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 16:29–30.
Here is another sort of evil men described to us, that we may neither do like them, nor have any thing to do with them. 1. Such as (like Satan) do all the mischief they can by force and violence, as roaring lions, and not only by fraud and insinuation, as subtle serpents: They are violent men, that do all by rapine and oppression, that shut their eyes, meditating with the closest intention and application of mind to devise froward things, to contrive how they may do the greatest mischief to their neighbour, to do it effectually and yet securely to themselves; and then moving their lips, giving the word of command to their agents, they bring the evil to pass, and accomplish the wicked device, biting his lips (so some read it) for vexation. When the wicked plots against the just he gnasheth upon him with his teeth. 2. Such as (like Satan still) do all they can to entice and draw in others to join with them in doing mischief, leading them in a way that is not good, that is not honest, nor honourable, nor safe, but offensive to God, and which will be in the end pernicious to the sinner. Thus he aims to ruin some in this world by bringing them into trouble, and others in the other world by bringing them into sin.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
He who thinks evil with astonished eyes, etc. It is more grievous to accomplish evil than to do it. Not only does he accomplish evil who acts perversely and harmfully with the members of his body, but also he who with fixed intention plans to commit it. For the proud, indignant, are accustomed to bite their lips, and to have astonished eyes, and not to see the present, who for some time silently ponder with diligent mind. Hence it can be inferred that thinking evil with astonished eyes says of him who thus seeks to commit the evils that he does not see the retribution of evil deeds that follows in the future.
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Summary
Proverbs 16:30 offers a stark portrayal of the wicked individual, revealing the deliberate and insidious process by which evil is conceived and executed. It describes a person who intentionally closes their mind to truth and righteousness, meticulously plotting perverse schemes in secret. Subsequently, through subtle gestures or deceptive communication, this individual brings their malicious intentions to fruition, underscoring that wickedness is a calculated act, progressing from internal thought to external, harmful action, often achieved with cunning stealth.
Context
Literary Context
Proverbs 16:30 is situated within a significant collection of Solomonic proverbs (chapters 10-29), which provide practical wisdom and moral instruction for daily living. Chapter 16, in particular, frequently contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked, emphasizing God's sovereignty over human plans and the inevitable consequences of moral choices. Verses immediately preceding this one, such as Proverbs 16:27 and Proverbs 16:28, characterize the scoundrel and the perverse person, highlighting their destructive nature and their role in spreading strife. In this light, verse 30 serves as a profound exploration into the internal machinations and subtle execution of evil by such individuals, detailing how their wickedness is conceived and ultimately brought to pass.
Historical & Cultural Context
The book of Proverbs is a cornerstone of the ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition, where the transmission of moral and ethical conduct from elders to younger generations was paramount. In ancient Israel, wisdom transcended mere intellectual acumen; it was the practical skill of living righteously in covenant with Yahweh. The vivid imagery of "shutteth his eyes" and "moving his lips" would have resonated deeply within a society where non-verbal cues, subtle communication, and the power of the spoken word held immense significance. Deceit, cunning, and malicious intent were recognized dangers, particularly in social and legal interactions, and the proverbs frequently warn against those who employ such means to exploit or harm others. The emphasis on the "heart" (the seat of thought, will, and emotion) and its intentions aligns with the broader biblical understanding that true righteousness originates internally, a concept consistently found throughout the Old Testament, from the Mosaic Law to the Prophets.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several foundational themes prevalent throughout the book of Proverbs and the broader biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the intentionality of evil, demonstrating that wickedness is often a deliberate, conceived act rather than an accidental failing. This theme is consistently echoed in other proverbs that speak of the wicked heart, such as Proverbs 6:14. Secondly, it highlights the progression of sin, showing how evil originates in the mind ("devise froward things") and then manifests outwardly through action or communication ("moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass"). This progression from internal thought to external deed is a foundational biblical concept, also articulated in the New Testament, as seen in James 1:15. Thirdly, the verse underscores the theme of deceit and subtlety in the execution of wickedness, suggesting that the wicked often operate covertly, employing hidden cues or whispers to achieve their nefarious ends—a recurring warning in wisdom literature regarding the dangers posed by the unrighteous.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From a primitive root meaning to fasten or make firm, this word (H6095) properly signifies to close or shut, specifically referring to the eyes. In this context, it denotes a deliberate and intentional act of closing one's eyes, suggesting a willful blindness to truth, moral light, or the consequences of one's actions, allowing for focused internal plotting.
This primitive root (H2803) means to plait or interpenetrate, or generally to fabricate. Figuratively, it denotes plotting or contriving, often in a malicious sense. It encompasses the mental effort to think, regard, value, or compute. Here, it emphasizes the meticulous, calculating, and often malevolent nature of the wicked person's thoughts, indicating that evil is not spontaneous but carefully planned and concocted in the mind.
Derived from a word meaning "to turn over" or "overthrow," tahpukâh (H8419) refers to perversity, crookedness, or distorted matters. It describes actions or intentions that are twisted, morally corrupt, and contrary to what is right or righteous. It signifies a deliberate turning away from truth and justice, embracing what is morally depraved and in opposition to God's established order.
This primitive root (H7169) means to pinch, specifically to bite the lips or blink the eyes, often as a gesture of malice. While the KJV translates it as "moving his lips," the underlying Hebrew suggests a more subtle, non-verbal cue—a malicious wink, a biting of the lip, or a subtle gesture that signals complicity, hidden intent, or a clandestine communication. This highlights the secretive and deceptive manner in which the wicked communicate and execute their plans.
This primitive root (H3615) means to end, whether intransitively (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitively (to complete, prepare, consume). In this context, it signifies to accomplish, finish, or fulfill. It underscores that the evil devised by the wicked is not merely conceived but is successfully actualized and manifested in reality, reaching its intended conclusion.
Verse Breakdown
"He shutteth his eyes"
This phrase describes a deliberate, intentional action. It suggests a closing off of external light, truth, or moral conscience, perhaps to concentrate intensely on the internal plotting of evil, or to avoid acknowledging the ethical implications or potential consequences of their actions. It implies a focused, internal withdrawal, where the individual immerses themselves in their wicked thoughts, unhindered by external moral considerations.
"to devise froward things"
This clause reveals the sinister purpose behind the closed eyes: to meticulously plan, scheme, and concoct intentions or actions that are perverse, twisted, and morally corrupt. It emphasizes the active mental effort involved in formulating evil, highlighting that the wickedness is not accidental but a product of careful, malicious design. The "froward things" are those that are contrary to God's will, righteous living, and the well-being of others.
"moving his lips"
This refers to a subtle, often non-verbal, gesture or form of communication. Based on the Hebrew qârats, it could be a malicious wink, a biting of the lip, or a subtle signal to an accomplice. It suggests a clandestine form of communication, a secretive expression of internal thought, or a subtle cue that precedes and facilitates outward action. It implies a deceptive and covert manner of operation, often designed to conceal true intentions.
"he bringeth evil to pass"
This final clause describes the culmination and outcome of the wicked person's internal plotting and subtle communication. The evil, meticulously planned and subtly communicated, is not merely conceived but is successfully executed and manifested in reality. The individual's actions, whether through direct deed, subtle influence, or covert conspiracy, result in actual harm, wrongdoing, or the fulfillment of their nefarious scheme.
Literary Devices
Proverbs 16:30 employs powerful Imagery to depict the character and actions of the wicked. The phrases "shutteth his eyes" and "moving his lips" create a vivid mental picture of a person consumed by malicious intent, operating in stealth and deception. These specific body parts serve as a form of Synecdoche, where the eyes and lips represent the entirety of the wicked person's deliberate thought process and subtle communication, highlighting their instrumental role in the execution of evil. The verse also demonstrates a clear Progression from internal thought to external action: the plotting begins internally with closed eyes, moves to subtle communication through the lips, and culminates in the actualization of evil. This sequential portrayal emphasizes the intentionality and methodical nature of wickedness. Implicitly, there is also a profound Contrast with the righteous, who are characterized by openness, truth, and actions that bring good to pass, thereby highlighting the stark difference between the two paths of life.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Proverbs 16:30 offers profound theological insights into the nature of sin and the human heart. It reveals that evil is not merely an external act but originates in the deepest intentions and thoughts of an individual, emphasizing the heart's capacity for deliberate malice. This internal plotting, often hidden and subtle, inevitably leads to outward manifestation, underscoring the biblical truth that actions are a direct outflow of one's inner state. The verse highlights the insidious nature of wickedness, which often operates through deception and clandestine means, rather than overt aggression. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for discernment and vigilance against those who plot harm, and for believers, a call to guard their own hearts against the very seeds of evil.
Reflection and Application
Proverbs 16:30 serves as a potent mirror for self-examination and a crucial guide for discerning the character of others. It challenges us to consider the true source of our actions, reminding us that every outward deed, whether good or evil, often begins with an internal thought or intention. For the believer, this verse underscores the critical importance of guarding the heart, as powerfully exhorted in Proverbs 4:23. We are called to cultivate a heart that delights in righteousness, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our inner desires so that our thoughts, words, and actions align with God's will and bring Him glory. It also encourages us to develop spiritual discernment, recognizing that evil often operates subtly, through hidden motives and deceptive communications, rather than overt displays of aggression. We must be wise to the tactics of those who plot harm, protecting ourselves and others from their insidious influence, while simultaneously striving to live with integrity and transparency, letting our lives be a testament to the light of Christ in a world prone to darkness.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "shutteth his eyes" mean in this context?
"Shutteth his eyes" (Hebrew: H6095 ʻâtsâh, to close or fasten; H5869 ʻayin, eye) signifies a deliberate and intentional act of closing off external input, moral light, or the voice of conscience. It suggests a focused concentration on internal plotting, a willful blindness to truth or righteousness, or a feigned disinterest to conceal malicious intent. It's not about physical blindness, but a moral and intellectual decision to disregard ethical considerations in favor of devising evil.
What are "froward things" and why are they significant?
"Froward things" (Hebrew: H8419 tahpukâh) refers to perversities, crookedness, or distorted matters. These are actions, plans, or intentions that are twisted, morally corrupt, and contrary to God's righteous standards. Their significance lies in the fact that they are not mere mistakes or accidental failings but are deliberately conceived and executed acts of rebellion against divine order and moral uprightness. The term highlights the intentional deviation from what is good, just, and true.
How does "moving his lips" lead to "bringing evil to pass"?
"Moving his lips" (Hebrew: H7169 qârats, to pinch, bite lips, or wink; H8193 sâphâh, lip) implies a subtle, often non-verbal, form of communication or signaling. While the KJV translates it literally as "moving lips," the underlying Hebrew suggests a malicious wink, a subtle gesture, or a whispered word that conveys hidden intent or conspires with others. This subtle communication is the mechanism by which the internally devised "froward things" are put into action, leading to the successful execution of the wicked plan and thus "bringing evil to pass" (H3615 kâlâh, to complete, accomplish; H7451 raʻ, evil). It emphasizes the clandestine and deceptive nature of the wicked person's methods, often operating beneath the surface of overt actions.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 16:30, in its stark portrayal of the wicked heart and its insidious machinations, finds its ultimate contrast and fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the verse describes those who deliberately shut their eyes to devise evil and subtly bring it to pass, Christ is the very embodiment of truth and light, who came to expose the darkness and reveal the hidden intentions of the heart. Jesus consistently condemned the hypocrisy of those who outwardly appeared righteous but inwardly harbored malice, as powerfully seen in His teachings in Matthew 23:27-28. He taught that true evil originates from within, from the heart, stating in Matthew 15:19 that "out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander." Unlike the one who "shutteth his eyes" to plot evil, Christ's eyes were always open to the suffering of humanity, filled with compassion and divine discernment, seeing beyond superficial appearances to the true state of the soul (Matthew 9:36). His "lips" did not move to bring evil to pass, but rather to speak words of life, truth, and grace, bringing salvation and healing to all who believed (John 6:68). Ultimately, the judgment promised to those who "bring evil to pass" is fully and perfectly executed through Christ, who will judge the living and the dead, revealing every hidden thing (2 Timothy 4:1). For believers, Christ enables a new heart, transforming us from those who might devise froward things to those who, by His indwelling Spirit, are empowered to walk in integrity and bring forth good fruit, reflecting His light in a world still darkened by subtle evils (Ephesians 5:8-9).