Proverbs 27:12

KJV

¶ A prudent [man] foreseeth the evil, [and] hideth himself; [but] the simple pass on, [and] are punished.

KJV (with Strong's)

A prudent {H6175} man foreseeth {H7200} the evil {H7451}, and hideth {H5641} himself; but the simple {H6612} pass on {H5674}, and are punished {H6064}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The clever see trouble coming and hide; the thoughtless go on and pay the penalty.

Berean Standard Bible

The prudent see danger and take cover; but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.

American Standard Version

A prudent man seeth the evil, and hideth himself; Butthe simple pass on, and suffer for it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 27:12 presents a profound contrast between two distinct approaches to life and their inevitable outcomes: the foresight of the prudent and the heedlessness of the simple. It teaches that true wisdom involves anticipating potential dangers and taking proactive measures to avoid harm, while a lack of discernment leads to vulnerability and suffering. This proverb underscores the biblical principle that choices have consequences, advocating for a life characterized by thoughtful preparation and spiritual vigilance to navigate the complexities and perils of the world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 27 is part of the "Proverbs of Solomon" collection (Proverbs 25-29), which often groups sayings by theme or common contrast. This chapter, in particular, contains a series of independent, pithy observations on various aspects of life, including friendship, diligence, self-control, and the nature of wisdom. Proverbs 27:12 stands as a classic example of **antithetical parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew poetry, where two contrasting lines illuminate a single truth. It builds upon the broader wisdom tradition found throughout the book, which consistently champions discernment (`חָכְמָה`, _chokmah_) and understanding (`בִּינָה`, _binah_) as pathways to life, contrasting them with folly (`אִוֶּלֶת`, _ivvelet_) and simplicity (`פְּתִי`, _pethiy_) that lead to destruction. The verse's message of foresight resonates with other proverbs that encourage planning and careful consideration, such as the importance of preparing for the future found in [Proverbs 6:6-8](/proverbs/6-6 "Proverbs 6:6-8 - The Ant's Wisdom").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite society, like many agrarian cultures, faced numerous unpredictable challenges: natural disasters, banditry, famine, and inter-tribal conflicts. In such an environment, the ability to "foresee evil" was not merely a philosophical concept but a practical necessity for survival and flourishing. Wisdom literature, including Proverbs, served as a pedagogical tool, transmitting accumulated knowledge and moral principles from one generation to the next. It reflected a worldview where divine order was embedded in creation, and adherence to wisdom principles led to a harmonious life, while deviation brought disorder and suffering. The "prudent man" would have been highly valued for his ability to protect his family, flocks, and community, while the "simple" person, lacking such foresight, would be seen as a liability, prone to falling into traps or making poor decisions that could endanger themselves and others. This cultural emphasis on communal well-being often meant that individual choices had broader societal implications.

* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 27:12 powerfully articulates several core themes central to biblical wisdom. Firstly, it highlights the **value of foresight and discernment**, presenting prudence not as mere caution but as an active, intelligent assessment of potential dangers. This foresight enables proactive measures, contrasting sharply with reactive responses. Secondly, it explores the **danger of naivete and simplicity**, portraying the "simple" as those who lack critical judgment, making them vulnerable to harm. This "simplicity" is not innocence but a culpable ignorance that refuses to learn or perceive reality. Thirdly, the proverb unequivocally establishes the **principle of consequences**, demonstrating that actions (or inactions) have direct and inevitable outcomes. The safety of the prudent is a direct result of their wisdom, just as the punishment of the simple is a direct result of their folly. This theme is echoed throughout Scripture, reinforcing the idea that [God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping"). Ultimately, the verse champions a life lived with intentionality and wisdom, rooted in the understanding that [the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Prudent (Hebrew, _ʻârûwm'_):** From H6175, this word describes someone cunning, shrewd, or sensible. While it can carry a negative connotation (crafty), in this context, it signifies a positive, discerning intelligence. The prudent person is not merely cautious but possesses a practical wisdom that allows them to perceive potential harm or difficulty before it fully manifests, enabling them to take appropriate, protective action.
* **Foreseeth (Hebrew, _râʼâh'_):** From H7200, meaning "to see," literally or figuratively. This term implies not just physical sight but also mental perception, understanding, and discernment. The prudent person "sees" the evil in advance, not through mystical revelation, but through careful observation, experience, and the application of wisdom. It suggests an active, intentional gaze into the future implications of present circumstances.
* **Simple (Hebrew, _pᵉthîy'_):** From H6612, meaning "silly" or "seducible." This term refers to someone who is naive, open-minded to a fault, easily persuaded, and lacking in critical judgment or discernment. Unlike the fool (`כְּסִיל`, _kᵉsîyl_) who actively rejects wisdom, the simple person is characterized by a lack of experience and an inability to perceive danger, making them vulnerable to deception and harm. They are easily led astray because they do not "see" the evil.
* **Punished (Hebrew, _ʻânash'_):** From H6064, meaning "to inflict a penalty" or "to fine." This word indicates that the simple person experiences tangible negative consequences or suffering as a direct result of their heedlessness. It's not necessarily a divine judgment in every instance, but the natural, inevitable outcome of their lack of foresight and protective action. The "punishment" is the painful reality that befalls those who ignore wisdom's warnings.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A prudent [man] foreseeth the evil":** This clause introduces the wise individual, characterized by their ability to perceive and anticipate potential harm or danger. The "evil" (`רַע`, _ra'_) here refers to anything bad, calamitous, or harmful, whether natural adversity or moral wrongdoing that leads to negative consequences. The prudent person doesn't just react to evil but actively discerns its approach, demonstrating a proactive intelligence.
* **"[and] hideth himself;":** This describes the prudent man's response to foreseen evil. To "hide himself" (`סָתַר`, _sâthar_) implies taking protective measures, seeking refuge, or withdrawing from a perilous situation. It is a wise, strategic retreat or preparation, not an act of cowardice, but an intelligent application of foresight to preserve oneself or one's interests from impending harm.
* **"[but] the simple pass on,":** This introduces the stark contrast. The "simple" person, lacking discernment, fails to perceive the approaching danger. To "pass on" (`עָבַר`, _ʻâbar_) means to proceed heedlessly, to go through or over without caution, or to ignore the warning signs. They continue their course of action, oblivious to the risks or consequences, demonstrating a profound lack of wisdom and foresight.
* **"[and] are punished.":** This final clause states the inevitable outcome for the simple. Because they "pass on" without taking protective measures, they experience the negative consequences of their naivete. The "punishment" (`עָנַשׁ`, _ʻânash_) is the suffering, loss, or penalty that naturally befalls those who fail to exercise prudence and discernment in the face of impending evil.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 27:12 is a masterful example of **Antithetical Parallelism**, a foundational literary device in Hebrew wisdom literature. This technique presents two contrasting lines or ideas that illuminate a single truth, creating a sharp distinction that emphasizes the moral or practical point. Here, the "prudent man" and his wise actions are set in direct opposition to "the simple" and their foolish behavior, with their respective outcomes clearly delineated. This contrast highlights the benefits of foresight and the perils of naivete. Additionally, the proverb employs subtle **Personification**, attributing the qualities of "prudent" and "simple" to individuals, making these abstract concepts tangible and relatable. The act of "hiding oneself" can also be seen as a **Metaphor** for taking various forms of protective action—whether physical, financial, relational, or spiritual—to avoid harm. The simplicity of the language belies the profound truth it conveys, making the wisdom accessible and memorable.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 27:12 is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of wisdom as a divine attribute and a practical necessity for human flourishing. It reinforces the theological truth that God has ordered the world with inherent consequences for human choices. Wisdom, therefore, is not merely intellectual prowess but a moral and spiritual orientation that aligns with God's design, enabling one to discern good from evil and choose paths that lead to life. The "evil" foreseen by the prudent man can encompass natural calamities, the schemes of wicked people, or the subtle snares of temptation. The ability to perceive and avoid such dangers is a gift from God, often cultivated through diligent study of His Word and prayer. Conversely, the "simple" person's punishment is a natural consequence of ignoring divine wisdom, demonstrating that God's moral universe holds individuals accountable for their heedlessness. This proverb thus serves as a call to cultivate a life of discernment, recognizing that true safety and well-being are found in aligning our choices with God's wise principles.

* [Psalm 91:1-2](/psalms/91-1 "Psalm 91:1-2 - Dwelling in the Shelter of the Most High")
* [Matthew 7:24-27](/matthew/7-24 "Matthew 7:24-27 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")
* [Ephesians 5:15-16](/ephesians/5-15 "Ephesians 5:15-16 - Making the Best Use of the Time")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 27:12 offers timeless wisdom for navigating the complexities of life in a fallen world. It challenges us to move beyond mere reaction to proactive discernment, urging us to cultivate a habit of thoughtful anticipation rather than naive impulsivity. In an age of rapid change and abundant information, the ability to "foresee evil" is more critical than ever. This applies not only to tangible dangers like financial instability or physical threats but also to more subtle spiritual and relational pitfalls. A wise person takes time to consider the long-term implications of decisions, seeks counsel, and prayerfully discerns potential traps. This might involve setting boundaries in relationships, planning for future needs, or, most importantly, guarding one's heart and mind against spiritual deception and temptation. The "hiding himself" is not an act of fear, but of intelligent self-preservation—a spiritual refuge found in God's Word, prayer, and community. Conversely, the "simple" person, who rushes headlong into situations without foresight, will inevitably face the painful consequences of their thoughtlessness. This proverb calls us to be intentional stewards of our lives, recognizing that wisdom is a gift to be actively pursued and applied for our protection and flourishing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you prone to being "simple" rather than "prudent"?**
* **What are some "evils" or dangers that you currently foresee in your personal, relational, or spiritual life?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "hide yourself" or prepare for these potential challenges?**
* **How does seeking God's wisdom through prayer and Scripture equip you to be more discerning?**

### FAQ
**What does "hideth himself" mean in a practical sense today?**

Answer: "Hideth himself" (from the Hebrew _sâthar_, meaning "to hide" or "to conceal") implies taking protective measures or seeking refuge. In a practical sense today, it means exercising caution, planning ahead, and taking preventative action to avoid foreseen dangers. This could manifest in various ways: financially, by saving for emergencies or avoiding risky investments; physically, by taking safety precautions or avoiding dangerous situations; relationally, by setting healthy boundaries or disengaging from harmful relationships; and spiritually, by immersing oneself in [God's Word](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - Your Word is a Lamp") and prayer, seeking refuge in His truth and guidance to avoid spiritual deception or temptation. It's about proactive self-preservation and wise stewardship, not cowardly retreat.

**What kind of "punishment" does the simple person face?**

Answer: The "punishment" (Hebrew _ʻânash_, meaning "to inflict a penalty" or "to fine") that the simple person faces is typically the natural, inevitable consequence of their lack of foresight and heedless actions. It's not necessarily a direct divine judgment in every instance, but rather the painful and detrimental outcomes that arise from their naivete. This could include financial loss, relational brokenness, physical harm, missed opportunities, or spiritual decline. For example, someone who is simple in their financial dealings might "pass on" without budgeting or saving, leading to debt and poverty. Someone simple in relationships might ignore red flags, leading to betrayal or heartache. The proverb highlights that the universe operates on principles of cause and effect, and ignoring wisdom's warnings leads to suffering.

**How does this proverb relate to God's sovereignty versus human responsibility?**

Answer: This proverb beautifully illustrates the interplay between God's sovereign design and human responsibility. While God is ultimately sovereign over all things, He has also established a moral and natural order where human choices have real consequences. Proverbs 27:12 emphasizes human responsibility to exercise wisdom and discernment, acknowledging that God has given us the capacity to foresee and respond to evil. The prudent person acts responsibly within God's ordered world, and their positive outcome is a result of their wise choices. Conversely, the simple person's suffering is a direct result of their irresponsible lack of foresight. This does not negate God's sovereignty but rather demonstrates that His sovereignty includes the establishment of principles by which the world operates, and a call for humanity to live wisely within those principles. It aligns with the biblical teaching that [we are to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in us](/philippians/2-12 "Philippians 2:12 - Working Out Your Salvation").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 27:12 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of perfect prudence, the very wisdom of God personified ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")). Unlike the simple who "pass on" to their own destruction, Jesus perfectly "foresaw the evil" of sin, death, and the brokenness of humanity. Yet, instead of "hiding himself" from it, He proactively entered into it, taking on the full "punishment" that humanity deserved. On the cross, Christ did not "pass on" from the suffering but embraced it, becoming the ultimate refuge for all who are simple and lost ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - He Was Pierced for Our Transgressions")). He is the one who "hideth himself" not from evil, but for us, taking our place in judgment. Through His atoning sacrifice, He offers us a hiding place, a shelter from the evil that would otherwise consume us ([Psalm 32:7](/psalms/32-7 "Psalm 32:7 - You Are My Hiding Place")). Believers, in Christ, are no longer left to the fate of the simple, but are granted access to divine wisdom and the ultimate protection found in Him. He is our prudence, our foresight, and our eternal refuge from the consequences of sin, offering us salvation and life abundant ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Good Shepherd Gives Life Abundantly")).

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 22:3

¶ A prudent [man] foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.

Proverbs 18:10

¶ The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

2 Peter 3:10

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

2 Peter 3:14

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

Hebrews 11:7

By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

Exodus 9:20

He that feared the word of the LORD among the servants of Pharaoh made his servants and his cattle flee into the houses:

Exodus 9:21

And he that regarded not the word of the LORD left his servants and his cattle in the field.