Proverbs 15:15

KJV

¶ All the days of the afflicted [are] evil: but he that is of a merry heart [hath] a continual feast.

KJV (with Strong's)

All the days {H3117} of the afflicted {H6041} are evil {H7451}: but he that is of a merry {H2896} heart {H3820} hath a continual {H8548} feast {H4960}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the poor, every day is hard; but the good-hearted have a perpetual feast.

Berean Standard Bible

All the days of the oppressed are bad, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

American Standard Version

All the days of the afflicted are evil; But he that is of a cheerful heart hath a continual feast.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 15:15 presents a profound antithesis concerning human experience, asserting that one's internal disposition, rather than external circumstances, dictates the quality of life. It contrasts the perpetually burdensome existence of the "afflicted," whose days are perceived as "evil" or troublesome, with the joyful and abundant reality of those possessing a "merry heart," who experience life as a "continual feast." This proverb underscores the transformative power of inner perspective, highlighting that true contentment and well-being are rooted in one's spiritual and emotional state.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 15 is part of a larger collection of Solomon's proverbs (chapters 10-22), characterized by short, pithy sayings that often employ parallelism to convey wisdom. This chapter, in particular, frequently contrasts the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, and the consequences of their respective paths. Verse 15:15 exemplifies **antithetical parallelism**, a common literary device in Proverbs, where two contrasting lines are placed side-by-side to illuminate a central truth. The first line describes the negative experience of the downcast, while the second line offers a positive counterpoint for the cheerful. This structure emphasizes the stark difference in outcomes based on internal disposition, a theme woven throughout the book, as seen in the wisdom found in [Proverbs 10](/proverbs/10 "Proverbs 10 - The Proverbs of Solomon").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Proverbs originates from ancient Israel, a society deeply rooted in covenant theology and wisdom tradition. Wisdom literature, unlike historical narratives or prophetic oracles, focuses on universal truths about human behavior, morality, and the nature of God's order in the world. While the "afflicted" (Hebrew: *ʻânîy*) could refer to the materially poor, oppressed, or those suffering hardship, the proverb's emphasis is on their internal state—their perception of their circumstances. Similarly, a "merry heart" does not necessarily imply material wealth but an inner state of joy and contentment, which was highly valued in a culture that understood well-being as holistic, encompassing spiritual, emotional, and physical health. The concept of "feast" (Hebrew: *mishteh*) in ancient Israelite culture was a significant event, often associated with celebration, community, and divine blessing, such as the [Feast of Tabernacles](/leviticus/23-34 "Leviticus 23:34 - The Feast of Tabernacles").
* **Key Themes:** This proverb contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Book of Proverbs and biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it highlights the **power of perspective and attitude**, asserting that one's internal state profoundly shapes their reality, independent of external conditions. This resonates with the idea that wisdom leads to life and folly to death, as explored in [Proverbs 3](/proverbs/3 "Proverbs 3 - The Blessings of Wisdom"). Secondly, it underscores the **supremacy of inner well-being over material prosperity**, suggesting that true richness is found in a joyful heart rather than in possessions or the absence of trouble. This echoes the sentiment in [Proverbs 17:22](/proverbs/17-22 "Proverbs 17:22 - A Merry Heart is Good Medicine"), which states, "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones." Lastly, it subtly touches upon the theme of **divine justice and blessing**, implying that a heart aligned with wisdom and joy experiences a continuous state of favor, while a perpetually sorrowful heart misses out on the blessings available even amidst hardship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **afflicted (Hebrew, _ʻânîy'_):** This term (H6041) describes someone who is depressed, whether in mind or circumstances. It encompasses concepts of being humble, lowly, needy, or poor. In Proverbs 15:15, it points not merely to external hardship but to the internal state of one who is downcast, oppressed, or suffering, leading to a perception of all days as burdensome.
* **evil (Hebrew, _raʻ'_):** This word (H7451) signifies something bad or evil, encompassing natural calamity, moral wickedness, or simply something troublesome, grievous, or unpleasant. Here, it describes the quality of the "days" experienced by the afflicted, indicating that their perception renders every day as difficult, sorrowful, or fraught with trouble, rather than inherently morally evil.
* **merry (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** This adjective (H2896) is derived from a root meaning "good" in the widest sense. It can mean beautiful, cheerful, at ease, glad, joyful, pleasant, or well-favored. When combined with "heart," it describes an inner disposition characterized by cheerfulness, gladness, and a positive outlook, reflecting a state of well-being and contentment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All the days of the afflicted [are] evil:"** This clause paints a somber picture. The "afflicted" are those whose spirits are weighed down by circumstances, whether poverty, oppression, or personal sorrow. Their internal state of distress colors their entire existence, leading them to perceive every day, without exception, as "evil"—meaning troublesome, burdensome, or unpleasant. This highlights how a negative mindset can eclipse any potential good or blessing, making life a continuous struggle.
* **"but he that is of a merry heart [hath] a continual feast."** This contrasting clause offers a vibrant alternative. A "merry heart" (Hebrew: *ṭôwb lêb*) refers to an inner disposition of joy, cheerfulness, and contentment. Such a person, regardless of external conditions, experiences life as a "continual feast." A feast (Hebrew: *mishteh*) in ancient culture was a time of celebration, abundance, and joy. The addition of "continual" (Hebrew: *tâmîyd*) emphasizes that this state of enjoyment is not fleeting but ongoing, a perpetual state of satisfaction and delight, flowing from an inner wellspring of gladness.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 15:15 masterfully employs **antithetical parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew wisdom literature. This device places two contrasting ideas in opposition to highlight a profound truth: the "afflicted" versus the "merry heart," and "evil days" versus a "continual feast." The stark contrast serves to underscore the central message about the power of internal disposition. The proverb also uses **metaphor**, comparing the experience of a joyful person to a "continual feast." This vivid imagery evokes notions of abundance, celebration, and sustained pleasure, making the abstract concept of inner joy tangible and relatable. Furthermore, there is a subtle use of **hyperbole** in "All the days...are evil" and "continual feast," emphasizing the pervasive nature of these contrasting experiences, though not literally every single moment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply resonates with the biblical emphasis on the heart as the wellspring of life and the seat of one's true character. It teaches that genuine well-being is not contingent on external prosperity or the absence of trials, but on an internal posture of joy, gratitude, and trust in God. A "merry heart" is not merely superficial happiness but a deep-seated contentment that can transcend suffering, rooted in a right relationship with God and a wise perspective on life's challenges. This aligns with the New Testament teaching that joy is a fruit of the Spirit, accessible even in tribulation, and that peace can guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

* [Nehemiah 8:10](/nehemiah/8-10 "The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength")
* [Philippians 4:4](/philippians/4-4 "Rejoice in the Lord Always")
* [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 15:15 offers timeless wisdom for navigating the complexities of life. It challenges us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and cultivate an inner disposition of joy and gratitude. In a world often characterized by hardship and affliction, this proverb reminds us that our perception and attitude are powerful determinants of our experience. It encourages us to actively pursue a "merry heart" through spiritual disciplines, community, and a conscious choice to focus on blessings rather than burdens. This doesn't mean ignoring suffering or denying reality, but rather finding a deep well of contentment that allows us to find joy even amidst trials, transforming our daily existence from a series of struggles into a continuous celebration of God's goodness and provision.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my current perspective on life's challenges align with the "afflicted" or the "merry heart" described in this proverb?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a more "merry heart" in my daily life, especially when facing difficulties?**
* **How might my internal disposition impact my relationships and my ability to serve others effectively?**

### FAQ
**Does "afflicted" only refer to the poor?**

Answer: While the Hebrew word *ʻânîy* (H6041) can certainly refer to the materially poor or needy, in the context of Proverbs 15:15, its primary emphasis is on the internal state of being depressed, humble, or lowly in spirit or circumstances. It describes someone who is weighed down by their situation, leading to a pervasive sense of trouble or sorrow, regardless of the specific nature of their affliction. The contrast with a "merry heart" highlights that the proverb is more about one's internal disposition and perception than merely their economic status.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 15:15 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "afflicted" find their true comfort and healing in Him, for He himself was a "man of sorrows and acquainted with grief" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - A Man of Sorrows")). Yet, through His suffering, He offers a joy that the world cannot give or take away. For those who believe in Him, the promise of a "continual feast" is realized not in earthly banquets, but in the spiritual abundance and peace found in the Kingdom of God. Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him, promising rest for their souls ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). The "merry heart" is ultimately a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit, filled with the "joy of the Lord" ([Nehemiah 8:10](/nehemiah/8-10 "The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength")), which is a fruit of the Spirit ([Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). Believers are called to rejoice always ([Philippians 4:4](/philipians/4-4 "Rejoice in the Lord Always")), knowing that their true feast is the eternal fellowship with God, foreshadowed by the Lord's Supper and culminating in the [marriage supper of the Lamb](/revelation/19-9 "Revelation 19:9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb"). Thus, Christ transforms the "evil days" of affliction into opportunities for grace, and grants a "continual feast" of spiritual joy and peace that transcends all circumstances.

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

2 Corinthians 6:10

As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and [yet] possessing all things.

Romans 12:12

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

Proverbs 15:13

¶ A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

Proverbs 17:22

¶ A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

Romans 5:11

And not only [so], but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

Romans 5:2

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Romans 5:3

And not only [so], but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;