in this context extends beyond physical well-being to encompass social, political, and economic flourishing, reflecting the holistic understanding of prosperity in ancient Israel. A faithful ambassador could secure peace treaties, trade agreements, or vital intelligence, thus bringing "health" to their nation or sender, while a wicked one could sow discord and "mischief" (`raʻ`).
* **Key Themes:** [Proverbs 13:17](/proverbs/13-17 "Proverbs 13:17 - Consequences of Character") contributes significantly to several key themes pervasive throughout the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it highlights the **consequences of character**, demonstrating that one's moral disposition directly impacts their effectiveness and the outcomes of their actions. A "wicked" person's actions lead to "mischief," while a "faithful" person's actions bring "health." Secondly, the proverb emphasizes the **power and responsibility of words and communication**. It underscores that communication is not neutral; it either builds up or tears down, brings peace or conflict. This theme is echoed in other proverbs, such as [Proverbs 18:21](/proverbs/18-21 "Proverbs 18:21 - The Power of the Tongue"), which states, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." Thirdly, it touches upon the theme of **representation and trust**. An ambassador is a representative, and their faithfulness is a reflection of the one they represent. This concept of faithful representation is crucial for societal order and divine-human relations, as seen in the broader biblical narrative where prophets and priests often serve as God's messengers.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **messenger (Hebrew, _mălʼâk'_):** From an unused root meaning "to despatch as a deputy," this term refers to an envoy, a delegate, or one sent on a mission. It can apply to human messengers, but also to divine angels, prophets, priests, or even kings who act as God's representatives. In the context of Proverbs 13:17, it emphasizes the role of someone entrusted with conveying a message or representing another's interests. The "wicked messenger" abuses this trust and responsibility.
* **mischief (Hebrew, _raʻ'_):** This word denotes something bad or evil, encompassing adversity, affliction, calamity, harm, distress, and wickedness. It is a broad term for negative outcomes, whether natural or moral. When a wicked messenger "falleth into mischief," it means they bring about or experience trouble, harm, or calamity, often as a direct consequence of their deceitful or malicious actions.
* **health (Hebrew, _marpêʼ'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to heal," this term signifies something curative, a medicine, a cure, or abstractly, deliverance or placidity. It implies not only physical well-being but also spiritual, social, and relational soundness, peace, and prosperity. A "faithful ambassador is health" means their integrity and truthfulness bring about wholeness, healing, and positive resolution to situations, fostering well-being for all involved.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A wicked messenger falleth into mischief:"** This clause introduces the first half of the antithesis. A "wicked messenger" (one characterized by moral wrong, deceit, or malicious intent in their communication) is destined to encounter or cause "mischief." The verb "falleth" (H5307, _nâphal_) suggests an inevitable outcome, a natural consequence of their character and actions. Their unfaithfulness leads to trouble, harm, or calamity, not only for those they interact with but also often for themselves.
* **"but a faithful ambassador [is] health."** This second clause provides the stark contrast. The conjunction "but" signals the opposition. A "faithful ambassador" (one who is established, trustworthy, and reliable in their representation) brings "health." The term "ambassador" (H6735, _tsîyr_) often implies a higher-stakes diplomatic role, reinforcing the gravity of the message and the trust involved. Their integrity and truthfulness result in healing, soundness, well-being, and positive resolution, benefiting those they represent and those they engage with.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Proverbs 13:17 is **Antithetical Parallelism**. This is a hallmark of Solomonic proverbs, where two lines express opposing ideas, with the second line contrasting the first to highlight a moral or practical truth. Here, "wicked messenger" is contrasted with "faithful ambassador," and "falleth into mischief" is contrasted with "is health." This sharp juxtaposition effectively emphasizes the profound difference in outcomes based on character. Additionally, **Metonymy** is present, particularly in the phrase "is health." "Health" is not merely a state of being but stands metonymically for the beneficial effects and positive results that a faithful ambassador produces—peace, healing, prosperity, and well-being. The messenger or ambassador is not literally "health" but brings it about.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 13:17 deeply embeds itself within the broader biblical theology of wisdom, character, and the power of communication. It affirms God's moral order, where integrity and faithfulness are rewarded, and deceit and wickedness lead to ruin. This principle is not merely pragmatic advice but reflects the very character of God, who is truth and faithfulness itself. As God's image-bearers, humans are called to reflect His character in their interactions, especially in their words and representation. The proverb highlights that our actions, particularly in roles of trust, have far-reaching consequences, impacting the well-being of others and the fabric of society. It sets a high standard for those entrusted with messages, whether spiritual or temporal, emphasizing that faithfulness is the conduit for blessing and wholeness.

* [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Lying Lips Abomination to the LORD")
* [Proverbs 25:13](/proverbs/25-13 "Faithful Messenger like Snow in Harvest")
* [Psalm 15:1-2](/psalms/15-1-2 "Who May Dwell on God's Holy Hill")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world saturated with information and often plagued by miscommunication, Proverbs 13:17 serves as a timeless and urgent call to integrity. We are all, in various capacities, messengers and ambassadors. Whether we are conveying information in our workplaces, sharing our faith with others, engaging in social media, or simply communicating within our families, our character profoundly shapes the outcome. This proverb challenges us to examine our motives and methods of communication. Do we prioritize truth, clarity, and the well-being of others, or are we swayed by self-interest, deceit, or malice? The "mischief" caused by a wicked messenger can manifest as broken relationships, damaged reputations, societal discord, or spiritual confusion. Conversely, the "health" brought by a faithful ambassador can foster trust, reconciliation, understanding, and flourishing. For believers, this is especially poignant: we are called to be Christ's ambassadors, entrusted with the message of reconciliation. Our faithfulness in delivering this message, both through our words and our lives, is crucial for bringing the spiritual "health" of the Gospel to a world desperately in need.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I act as a "messenger" or "ambassador," and how does my character influence the messages I convey?**
* **Can I identify instances where my communication (or someone else's) led to "mischief" due to unfaithfulness or "health" due to integrity? What lessons can I draw from these experiences?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper commitment to truthfulness and faithfulness in all my interactions, especially when the stakes are high?**
* **As an ambassador for Christ, how does this proverb challenge me to faithfully represent His character and message to the world?**

### FAQ
**What is the primary contrast presented in Proverbs 13:17?**

Answer: The primary contrast in [Proverbs 13:17](/proverbs/13-17 "The Contrast of Messengers") is between a "wicked messenger" and a "faithful ambassador." It highlights the opposing outcomes of their actions: the wicked messenger "falleth into mischief" (brings harm or trouble), while the faithful ambassador "is health" (brings well-being, healing, and flourishing). This antithesis underscores the vital importance of character and integrity in roles of communication and representation.

**What does "falleth into mischief" mean in this context?**

Answer: "Falleth into mischief" (Hebrew: _nâphal_ into _raʻ_) means to encounter, bring about, or experience trouble, harm, calamity, or evil. For the wicked messenger, this is the inevitable consequence of their deceitful or malicious actions. It implies that their unfaithfulness leads to negative outcomes, both for themselves and for those affected by their message, causing disruption, conflict, or suffering. It's a direct result of their moral failing, aligning with the broader wisdom teaching that wickedness brings its own undoing, as seen in [Proverbs 1:31](/proverbs/1-31 "Consequences of Rejecting Wisdom").

**How does a "faithful ambassador" bring "health"?**

Answer: A "faithful ambassador" brings "health" (Hebrew: _marpêʼ_) by delivering messages truthfully, upholding trust, and acting with integrity. This "health" is not limited to physical well-being but encompasses holistic flourishing: peace, reconciliation, soundness in relationships, social harmony, and spiritual well-being. By accurately and faithfully representing their sender, they facilitate positive outcomes, resolve conflicts, build trust, and contribute to the overall welfare of individuals and communities, much like a good physician brings healing, as described in [Proverbs 16:24](/proverbs/16-24 "Pleasant Words are a Honeycomb").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 13:17 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the quintessential faithful Ambassador sent from God. While wicked messengers bring mischief, Jesus, as the perfect divine Messenger, brings ultimate "health" and salvation. He is the very embodiment of truth and faithfulness, unlike any human messenger who might fall short. The Apostle Paul declares that God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself, and has committed to us the "word of reconciliation" ([2 Corinthians 5:19](/2_corinthians/5-19 "God Reconciling the World to Himself")). In this sense, Jesus is not merely a messenger but the Message itself, the very Word made flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh")). His life, death, and resurrection are the faithful delivery of God's plan for humanity's healing and restoration. Through His perfect obedience, He secured our spiritual "health," delivering us from the "mischief" of sin and death ([Romans 6:23](/romans/6-23 "Wages of Sin vs. Gift of God")). As believers, we are then called to be "ambassadors for Christ" ([2 Corinthians 5:20](/2_corinthians/5-20 "Ambassadors for Christ")), faithfully proclaiming the message of reconciliation and thereby becoming instruments through whom God brings spiritual "health" and life to a broken world, reflecting the very faithfulness of our Lord.

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

Proverbs 25:13

¶ As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, [so is] a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.

Ezekiel 33:7

So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me.

Ezekiel 33:8

When I say unto the wicked, O wicked [man], thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked [man] shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

1 Corinthians 4:2

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

Ezekiel 3:18

When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked [man] shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

2 Corinthians 5:20

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech [you] by us: we pray [you] in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Proverbs 25:23

¶ The north wind driveth away rain: so [doth] an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.