What number verse is Proverbs 27:16 in the Bible?

Proverbs 27:16 is the 17,186th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Proverbs 27:16 sits at position 17,186.

Translation

King James Version

Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

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KJV (with Strong's)

Whosoever hideth ^H6845 her hideth ^H6845 the wind ^H7307, and the ointment ^H8081 of his right hand ^H3225, which bewrayeth ^H7121 itself.

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Complete Jewish Bible

whoever can restrain her can restrain the wind or keep perfume on his hand from making itself known.

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Berean Standard Bible

restraining her is like holding back the wind or grasping oil with one’s right hand.

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American Standard Version

He that would restrain her restraineth the wind; And his right hand encountereth oil.

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World English Bible Messianic

restraining her is like restraining the wind, or like grasping oil in his right hand.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

He that hideth her, hideth the winde, and she is as ye oyle in his right hand, that vttereth it selfe.

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Young's Literal Translation

Whoso is hiding her hath hidden the wind, And the ointment of his right hand calleth out.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Proverbs 27:16 powerfully illustrates the utter futility of attempting to conceal or control a contentious individual, likening such an endeavor to the impossible task of hiding the wind or preventing the pervasive scent of perfumed oil from revealing itself. This profound wisdom saying underscores the inherent nature of a quarrelsome spirit to inevitably manifest, impacting its surroundings and making any effort to suppress its true character utterly vain. It serves as a timeless commentary on the inescapable reality of character traits and their public revelation, emphasizing that genuine disposition cannot be perpetually hidden.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Proverbs 27:16 is inextricably linked to the preceding verse, Proverbs 27:15, which states, "A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike." The pronoun "her" in verse 16 thus unequivocally refers to this "contentious woman," placing the proverb firmly within the context of domestic relationships and the challenges posed by a quarrelsome disposition, often personified as a wife. This verse belongs to the third major collection of Solomonic proverbs, found in Proverbs 25-29, which were compiled by the men of Hezekiah. This section offers practical wisdom for daily living, interpersonal dynamics, and the consequences of moral choices, frequently addressing themes of speech, friendship, and the management of one's household. The proverb's placement highlights the pervasive and inescapable nature of a difficult personality within the most intimate of settings.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, societal values placed a high premium on domestic harmony and communal peace. A contentious spirit, particularly within the home, was viewed as profoundly disruptive and destructive to the fabric of family life. The imagery employed in the proverb draws upon universal human experiences and specific cultural practices of the ancient Near East. "Wind" (Hebrew: rûwach) was understood as an uncontainable, powerful, and often unpredictable force of nature, impossible to grasp, control, or hide. "Ointment" (Hebrew: shemen), typically a valuable perfumed oil derived from olives, was widely used for anointing, hygiene, medicinal purposes, and as a gesture of hospitality. Once applied, especially to the hands, its distinct and pervasive fragrance would naturally emanate, making concealment impossible. The "right hand" (Hebrew: yâmîyn) was considered the hand of strength, skill, and dexterity, often used for applying such substances, further emphasizing the direct and personal nature of the oil's application and its subsequent revelation. The proverb masterfully leverages these familiar concepts to convey a profound and relatable truth about human character.
Key Themes: This proverb significantly contributes to several overarching themes prevalent throughout the book of Proverbs. Foremost, it underscores the uncontainable nature of certain character traits, particularly contentiousness. Just as the wind cannot be controlled or the scent of oil hidden, a quarrelsome spirit will inevitably reveal itself, affecting all who are near and disrupting peace. This leads to the theme of self-revelation, where one's true disposition, especially a negative one, cannot be suppressed indefinitely; it will "bewray itself" or make itself known. Consequently, the proverb also highlights the futility of concealment or control when it comes to inherent character flaws. It implicitly warns against the challenges of living with or attempting to manage a habitually contentious individual, reinforcing the broader wisdom of seeking peace and avoiding strife, as seen in passages like Proverbs 17:1 ("Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife") and Proverbs 15:1 ("A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger"). The proverb ultimately calls for a realistic understanding of human nature and the pervasive impact of one's character.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

hideth (Hebrew, tsâphan', H6845): This primitive root means "to hide (by covering over)." By implication, it can also signify to hoard, reserve, or figuratively, to deny. In the context of Proverbs 27:16, tsâphan' speaks to the act of attempting to conceal, suppress, or keep secret something that is inherently uncontainable. The proverb uses this word to highlight the utter impossibility and futility of such an endeavor when applied to the pervasive and inescapable nature of a contentious person.
wind (Hebrew, rûwach', H7307): This term primarily denotes "wind," but by resemblance, also "breath" or a "sensible (or even violent) exhalation." Figuratively, it can represent life, anger, or unsubstantiality. Here, rûwach' powerfully symbolizes something intangible, uncontrollable, and utterly beyond human grasp or containment, making it a perfect metaphor for a quarrelsome spirit that cannot be confined or silenced.
ointment (Hebrew, shemen', H8081): This word refers to "grease," specifically liquid, often perfumed, such as olive oil. It can also figuratively convey richness or abundance. In the proverb, shemen' specifically denotes fragrant oil, whose pervasive and undeniable scent is central to the metaphor, representing something whose presence is made known through its inherent properties.
bewrayeth (Hebrew, qârâʼ', H7121): This primitive root means "to call out to," "to proclaim," or "to summon." It implies making something known publicly or publishing it. In the KJV's older English, "bewrayeth" means to expose, reveal, or betray, perfectly capturing the sense that the ointment (and by extension, the contentious nature) will inevitably make its presence known, proclaiming itself through its inescapable influence.

Verse Breakdown

"Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind": This initial clause establishes the primary metaphor of the proverb, immediately declaring the utter impossibility of concealing or controlling a contentious person. The act of "hiding her" (referring to the contentious woman from Proverbs 27:15) is equated with the absurd and futile attempt to "hide the wind"—a force of nature that is intangible, ubiquitous, and utterly beyond human control or containment. It powerfully emphasizes that a quarrelsome spirit, like the wind, cannot be confined, suppressed, or made to disappear; its presence will always be felt and known.
"and the ointment of his right hand": This introduces the second, equally potent, metaphor, building upon the first. "The ointment of his right hand" refers to perfumed oil that has been applied to the hand, likely for anointing or personal fragrance. In ancient cultures, such oils were highly aromatic, and their distinct scent would naturally emanate from the person who applied them, permeating the surrounding atmosphere. The implication is that just as the pervasive scent of the oil cannot be contained or concealed once it's on the hand, neither can the true nature of a contentious person be hidden or prevented from affecting their environment.
"[which] bewrayeth [itself]": This final phrase clarifies the inevitable consequence of the second metaphor and powerfully reinforces the overall message of the proverb. The KJV's archaic "bewrayeth itself" means that the ointment (and thus the contentious nature it represents) will inevitably "make itself known," "reveal itself," or "proclaim itself." It cannot be kept secret; its presence will be revealed through its pervasive influence, much like a strong fragrance filling a room. This highlights the self-revealing and inescapable nature of character, particularly a difficult or quarrelsome one, which will always manifest its true disposition.

Literary Devices

Proverbs 27:16 is a masterful display of Imagery and employs powerful Simile and Metaphor to convey its profound message. The core of the proverb lies in its two striking comparisons: attempting to hide a contentious person is likened to the impossible task of trying to hide the wind, and it is also compared to trying to conceal the pervasive scent of ointment on one's hand. Both comparisons draw upon tangible, sensory experiences—the ungraspable nature of wind and the undeniable fragrance of oil—to illustrate an abstract truth about human character. The use of Hyperbole is evident in the exaggeration of the impossibility of the task, emphasizing the extreme difficulty and ultimate futility of managing or concealing a habitually quarrelsome individual. Furthermore, the proverb utilizes Parallelism, where the two distinct images ("hideth the wind" and "the ointment... bewrayeth itself") serve to reinforce the same central idea—the inescapable and self-revealing nature of contentiousness. The vividness and sensory appeal of these images make the proverb memorable, its wisdom impactful, and its truth universally applicable.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

The profound truth embedded in Proverbs 27:16 resonates deeply with broader biblical theology, particularly concerning the nature of the human heart and the inevitability of its outward manifestation. The proverb underscores the principle that what is truly within a person will ultimately be revealed, whether for good or ill. This aligns with the teaching that the mouth speaks from the abundance of the heart, and that one's true character cannot be perpetually hidden (Matthew 12:34). It speaks to the futility of superficial attempts to mask deep-seated character flaws, emphasizing that genuine transformation, rather than mere concealment, is necessary. Theologically, this highlights God's omniscience and the transparency of all things before Him, reminding us that true peace and wisdom come from aligning our inner being with His righteous standards, rather than attempting to hide our imperfections from others or from ourselves.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Proverbs 27:16 offers profound and timeless wisdom for navigating human relationships and understanding the pervasive dynamics of character. It teaches us a crucial lesson: some aspects of human nature, especially deeply ingrained contentious spirits, are fundamentally uncontainable and will inevitably make their presence known, affecting everyone in their sphere. This proverb calls us to a posture of realistic acceptance rather than futile struggle. Instead of expending energy trying to silence, hide, or fundamentally change another person's quarrelsome disposition, wisdom dictates focusing on what we can control: our own responses, the establishment of healthy boundaries, and our personal pursuit of peace. It implicitly encourages discernment in forming close relationships, particularly marriage, recognizing that a habitually contentious partner can make domestic life profoundly difficult and joyless. Furthermore, it serves as a powerful mirror for self-examination, prompting us to consider if we, too, exhibit any "uncontainable" character traits—such as persistent complaining, criticism, or argumentativeness—that disrupt peace, sow discord, and reveal an un-Christlike spirit. True wisdom lies not in attempting to hide what is, but in seeking genuine transformation.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways might I be trying to "hide the wind" in my own relationships, by attempting to suppress or ignore difficult truths about others or myself?
How does this proverb challenge my expectations about changing other people's fundamental character, especially when contentiousness is deeply ingrained?
What boundaries might I need to establish or reinforce in relationships where contentiousness is a persistent issue, to protect my own peace and well-being?
Am I cultivating a spirit of peace and gentleness, or are there aspects of my own character that, like the "ointment," are revealing an un-Christlike contentiousness that I need to address?

FAQ

Who is "her" in this proverb, and is it only about women?

Answer: The "her" in Proverbs 27:16 directly refers to the "contentious woman" mentioned in the preceding verse, Proverbs 27:15. While the immediate literary context points to a woman, the wisdom principle conveyed is universal and transcends gender. Contentiousness is a character trait that can manifest in anyone, regardless of whether they are male or female. The proverb uses a specific, relatable example (a contentious wife, a common domestic challenge in ancient society) to illustrate a broader truth about the futility of trying to hide or control a pervasive, difficult disposition in any person. The wisdom applies to anyone whose quarrelsome nature inevitably makes itself known.

What does "bewrayeth itself" mean in modern English?

Answer: The King James Version's "bewrayeth itself" uses an older English word, "bewray," which means to expose, reveal, or betray. In modern English, it would be best translated as "reveals itself," "betrays its presence," or "makes itself known." The Hebrew word (H7121, qârâʼ) carries the primary sense of proclaiming, calling out, or summoning, emphasizing that the nature of the ointment (and by extension, the contentious person) will inevitably announce its presence and cannot be kept secret or suppressed. It underscores the idea that certain qualities, once present, cannot be contained.

Why are "wind" and "ointment" used as metaphors for contentiousness?

Answer: These two metaphors are chosen for their distinct yet complementary qualities, both powerfully illustrating the uncontainable and self-revealing nature of a contentious spirit. "Wind" (H7307, rûwach) is intangible, powerful, and impossible to grasp, confine, or stop. It represents the elusive, pervasive, and uncontrollable nature of a quarrelsome disposition that cannot be physically contained or silenced. "Ointment" (H8081, shemen), particularly fragrant oil applied to the hand, represents something whose presence is immediately and undeniably revealed through its pervasive scent, which cannot be hidden once released. Together, these images powerfully convey that a contentious person's true character, whether subtle or overt, will inevitably make itself known and affect their environment, much like an irresistible force or an undeniable fragrance that fills a space.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Proverbs 27:16, though a practical wisdom saying rooted in human experience, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several compelling ways. Firstly, Jesus Christ stands as the ultimate embodiment of wisdom, peace, and truth, presenting a stark contrast to the contentious spirit described. He is the one of whom it was prophesied, "He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets" (Matthew 12:19, quoting Isaiah 42:2), demonstrating a non-contentious nature perfectly contained in divine love, humility, and unwavering purpose. Secondly, the proverb's emphasis on the self-revealing nature of character points to the profound biblical truth that nothing can be hidden from God, and ultimately, all things will be brought into the light (Luke 8:17). While human attempts to conceal sin or a contentious spirit are futile, Christ offers not mere concealment but radical transformation. Through His atoning work and the power of the Holy Spirit, He doesn't just mask our flaws but redeems and renews our hearts, replacing contentiousness with the fruit of the Spirit: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23). Finally, just as the ointment's scent cannot be hidden, the truth of the Gospel and the person of Christ, once revealed, cannot be suppressed. His light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it (John 1:5). The pervasive, undeniable nature of the ointment's fragrance becomes a beautiful analogy for the irresistible and revealing power of Christ's presence and truth in the world, which, once encountered, inevitably makes itself known and transforms lives.

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Commentary on Proverbs 27 verses 15–16

15 ¶ A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike.

16 Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

Here, as before, Solomon laments the case of him that has a peevish passionate wife, that is continually chiding, and making herself and all about her uneasy. 1. It is a grievance that there is no avoiding, for it is like a continual dropping in a very rainy day. The contentions of a neighbour may be like a sharp shower, troublesome for the time, yet, while it lasts, one may take shelter; but the contentions of a wife are like a constant soaking rain, for which there is no remedy but patience See Pro 19:13. 2. It is a grievance that there is no concealing. A wise man would hide it if he could, for the sake both of his own and his wife's reputation, but he cannot, any more than he can conceal the noise of the wind when it blows or the smell of a strong perfume. Those that are froward and brawling will proclaim their own shame, even when their friends, in kindness to them, would cover it.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 15–16. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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