Proverbs 14:35

Commentary on Proverbs 14:35 (KJV)

Proverbs 14:35 delivers a concise yet profound insight into the dynamics of leadership and service, emphasizing the direct correlation between an individual's character and their standing with authority. It states: "The king's favour [is] toward a wise servant: but his wrath is [against] him that causeth shame."

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of ancient Hebrew wisdom literature, offering practical guidance for living a righteous and successful life. Its sayings often contrast wisdom with folly, diligence with laziness, and righteousness with wickedness, illustrating the natural consequences of each. This particular proverb operates within the practical realm of governance and administration, reflecting societal structures where a "king" represents ultimate human authority. While immediately applicable to earthly rulers and their subjects, it also subtly points to divine principles of justice and reward, applicable to humanity's relationship with God, the ultimate King.

Key Themes

• Wisdom and Folly: The verse sharply contrasts the "wise servant" with the one who "causeth shame." Wisdom here implies not just intelligence, but also discretion, diligence, integrity, and faithfulness. Folly, conversely, leads to actions that bring dishonor and disgrace.
• Reward and Consequence: A clear cause-and-effect relationship is presented. Favour (goodwill, acceptance, promotion) is the reward for wisdom and diligent service, while wrath (anger, punishment, dismissal) is the consequence for actions that cause shame or dishonor.
• Leadership and Service: It highlights the expectations of a ruler towards their subordinates and the importance of a servant's conduct. A wise servant brings credit to their master, while a foolish one brings discredit.
• Integrity and Diligence: Implicit in the "wise servant" are qualities of honesty, reliability, and hard work, which are valued by any discerning authority. The one who "causeth shame" suggests a lack of these virtues, perhaps through negligence, dishonesty, or incompetence.

Linguistic Insights

• The Hebrew word for "favour" is ratson (רָצוֹן), which denotes pleasure, delight, acceptance, or goodwill. It signifies a positive disposition from the king towards the servant.
• "Wise servant" translates from eved maskil (עֶבֶד מַשְׂכִּיל), referring to a servant who is intelligent, discerning, and prudent in their actions.
• "Wrath" comes from evrah (עֶבְרָה), meaning overflowing anger or fury, indicating a strong negative reaction from the king.
• The phrase "causeth shame" is from mevish (מֵבִישׁ), which means to bring disgrace, dishonor, or humiliation. This could be due to foolishness, incompetence, or disloyalty.

Related Scriptures

This verse highlights a fundamental truth about authority and responsibility, illustrating how diligence and skill lead to promotion and favor. Conversely, the one who "causeth shame" is characterized by foolishness, negligence, or even treachery, bringing dishonor not only to themselves but also to their superior, echoing the warnings against folly found in Proverbs 10:5. This principle extends to our relationship with God, the ultimate King, whose favor rests upon the righteous, while His displeasure is reserved for those who persist in foolishness and rebellion, much like the contrast seen in the fate of the wise and the wicked.

Practical Application

Proverbs 14:35 offers timeless wisdom applicable in various spheres of life today:

• In the Workplace: Employees who exhibit wisdom, diligence, and integrity are more likely to gain the favor of their employers, leading to advancement and trust. Those who act foolishly, negligently, or dishonestly will face negative consequences.
• In Leadership: This verse reminds leaders (the "king") of the importance of discerning and rewarding good service, while also addressing and correcting those who cause harm or shame.
• In Personal Conduct: Our actions have consequences. Living wisely, with integrity and responsibility, typically leads to positive outcomes and respect from others. Conversely, foolish or shameful behavior damages one's reputation and relationships.
• Spiritual Application: As believers, we are servants of God, the ultimate King. Our wisdom, obedience, and faithful service bring us into His favor, while disobedience and foolishness incur His displeasure. This encourages a life lived in reverence and pursuit of righteousness.

Ultimately, Proverbs 14:35 serves as a powerful reminder that character and conduct are paramount, influencing how we are perceived and treated by those in authority, both human and divine.