Proverbs 20:11

¶ Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work [be] pure, and whether [it be] right.

Even a child {H5288} is known {H5234} by his doings {H4611}, whether his work {H6467} be pure {H2134}, and whether it be right {H3477}.

The character of even a child is known by how he acts, by whether his deeds are pure and right.

Even a young man is known by his actions— whether his conduct is pure and upright.

Even a child maketh himself known by his doings, Whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

Proverbs 20:11 offers profound insight into human nature, particularly the observable evidence of one's character, even from a young age. This verse emphasizes that actions speak louder than words, a timeless truth applicable to all.

Context of Proverbs 20:11

As part of the Book of Proverbs, this verse belongs to a collection of wise sayings designed to impart practical wisdom for living a righteous and discerning life. The book often contrasts wisdom with folly, and righteousness with wickedness, frequently using observable outcomes to illustrate these principles. Here, the focus is on how an individual's true nature is inevitably revealed through their conduct, a theme consistent throughout Proverbs, which often links actions to consequences and character.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Character Revealed by Actions: The primary message is that a person's deeds are the ultimate indicator of their inner character. What one does provides a more reliable assessment than what one merely says or claims to be. This principle is famously echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus teaches, "Ye shall know them by their fruits" (Matthew 7:16, 20).
  • Early Indications: The phrase "Even a child" highlights that this principle holds true from an early age. Children's actions, whether spontaneous or habitual, offer glimpses into their developing moral compass and inclinations toward purity or uprightness.
  • Purity and Righteousness: The verse specifically looks for whether the "work" is "pure" (Hebrew: zak, meaning clean, innocent, morally undefiled) and "right" (Hebrew: yashar, meaning straight, upright, just, honest). These are the benchmarks for commendable character.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms used in Proverbs 20:11 deepen its meaning:

  • "Known" (nakar): This word implies discernment, recognition, or acknowledgment based on observation. It’s not just a casual glance but an informed understanding derived from consistent behavior.
  • "Doings" / "Work" (ma'alalim): Refers to deeds, practices, or actions. The plural form emphasizes the totality of one's conduct, not just isolated incidents. It’s the pattern of behavior that reveals character.
  • "Pure" (zak): Signifies moral cleanness, sincerity, and freedom from defilement. It speaks to the integrity of the heart behind the action.
  • "Right" (yashar): Means straight, upright, just, or honest. It refers to actions that align with moral standards and justice, contrasting with crooked or deceitful ways.

Practical Application and Reflection

Proverbs 20:11 has significant implications for various aspects of life:

  • Parenting and Education: This verse underscores the importance of observing children's behavior as an indicator of their developing character. It encourages parents and educators to not only teach good values but also to guide children in practicing "pure" and "right" actions, understanding that these actions reveal their true nature. The principle of training up a child in the way he should go is directly connected to this idea.
  • Self-Assessment: For individuals, it serves as a powerful reminder that our actions are our truest testimony. Are our "doings" reflective of what we claim to believe or aspire to be? It calls for introspection and alignment between inner conviction and outward conduct.
  • Discernment of Others: In evaluating others, whether in personal relationships, leadership, or community, this proverb advises looking beyond mere words or appearances. True character is revealed through consistent actions and the "fruit" they bear. While God looks at the heart, humans must often rely on observable behavior.

Ultimately, Proverbs 20:11 is a timeless call to integrity, reminding us that our character is not defined by our intentions or declarations alone, but by the tangible evidence of our deeds.

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.

  • Matthew 7:16

    Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

  • Luke 6:43

    For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

  • Luke 6:44

    For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes.

  • Proverbs 21:8

    ¶ The way of man [is] froward and strange: but [as for] the pure, his work [is] right.

  • Psalms 58:3

    The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies.

  • Luke 2:46

    And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.

  • Luke 2:47

    And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

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