Proverbs 26:19

KJV

So [is] the man [that] deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?

KJV (with Strong's)

So is the man {H376} that deceiveth {H7411} his neighbour {H7453}, and saith {H559}, Am not I in sport {H7832}?

Complete Jewish Bible

is one who deceives another, then says, "It was just a joke."

Berean Standard Bible

so is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, “I was only joking!”

American Standard Version

So is the man that deceiveth his neighbor, And saith, Am not I in sport?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 26:19 vividly portrays the moral depravity of an individual who deliberately harms or deceives their neighbor and then attempts to evade accountability by flippantly claiming their malicious act was merely a "sport" or a joke. This proverb exposes the callousness and cowardice inherent in such behavior, likening the deceiver to a dangerous madman whose destructive actions are no less real or harmful simply because they are dismissed as a jest. It underscores the profound responsibility we bear for our words and deeds, regardless of our stated intentions, and highlights the corrosive impact of insincere apologies on trust and community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 26 is a unique collection of proverbs, often characterized by its focus on various types of fools, sluggards, and mischievous individuals. Unlike some other chapters that group proverbs by theme, chapter 26 appears to be a more eclectic collection, frequently employing comparisons and analogies to illustrate its points. Verses 18 and 19 are inextricably linked, forming a powerful two-part simile: "[As] a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?" ([Proverbs 26:18-19](/proverbs/26-18 "Proverbs 26:18-19 - The Deceiver Compared to a Madman")). This immediate preceding verse sets the tone, equating the deceiver's actions with the reckless and deadly behavior of a lunatic, thereby emphasizing the severe, destructive consequences of what the perpetrator dismisses as lighthearted play. The proverb functions as a stark warning against trivializing genuine harm.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, the concept of "neighbor" (Hebrew: _rêaʻ_) was foundational, extending beyond mere proximity to encompass a fellow member of the community, a friend, or even a fellow human being. The Old Testament law, particularly the second great commandment, commanded, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" ([Leviticus 19:18](/leviticus/19-18 "Leviticus 19:18 - Love Your Neighbor as Yourself")). Deceiving or harming one's neighbor, therefore, was a serious transgression against communal harmony and divine law. While jesting and play were certainly part of daily life, the idea of using "sport" as a cover for malicious intent would have been seen as a profound violation of trust and a perversion of social bonds. The emphasis on the spoken word in wisdom literature also highlights the cultural understanding that words carried significant weight and could build up or tear down, bless or curse.
* **Key Themes:** This proverb contributes to several overarching themes found throughout the book of Proverbs and broader biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **deceit and its consequences**, contrasting the integrity of the wise with the duplicity of the foolish. Secondly, it addresses the theme of **accountability**, emphasizing that individuals are morally responsible for the impact of their actions and words, regardless of their self-serving justifications. The attempt to dismiss harm as "sport" reveals a profound lack of empathy and a desire to evade this responsibility. Thirdly, it speaks to the **nature of true wisdom**, which involves discerning the true intent behind actions and recognizing that genuine harm cannot be excused by a casual disclaimer. Finally, it reinforces the importance of **truthfulness and integrity in relationships**, aligning with the broader biblical call for honest communication and genuine love for one's neighbor, as seen in passages like [Ephesians 4:25](/ephesians/4-25 "Ephesians 4:25 - Speak Truthfully to Your Neighbor") which exhorts believers to "put away falsehood and speak truth, each one of you, with his neighbor."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **deceiveth (Hebrew, _râmâh'_):** From a primitive root meaning "to hurl," specifically "to shoot," and figuratively "to delude or betray (as if causing to fall)." This word implies a deliberate act of trickery, beguiling, or misleading someone, often with the intent to cause them to stumble or fall into error. It's not accidental harm but a calculated act of treachery, suggesting a malicious intent behind the "deceit."
* **neighbour (Hebrew, _rêaʻ'_):** This term refers to an "associate (more or less close)," encompassing a brother, companion, fellow, friend, or simply "another." It highlights that the victim of the deceit is not a distant stranger but someone within one's social sphere, making the betrayal all the more egregious due to the implied bond or proximity. The harm is inflicted upon someone with whom one should ideally have a relationship of trust and mutual respect.
* **sport (Hebrew, _sâchaq'_):** A primitive root meaning "to laugh (in pleasure or detraction)" and by implication "to play." While it can denote innocent amusement, here it is used in a twisted sense to describe a form of play that involves derision, mockery, or causing harm to others. The perpetrator's claim of "sport" is an attempt to trivialize serious damage, revealing a callous disregard for the well-being of the victim and an enjoyment derived from their distress.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour":** This clause establishes the identity of the individual being condemned: one who actively and intentionally misleads, tricks, or betrays someone within their community or social circle. The opening "So is" connects directly to the preceding verse ([Proverbs 26:18](/proverbs/26-18 "Proverbs 26:18 - The Madman's Destructive Actions")), drawing a direct comparison between the deceiver and a madman recklessly casting deadly weapons. The deceit is not a minor transgression but a significant act of harm.
* **"and saith, Am not I in sport?":** This second clause reveals the deceiver's attempt to rationalize or excuse their harmful behavior. The rhetorical question, "Am not I in sport?", is a flippant disclaimer, an insincere apology, or a cynical dismissal of the victim's pain. It highlights the perpetrator's moral bankruptcy, demonstrating a lack of empathy and a refusal to take responsibility for the genuine damage inflicted. They hide behind the guise of a joke, trivializing the suffering they have caused.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 26:19 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The primary device is **Simile**, which is implicitly carried over from the preceding verse, comparing the deceiver to a "mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death" ([Proverbs 26:18](/proverbs/26-18 "Proverbs 26:18 - The Madman's Destructive Actions")). This comparison vividly illustrates the destructive and indiscriminate nature of the deceiver's actions, emphasizing that what they deem "sport" is as dangerous as a weapon. The phrase "Am not I in sport?" functions as a **Rhetorical Question**, not seeking an answer but rather serving as a cynical deflection of blame and an attempt to minimize the gravity of their actions. This also creates a stark **Juxtaposition** between the serious harm inflicted ("deceiveth his neighbour") and the frivolous excuse ("in sport"), highlighting the perpetrator's callousness and the profound **Irony** of claiming innocence while causing deliberate pain.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply resonates with the biblical emphasis on truth, integrity, and the sanctity of relationships. The God of the Bible is a God of truth, and deceit is fundamentally antithetical to His character and His kingdom. The attempt to mask malicious intent with a flippant excuse reveals a heart devoid of empathy and a disregard for the well-being of others, directly violating the command to love one's neighbor. Such behavior undermines the very fabric of community and trust, which are essential for flourishing human relationships and for reflecting God's nature in the world. It reminds us that our words and actions carry moral weight, and we are accountable for their impact, regardless of our self-serving rationalizations.

* [Proverbs 12:22](/proverbs/12-22 "Proverbs 12:22 - Lying Lips are an Abomination to the Lord") - "Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight."
* [Matthew 12:36](/matthew/12-36 "Matthew 12:36 - Accountability for Every Idle Word") - "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment."
* [Ephesians 4:29](/ephesians/4-29 "Ephesians 4:29 - Wholesome Speech") - "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 26:19 serves as a timeless mirror, reflecting the common human tendency to evade responsibility for harm caused, particularly when cloaked in the guise of humor or lightheartedness. It calls us to a profound level of self-awareness and integrity in our interactions. We are challenged to examine our own intentions behind our words and actions, especially when engaging in jest or "pranks." True humor builds up and connects; it does not tear down, betray, or cause genuine distress. This proverb urges us to cultivate empathy, recognizing that what might seem trivial to us could inflict deep wounds on another. It also empowers us to discern and resist those who consistently use "just kidding" as a shield for their malice, reminding us that genuine apologies acknowledge the hurt caused, rather than trivializing it. Ultimately, it is a call to live with a deep sense of moral accountability, where our actions align with truth and our words are seasoned with grace, fostering trust and genuine love within our communities.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I differentiate between innocent humor and "sport" that causes genuine harm or deceit?**
* **In what ways might I, perhaps unintentionally, minimize the impact of my words or actions on others by claiming they were "just a joke"?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of responsibility and empathy in my communication, especially when I've caused hurt?**
* **What does this proverb teach me about the importance of trust in relationships, and how can I be a person who builds, rather than erodes, trust?**

### FAQ
**What defines "deceit" in this context?**

Answer: In Proverbs 26:19, "deceit" (Hebrew: _râmâh_) refers to a deliberate act of trickery, misleading, or betrayal. It's not an accidental slip but a calculated action intended to cause someone to err, fall, or be harmed. The context of the proverb, especially its connection to [Proverbs 26:18](/proverbs/26-18 "Proverbs 26:18 - The Madman's Destructive Actions") likening the deceiver to a madman casting "firebrands, arrows, and death," emphasizes that this deceit is profoundly destructive and malicious, despite the perpetrator's attempt to downplay it as "sport."

**Is all "sport" or "jest" condemned by this proverb?**

Answer: No, the proverb does not condemn all forms of "sport" or "jest." The Hebrew word _sâchaq_ can refer to innocent play, laughter, or amusement. However, in this context, it is used to describe a twisted form of "sport" that is employed as a cynical excuse for deliberate harm or betrayal. The condemnation is not of humor itself, but of using humor as a shield to avoid accountability for malicious actions. True humor is wholesome and edifying, as encouraged in [Ephesians 4:29](/ephesians/4-29 "Ephesians 4:29 - Wholesome Speech").

**How does this proverb relate to modern "pranks" or online behavior?**

Answer: This proverb is highly relevant to modern "pranks" and online behavior. Many online interactions, including "trolling," cyberbullying, or spreading misinformation, are often dismissed by perpetrators as "just a joke" or "for fun." Proverbs 26:19 warns against such behavior, highlighting that if an act, whether online or offline, causes genuine harm, distress, or betrayal to another person, the perpetrator's claim of "sport" does not negate the destructive impact. It calls for accountability and empathy in all forms of communication, reminding us that words and actions have real consequences, regardless of the medium or the stated intent.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 26:19, with its stark portrayal of deceit cloaked in feigned innocence, finds its ultimate contrast and fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the proverb condemns those who betray their neighbor and then dismiss it as "sport," Jesus is the embodiment of truth and integrity, never engaging in deceit or excusing harm. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), not one who inflicts it. His entire life was marked by transparent honesty and unwavering love for His "neighbor," even to the point of laying down His life for them ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")). Unlike the deceiver who trivializes the pain of others, Jesus bore the ultimate pain for humanity's sin, demonstrating profound empathy and taking full responsibility for our redemption. He taught His followers to love their neighbors as themselves ([Matthew 22:39](/matthew/22-39 "Matthew 22:39 - The Second Great Commandment")) and warned against every idle word, emphasizing accountability for all speech ([Matthew 12:36-37](/matthew/12-36-37 "Matthew 12:36-37 - Accountability for Every Word")). In Christ, we find the perfect example of one who is "the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), offering genuine reconciliation and calling us to live lives of integrity, where our words and actions are always seasoned with grace and truth, reflecting His character rather than the callousness of the deceiver.

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

Ephesians 5:4

Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

Proverbs 10:23

¶ [It is] as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.

Proverbs 14:9

¶ Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous [there is] favour.

Proverbs 15:21

¶ Folly [is] joy to [him that is] destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

2 Peter 2:13

And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, [as] they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots [they are] and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you;