Proverbs 2:12

To deliver thee from the way of the evil [man], from the man that speaketh froward things;

To deliver {H5337} thee from the way {H1870} of the evil {H7451} man, from the man {H376} that speaketh {H1696} froward things {H8419};

They will save you from the way of evil and from those who speak deceitfully,

to deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perversity,

To deliver thee from the way of evil, From the men that speak perverse things;

Proverbs 2:12 is part of a larger section (Proverbs 2:1-22) that extols the virtues and benefits of seeking and embracing divine wisdom. After urging the reader to diligently pursue understanding and knowledge (Proverbs 2:1-5), and assuring that God Himself grants wisdom (Proverbs 2:6-9), this verse highlights one of wisdom's crucial protective functions: deliverance from harmful influences.

Context

This verse directly follows the promise that wisdom will guide you in "every good path" (Proverbs 2:9) and preserve you from evil ways. The entire second chapter of Proverbs serves as a powerful appeal to embrace wisdom, contrasting its blessings with the dangers of forsaking it. The "evil man" and those who speak "froward things" represent the primary threats from which wisdom offers protection, emphasizing the importance of avoiding the path of the wicked.

Key Themes

  • Divine Protection: Wisdom, which originates from God, acts as a shield, guiding believers away from destructive paths and individuals. It emphasizes God's active role in preserving those who seek Him.
  • Discernment of Character: The verse teaches the importance of discerning not just actions but also the character behind the words. A "froward" speaker reveals a heart that is twisted or perverse.
  • The Power of Words: It underscores the significant impact of speech. Deceitful or perverse words can lead others astray or cause harm, making it essential for the wise to recognize and avoid such influences.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV term "froward" comes from the Hebrew word tahpukot (תַּהְפֻּכוֹת), which means "perversity," "deceit," "treachery," or "things turned upside down." It describes speech that is twisted, perverse, or designed to mislead and corrupt. It's not just error, but a deliberate distortion of truth or righteousness. This kind of speech is characteristic of the "evil man" who seeks to lead others into sin or destruction, as seen in descriptions of a wicked man whose mouth speaks frowardness.

Practical Application

Proverbs 2:12 calls us to be vigilant about the company we keep and the words we listen to. In an age of abundant information and misinformation, the ability to discern truth from falsehood, and upright counsel from perverse advice, is more critical than ever. Seeking God's wisdom equips us to:

  • Guard our ears: Be selective about what voices we allow to influence our thoughts and decisions.
  • Evaluate intentions: Look beyond the surface of words to understand the underlying motives of the speaker.
  • Choose our companions wisely: Understand that our associations can profoundly impact our spiritual and moral well-being. This aligns with warnings found elsewhere about evil communications corrupting good manners.

By embracing God's wisdom, we are empowered to navigate life's complexities and avoid the snares set by those who speak "froward things," ensuring our path remains righteous and secure.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:33

    Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

  • Proverbs 8:13

    The fear of the LORD [is] to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

  • Proverbs 13:20

    ¶ He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

  • 2 Corinthians 6:17

    Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you,

  • Isaiah 59:3

    For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness.

  • Isaiah 59:5

    They hatch cockatrice' eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper.

  • Psalms 17:4

    Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept [me from] the paths of the destroyer.

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