Proverbs 17:19

KJV

¶ He loveth transgression that loveth strife: [and] he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction.

KJV (with Strong's)

He loveth {H157} transgression {H6588} that loveth {H157} strife {H4683}: and he that exalteth {H1361} his gate {H6607} seeketh {H1245} destruction {H7667}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Those who love quarreling love giving offense; those who make their gates tall are courting disaster.

Berean Standard Bible

He who loves transgression loves strife; he who builds his gate high invites destruction.

American Standard Version

He loveth transgression that loveth strife: He that raiseth high his gate seeketh destruction.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 17:19 presents a profound warning against two destructive character traits: a love for contention and an arrogant spirit. The verse succinctly declares that those who delight in strife are inherently embracing transgression, and similarly, those who display excessive pride or ostentation are actively setting themselves on a path toward ruin. It underscores the intrinsic connection between internal attitudes and their inevitable, self-inflicted consequences, serving as a foundational piece of wisdom literature that advocates for humility, peace, and discretion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 17:19 is situated within the broader collection of Solomonic proverbs, which are characterized by their pithy, often antithetical or synthetic parallelism designed to impart practical wisdom for daily living. This particular verse exemplifies the book's recurring theme of cause and effect, where moral choices lead to predictable outcomes. It stands among other proverbs that warn against the dangers of pride (e.g., [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Before Destruction")), the destructive nature of contentious speech (e.g., [Proverbs 15:18](/proverbs/15-18 "Proverbs 15:18 - The Hothead and the Peacemaker")), and the value of peace and humility. The two clauses of the verse, while distinct, are synthetically parallel, reinforcing a singular message about the self-destructive nature of ungodly attitudes. The first clause addresses internal disposition towards conflict, while the second uses a vivid metaphor to speak of outward display of pride, both leading to negative consequences.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, communal harmony and social order were highly valued, reflecting the covenant relationship with God. Strife (Hebrew: _matstsâh_) was seen as disruptive to this order and often a symptom of deeper moral failing. The concept of "transgression" (_peshaʻ_) carried significant weight, denoting a rebellious act against God's law or covenant, not merely a minor misstep. The "gate" (_pethach_) in ancient Near Eastern cities and homes was far more than a mere entrance; it was a symbol of status, security, and often the place where legal and commercial transactions occurred, and where elders sat in judgment (e.g., [Ruth 4:1](/ruth/4-1 "Ruth 4:1 - Boaz at the Gate")). To "exalt one's gate" could literally mean to build an excessively grand or high entrance, perhaps for ostentatious display, or metaphorically to elevate oneself in pride and arrogance, making oneself vulnerable to attack, envy, or divine judgment. This imagery would have resonated deeply with an audience familiar with the architectural and social significance of gates.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 17:19 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the Book of Proverbs. Firstly, it highlights the **peril of pride and arrogance**, a recurring motif throughout the wisdom literature, asserting that self-exaltation inevitably leads to downfall. This is a foundational principle, often contrasted with the blessings of humility (e.g., [Proverbs 29:23](/proverbs/29-23 "Proverbs 29:23 - Humility Leads to Honor")). Secondly, the verse underscores the **destructive nature of contention and strife**, portraying a love for discord as a form of moral rebellion against God's design for peace and order. It suggests that a contentious spirit is not merely a personality quirk but a deep-seated spiritual issue, leading to transgression. Thirdly, it reinforces the **principle of consequences**, demonstrating that ungodly attitudes and behaviors are inherently self-destructive, leading to "destruction" (_sheber_). The verse serves as a stark reminder that one's internal disposition and external actions directly shape one's destiny, aligning with the broader wisdom teaching that righteousness leads to life and folly to death, as seen throughout [Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "The Book of Proverbs").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **loveth (Hebrew, _ʼâhab'_):** This primitive root signifies having affection for, whether sexually or otherwise; to love or like. In Proverbs 17:19, it denotes a deep-seated inclination or preference. The phrase "he loveth transgression that loveth strife" suggests not merely an occasional engagement in conflict or sin, but a genuine affection for or delight in such destructive behaviors, indicating a heart condition.
* **transgression (Hebrew, _peshaʻ'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to revolt," this term describes a rebellion, a breach of faith, or a deliberate sin against God or His covenant. It is a strong term for moral wrongdoing, indicating a willful act of defiance rather than an accidental misstep. The verse links a "love for strife" directly to a "love for transgression," implying that a contentious spirit is fundamentally rebellious and contrary to God's righteous order.
* **exalteth (Hebrew, _gâbahh'_):** This primitive root means "to soar" or "to be lofty," and figuratively, "to be haughty" or "proud." It conveys the idea of lifting oneself up, often in an arrogant or ostentatious manner. In the context of "exalting his gate," it speaks to an inflated sense of self-importance, a desire for excessive display, or an overweening pride that ignores practical wisdom and invites danger.
* **destruction (Hebrew, _sheber'_):** This word, derived from a root meaning "to break," refers to a fracture, ruin, or crashing. It can also signify affliction or vexation. Here, it denotes the inevitable ruin or downfall that results from the prideful act of "exalting one's gate." It implies a self-inflicted calamity, a breaking apart of what was built, whether literally or figuratively.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He loveth transgression that loveth strife:"** This clause establishes a direct and profound correlation between a contentious spirit and a propensity for sin. It suggests that someone who finds pleasure or satisfaction in arguments, disputes, and discord is, by extension, embracing a lifestyle that is inherently rebellious against God's order and leads to moral transgression. The "love" indicates a deep-seated inclination, not just an occasional lapse, highlighting a heart condition that delights in opposition rather than peace.
* **"and he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction."** This second clause employs a powerful metaphor to illustrate the dangers of pride and ostentation. To "exalt one's gate" refers to an act of excessive display, building an overly grand or high entrance, which in ancient times could signify arrogance, a desire for status, or a foolish disregard for security. Such an action, whether literal or symbolic of an arrogant spirit, is portrayed as actively "seeking destruction" – that is, it inherently leads to ruin, downfall, or self-inflicted calamity. Pride, in this context, is not merely a character flaw but a pathway to one's own undoing.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 17:19 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its wisdom. **Synthetic Parallelism** is evident, where the second line expands upon or completes the thought of the first, though both clauses convey a similar message about the self-destructive nature of ungodly character. The verse uses **Metaphor** extensively, particularly in the phrase "exalteth his gate," where the physical act of building an overly grand gate symbolizes spiritual pride, arrogance, and ostentation. This metaphor creates a vivid image of someone inviting their own downfall through hubris. The verse also implicitly uses **Cause and Effect**, a fundamental principle in wisdom literature, where specific attitudes (loving strife, exalting one's gate) are directly linked to their inevitable consequences (transgression, destruction). The strong, declarative statements give the proverb an **Aphoristic** quality, making it memorable and impactful as a timeless truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply resonates with the biblical emphasis on humility, peace, and the spiritual roots of human behavior. Theologically, it highlights that God is a God of order and peace, and a love for strife is a direct affront to His nature and His desire for humanity to live in harmony. It underscores the pervasive nature of sin, showing how seemingly external behaviors like contention stem from an internal "love" for that which is contrary to God's will. Furthermore, the warning against exalting one's gate speaks to the universal sin of pride, which the Bible consistently identifies as the root of much human folly and rebellion against God. True wisdom, therefore, involves cultivating a humble spirit and pursuing peace, recognizing that self-exaltation and discord are paths to ruin, while humility and righteousness lead to life and blessing.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Pride Precedes Destruction")
* [James 3:16](/james/3-16 "Where Envy and Selfish Ambition Exist, There Will Be Disorder")
* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Live Peaceably with All")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 17:19 serves as a powerful mirror for self-examination, challenging us to consider the true inclinations of our hearts. Do we find ourselves drawn to arguments, debates, or contentious situations, perhaps even enjoying the friction they create? This verse warns that such a disposition is not benign but is intricately linked to a deeper embrace of transgression, a rebellion against peace and God's design for harmonious relationships. Similarly, it calls us to scrutinize our motives for seeking recognition, status, or material display. Is our "gate" being exalted out of genuine accomplishment and service, or out of a prideful desire for self-aggrandizement? The wisdom here is clear: humility and a pursuit of peace are not merely virtues but essential safeguards against self-inflicted ruin. By actively cultivating a spirit of humility, seeking reconciliation, and prioritizing peace in our interactions, we align ourselves with divine wisdom and avoid the destructive paths of pride and contention.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I find myself drawn to conflict or contention, and what might this reveal about my heart's true inclinations?**
* **How might I be "exalting my gate" in subtle or overt ways, whether through possessions, achievements, or a sense of superiority?**
* **What practical steps can I take today to cultivate a more humble spirit and actively pursue peace in my relationships and interactions?**
* **How does understanding the link between inner attitudes and outer consequences motivate me to seek transformation from within?**

### FAQ

**What does "exalteth his gate" mean literally and metaphorically?**

Answer: Literally, "exalting one's gate" could refer to building an overly tall, grand, or ostentatious entrance to a house or city, perhaps for show or to demonstrate wealth and status. In ancient times, city gates were significant structures for defense, commerce, and legal proceedings. Metaphorically, and more commonly understood in this proverb, it signifies an attitude of excessive pride, arrogance, or self-exaltation. It suggests someone who elevates themselves, boasts, or lives in an ostentatious manner, seeking to draw attention to their own importance or possessions. Such an attitude is portrayed as inherently dangerous and self-destructive, as pride often precedes a fall, as seen in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Before Destruction").

**Why are "loving transgression" and "loving strife" linked in the first part of the verse?**

Answer: The proverb connects "loving transgression" (sin, rebellion) with "loving strife" (contention, discord) because a contentious spirit is often a manifestation of deeper rebellion against God's order and peace. When someone delights in arguments or conflict, it indicates a heart that is not aligned with God's desire for harmony, humility, and reconciliation. Strife creates division and disorder, which are contrary to God's character and His will for humanity. Therefore, to "love strife" is to love that which disrupts peace and ultimately leads to actions that are contrary to God's law, thus becoming a form of "transgression." The New Testament also warns against the destructive nature of strife, linking it to ungodly wisdom in [James 3:16](/james/3-16 "James 3:16 - Earthly Wisdom Leads to Disorder").

**How can one avoid loving strife or exalting their gate?**

Answer: Avoiding these destructive paths requires intentional cultivation of humility and a pursuit of peace, rooted in a transformed heart. To avoid loving strife, one must actively seek peace and reconciliation, as encouraged in [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Romans 12:18 - Live Peaceably with All"). This involves controlling one's tongue, listening more than speaking, and prioritizing understanding over winning an argument. To avoid exalting one's gate, one must practice humility, recognizing that all blessings come from God and that true worth is found in Him, not in self-aggrandizement. This means valuing service over status, meekness over ostentation, and seeking God's glory rather than one's own, as exemplified by Christ in [Philippians 2:3-4](/philippians/2-3 "Philippians 2:3-4 - Do Nothing Out of Selfish Ambition").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 17:19, like all wisdom literature, points ultimately to Christ, who perfectly embodies the antithesis of these destructive traits and offers the solution to humanity's fallen nature. Jesus never loved transgression; rather, He was the sinless [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bearing our transgressions on the cross (as prophesied in [Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - He Was Pierced for Our Transgressions")). He was not contentious but was the [Prince of Peace](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Prince of Peace"), whose kingdom is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit ([Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")). Furthermore, Jesus never "exalted His gate" in pride; instead, He humbled Himself, taking the form of a servant, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")). He taught that true greatness comes through humble service ([Matthew 20:26-28](/matthew/20-26 "Matthew 20:26-28 - Greatness Through Service")), and that those who humble themselves will be exalted by God ([Luke 14:11](/luke/14-11 "Luke 14:11 - Whoever Exalts Himself Will Be Humbled")). Therefore, in Christ, we find the perfect wisdom that avoids strife and pride, and through His atoning work and empowering Spirit, believers are enabled to walk in humility and peace, escaping the destruction that folly brings. He is our ultimate wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom")).

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

Proverbs 16:18

¶ Pride [goeth] before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Proverbs 18:12

¶ Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour [is] humility.

1 Samuel 25:36

¶ And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held a feast in his house, like the feast of a king; and Nabal's heart [was] merry within him, for he [was] very drunken: wherefore she told him nothing, less or more, until the morning light.

1 Samuel 25:38

And it came to pass about ten days [after], that the LORD smote Nabal, that he died.

James 3:14

But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.

James 3:16

For where envying and strife [is], there [is] confusion and every evil work.

Proverbs 29:22

¶ An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.