Proverbs 15:3

KJV

¶ The eyes of the LORD [are] in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

KJV (with Strong's)

The eyes {H5869} of the LORD {H3068} are in every place {H4725}, beholding {H6822} the evil {H7451} and the good {H2896}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The eyes of ADONAI are everywhere, watching the evil and the good.

Berean Standard Bible

The eyes of the LORD are in every place, observing the evil and the good.

American Standard Version

The eyes of Jehovah are in every place, Keeping watch upon the evil and the good.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 15:3 presents a foundational truth about the nature of God, declaring His absolute omnipresence and omniscience. It asserts that the divine gaze of the LORD penetrates every corner of existence, actively observing and discerning all human actions, whether they are good or evil. This profound statement serves as a cornerstone of biblical wisdom, establishing the principle of universal accountability before a God who is intimately aware of every deed, thought, and intention, thereby shaping the moral framework for righteous living.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 15:3 is embedded within the "Proverbs of Solomon" (chapters 10-29), a collection of pithy, didactic sayings designed to impart wisdom and instruct in righteous living. This particular chapter frequently contrasts the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked, often focusing on the power of speech, the nature of humility, and the consequences of one's actions. Verse 3, with its declaration of divine oversight, undergirds many of the ethical exhortations found in the surrounding verses. For instance, it provides the ultimate rationale for the importance of right speech (e.g., [Proverbs 15:1-2](/proverbs/15-1 "Proverbs 15:1-2 - Gentle Answer and Wise Speech") and [Proverbs 15:4](/proverbs/15-4 "Proverbs 15:4 - A Wholesome Tongue")) and the value of humility over pride (e.g., [Proverbs 15:33](/proverbs/15-33 "Proverbs 15:33 - Humility Precedes Honor")), as all such behaviors are subject to God's discerning eye. The verse reinforces the overarching theme that true wisdom begins with [the fear of the LORD](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the LORD"), acknowledging His sovereignty and all-encompassing knowledge.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, wisdom literature, including Proverbs, served as a primary means of moral and theological instruction, often passed down from elders to younger generations, or from kings and sages to their subjects. The concept of a deity who sees all was not unique to Israel, but the Israelite understanding of Yahweh's omnipresence and omniscience was distinct in its ethical implications. Unlike the capricious gods of surrounding cultures, the LORD's observation was tied to His covenant faithfulness, His justice, and His righteous governance of the world. This understanding would have deeply influenced the worldview of the Israelites, fostering a sense of accountability not merely to human authority but to the ultimate divine authority. The "place" in ancient thought could refer to specific locations, but in this context, it expands to encompass the entire cosmos, emphasizing God's universal dominion.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 15:3 powerfully articulates several core theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Omnipresence and Omniscience**, asserting God's simultaneous presence everywhere and His perfect knowledge of all things. This echoes sentiments found in [Psalm 139:7-12](/psalms/139-7 "Psalm 139:7-12 - God's Omnipresence") where the psalmist marvels at the inability to escape God's Spirit or presence. Secondly, the verse establishes **Universal Accountability**, implying that every human being, regardless of their awareness or acknowledgment of God, is subject to His divine scrutiny. There are no hidden deeds or secret thoughts that escape His notice, a truth reinforced in [Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - All Things Naked Before God"). Finally, it speaks to God's **Moral Governance**, indicating that His observation is not passive but active and discerning, distinguishing between "evil and good." This active beholding implies a basis for divine justice and ultimate recompense, aligning with the broader biblical principle that God will [render to each one according to his deeds](/romans/2-6 "Romans 2:6 - God's Impartial Judgment").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Eyes (Hebrew, _ʻayin'_):** From H5869, this word literally means "eye," but figuratively it extends to perception, knowledge, and awareness. In the context of God, "eyes" is an anthropomorphism, attributing a human characteristic to God to convey His perfect and complete awareness. It signifies not just sight, but an active, discerning observation that penetrates all hiddenness.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** From H3068, this is the personal, covenantal name of God, often translated as "Jehovah" or "Yahweh." It emphasizes God's self-existence, eternality, and His unique relationship with Israel. The use of this specific name highlights that it is the one true, living God of the covenant who possesses this extraordinary attribute of universal sight and knowledge, not a generic deity.
* **Place (Hebrew, _mâqôwm'_):** From H4725, this word means "a standing" or "a spot," but is used widely to denote a locality, general or specific, and even figuratively, a condition. In Proverbs 15:3, "every place" signifies the totality of creation, leaving no corner or dimension outside the scope of God's observation. It conveys His omnipresence—His ability to be everywhere simultaneously.
* **Beholding (Hebrew, _tsâphâh'_):** From H6822, this primitive root means "to lean forward," "to peer into the distance," or "to observe, await." It implies more than a casual glance; it suggests an active, watchful, and purposeful observation. God is not merely seeing, but actively discerning, monitoring, and taking notice of everything that transpires, both openly and in secret.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The eyes of the LORD":** This phrase employs anthropomorphism to describe God's comprehensive awareness. "Eyes" here symbolize God's perfect perception, knowledge, and discernment. The use of "LORD" (Yahweh) emphasizes that this is the personal, covenant-keeping God of Israel, whose nature includes infinite knowledge and presence. It signifies that His awareness is not limited by physical space or human concealment.
* **"[are] in every place":** This clause declares God's omnipresence. It means there is no location, no situation, no moment, and no secret thought or action that is outside of God's immediate and direct awareness. His presence is universal and unconfined, encompassing all of creation and all human experience. This negates any possibility of escaping His notice.
* **"beholding the evil and the good":** This final clause specifies the object of God's all-encompassing gaze. "Beholding" (tsâphâh) implies an active, discerning observation, not merely passive seeing. God is not indifferent; He actively distinguishes between "evil" (raʻ) and "good" (ṭôwb). This highlights His moral character and His role as the ultimate judge and arbiter of right and wrong, ensuring that all deeds are noted and will ultimately be addressed according to His righteous standards.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 15:3 effectively utilizes several literary devices to convey its profound theological truth. The most prominent is **Anthropomorphism**, where human characteristics are attributed to God, specifically "The eyes of the LORD." God does not possess physical eyes, but this imagery helps finite human beings grasp His infinite capacity for perception and knowledge. It makes an abstract divine attribute relatable and impactful. Secondly, the phrase "the evil and the good" functions as a **Merism**. This device uses two contrasting parts to represent a totality or a complete range. By mentioning both "evil" and "good," the proverb signifies that absolutely everything—the entire spectrum of human behavior and moral choices—falls under God's watchful eye. This emphasizes the comprehensive and exhaustive nature of His observation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 15:3 is a cornerstone verse for understanding God's attributes of omnipresence and omniscience, which are fundamental to biblical theology. It reveals a God who is not distant or disengaged but intimately involved in His creation, observing every detail of human conduct. This active observation forms the basis for divine justice and accountability, ensuring that no deed, whether righteous or wicked, goes unnoticed. It implies that God's moral governance is absolute and inescapable, providing a powerful motivation for ethical living and a profound comfort for those who strive for righteousness. This truth underpins the entire biblical narrative of God's relationship with humanity, from creation to final judgment.

* [Psalm 33:13-15](/psalms/33-13 "Psalm 33:13-15 - The LORD Looks from Heaven")
* [Jeremiah 23:24](/jeremiah/23-24 "Jeremiah 23:24 - Can Anyone Hide from God?")
* [Revelation 2:23](/revelation/2-23 "Revelation 2:23 - Jesus Searches Hearts and Minds")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound truth of Proverbs 15:3—that God's eyes are in every place, beholding the evil and the good—has transformative implications for our daily lives. It calls us to live with an unwavering consciousness of God's presence, fostering genuine integrity even in our most private moments. Knowing that our every thought, word, and deed is seen by the Almighty should cultivate a profound sense of reverence and humility, prompting us to align our lives with His righteous standards. For those who strive to walk in righteousness, this verse offers immense comfort and encouragement, assuring them that their hidden acts of kindness, their quiet sacrifices, and their persistent efforts to do good are not in vain, but are seen and valued by God. Conversely, it serves as a solemn warning to those who might consider engaging in wickedness, reminding them that there is no escaping divine scrutiny and ultimate accountability. Embracing this truth can lead to a deeper walk with God, marked by authenticity, moral courage, and a joyful awareness of His constant, loving, yet discerning gaze.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth of God's all-seeing eye impact your private thoughts and actions?**
* **In what ways does this verse offer comfort to you when you feel unseen or unappreciated for your good deeds?**
* **What specific areas of your life might need to be re-evaluated in light of God "beholding the evil and the good"?**
* **How can cultivating a greater awareness of God's presence help you to live with more integrity and purpose?**

### FAQ
**Does God's constant observation imply that He is always judging us?**

Answer: While God's observation is indeed constant and discerning, "beholding the evil and the good" indicates an active awareness rather than immediate condemnation. His all-seeing eye is foundational to His justice, but also to His mercy and grace. He sees our struggles, our intentions, and our efforts, not just our failures. The Bible teaches that God is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love ([Psalm 103:8](/psalms/103-8 "Psalm 103:8 - The LORD is Merciful")). While ultimate judgment is certain for those who reject Him, for believers, His seeing is also for our good, for guidance, protection, and the perfecting of our faith, as He is [a God who sees and cares](/genesis/16-13 "Genesis 16:13 - El Roi, The God Who Sees").

**How does this verse relate to human free will?**

Answer: Proverbs 15:3 does not negate human free will; rather, it underscores the accountability that comes with it. Humans are free to choose between "evil and good," but these choices are not made in a vacuum. God's omnipresent gaze means that every exercise of our will, every decision, is known to Him. This knowledge does not force our hand but ensures that our choices have ultimate significance and will be met with divine response, whether it be blessing or consequence. It's a reminder that our freedom is exercised within the framework of God's sovereign oversight and moral order.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 15:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament declares God's omnipresent and omniscient gaze, it is in Christ that God's presence among humanity is fully realized and His discerning eye is perfectly embodied. Jesus, being [God manifest in the flesh](/1_timothy/3-16 "1 Timothy 3:16 - God Manifest in the Flesh"), is the very "image of the invisible God" ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")). Through Him, God's all-seeing presence is no longer an abstract concept but a tangible reality, as He walked among us, knowing the hearts of men ([John 2:25](/john/2-25 "John 2:25 - Jesus Knew What Was in Man")). Furthermore, Christ Himself is the one through whom God's "beholding the evil and the good" culminates in both salvation and judgment. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), addressing the "evil" that God sees through His atoning sacrifice on the cross ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Simultaneously, He is appointed by God to be the [judge of the living and the dead](/acts/10-42 "Acts 10:42 - Jesus, Judge of Living and Dead"), ensuring that all "good" and "evil" deeds will ultimately be brought to light and receive their just recompense. Thus, the all-seeing eye of the LORD, revealed in Proverbs, finds its saving and judging power in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is both our merciful High Priest and our righteous King.

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

Hebrews 4:13

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things [are] naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Jeremiah 16:17

For mine eyes [are] upon all their ways: they are not hid from my face, neither is their iniquity hid from mine eyes.

Jeremiah 23:24

Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD.

2 Chronicles 16:9

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of [them] whose heart [is] perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.

Proverbs 5:21

For the ways of man [are] before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.

Job 34:21

For his eyes [are] upon the ways of man, and he seeth all his goings.

Job 34:22

[There is] no darkness, nor shadow of death, where the workers of iniquity may hide themselves.