Proverbs 29:5

KJV

¶ A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.

KJV (with Strong's)

A man {H1397} that flattereth {H2505} his neighbour {H7453} spreadeth {H6566} a net {H7568} for his feet {H6471}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A person who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his own steps.

Berean Standard Bible

A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.

American Standard Version

A man that flattereth his neighbor Spreadeth a net for his steps.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 29:5 issues a stark warning against the deceptive nature of flattery, portraying it as a hidden snare laid by one individual for another. This proverb exposes the insincerity and manipulative intent behind smooth words, revealing that such praise is not a genuine expression of admiration but a calculated maneuver designed to entrap the unsuspecting recipient. It underscores the importance of discernment in human relationships, cautioning against those who use charming words to achieve ulterior motives, ultimately leading to the downfall or exploitation of their neighbor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 29:5 is situated within the latter sections of the book of Proverbs, which often contain more direct, antithetical proverbs contrasting the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. This particular verse follows a series of admonitions concerning leadership, justice, and the consequences of various behaviors, such as those of a king who judges the poor with truth ([Proverbs 29:14](/proverbs/29-14 "Proverbs 29:14 - Just Leadership")) or a child who brings shame ([Proverbs 29:15](/proverbs/29-15 "Proverbs 29:15 - Discipline and Wisdom")). It stands as a standalone aphorism, yet it resonates with the broader Proverbial theme of the power and danger of words, particularly those spoken with malicious intent. The imagery of a "net" or "snare" is common throughout wisdom literature, frequently used to describe the traps laid by the wicked or the consequences of foolish choices, as seen in passages like [Proverbs 1:17](/proverbs/1-17 "Proverbs 1:17 - The Folly of the Wicked") and [Proverbs 7:23](/proverbs/7-23 "Proverbs 7:23 - The Snare of the Adulteress").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, as in many cultures, oral communication was paramount, and words carried immense weight. The ability to speak persuasively or to offer praise could be a powerful tool. However, the wisdom tradition consistently warned against the misuse of this power. Flattery, in this context, was not merely polite compliment but a strategic form of social manipulation, often employed by those seeking favor, influence, or material gain from a person of status or wealth. The "neighbor" (רֵעַ, _rêaʻ_) in Proverbs often refers to anyone with whom one has social interaction, not just a literal next-door resident, emphasizing the broad applicability of this warning to all interpersonal relationships. The imagery of "spreading a net" would have been readily understood by an agrarian society familiar with hunting and trapping animals, vividly conveying the deliberate, concealed, and harmful nature of the flatterer's actions.
* **Key Themes:** This proverb contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent throughout the book of [Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "The Book of Proverbs - Wisdom for Life"). Foremost among these is the theme of **Discernment**, urging the wise person to look beyond superficial appearances and smooth words to perceive true motives. It highlights the pervasive danger of **Deception and Insincerity**, contrasting the genuine, truth-telling heart with the manipulative, self-serving one. The proverb also touches on the theme of **Justice and Righteousness** in relationships, implying that true neighborly love is built on honesty and integrity, not on exploitation. Furthermore, it underscores the **Power of Words**, demonstrating how they can be used for good or ill, to build up or to ensnare. The "net" imagery connects to the broader biblical concept of **Spiritual Warfare** and the snares of the enemy, warning believers to be vigilant against various forms of entrapment, whether physical, financial, or spiritual, as also warned in [Psalm 140:5](/psalm/140-5 "Psalm 140:5 - Prayer for Deliverance from the Wicked").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Man (Hebrew, _geber'_):** From H1397, this word properly denotes a "valiant man or warrior," but generally refers to a "person simply" or "every one." In this context, it emphasizes the individual responsible for the act of flattery, highlighting that this is a deliberate action taken by a specific person, not an accidental occurrence. It can imply a person of strength or influence who uses their position for ill.
* **Flattereth (Hebrew, _châlaq'_):** From H2505, this primitive root means "to be smooth" (figuratively). By implication, it can mean "to apportion or separate," but in this context, it specifically refers to "flatter" or "be smooth(-er)." The essence here is verbal smoothness, words that are crafted to be pleasing and agreeable, often to conceal ulterior motives. It suggests a deceptive slipperiness, where truth is obscured by pleasantries.
* **Net (Hebrew, _resheth'_):** From H7568, this word specifically means "a net (as catching animals)" or "net(-work)." It is a direct and powerful metaphor for a trap or snare. The use of this word immediately conveys the deliberate, concealed, and dangerous nature of the flatterer's intention, aiming to capture or control the victim.
* **Feet (Hebrew, _paʻam'_):** From H6471, this word can mean "a stroke," "foot(-step)," or "going." In the context of a net, "feet" represents the means by which one moves forward in life, symbolizing one's path, progress, and stability. To spread a net for someone's feet means to impede their progress, cause them to stumble, or trap them in their journey, leading to their downfall or capture.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A man that flattereth his neighbour":** This clause identifies the agent and the action. The "man" is not just any individual, but one who actively engages in "flattery." The Hebrew term for "flattereth" (חָלַק, _châlaq_) carries the connotation of being smooth or slippery, suggesting words that are insincere, deceptive, and designed to manipulate. The target of this flattery is "his neighbour," indicating that this is an interpersonal act of deception, often aimed at someone with whom there is a relationship or potential for interaction. The flattery is not an innocent compliment but a calculated verbal artifice.
* **"spreadeth a net for his feet":** This clause reveals the true, insidious purpose behind the flattery. The act of "spreading a net" (פָּרַשׂ רֶשֶׁת, _pâras resheth_) is a vivid **metaphor** for setting a trap. Just as a hunter carefully conceals a net to ensnare an animal, the flatterer uses smooth words as a hidden snare. The "feet" represent the victim's path, stability, and freedom of movement. By laying a net for their feet, the flatterer intends to cause the neighbor to stumble, fall, or become entrapped, thereby gaining an advantage, exploiting them, or leading them into error or ruin.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Proverbs 29:5 is **Metaphor**. The phrase "spreadeth a net for his feet" is a vivid and potent **metaphor** that equates the act of flattery with the deliberate setting of a trap. Flattery, like a hidden net, is not outwardly aggressive but subtly deceptive, designed to ensnare an unsuspecting victim. The smooth words are the invisible threads of the net, lulling the recipient into a false sense of security, making them vulnerable to manipulation or exploitation. This **imagery** of a hunter's snare powerfully conveys the malicious intent and the harmful consequences of insincere praise. The proverb also implicitly uses **Contrast**, a common device in wisdom literature, by juxtaposing the outward pleasantness of flattery with its underlying treacherous purpose, thereby highlighting the difference between genuine affirmation and manipulative deceit.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 29:5 deeply intertwines with biblical theology concerning truth, relationships, and the nature of God. God is inherently truthful and despises deception, making flattery an act contrary to His character and His call for integrity in human interaction. The sin of flattery violates the spirit of the command to love one's neighbor as oneself, as it seeks to exploit rather than genuinely care for the well-being of the other. It is a manifestation of self-interest, prioritizing personal gain over the neighbor's welfare. The proverb, therefore, is a call to discernment, urging believers to cultivate wisdom to distinguish between sincere praise that builds up and manipulative flattery that seeks to ensnare, recognizing that true wisdom involves seeing beyond the surface to the heart's true intentions.

* [Psalm 12:2-3](/psalm/12-2 "Psalm 12:2-3 - The Deceitful Tongue"): "They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things."
* [Romans 16:18](/romans/16-18 "Romans 16:18 - Warnings Against Deceivers"): "For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
* [1 Thessalonians 2:5](/1_thessalonians/2-5 "1 Thessalonians 2:5 - Paul's Integrity"): "For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 29:5 offers profound and timeless wisdom for navigating human relationships in a world often saturated with superficiality and self-interest. It compels us to cultivate a spirit of discernment, not merely to be wary of others' flattery, but also to examine our own hearts for any tendency to use smooth words for manipulative ends. In a society that often rewards outward charm and strategic networking, this proverb calls us back to the foundational principles of integrity, sincerity, and genuine love for our neighbor. It challenges us to build relationships on the bedrock of truth, where honest feedback, even if difficult, is valued more than pleasant lies. By recognizing the "net" of flattery, we can protect ourselves from exploitation and, more importantly, commit ourselves to being people who speak truth in love, fostering trust and authentic connection rather than deceitful entrapment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I distinguish between genuine praise and manipulative flattery in my own life?**
* **In what areas might I be tempted to use flattery to achieve my own desired outcomes, rather than acting with sincerity?**
* **What steps can I take to cultivate a heart of discernment, both for myself and for others' words?**
* **How does this proverb challenge my understanding of "success" in relationships or professional contexts?**

### FAQ

**What is biblical flattery?**

Answer: Biblical flattery, as described in Proverbs 29:5 and other passages, is not merely polite praise but insincere commendation given with an ulterior motive. It's a deceptive use of words, often smooth and pleasing, intended to manipulate, gain favor, or exploit another person for personal advantage. It lacks genuine affection or respect and is fundamentally rooted in self-interest rather than love for the neighbor.

**How can I discern flattery from genuine praise?**

Answer: Discernment involves looking beyond the words themselves to the heart and motives behind them. Genuine praise is usually specific, sincere, and given without expectation of return. It builds up the recipient for their true qualities or actions. Flattery, conversely, tends to be overly general, excessive, and often comes from someone who has something to gain from you. Pay attention to the character of the speaker, the context in which the praise is given, and whether the praise feels disproportionate or designed to disarm you. [Proverbs 27:6](/proverbs/27-6 "Proverbs 27:6 - Faithful Wounds") states, "Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful," highlighting that true friends offer honest, sometimes painful, truth, not just pleasantries.

**Why is flattery considered so dangerous in the Bible?**

Answer: Flattery is dangerous because it is a hidden trap. Proverbs 29:5 vividly describes it as "spreading a net for his feet." It disarms the victim, making them complacent, overconfident, or blind to the flatterer's true intentions. This can lead to various forms of harm: moral compromise, financial loss, damaged reputation, or simply being used and exploited. The Bible consistently warns against deception because it undermines trust, corrupts relationships, and is antithetical to God's character of truth and righteousness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 29:5, with its warning against the deceptive net of flattery, finds its ultimate fulfillment and counter-point in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Unlike the flatterer who seeks to ensnare for selfish gain, Jesus always spoke truth, even when it was challenging or unpopular, because His motive was pure love and the genuine salvation of humanity. He never used "flattering words" ([1 Thessalonians 2:5](/1_thessalonians/2-5 "1 Thessalonians 2:5 - Paul's Integrity")) to deceive or manipulate, but rather called people to repentance and faith with unwavering honesty. Christ Himself was the ultimate target of many snares, yet He walked a path of perfect integrity, never falling into the traps laid by His adversaries, whether they were the Pharisees' cunning questions ([Matthew 22:15-22](/matthew/22-15 "Matthew 22:15-22 - Paying Taxes to Caesar")) or Satan's temptations ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matt/4-1 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus")). Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus has broken every "net" of sin and deception that could ensnare humanity, offering freedom and true security to all who believe in Him. As believers, we are called to embody Christ's truthfulness, speaking with integrity and love, and relying on the Holy Spirit for discernment to identify and avoid the spiritual and relational "nets" of flattery and deceit that still exist in the world, living in the freedom purchased by the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God").

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

Psalms 5:9

For [there is] no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part [is] very wickedness; their throat [is] an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.

Job 17:5

He that speaketh flattery to [his] friends, even the eyes of his children shall fail.

Psalms 12:2

They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: [with] flattering lips [and] with a double heart do they speak.

Hosea 5:1

¶ Hear ye this, O priests; and hearken, ye house of Israel; and give ye ear, O house of the king; for judgment [is] toward you, because ye have been a snare on Mizpah, and a net spread upon Tabor.

Proverbs 1:17

Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird.

Romans 16:18

For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

Proverbs 7:21

With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him.