¶ [It is] the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings [is] to search out a matter.
It is the glory {H3519} of God {H430} to conceal {H5641} a thing {H1697}: but the honour {H3519} of kings {H4428} is to search out {H2713} a matter {H1697}.
God gets glory from concealing things; kings get glory from investigating things.
It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out.
It is the glory of God to conceal a thing; But the glory of kings is to search out a matter.
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Deuteronomy 29:29
The secret [things belong] unto the LORD our God: but those [things which are] revealed [belong] unto us and to our children for ever, that [we] may do all the words of this law. -
Romans 11:33
¶ O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out! -
Romans 11:34
For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? -
Job 11:7
¶ Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? -
Job 11:8
[It is] as high as heaven; what canst thou do? deeper than hell; what canst thou know? -
Job 38:4
¶ Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. -
Job 39:30
Her young ones also suck up blood: and where the slain [are], there [is] she.
Proverbs 25:2 offers a profound insight into the distinct natures and roles of God and humanity, particularly those in positions of leadership. This verse, attributed to the collection made by King Hezekiah's men, highlights a fundamental contrast in divine glory and human honor.
Context of Proverbs 25:2
This verse is part of a section of Proverbs (chapters 25-29) that begins with the note, "These are also proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out." This indicates a careful preservation and compilation of ancient wisdom during the reign of King Hezekiah (8th century BC). The book of Proverbs itself is a collection of practical wisdom for living righteously and wisely, often employing antithetical or synthetic parallelism to convey its message.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "conceal" (סָתַר - satar) implies a deliberate hiding or covering, suggesting that God's hiddenness is an intentional act of His will. The word for "search out" (חָקַר - chaqar) denotes a thorough, diligent investigation, like digging or exploring. This linguistic contrast reinforces the differing actions appropriate for God and for humanity.
Practical Application
Proverbs 25:2 offers several timeless applications for understanding God's nature and our human role: