TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Proverbs 13:20.
Note, 1. Those that would be good must keep good company, which is an evidence for them that they would be good (men's character is known by the company they choose) and will be a means of making them good, of showing them the way and of quickening and encouraging them in it. He that would be himself wise must walk with those that are so, must choose such for his intimate acquaintance, and converse with them accordingly; must ask and receive instruction from them, and keep up pious and profitable talk with them. Miss not the discourse of the elders, for they also learned of their fathers, Ecclesiasticus 8:9. And (Ecclesiasticus 6:35), Be willing to hear every godly discourse, and let not the parables of understanding escape thee. 2. Multitudes are brought to ruin by bad company: A companion of fools shall be broken (so some), shall be known (so the Septuagint), known to be a fool; noscitur ex socio - he is known by his company. He will be like them (so some), will be made wicked (so others); it comes all to one, for all those, and those only, that make themselves wicked, will be destroyed, and those that associate with evil-doers are debauched, and so undone, and at last ascribe their death to it.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
He who walks with the wise will be wise, etc. To walk with the wise is to imitate the actions of the wise. Therefore, however simple and rustic one may be, who cannot comprehend the secrets of wisdom, if he nevertheless follows the examples of the wise by living, he will rightly be counted among the wise. But he who loves the foolish, not because of their nature, since they are men, but because of their foolishness, whether as mimes or actors, or such like, not to correct by instructing, but to make them worse by favoring: such a one, though he seems wise by wit and doctrine, will be held worthy of the mark and condemnation of fools.
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Summary
Proverbs 13:20 profoundly articulates the transformative power of human association, asserting that one's character, conduct, and ultimate destiny are inextricably linked to the company one keeps. This verse, a cornerstone of biblical wisdom, succinctly presents an antithetical truth: consistent companionship with those who embody wisdom cultivates wisdom within oneself, whereas persistent association with those characterized by folly inevitably leads to ruin and destruction. It serves as a foundational principle in the Book of Proverbs, underscoring the critical importance of discerning relational choices for a life of flourishing and righteousness.
Context
Literary Context
Proverbs 13:20 is situated within the didactic wisdom literature of the Book of Proverbs, which frequently employs antithetical parallelism to highlight the stark contrast between wisdom and folly, righteousness and wickedness, and their respective outcomes. This verse exemplifies this literary technique by presenting two opposing paths of companionship and their direct, predictable consequences. It aligns with broader themes in Proverbs that emphasize the practical application of divine truth to daily life, particularly concerning the formation of character through relationships. The chapter itself offers a collection of wise sayings, often short and pithy, that guide the reader toward prudent living, with verses immediately preceding and following often touching on themes of speech, wealth, discipline, and the consequences of one's choices, all contributing to the overarching pursuit of a life lived in accordance with God's wisdom.
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Israel, society was fundamentally communal, with family, clan, and community ties forming the bedrock of identity and social structure. The influence of one's social circle on moral development and societal standing was deeply understood and highly valued. Wisdom, in this context, was not merely intellectual acumen but a practical skill for living righteously and successfully, rooted in the "fear of the Lord" (e.g., Proverbs 1:7). "Fools" (Hebrew: kᵉçîyl) were not simply unintelligent but were characterized by moral perversity, obstinacy, and a willful resistance to instruction and divine truth. Thus, the proverb speaks to a cultural understanding that one's associations directly shaped one's moral compass, reputation, and ultimate well-being within the community.
Key Themes
Proverbs 13:20 powerfully articulates several recurring themes found throughout the wisdom literature. Firstly, it underscores The Power of Influence, demonstrating that relationships are not neutral but possess a transformative capacity, shaping our attitudes, habits, and even our destiny, whether for good or ill. Secondly, it highlights the necessity of Discerning Companionship, urging the reader to exercise careful consideration in choosing those with whom they associate closely. The "wise" are those who possess practical skill, moral insight, and godly discernment, reflecting the fear of the Lord (as seen in Proverbs 9:10). In contrast, "fools" are those who are morally bankrupt, resistant to correction, and often mock at sin, leading themselves and others astray (e.g., Proverbs 14:9). Finally, the verse clearly presents the Consequences of Choice, illustrating a direct cause-and-effect relationship: wise companionship leads to growth and increased wisdom, while foolish companionship inevitably results in negative outcomes, described as "destroyed," implying ruin, brokenness, or suffering harm. This principle is echoed across scripture, as seen in the New Testament warning that evil communications corrupt good manners.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root signifies more than mere physical movement. In a great variety of literal and figurative applications, it encompasses one's behavior, lifestyle, and consistent manner of life. To "walk with" someone implies an ongoing, intimate relationship, a shared journey, and a deep level of interaction and influence. It suggests that one's habits, values, and character are shaped by those with whom they spend significant time and share life's path.
While primarily meaning "to tend a flock" or "to pasture," this root extends figuratively to "associate with (as a friend)." It speaks to the act of keeping company, making friendship with, and being in close relationship. The term highlights the active choice and commitment involved in forming an association, emphasizing that a "companion" is someone with whom one shares life, often influencing and being influenced by them.
This primitive root primarily means "to mar" or "to break," especially by breaking. Figuratively, it can mean to "split the ears (with sound)," leading to concepts like shouting for alarm or joy. However, in the context of Proverbs 13:20, its primary sense is negative, conveying the idea of being brought to ruin, suffering harm, or being broken. It signifies the severe, often self-inflicted, consequences that arise from aligning oneself with those who reject wisdom and godly principles, leading to a state of moral, social, or spiritual collapse.
Verse Breakdown
"He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise:"
This clause establishes a direct correlation between consistent association with the wise and the acquisition of wisdom. The act of "walking with" implies a shared journey, deep interaction, and a lifestyle of learning and emulation. Those who choose to spend their time with individuals who possess discernment, godly character, and practical understanding will inevitably absorb their virtues, habits, and insights, leading to their own growth in wisdom. It's a promise of positive transformation through intentional companionship.
"but a companion of fools shall be destroyed."
This antithetical clause presents the stark and inevitable consequence of choosing foolish company. A "companion" here denotes a close associate, someone with whom one regularly keeps company. "Fools" in biblical wisdom are not merely unintelligent but are morally perverse, resistant to instruction, and often mock at sin. The term "destroyed" signifies being marred, broken, or brought to ruin. This destruction can manifest in various forms—moral corruption, financial ruin, social disgrace, emotional distress, or even spiritual death—highlighting the severe and destructive impact of aligning oneself with those who reject wisdom and godly principles.
Literary Devices
Proverbs 13:20 is a masterclass in concise wisdom, primarily employing Antithetical Parallelism. This device presents two contrasting statements or ideas, where the second line expresses the opposite of the first, thereby highlighting the profound difference between two paths or outcomes. Here, "walking with wise men" is contrasted with being "a companion of fools," and the respective outcomes of "shall be wise" versus "shall be destroyed" are set in stark opposition. This structure effectively underscores the clear choice and its inevitable consequences. The phrase "walketh with" also functions as a Metaphor or Idiom, signifying a deep, ongoing relationship and shared lifestyle, rather than mere physical proximity. It conveys the idea of intimate association and profound influence. Furthermore, the verse clearly demonstrates Cause and Effect, presenting a direct correlation between one's relational choices and their resultant character and destiny, making a powerful argument for discerning companionship.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This proverb resonates deeply with broader biblical theology concerning the nature of fellowship, the importance of discernment, and the source of true wisdom. It underscores the biblical truth that humans are inherently relational beings, and our spiritual and moral formation is profoundly shaped by the company we keep. True wisdom, as presented throughout scripture, is not merely intellectual knowledge but a practical, God-given understanding of how to live righteously, rooted in the fear of the Lord. Conversely, folly is a rejection of God's ways, leading to self-destruction. The verse thus serves as a divine imperative to guard our hearts and minds by carefully choosing our closest companions, recognizing that their influence will either draw us closer to God's wisdom or pull us toward destructive paths. It speaks to the communal aspect of sanctification and the dangers of ungodly influence.
Reflection and Application
Proverbs 13:20 offers timeless wisdom that remains profoundly relevant for every believer today, urging us to be profoundly intentional and discerning about our relationships. It challenges us to move beyond passive associations and actively cultivate a relational environment that fosters spiritual growth, moral integrity, and the pursuit of God's wisdom. This means not only seeking out mentors and friends who embody Christ-like character and sound biblical understanding but also recognizing and, if necessary, distancing ourselves from relationships that consistently pull us away from God's truth or encourage destructive behaviors. Our character is not formed in a vacuum; it is shaped by the voices we listen to, the values we absorb, and the examples we observe in our closest circles. Therefore, we are called to evaluate our current companions, seek out those who sharpen us as "iron sharpens iron" (as seen in Proverbs 27:17), and, most importantly, strive to be a wise and godly influence ourselves, reflecting the wisdom of Christ to those around us.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "walketh with" mean in this context?
In Proverbs 13:20, "walketh with" (Hebrew: hâlak) signifies much more than a casual acquaintance or occasional interaction. It implies an ongoing, intimate relationship, a shared journey, and a deep level of interaction and influence. It speaks to one's lifestyle and consistent companionship, suggesting that one's habits, values, and character are profoundly shaped by those they spend significant time with. It's about shared experiences, mutual influence, and the direction of one's life path.
Who are the "fools" mentioned in this proverb?
In biblical wisdom literature, a "fool" (Hebrew: kᵉçîyl) is not merely someone lacking intelligence or knowledge. Rather, it describes a person who is morally bankrupt, obstinate, arrogant, and resistant to instruction and divine truth. This individual despises wisdom, scoffs at sin (e.g., Proverbs 14:9), and often rejects the "fear of the Lord," which is the beginning of knowledge (as stated in Proverbs 1:7). They are characterized by a willful disregard for God's ways, leading themselves and those associated with them toward ruin.
How does "destroyed" apply to a companion of fools?
The Hebrew word rûwaʻ (H7321), translated as "destroyed," implies being marred, broken, or brought to ruin. When applied to a companion of fools, it highlights the severe and often self-inflicted consequences that arise from aligning oneself with those who reject wisdom and godly principles. This destruction can manifest in various forms: moral corruption, financial ruin, social disgrace, emotional distress, or even spiritual death. It underscores the principle that bad company corrupts good character, leading to a state of being broken or ruined, as also warned in 1 Corinthians 15:33.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 13:20 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the very embodiment of divine wisdom, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3). To "walk with" Jesus is to align our lives with the source of all truth and righteousness. As believers, we are called to abide in Him, to learn from Him, and to emulate His perfect wisdom. When we choose to make Christ our constant companion, our ultimate mentor, and the center of our lives, we are transformed into His likeness, growing in true wisdom and discernment (as seen in 1 Corinthians 1:30). Conversely, the "fools" in this proverb represent those who reject God's wisdom, which is ultimately a rejection of Christ Himself, who declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). To walk apart from Him, or to choose companions who lead us away from Him, is to choose a path that inevitably leads to spiritual destruction. Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ delivers us from the destruction that folly brings, offering us a new life empowered by the Holy Spirit to choose wisely and to walk in His light, bearing much fruit as we abide in Him (John 15:5).