


Proverbs 25:7
Bible Versions
For better [it is] that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.
For it is better to be told, "Come up here,"than be degraded in the presence of a nobleman. What your eyes have seen,
for it is better that he says to you, “Come up here!” than that you should be demoted in the presence of the prince. Even what you have seen with your own eyes,
For better is it that it be said unto thee, Come up hither, Than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince, Whom thine eyes have seen.
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Luke 14:7
¶ And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them, -
Luke 14:11
For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. -
Luke 18:14
I tell you, this man went down to his house justified [rather] than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. -
1 Peter 5:5
¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. -
Revelation 4:1
¶ After this I looked, and, behold, a door [was] opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard [was] as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. -
Proverbs 16:19
¶ Better [it is to be] of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.
Proverbs 25:7 offers a timeless piece of wisdom regarding social conduct and the pursuit of honor. It vividly contrasts the grace of being invited to a higher position with the shame of being publicly demoted, particularly in the presence of authority.
Context
This verse is part of a collection of King Solomon's proverbs, specifically those "transcribed by the men of Hezekiah King of Judah" (Proverbs 25:1). This section of Proverbs (chapters 25-29) focuses on wisdom applicable to various aspects of life, including interaction with rulers, neighbors, and oneself. The counsel here is highly practical, advising prudence and humility in social settings, particularly when dealing with those in positions of power or influence. It reflects the ancient Near Eastern courtly etiquette, where one's standing and reputation were paramount.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "Come up hither" translates the Hebrew עֲלֵה הֵנָּה ('aleh hennah), an imperative invitation to ascend or be elevated. Conversely, "that thou shouldest be put lower" comes from הַשְׁפִּילְךָ (hashpilkha), meaning to be brought low, humbled, or demoted. The stark contrast between these two outcomes vividly illustrates the proverb's wisdom. It's a choice between an honorable ascent and a humiliating descent, both observed by those in authority.
Related Scriptures
This proverb finds a direct parallel in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who used a similar scenario to teach about humility: "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted." This is famously illustrated in the parable of the wedding feast in Luke 14:10-11, where Jesus advises guests to take the lowest seat so they might be invited higher, rather than being told to move down. Other related passages include Proverbs 16:18, which warns that "pride goeth before destruction," and James 4:10, which instructs believers to "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up."
Practical Application
Proverbs 25:7 offers invaluable guidance for life today. It encourages a posture of humility in all interactions, whether in professional settings, social circles, or even spiritual leadership. Instead of striving to assert oneself or claim positions of prominence, wisdom dictates patiently serving and allowing others, especially those in authority, to recognize and elevate one's contributions. This principle promotes healthy relationships, fosters respect, and ultimately leads to more sustainable and honorable recognition. It reminds us that true honor is often a byproduct of a humble and wise approach to life, rather than a direct pursuit of self-exaltation.