Proverbs 24:6

KJV

For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors [there is] safety.

KJV (with Strong's)

For by wise counsel {H8458} thou shalt make {H6213} thy war {H4421}: and in multitude {H7230} of counsellors {H3289} there is safety {H8668}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For with clever strategy you wage your war, and victory comes from having many advisers.

Berean Standard Bible

Only with sound guidance should you wage war, and victory lies in a multitude of counselors.

American Standard Version

For by wise guidance thou shalt make thy war; And in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 24:6 articulates a fundamental principle of effective leadership and prudent decision-making, asserting that success in any significant undertaking, whether a literal conflict or a complex life challenge, is not achieved through impulsive action but through thoughtful, well-advised strategy. It further emphasizes that true security, deliverance, and victory are found not in solitary wisdom, but in the collective insights and diverse perspectives offered by a multitude of trusted and discerning advisors.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This proverb is situated within a larger collection of "Sayings of the Wise" (Proverbs 22:17-24:34), a section that offers practical wisdom for daily living, moral conduct, and effective leadership. The preceding verses (Proverbs 24:3-5) speak of the importance of wisdom and knowledge in building and establishing a household, and the strength that comes from a man of knowledge. Proverbs 24:6 naturally extends this theme by applying the principle of wisdom to strategic endeavors, particularly those requiring significant effort and potential conflict. It then flows into warnings against evil men and envy (Proverbs 24:7-9), reinforcing the idea that sound judgment and good counsel are essential for navigating life's moral and practical complexities. The verse's placement underscores wisdom as a foundational element for both personal success and societal stability.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, including Israel, leadership was often communal, and major decisions, especially concerning military campaigns, governance, or judicial matters, were rarely made by a single individual. Kings and tribal leaders typically relied on a council of elders, prophets, and experienced advisors. "War" (מִלְחָמָה, _milchâmâh_) in this context refers not only to literal military conflict but also serves as a potent metaphor for any significant, challenging, or adversarial undertaking in life that requires strategic planning, resource allocation, and a clear objective. The wisdom tradition, as embodied in Proverbs, consistently valued the humility of seeking input from experienced individuals, understanding that solitary decision-making, driven by pride or limited perspective, could lead to disastrous outcomes for individuals, families, or even nations.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 24:6 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs. Primarily, it champions **strategic planning through counsel**, asserting that success in any major endeavor is not a matter of brute force or impulsive action, but of thoughtful, well-advised preparation. This highlights the importance of foresight and deliberation. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **safety and security in multiple perspectives**. The proverb posits that collective wisdom provides greater security and stability; a single perspective can be limited or biased, but many advisors offer diverse insights, helping to identify potential pitfalls and develop more robust strategies. This principle is powerfully echoed elsewhere in Proverbs, such as in [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Where no counsel is, the people fall, but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety"), which states, "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety," and [Proverbs 15:22](/proverbs/15-22 "Proverbs 15:22 - Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established"), which notes, "Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established." These verses collectively emphasize that true wisdom is often communal, leading to both effective outcomes and protection from harm.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **counsel (Hebrew, _tachbulâh'_):** From H8458, this word (often in plural, _tachbulôt_) signifies "steerage" or "management of ropes," metaphorically referring to guidance, skillful direction, or a well-devised plan. It denotes not merely advice, but strategic foresight and the ability to navigate complex situations with shrewdness, much like a pilot steering a ship. It implies a calculated, intelligent approach to achieving an objective.
* **make (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** From H6213, this primitive root is exceptionally broad, meaning "to do or make" in the widest sense. In this context, it implies to "carry out," "accomplish," or "execute" one's "war" or strategic undertaking. It speaks to the active implementation and successful execution of a plan, emphasizing that wise counsel is the prerequisite for effective action and achievement.
* **safety (Hebrew, _tᵉshûwʻâh'_):** From H8668, this term means "rescue," "deliverance," "salvation," or "victory." It encompasses not just the avoidance of danger, but the positive outcome of being saved or achieving triumph. In the context of "multitude of counsellors," it suggests that diverse, collective wisdom leads to a secure position, successful navigation of challenges, and ultimate victory or well-being.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war:"** This clause asserts that the successful execution of any significant undertaking or "war" (a metaphor for life's battles and challenges) is directly dependent upon the quality of the strategic planning and guidance received. It implies that impulsive action or reliance solely on one's own limited understanding will likely lead to failure. The Hebrew word for "counsel" (תַּחְבּוּלָה, _tachbulâh_) here suggests skillful, strategic guidance, akin to the navigation of a ship, indicating that a well-devised plan is crucial for achieving one's objectives.
* **"and in multitude of counsellors [there is] safety."** This second clause reinforces and expands upon the first, highlighting the communal aspect of wisdom. It declares that true security, deliverance, and victory (תְּשׁוּעָה, _tᵉshûwʻâh_) are found not in isolation, but in the collective wisdom of many advisors. A diverse array of perspectives helps to identify blind spots, anticipate obstacles, and formulate more robust and resilient strategies, thereby ensuring a safer and more successful outcome.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 24:6 employs several literary devices to convey its profound truth. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where "war" (מִלְחָמָה, _milchâmâh_) serves as a powerful symbol for any significant and challenging endeavor in life—be it a business venture, a personal struggle, or a major decision. This extends the proverb's applicability far beyond literal military conflict. The verse also utilizes **Synthetic Parallelism**, where the second line expands upon or completes the thought of the first, creating a cumulative effect. The first clause states the necessity of wise counsel for strategic action, while the second elaborates on the benefit of a "multitude" of such counselors, leading to "safety." This structure reinforces the central message through repetition and amplification, emphasizing both the quality and quantity of counsel. Furthermore, the proverb uses **Emphasis** through its direct and declarative tone, underscoring the critical importance of seeking external wisdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The wisdom articulated in Proverbs 24:6 resonates deeply with broader theological themes concerning God's nature and humanity's reliance on divine guidance. God Himself is presented as the ultimate source of wisdom and counsel (Isaiah 9:6; Jeremiah 32:19), and His plans are unthwartable. For humanity, the proverb underscores the humility required to acknowledge one's own limitations and the necessity of seeking wisdom beyond oneself. This aligns with the biblical call to trust in the Lord with all your heart and not lean on your own understanding [Proverbs 3:5](/proverbs/3-5 "Proverbs 3:5 - Trust in the Lord with all your heart"). The communal aspect of wisdom, where safety is found in a "multitude of counsellors," foreshadows the New Testament concept of the church as the body of Christ, where diverse gifts and perspectives contribute to the well-being and effective mission of the whole (1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4). It teaches that God often mediates His wisdom through others, calling believers to a posture of teachability and collaborative discernment.

* [Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.")
* [Proverbs 15:22](/proverbs/15-22 "Proverbs 15:22 - Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.")
* [Proverbs 20:18](/proverbs/20-18 "Proverbs 20:18 - Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 24:6 offers timeless wisdom that transcends ancient battlefields, providing profound guidance for navigating the complexities of modern life. In a world that often celebrates rugged individualism and quick decisions, this proverb calls us to a posture of humility and collaborative wisdom. Whether facing significant personal choices—like career changes, relational challenges, or financial investments—or leading in professional or ministry contexts, the principle remains: thoughtful deliberation informed by diverse, wise perspectives leads to greater success and security. It challenges us to actively cultivate a network of trusted advisors—mentors, spiritual leaders, experienced friends, or professional experts—who can offer objective insights, identify blind spots, and help us discern the best path forward. This requires not only the humility to seek counsel but also the discernment to evaluate it, ensuring that the "multitude" are indeed wise and grounded in sound principles. Ultimately, applying this proverb means embracing a deliberate, prayerful, and communal approach to life's "wars," trusting that collective wisdom, guided by God, will lead to deliverance and victory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I typically approach major decisions in my life? Do I tend to rely solely on my own judgment, or do I actively seek counsel from others?**
* **Who are the "multitude of counsellors" in my life? Are they truly wise, trustworthy, and diverse in their perspectives, or do I primarily seek affirmation from those who already agree with me?**
* **In what specific areas of my life (e.g., career, relationships, spiritual growth, finances) do I need to humble myself and seek external wisdom rather than relying solely on my own understanding or impulse?**

### FAQ
**What does "make thy war" mean beyond literal military conflict?**

Answer: While the term "war" (מִלְחָמָה, _milchâmâh_) literally refers to battle, in the context of Proverbs, it is a powerful metaphor for any significant, challenging, or adversarial undertaking in life. This includes major life decisions, difficult projects, complex personal struggles, business ventures, or even spiritual battles. The proverb implies that just as a military campaign requires careful strategy, any major endeavor in life demands thoughtful planning and wise guidance to achieve success and avoid pitfalls. It underscores that life's challenges are best approached with the same strategic foresight and collaborative effort as a literal war.

**Is seeking advice always necessary, or can I trust my own judgment sometimes?**

Answer: Proverbs 24:6 strongly advocates for seeking counsel, especially for significant "wars" or challenges. While personal discernment and conviction are important, the proverb emphasizes that "in multitude of counsellors there is safety." This suggests that relying solely on one's own judgment, particularly in complex or high-stakes situations, can be perilous due to inherent biases, limited perspectives, or lack of experience. Wise individuals recognize their limitations and humble themselves to gain broader insight. However, this does not negate personal responsibility or the need for prayerful discernment; rather, it encourages a balanced approach where personal conviction is informed and refined by external, godly wisdom.

**How do I discern "wise" counsel from bad advice, especially when there's a "multitude" of opinions?**

Answer: Discerning wise counsel requires a combination of spiritual discernment and practical wisdom. First, evaluate the character and track record of your advisors; do they demonstrate integrity, humility, and a life consistent with biblical principles? Second, consider the content of their advice: Is it consistent with Scripture? Does it promote wisdom, prudence, and long-term well-being, or does it appeal to immediate gratification or selfish desires? Third, seek diverse perspectives, but ultimately, filter all counsel through prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit [James 1:5](/james/1-5 "James 1:5 - If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God"). The "multitude" provides breadth, but the "wise" counsel provides depth and alignment with God's truth.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 24:6, with its emphasis on wise counsel leading to safety and victory, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of divine wisdom and the source of our ultimate safety. The Old Testament often speaks of God as the Great Counselor, and this attribute is perfectly manifested in Christ, who is called "Wonderful Counselor" in [Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace"). In Him, all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden [Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge").

Jesus Himself perfectly modeled the principle of seeking counsel, not in the sense of lacking wisdom, but in His perfect submission and reliance on the Father's will. His entire earthly ministry was a demonstration of doing only what He saw the Father doing [John 5:19](/john/5-19 "John 5:19 - The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do"), and His prayers in Gethsemane exemplify His perfect alignment with divine counsel, even in the face of immense suffering [Luke 22:42](/luke/22-42 "Luke 22:42 - Not my will, but yours, be done").

Furthermore, the "multitude of counsellors" finds its spiritual parallel in the body of Christ, the Church. Through the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus promised as our "Counselor" or "Helper" [John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things"), believers are equipped with diverse gifts and insights. As members of one body, we are called to speak truth in love, admonish one another, and bear one another's burdens, thereby collectively discerning God's will and providing "safety" and guidance for each other [Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11 "Ephesians 4:11-16 - The Church, the Body of Christ") and [Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bear one another's burdens"). The ultimate "safety" and "victory" (תְּשׁוּעָה, _tᵉshûwʻâh_) promised in Proverbs 24:6 are found in Christ's finished work on the cross, which delivers us from sin and death, securing our eternal salvation and providing a secure anchor for our souls [Hebrews 6:18-20](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18-20 - Our hope as an anchor for the soul"). Thus, for the believer, all "wars" of life are navigated under the supreme counsel of Christ, leading to ultimate safety in Him.

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

Proverbs 11:14

¶ Where no counsel [is], the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors [there is] safety.

Proverbs 20:18

¶ [Every] purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

Proverbs 15:22

¶ Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

Luke 14:31

Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?

Ephesians 6:10

¶ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Ephesians 6:20

For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

1 Corinthians 9:25

And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.