Proverbs 24:21

KJV

¶ My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: [and] meddle not with them that are given to change:

KJV (with Strong's)

My son {H1121}, fear {H3372} thou the LORD {H3068} and the king {H4428}: and meddle {H6148} not with them that are given to change {H8138}:

Complete Jewish Bible

My son, don't get involved with revolutionaries, but fear ADONAI and the king.

Berean Standard Bible

My son, fear the LORD and the king, and do not associate with the rebellious.

American Standard Version

My son, fear thou Jehovah and the king; And company not with them that are given to change:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 24:21 delivers a profound and dual exhortation, instructing the disciple of wisdom to cultivate a deep reverence for the Lord and a respectful submission to legitimate civil authority. This foundational principle is immediately juxtaposed with a crucial warning against aligning oneself with those who are prone to instability, rebellion, or radical, ill-conceived societal upheaval. The verse champions prudence, order, and discernment in one's allegiances and associations, advocating for a life rooted in divine wisdom and contributing to societal stability and well-being.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 24:21 is situated within a collection of "Sayings of the Wise," specifically a section (chapters 22-24) that expands upon earlier proverbial wisdom. Like much of the book, these sayings are presented as paternal instruction, guiding a "son" (representing any student of wisdom) in the paths of righteousness and prudence. The immediate preceding verses [Proverbs 24:19-20](/proverbs/24-19-20 "Proverbs 24:19-20 - Do Not Envy Evil Men") warn against envying evil men and highlight the eventual demise of the wicked, contrasting their fleeting nature with the stability and longevity promised to the righteous. This verse, therefore, serves as a direct, actionable command for how one should live in light of these realities, emphasizing loyalty to God and discernment in human relationships as safeguards against the instability and ruin associated with those who oppose divine and human order. It transitions from a general warning about the wicked to a specific directive on allegiance and association.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the "king" represented the divinely ordained human authority, a figure whose rule was understood to be established by God, even if imperfectly exercised. The concept of "fearing the Lord" was central to Israelite identity, signifying not merely terror but a profound reverence, awe, and obedient submission to God's covenantal demands, recognizing His absolute sovereignty and holiness. Society deeply valued order, tradition, and stability, viewing disruptive change with suspicion, especially if it stemmed from rebellious, seditious, or ungodly motives. The warning against those "given to change" reflects a cultural aversion to conspiracy, rebellion, or any movement that threatened the established social and political structures, which were seen as integral to national well-being and divine blessing, often linked to the covenant and God's providential rule.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 24:21 powerfully articulates several core themes prevalent throughout wisdom literature. Firstly, it underscores the **primacy of reverence for God**, a theme foundational to all true wisdom, as articulated in passages like [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom"), which states that "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom." Secondly, it establishes the importance of **respect for human authority**, acknowledging the divinely permitted role of governing bodies in maintaining order and justice, a principle echoed in the New Testament (e.g., [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")). Thirdly, the verse champions **prudence and stability**, cautioning against reckless or rebellious actions that undermine societal harmony and lead to chaos. Finally, it highlights the critical theme of **discretion in association**, urging the wise to carefully choose their companions and avoid those whose unstable or revolutionary tendencies could lead to personal ruin or societal chaos, a recurring motif throughout the book, as seen in [Proverbs 13:20](/proverbs/13-20 "Proverbs 13:20 - Walk with the Wise").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **fear (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** This primitive root (H3372) signifies "to fear," but morally, it extends to "to revere." It encompasses a profound awe, respect, and obedient submission, rather than mere terror. In the context of "fearing the LORD," it denotes a recognition of God's supreme power, holiness, and rightful authority (H3068), leading to a life of worship and obedience. When applied to the "king" (H4428), it implies a healthy respect for their divinely appointed office and the consequences of disobedience, acknowledging their role in maintaining order.
* **meddle (Hebrew, _ʻârab'_):** This root (H6148) means "to braid," "intermix," or "to traffic." In this context, it carries the sense of "to mingle oneself," "to engage with," or "to become involved." The negative imperative "meddle not" thus warns against associating, joining, or becoming entangled with individuals or groups whose actions or ideologies are dangerous, disruptive, or rebellious. It implies a deliberate choice to distance oneself from their ways and avoid complicity in their schemes.
* **change (Hebrew, _shânâh'_):** From a root (H8138) meaning "to fold" or "duplicate," this word implies "to transmute," "alter," or "do the second time." Here, it refers to those who are "given to change," meaning they are prone to constant alteration, innovation, or radical shifts. This is not a condemnation of all reform, but rather a warning against those who seek change for its own sake, or whose changes are disruptive, rebellious, or founded on instability rather than wisdom and justice. It suggests a restless, often destructive, desire to overturn established order without proper discernment or divine guidance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"My son, fear thou the LORD and the king":** This opening clause sets forth a dual imperative, foundational to wise living. The address "My son" (H1121, _bên_) establishes the didactic, paternal tone characteristic of Proverbs, indicating instruction for a disciple of wisdom. The command to "fear the LORD" (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_) is paramount, signifying a deep reverence, awe, and obedient submission to God, recognizing His ultimate sovereignty and holiness. Coupled with this is the command to "fear the king" (H4428, _melek_), which denotes respect, loyalty, and submission to the established civil authority. This dual fear acknowledges God as the supreme authority and the king as His appointed representative on earth, whose rule contributes to societal order and justice.
* **"and meddle not with them that are given to change":** This second clause serves as a crucial warning, directly linked to the preceding command for stability and respect for authority. "Meddle not" (H6148, _ʻârab_) advises against associating, joining, or becoming entangled with individuals or groups who are "given to change" (H8138, _shânâh_). This phrase describes those who are unstable, rebellious, revolutionary, or prone to radical, often ill-conceived, alterations of the established order. The warning is against complicity in sedition, conspiracy, or any movement that undermines divine or human authority without wisdom, often leading to chaos, destruction, or personal ruin for both the individual and society.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 24:21 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message with clarity and emphasis. The most prominent is the **Didactic Tone**, characteristic of wisdom literature, as the verse is presented as direct instruction from a father figure ("My son"). This establishes an authoritative yet benevolent voice, inviting the reader into a posture of learning. The verse also utilizes **Juxtaposition** by placing the command to "fear the LORD and the king" directly against the warning not to "meddle with them that are given to change." This highlights the antithetical nature of reverence and stability versus rebellion and instability. There is an implied **Antithetical Parallelism** where the positive action of fearing authority is contrasted with the negative action of associating with those who seek disruptive change; while not perfectly parallel in structure, their meanings stand in clear opposition, reinforcing the choice between wisdom and folly. Finally, the use of the **Imperative Mood** ("fear," "meddle not") makes the instruction a direct command, emphasizing its urgency, importance, and the required action for the recipient.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 24:21 articulates a profound theological truth about the nature of authority and the wise response to it. It grounds all human order in divine sovereignty, positing that true wisdom begins with reverence for God, which then extends to a proper respect for the human authorities He allows to exist. This perspective views civil government not as an arbitrary human construct, but as an institution permitted and often ordained by God for the maintenance of order and justice. The warning against those "given to change" is not a blanket condemnation of all reform, but a caution against rebellious, ungodly, or destabilizing movements that threaten peace and righteousness. It calls believers to discernment, encouraging them to be agents of stability and wisdom, rather than participants in chaos or sedition driven by human folly.

* [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")
* [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1-7 "Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [1 Peter 2:13-17](/1_peter/2-13-17 "Submission to Human Authority")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 24:21 remains profoundly relevant for believers navigating complex societal landscapes today. It calls us to a discerning allegiance, prioritizing our ultimate reverence for God while responsibly engaging with and respecting the governing authorities He has permitted. This means actively seeking to live peaceably, contribute to the common good, and uphold just laws, even when we may disagree with specific policies. At the same time, the proverb warns against the allure of radical ideologies or movements that promise quick, disruptive change without a foundation of wisdom, justice, and respect for established order. In an age of rapid social and political shifts, we are challenged to cultivate prudence, to carefully evaluate the motivations and methods of those who advocate for change, and to avoid aligning ourselves with groups whose instability or rebellious spirit could lead to personal or communal harm. Our associations matter, and this proverb urges us to choose companions and causes that promote stability, righteousness, and the fear of the Lord, fostering an environment where divine wisdom can flourish.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my daily life demonstrate a "fear of the LORD" that goes beyond mere intellectual assent to active reverence and obedient submission?**
* **In what specific ways do I show respect for governing authorities, and where might I need to grow in this area, even when I disagree with their decisions or policies?**
* **What criteria do I use to discern between constructive, wise societal change and disruptive, unstable movements that I should avoid "meddling" with, especially in a rapidly changing world?**
* **How do my closest associations and the causes I support reflect the wisdom of avoiding those "given to change" in a negative sense, and how can I cultivate more discerning relationships?**

### FAQ

**Is this verse against all social change or reform?**

Answer: No, Proverbs 24:21 is not a blanket condemnation of all social change or reform. The emphasis is on the character of those "given to change" (Hebrew _shânâh_), implying instability, recklessness, or rebellious motives rather than thoughtful, just, and necessary reform. The Bible itself records instances of God-ordained change and reform (e.g., the prophets calling Israel to repentance and a return to God's ways, or the radical transformation brought by the gospel). This proverb warns against association with those who are restless, revolutionary for its own sake, or whose actions undermine legitimate authority and societal order without wisdom or divine sanction, often leading to chaos and ruin. It encourages discernment between destructive upheaval and constructive, righteous transformation.

**What does "fear the LORD" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: "Fear the LORD" (Hebrew _yârêʼ_ YHWH) in this context signifies far more than mere fright or terror. It encompasses a profound sense of awe, reverence, worship, and obedient submission to God. It means recognizing His absolute sovereignty, holiness, and power, and living in a way that honors His commands and character. This foundational "fear" is presented throughout Proverbs as the beginning of wisdom ([Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")) and the source of true life, stability, and blessing. It is a reverential trust that leads to obedience and a desire to please God above all else.

**How do we balance "fearing the king" with obeying God when authorities conflict with God's law?**

Answer: The command to "fear the king" (respect and submit to civil authority) is given within the overarching context of "fearing the LORD." This establishes a clear hierarchy of allegiance. When human laws or commands directly contradict God's explicit commands, the biblical principle is clear: "We must obey God rather than human beings" ([Acts 5:29](/acts/5-29 "Obeying God Rather Than Men")). This does not negate the general command to respect authority, but it establishes that ultimate allegiance belongs to God. Such disobedience, however, should be exercised with humility, wisdom, and a willingness to accept the consequences, rather than with a rebellious or seditious spirit aimed at undermining all authority. The goal is to honor God, even if it means respectfully disobeying human commands that violate His divine law.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 24:21 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the very embodiment of the "fear of the LORD," perfectly submitting to the Father's will in every aspect of His life, even unto death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Humility and Obedience")). As the King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus Himself demonstrated profound respect for earthly authority, instructing His followers to "render to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's" ([Matthew 22:21](/matthew/22-21 "Render to Caesar")), thereby upholding the legitimate role of government while prioritizing divine allegiance. While His coming inaugurated a radical "change"—the new covenant and the Kingdom of God—this was not the unstable, human-driven "change" warned against in Proverbs. Rather, it was a divinely ordained, purposeful transformation that brought ultimate stability and an unshakable kingdom ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "An Unshakable Kingdom")). Believers, united with Christ, are called to live in this new reality, demonstrating reverence for God, respecting human authority where it does not contradict divine law, and avoiding entanglement with the unstable, rebellious ways of the world. Our true citizenship is in heaven ([Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Our Citizenship is in Heaven")), and our lives are to reflect the wisdom and stability found in Christ, the one who perfectly feared the Father and established an eternal, unchanging reign.

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 13:1

¶ Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

Romans 13:7

¶ Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

1 Peter 2:13

¶ Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;

1 Peter 2:17

Honour all [men]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

Titus 3:1

¶ Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

1 Kings 12:16

¶ So when all Israel saw that the king hearkened not unto them, the people answered the king, saying, What portion have we in David? neither [have we] inheritance in the son of Jesse: to your tents, O Israel: now see to thine own house, David. So Israel departed unto their tents.

Exodus 14:31

And Israel saw that great work which the LORD did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD, and his servant Moses.