Proverbs 20:22

KJV

¶ Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Say {H559} not thou, I will recompense {H7999} evil {H7451}; but wait on {H6960} the LORD {H3068}, and he shall save {H3467} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

Don't say, "I'll pay back evil for evil"; wait for ADONAI to save you.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not say, “I will avenge this evil!” Wait on the LORD, and He will save you.

American Standard Version

Say not thou, I will recompense evil: Wait for Jehovah, and he will save thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 20:22 delivers a profound and counter-cultural directive, challenging the natural human impulse for immediate retaliation against wrongdoing. It urges believers to resist the desire for personal vengeance, instead cultivating patient trust in the sovereign Lord, who alone possesses the right and power to administer justice and bring about ultimate deliverance for His people. This proverb serves as a foundational principle for navigating injustice with faith, demonstrating that true vindication stems from divine intervention rather than self-administered retribution.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 20:22 is nestled within a collection of individual wisdom sayings in the book of Proverbs, which generally offers practical guidance for righteous living and discernment. While not part of a continuous narrative, this verse stands as a powerful, standalone aphorism addressing a universal human experience: being wronged. It directly follows a proverb about the dangers of ill-gotten gains (`/proverbs/20-21 "Proverbs 20:21 - Ill-Gotten Gain"`) and precedes one on the importance of integrity in leadership (`/proverbs/20-23 "Proverbs 20:23 - Dishonest Weights"`) and the Lord's direction of human steps (`/proverbs/20-24 "Proverbs 20:24 - The Lord Directs Our Steps"`). This placement highlights a broader theme within Proverbs: the contrast between human folly and divine wisdom, particularly in matters of justice, wealth, and moral conduct. The book consistently steers its audience away from impulsive, self-serving actions and towards a life ordered by God's principles, emphasizing that true security and prosperity are found in obedience and trust in the Lord.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, as in any society, personal grievances and acts of malice were common. Without a robust, universally accessible legal system for every minor offense, the temptation to "recompense evil"—to take justice into one's own hands—was a powerful and often accepted social norm. Cycles of vendetta and retaliation could easily escalate, perpetuating conflict. However, the Mosaic Law, while providing for restitution and justice, also contained principles that limited personal vengeance (e.g., `lex talionis` was a legal principle, not an invitation to personal retribution). Proverbs, drawing from this broader covenantal framework, consistently points to a higher wisdom rooted in God's character and sovereignty. It guides individuals away from self-administered justice, which often perpetuates cycles of conflict, and towards reliance on divine intervention, reinforcing the principle that true justice belongs to God, not to individuals (`/deuteronomy/32-35 "Deuteronomy 32:35 - Vengeance is Mine"`).
* **Key Themes:** This proverb contributes significantly to several key themes pervasive throughout the book of Proverbs and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it strongly emphasizes the **Rejection of Personal Vengeance**, directly prohibiting the instinctive desire for payback and advocating for a spirit of restraint and non-retaliation. This aligns with broader biblical teachings that underscore God's exclusive right to vengeance, as seen in passages like [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance Belongs to the Lord"). Secondly, it champions **Patience and Trust in God**. The command to "wait on the LORD" is not a call to passive inaction but to active, hopeful expectation, implying a deep reliance on God's perfect timing and His sovereign plan for addressing wrongs. This theme resonates with the psalmist's exhortation to wait expectantly on the Lord (`/psalms/27-14 "Psalm 27:14 - Wait for the Lord"`). Finally, the verse highlights **Divine Justice and Deliverance**, promising that God Himself will intervene, deliver, or vindicate those who trust in Him rather than seeking their own revenge. This "saving" encompasses various forms of divine intervention, underscoring the belief that God is the ultimate judge and protector, capable of administering justice in ways beyond human comprehension.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **recompense (Hebrew, _shâlam'_):** From H7999, this primitive root means "to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate (in various applications)." In the context of "recompense evil," it refers to the act of "paying back" or "making whole" by returning harm for harm, thereby completing a cycle of injury. The negative command "Say not thou, I will recompense evil" is a direct prohibition against this kind of reciprocal harm.
* **wait on (Hebrew, _qâvâh'_):** From H6960, this primitive root means "to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e. collect; (figuratively) to expect." It implies a strong, confident, and enduring expectation, a deep reliance, and a hopeful longing for God's intervention. It is not a passive idleness but an active, patient, and trusting posture, often visualized as a rope twisted together for strength, signifying a steadfast reliance.
* **save (Hebrew, _yâshaʻ'_):** From H3467, this primitive root means "properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e. (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor." It signifies God's active intervention to bring about a favorable outcome, deliverance from distress, victory over adversaries, or vindication. It speaks to God's role as the ultimate deliverer and protector.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Say not thou, I will recompense evil;":** This opening clause is a direct, emphatic prohibition against personal vengeance. The imperative "Say not" (a negative command) targets the internal inclination and verbal declaration of intent to retaliate. It challenges the instinctive human desire to "get even" when wronged, asserting that such an impulse is contrary to divine wisdom. The phrase "recompense evil" refers to the act of returning harm for harm, engaging in a tit-for-tat cycle of retribution.
* **"but wait on the LORD,":** This clause presents the divinely prescribed alternative to personal vengeance. The conjunction "but" introduces a stark contrast. "Wait on the LORD" is an active command to place one's trust and hope entirely in God. It implies patience, submission, and a confident expectation that God, in His perfect timing and wisdom, will act. This waiting is not passive resignation but a dynamic posture of faith, entrusting one's grievances and the pursuit of justice to the sovereign Creator.
* **"and he shall save thee.":** This final clause provides the motivation and assurance for obeying the preceding command. It is a divine promise that God Himself will intervene on behalf of those who trust Him. The "saving" can encompass various forms of deliverance: protection from adversaries, vindication of one's character, resolution of injustice, or ultimate spiritual salvation. It underscores the truth that God is the ultimate judge and deliverer, who will ensure justice is served in His way and time, far more perfectly than any human attempt at revenge.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 20:22 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, which presents a sharp contrast between two opposing actions: "Say not thou, I will recompense evil" versus "but wait on the LORD." This juxtaposition highlights the folly of human vengeance against the wisdom of divine trust. The verse also uses **Imperative Mood** ("Say not," "wait"), directly commanding the reader's behavior and emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of the instruction. This direct address makes the proverb highly personal and actionable. Furthermore, the verse concludes with a **Promise** ("and he shall save thee"), providing a powerful incentive for obedience. This promise of divine intervention and deliverance serves as both a comfort and a motivation, assuring the faithful that their patience and trust will be ultimately rewarded by God's righteous hand.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 20:22 is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of God's sovereignty, justice, and exclusive right to vengeance. It teaches that personal retribution usurps a prerogative that belongs solely to the Lord, who is perfectly righteous and omniscient. By commanding believers to "wait on the LORD," the proverb calls for a profound act of faith, acknowledging that God sees all injustice and will act in His perfect time and manner. This relinquishing of personal grievances to God not only honors His sovereignty but also frees the individual from the corrosive effects of bitterness and the perpetuation of cycles of harm. It reflects a core theological truth: God is the ultimate arbiter of justice, and His deliverance is sure for those who trust Him.

* [Deuteronomy 32:35](/deuteronomy/32-35 "Deuteronomy 32:35 - Vengeance is Mine")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - God's Right to Vengeance")
* [1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Non-Retaliation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 20:22 offers timeless wisdom for navigating the inevitable injustices of life. In a world often driven by instant gratification and the desire to "get even," this verse calls for a radical, counter-cultural response rooted in profound faith. It challenges us to confront our natural impulses for revenge and instead choose a path of trust and patience. Practically, this means consciously releasing the bitterness and resentment that can fester when we are wronged, understanding that holding onto such emotions often harms us more than our perceived adversaries. It encourages us to cultivate a deep-seated patience, trusting that God's timing and methods of justice are infinitely superior to our own. By surrendering our grievances to God, we not only avoid perpetuating cycles of conflict but also strengthen our faith in His ultimate sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to righteousness. This posture of waiting on the Lord fosters inner peace, promotes reconciliation where possible, and allows God to work in ways we could never orchestrate, ultimately bringing about His perfect justice and our true deliverance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What is my immediate, gut reaction when I feel wronged or unjustly treated?**
* **How does the desire for personal "recompense" hinder my spiritual growth and relationships?**
* **What does "waiting on the LORD" practically look like in my current circumstances, and how can I cultivate greater patience and trust?**
* **In what specific areas of my life do I need to relinquish control and allow God to "save" or vindicate me?**

### FAQ
**Why is personal vengeance forbidden in the Bible?**

Answer: Personal vengeance is forbidden because it usurps God's exclusive right to justice and judgment. The Bible consistently teaches that vengeance belongs to the Lord (`/deuteronomy/32-35 "Deuteronomy 32:35 - Vengeance is Mine"`), not to individuals. When humans attempt to "recompense evil," they often act out of anger, bias, or an incomplete understanding of the situation, leading to disproportionate or unjust outcomes that perpetuate cycles of harm. Furthermore, seeking personal revenge demonstrates a lack of trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to administer perfect justice in His own time and way. It also goes against the spirit of love and forgiveness that is central to biblical ethics (`/romans/12-17 "Romans 12:17 - Repay No One Evil for Evil"`).

**What does it mean to "wait on the LORD" in a practical sense when facing injustice?**

Answer: "Waiting on the LORD" is not passive inaction or simply doing nothing. It is an active, faith-filled posture of patient endurance and confident expectation. Practically, it means:
1. **Refraining from Retaliation:** Consciously choosing not to "recompense evil" through words, actions, or even thoughts of bitterness.
2. **Prayerful Surrender:** Bringing your grievances, pain, and desire for justice to God in prayer, entrusting the situation fully to Him.
3. **Trusting God's Sovereignty:** Believing that God sees your situation, is just, and will act in His perfect timing and wisdom, even if His methods or timeline are different from your expectations.
4. **Continuing Righteous Living:** Maintaining your integrity and commitment to God's commands, even while suffering injustice, rather than allowing the wrong done to you to corrupt your character.
5. **Seeking Godly Counsel:** If appropriate, seeking wisdom from trusted spiritual leaders or friends, but always with the ultimate goal of aligning with God's will.
This "waiting" is about aligning your will with God's, allowing Him to be your defender and vindicator (`/psalms/37-7 "Psalm 37:7 - Rest in the Lord"`).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 20:22 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament proverb commands us not to repay evil, Christ perfectly embodied this principle, offering Himself as the supreme example of one who "when he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly" (`/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering"`). He did not seek personal vengeance against those who persecuted, mocked, and crucified Him; instead, He prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (`/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus' Prayer for His Persecutors"`). Furthermore, Jesus' teachings radically elevated this Old Testament wisdom, commanding His followers to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (`/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies"`), thereby breaking the cycle of vengeance with divine love. The promise that "he shall save thee" is gloriously fulfilled in Christ. God's ultimate "saving" act was sending His Son to bear the evil of the world on the cross, demonstrating that true justice and deliverance come through sacrificial love, not retaliation (`/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love"`). Through Christ's atoning work, God not only saves us from the consequences of evil but also empowers us by His Spirit to live out the very principle of non-retaliation, trusting that our ultimate vindication and salvation are secured in Him (`/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - God's Vengeance"`). Thus, Christ is both the perfect embodiment of waiting on the Lord and the ultimate means by which the Lord saves.

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

Romans 12:17

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Romans 12:19

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5:15

See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].

Proverbs 24:29

Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.

Proverbs 17:13

¶ Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

1 Peter 3:9

Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Deuteronomy 32:35

To me [belongeth] vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in [due] time: for the day of their calamity [is] at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.