Proverbs 20:6

¶ Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?

Most {H7230} men {H120} will proclaim {H7121} every one {H376} his own goodness {H2617}: but a faithful {H529} man {H376} who can find {H4672}?

Most people announce that they show kindness, but who can find someone faithful [enough to do it]?

Many a man proclaims his loving devotion, but who can find a trustworthy man?

Most men will proclaim every one his own kindness; But a faithful man who can find?

Proverbs 20:6 offers a profound insight into human nature and the esteemed quality of faithfulness. It contrasts the common human tendency of self-promotion with the rare and highly valued virtue of genuine integrity and trustworthiness.

Context

As part of the wisdom literature in the Old Testament, the book of Proverbs, largely attributed to King Solomon, provides practical guidance for living a righteous and discerning life. This verse fits within a broader collection of sayings that highlight the importance of character over outward appearance and the value of integrity in relationships and before God. It reflects a keen observation of society in ancient Israel, where reputation and public perception were significant, but true character was recognized as paramount.

Key Themes

The Prevalence of Self-Proclamation

The first part of the verse, "Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness," speaks to the universal human inclination towards self-commendation. People often highlight their own virtues, good deeds, or perceived righteousness, sometimes to impress others, gain favor, or justify themselves. This can manifest as boasting, exaggeration, or simply presenting oneself in the best possible light, even if it doesn't entirely align with reality. The Bible frequently warns against such self-praise and pride, emphasizing that true praise should come from others or from God, not from oneself.

The Rarity of True Faithfulness

The second part, "but a faithful man who can find?", poses a rhetorical question that underscores the scarcity of genuine faithfulness. While many might claim to be good or trustworthy, truly faithful individuals—those who consistently demonstrate integrity, loyalty, and reliability—are hard to come by. This faithfulness goes beyond mere words; it is proven through actions, commitment, and steadfastness, especially in challenging circumstances. It is a quality highly valued by God and essential for strong human relationships, as seen in passages like Proverbs 28:20, which blesses a faithful man.

Linguistic Insights

  • The KJV word "goodness" in the first clause translates the Hebrew term ḥesed (חֶסֶד). While ḥesed often refers to God's steadfast love or covenant loyalty, when applied to humans, it can mean kindness, mercy, or a claimed virtue. Here, it implies a boasted-about 'goodness' or 'kindness' that may or may not be genuine.
  • The "faithful man" in the second clause is from the Hebrew ’ish ’emunah (אִישׁ אֱמוּנָה), literally 'a man of faithfulness' or 'a man of truth.' This emphasizes not just an action, but a deep character trait of trustworthiness and reliability, a person whose word and deeds are consistently aligned.

Practical Application

Proverbs 20:6 challenges us to look beyond outward appearances and self-promotion. For individuals, it's a call to examine our own hearts: Are we quick to boast about our own virtues, or are we striving to be genuinely faithful in character and action? True goodness is demonstrated through consistent behavior, not merely declared. For communities and relationships, it teaches us to value and seek out those rare individuals who demonstrate consistent integrity and trustworthiness, rather than being swayed by mere words or impressive claims.

Ultimately, it points to the divine standard of faithfulness, reminding us that God's faithfulness endures forever, serving as our ultimate example and the source of all true goodness.

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.

  • Psalms 12:1

    ¶ To the chief Musician upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David. Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.

  • Matthew 6:2

    Therefore when thou doest [thine] alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

  • Luke 18:8

    I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

  • Luke 18:11

    The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men [are], extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

  • Proverbs 27:2

    ¶ Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.

  • Proverbs 25:14

    ¶ Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift [is like] clouds and wind without rain.

  • Luke 22:33

    And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.

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