Proverbs 20:5

“Warnings Against Vice and Strife”· Proverbs 20:1–6
Translation
King James Version
¶ Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.
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KJV (with Strong's)
Counsel H6098 in the heart H3820 of man H376 is like deep H6013 water H4325; but a man H376 of understanding H8394 will draw it out H1802.
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Complete Jewish Bible
The heart's real intentions are like deep water; but a person with discernment draws them out.
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Berean Standard Bible
The intentions of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.
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American Standard Version
Counsel in the heart of man islikedeep water; But a man of understanding will draw it out.
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World English Bible Messianic
Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
The counsell in the heart of man is like deepe waters: but a man that hath vnderstanding, will drawe it out.
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Young's Literal Translation
Counsel in the heart of a man is deep water, And a man of understanding draweth it up.
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See also
Proverbs 18:41 Corinthians 2:11Psalms 64:6
In the KJVVerse 16,960 of 31,102 · 54.5%

Study This Verse

Summary

Proverbs 20:5 offers a profound insight into the often-hidden depths of human thought and intention, likening the "counsel in the heart of man" to "deep water." It then contrasts this hiddenness with the discerning ability of "a man of understanding," who possesses the wisdom and skill to "draw it out." This proverb underscores the challenge of accessing true wisdom, genuine motives, or deliberate plans that reside beneath the surface of human interaction, while simultaneously affirming the value and necessity of patient, insightful discernment to uncover these invaluable truths.

Context

Literary Context

Proverbs 20 is situated within the larger collection of Solomonic proverbs, specifically within a section (Proverbs 10-22:16) characterized by independent, pithy sayings that offer practical wisdom for daily living. This chapter, like many others in Proverbs, presents a series of couplets or quatrains covering a wide array of topics, including justice, diligence, integrity, and the dangers of various vices. Proverbs 20:5 appears amidst proverbs dealing with the nature of human character and the importance of wise speech and discernment, fitting seamlessly into the book's overarching goal of imparting wisdom and understanding to its readers, as highlighted in the book's purpose statement in Proverbs 1:2-6 - The Purpose of Proverbs. The metaphor of "deep water" for hidden wisdom is also echoed elsewhere in the book, such as in Proverbs 18:4 - The Words of a Wise Man, which states, "The words of a man's mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a gushing stream."

Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Israelite society, like many ancient Near Eastern cultures, highly valued wisdom and discernment. Kings, judges, and elders were expected to possess the ability to understand complex situations and render sound judgments. The imagery of "deep water" and "drawing it out" would have been immediately understandable to an agrarian society dependent on wells for survival. Drawing water from a deep well required effort, proper equipment (a bucket and rope), and patience. This practical, everyday act served as a powerful metaphor for the intellectual and spiritual effort required to extract profound insights or true intentions from another person. Counsel was often sought from respected elders or wise individuals, and the ability to give or extract good counsel was a mark of true leadership and understanding, a skill vital for navigating the intricate social dynamics of the time, as seen in the role of counselors to kings (e.g., 2 Samuel 16:23 - Ahithophel's Counsel).

Key Themes

Proverbs 20:5 contributes to several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Proverbs. Firstly, it emphasizes the hiddenness of human intentions and wisdom. People's true thoughts, plans, or even their deepest wisdom are not always readily apparent; they are often guarded, unarticulated, or even unclear to the individual themselves. Secondly, it highlights the importance of discernment and understanding. The "man of understanding" is not merely intelligent but possesses a spiritual and practical capacity to perceive what is not immediately obvious. This understanding involves patience, keen observation, and the ability to ask probing questions, creating an environment where deeper truths can emerge. This aligns with the book's constant call to seek wisdom and understanding above all else, as articulated in Proverbs 4:7 - Wisdom is Supreme. Thirdly, the proverb subtly points to the value of true counsel. The "counsel" (Hebrew: 'etsah) is not superficial advice but deliberate plans or purposes. Uncovering this hidden counsel is presented as a valuable endeavor, essential for making wise decisions and fostering genuine relationships, echoing the sentiment that "without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed" (Proverbs 15:22 - The Importance of Counsel).

Exposition and Analysis

Key Word Analysis

Counsel ʻêtsâh' H6098

From the root yāʻaṣ, meaning "to advise" or "to plan." This term refers to deliberate advice, a well-thought-out plan, or a purpose. It implies something considered and intentional, not merely a fleeting thought or opinion. In the context of Proverbs 20:5, it signifies the deeper, more significant thoughts or intentions that reside within a person, often requiring careful extraction.

Deep ʻâmôq' H6013

Derived from ʻâmaq, meaning "to be deep." This adjective describes something that is profound, hidden, or difficult to access. When applied to water, it evokes the image of a well that requires significant effort to draw from. Figuratively, it speaks to the inaccessibility or obscurity of the "counsel" in the human heart, suggesting it is not on the surface but buried beneath layers of thought, emotion, or even self-deception.

Draw it out dâlâh' H1802

A primitive root, properly meaning "to dangle," or "to let down a bucket for drawing water." Figuratively, it means to deliver or to extract. This verb vividly portrays the active, intentional, and skillful effort required to bring something hidden to the surface. It emphasizes that uncovering the "deep water" of counsel is not passive but requires a deliberate and often persistent process, much like laboriously drawing water from a deep well, implying a need for patience, wisdom, and appropriate tools (e.g., insightful questions, empathetic listening).

Verse Breakdown

"Counsel in the heart of man [is like] deep water"

This initial clause establishes the central metaphor. "Counsel" (deliberate thoughts, plans, or intentions) residing within the "heart of man" (the biblical understanding of the seat of intellect, will, and emotion) is compared to "deep water." This imagery suggests that these inner workings are not readily visible or accessible. They are profound, often concealed, and require significant effort to reach, much like water at the bottom of a deep well. The "heart" here encompasses the totality of a person's inner being, where true character and motives reside, often hidden from casual observation.

"but a man of understanding will draw it out"

This contrasting clause introduces the solution to the challenge posed by the first. A "man of understanding" (one possessing wisdom, discernment, and insight, derived from the Hebrew tâbûwn) is capable of extracting this hidden counsel. The phrase "draw it out" directly links back to the metaphor of drawing water, implying that through skillful inquiry, patient listening, and the cultivation of trust, the discerning individual can bring to light the valuable, yet hidden, thoughts and intentions of another. This highlights the active and often difficult work of true discernment, requiring both intellectual and relational wisdom.

Literary Devices

Proverbs 20:5 primarily employs Simile and Metaphor. The phrase "Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water" is a clear simile, directly comparing the hidden nature of human intentions to the physical difficulty of accessing water from a deep well. This comparison then extends into a sustained Metaphor where the act of "drawing out" this counsel is likened to the physical act of drawing water, vividly communicating the effort and skill required for true discernment. The proverb also uses Antithesis by presenting a stark contrast between the hiddenness of counsel and the ability of the understanding person to reveal it, emphasizing the distinction between a passive, concealed state and an active, wise response. Furthermore, the proverb utilizes Personification by attributing the quality of being "deep" to "counsel," giving an abstract concept a tangible, physical characteristic, enhancing the vividness of the imagery.

Theological and Thematic Connections

This proverb speaks to the profound mystery of the human heart, a theme consistently explored throughout Scripture. The Bible often describes the heart as deceitful and desperately sick, beyond human comprehension (Jeremiah 17:9 - The Deceitfulness of the Heart), yet also as the place where God works to bring about transformation (Ezekiel 36:26 - A New Heart and Spirit). Proverbs 20:5, however, focuses less on the heart's depravity and more on its hidden depths, where valuable counsel, plans, and true intentions reside. It highlights the divine gift of discernment, enabling wise individuals to navigate these depths. This ability to "draw out" what is hidden is not merely a human skill but often a spiritual gift, allowing one to perceive the true nature of situations and individuals, aligning with the wisdom sought by King Solomon himself when he asked for "an understanding heart to judge Your people" (1 Kings 3:9 - Solomon's Request for Wisdom). The proverb encourages a patient, empathetic, and wise approach to understanding others, recognizing that superficial interactions often miss the profound truths held within.

Proverbs 18:4Proverbs 15:22James 1:5

Reflection and Application

Proverbs 20:5 serves as a powerful reminder that genuine understanding of others, and even of ourselves, requires intentional effort and cultivated wisdom. In a world that often prioritizes quick judgments and superficial interactions, this proverb calls us to slow down, listen deeply, and engage with empathy. For leaders, counselors, parents, and friends, it underscores the necessity of creating safe spaces where individuals feel comfortable revealing their true thoughts, fears, and aspirations. It challenges us to move beyond assumptions and to patiently probe beneath the surface, asking insightful questions and truly hearing the unspoken. Furthermore, this proverb can prompt profound self-reflection, encouraging us to explore the "deep water" within our own hearts, to understand our own motivations, fears, and true desires through prayer, meditation, and honest self-assessment. It reminds us that wisdom is not always obvious but often hidden, waiting to be drawn out by those who possess the understanding and patience to seek it.

Questions for Reflection

  1. In what areas of your life do you tend to make superficial judgments about others, rather than seeking to "draw out" their deeper counsel or intentions?
  2. What practices or habits can you cultivate to become more of "a man of understanding" who is skilled at discerning the hidden depths in others?
  3. How might this proverb apply to your own self-understanding? Are there "deep waters" within your own heart that you need to explore or "draw out" through reflection, prayer, or trusted counsel?
  4. Consider a difficult conversation you need to have. How might the wisdom of Proverbs 20:5 guide your approach to that conversation, encouraging patience and a desire to truly understand?

FAQ

What does "counsel in the heart of man" mean in this proverb?

"Counsel in the heart of man" refers to the deep-seated thoughts, intentions, plans, and true wisdom that reside within a person's inner being. It's not just superficial advice but the deliberate, often hidden, purposes or insights that shape an individual's character and actions. The "heart" in biblical terms is the center of one's intellect, will, and emotions, making it the source of true counsel. This concept is similar to the idea of the "thoughts and intentions of the heart" mentioned in Hebrews 4:12 - The Word of God is Living and Active.

Why is it compared to "deep water"?

The comparison to "deep water" is a vivid metaphor for something that is profound, hidden, and not easily accessible. Just as one needs a bucket and rope to draw water from a deep well, one needs skill, patience, and discernment to uncover the true thoughts or intentions hidden within a person's heart. It implies that valuable insights are not on the surface but require effort to retrieve. This imagery is common in wisdom literature, highlighting the effort required to gain true understanding, as also suggested in Proverbs 25:2 - The Glory of Kings.

Who is "a man of understanding" and how do they "draw it out"?

"A man of understanding" is someone who possesses wisdom, discernment, and insight, which often comes from God (James 1:5 - Asking God for Wisdom). They are not easily fooled by appearances and have the spiritual and practical skill to perceive what is not immediately obvious. They "draw it out" through patient listening, asking insightful and empathetic questions, building trust, and creating an environment where others feel safe to reveal their true selves. This process requires wisdom and sensitivity, much like a skilled counselor or leader.

Christ-Centered Fulfillment

Proverbs 20:5, with its emphasis on the hidden depths of the human heart and the need for a "man of understanding" to draw out counsel, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent "man of understanding," possessing perfect wisdom and discernment, capable of knowing the very thoughts and intentions of the human heart. Unlike any human, Jesus did not need to "draw out" counsel in the same way, for He inherently knew what was in man (John 2:25 - Jesus Knew What Was in Man). His encounters with individuals, such as the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4 - Jesus and the Samaritan Woman), demonstrate His supernatural ability to perceive the "deep water" of their lives, revealing their hidden sins, longings, and true identities, not for condemnation, but for redemption. Furthermore, Jesus Himself embodies the "deep water" of divine counsel and wisdom, for in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3 - Treasures of Wisdom in Christ). He is the Word made flesh, the full revelation of God's perfect plan and purpose for humanity (John 1:1-14 - The Word Became Flesh). Through His life, death, and resurrection, He draws out the deepest counsel of God's love and salvation, making it accessible to all who believe, fulfilling the promise that the Spirit of truth would guide us into all truth (John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth).

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Public-domain commentary

Matthew Henry

From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Proverbs 20:5.

1662–1714 · 1 verse
Passage under commentProverbs 20:5
5¶ Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

A man's wisdom is here said to be of use to him for the pumping of other people, and diving into them, 1. To get the knowledge of them. Though men's counsels and designs are ever so carefully concealed by them, so that they are as deep water which one cannot fathom, yet there are those who by sly insinuations, and questions that seem foreign, will get out of them both what they have done and what they intend to do. Those therefore who would keep counsel must not only put on resolution, but stand upon their guard. 2. To get knowledge by them. Some are very able and fit to give counsel, having an excellent faculty of cleaving a hair, hitting the joint of a difficulty, and advising pertinently, but they are modest, and reserved, and not communicative; they have a great deal in them, but it is loth to come out. In such a case a man of understanding will draw it out, as wine out of a vessel. We lose the benefit we might have by the conversation of wise men for want of the art of being inquisitive.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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