Proverbs 29:6

KJV

¶ In the transgression of an evil man [there is] a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.

KJV (with Strong's)

In the transgression {H6588} of an evil {H7451} man {H376} there is a snare {H4170}: but the righteous {H6662} doth sing {H7442} and rejoice {H8056}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In an evil person's crime is a trap, but the righteous sing and rejoice.

Berean Standard Bible

An evil man is caught by his own sin, but a righteous one sings and rejoices.

American Standard Version

In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare; But the righteous doth sing and rejoice.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 29:6 succinctly contrasts the inherent outcomes of two divergent paths: the way of the wicked and the way of the righteous. It declares that a life characterized by deliberate rebellion against God's standards inevitably leads to self-imposed entrapment and ruin, akin to falling into a hidden trap. Conversely, those who walk in integrity and alignment with divine wisdom experience profound inner joy and freedom, expressed through singing and rejoicing, as a direct fruit of their upright living. This proverb serves as a powerful reminder of God's moral order and the distinct destinies that flow from one's fundamental choices.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 29:6 is situated within the latter collection of Solomon's proverbs (chapters 25-29), which often feature sharp antithetical parallelism, contrasting the wise and the foolish, the righteous and the wicked. This particular chapter frequently addresses themes of leadership, the consequences of pride and stubbornness, and the ultimate outcomes of moral choices. The verse immediately precedes discussions about the importance of righteous rule and the suffering of the populace under corrupt leaders, reinforcing the broader principle that moral choices, whether by individuals or those in authority, have tangible and often contrasting results. It acts as a microcosm of the entire book's emphasis on the two ways of life.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Proverbs originates from ancient Israelite wisdom tradition, a genre prevalent throughout the ancient Near East. These proverbs served as practical, divinely inspired guidance for navigating daily life, fostering community well-being, and understanding the moral fabric of the universe. The imagery of a "snare" (a trap for animals) would have been readily understood by an agrarian society, vividly illustrating the unexpected and binding nature of sin's consequences. The expressions of "singing and rejoicing" were common cultural manifestations of blessing, celebration, and deep contentment, often associated with divine favor and communal prosperity, reflecting an internal state of peace and freedom.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 29:6 powerfully articulates several foundational themes woven throughout the book. Firstly, it highlights the **Moral Antithesis**, a defining characteristic of Proverbs, by starkly contrasting the "evil man" and "the righteous." Secondly, it underscores the **Inherent Consequences of Choice**, emphasizing that actions are not isolated but bear intrinsic fruit; transgression leads to entrapment, while righteousness yields joy. This principle is echoed in [Proverbs 13:15](/proverbs/13-15 "Proverbs 13:15 - The Way of Transgressors is Hard"), which states that "the way of transgressors is hard." Thirdly, the verse speaks to **Divine Justice**, not merely as external judgment, but as the natural outworking of God's established moral order where sin is self-destructive, and uprightness brings blessing. Finally, it contributes to the overarching theme of **Wisdom vs. Folly**, asserting that true wisdom lies in choosing the path of righteousness, which alone leads to genuine flourishing and lasting joy, as opposed to the deceptive allure of folly that culminates in ruin, a concept seen throughout [Proverbs 1](/proverbs/1 "Proverbs 1 - The Purpose of Proverbs and Wisdom's Call").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Transgression (Hebrew, _pesha'_):** (H6588) This term signifies more than a mere mistake; it denotes a deliberate act of rebellion or revolt against an established authority, particularly divine law. It implies a conscious crossing of a boundary, a breach of covenant, or a defiant act of sin. In this context, it highlights the willful nature of the evil man's actions, which are not accidental but intentional deviations from righteousness.
* **Snare (Hebrew, _môwqêsh'_):** (H4170) Derived from a root meaning "to ensnare," this word literally refers to a noose or trap used for catching animals. Figuratively, as used here, it powerfully conveys the idea of entanglement, entrapment, or a hidden danger that leads to capture and confinement. It suggests that the very act of transgression becomes the trap, binding the evil person in the consequences of their own choices, often leading to unforeseen and inescapable ruin.
* **Righteous (Hebrew, _tsaddîyq'_)::** (H6662) This term describes one who is just, upright, and in right standing with God and humanity. It refers to a person whose character and conduct align with divine standards and moral integrity. The righteous individual lives in obedience to God's commands, reflecting His character, and is therefore free from the entanglements and guilt that plague the wicked.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In the transgression of an evil man [there is] a snare":** This clause reveals the inherent danger and self-destructive nature of sin. It's not just that a snare *awaits* the evil man, but that the act of transgression itself *is* the snare. The deliberate rebellion (transgression) of a morally corrupt individual (evil man) creates a trap (snare) that inevitably binds them. This binding can manifest as guilt, shame, broken relationships, legal consequences, spiritual emptiness, or the natural, destructive progression of sinful habits. The path of wickedness is not one of freedom, but of increasing entanglement and eventual downfall.
* **"but the righteous doth sing and rejoice":** This contrasting clause presents the blessed outcome for those who live in integrity. The "righteous" are those whose lives are characterized by justice, uprightness, and obedience to God. Because they are not caught in the snare of sin's consequences, they experience genuine inner peace and freedom, which manifests as "singing and rejoicing." This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but flows from a clear conscience, a right relationship with God, and the knowledge that their path is aligned with divine truth. It is a deep, abiding contentment and celebration of life lived in accordance with God's will.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Proverbs 29:6 is **Antithetical Parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew wisdom literature. This device presents two contrasting ideas or statements that stand in opposition to each other, thereby highlighting the distinct outcomes of divergent paths. Here, the "transgression of an evil man" is set against "the righteous," and the consequence of "a snare" is contrasted with the outcome of "sing[ing] and rejoic[ing]." This sharp juxtaposition effectively underscores the moral and spiritual chasm between the wicked and the upright. Additionally, the phrase "a snare" functions as a powerful **Metaphor**, representing the binding, entrapping, and destructive consequences of sin. It vividly illustrates how sin, seemingly liberating, ultimately leads to confinement and ruin. The verse also implicitly uses **Personification** of transgression, as if it actively contains or sets the snare, emphasizing that sin itself is the agent of entrapment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 29:6 profoundly articulates the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, demonstrating God's moral order where actions bear intrinsic consequences. It highlights the stark reality that while sin may offer fleeting pleasure or perceived freedom, its true nature is one of enslavement and destruction, leading to a spiritual and often practical "snare." Conversely, righteousness, though it may demand discipline and sacrifice, is the path to genuine liberty and profound joy. This joy is not mere happiness based on circumstances, but a deep, abiding contentment that stems from a clear conscience, a right relationship with God, and the peace that accompanies obedience. The verse thus affirms God's justice and His desire for humanity to choose the path of life, which is characterized by uprightness and leads to flourishing.

* [Proverbs 5:22](/proverbs/5-22 "Proverbs 5:22 - The Wicked Held by Their Own Iniquities")
* [Psalm 32:11](/psalms/32-11 "Psalm 32:11 - Rejoice in the Lord, O Righteous")
* [Galatians 6:7-8](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7-8 - Sowing to the Spirit and the Flesh")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This proverb offers timeless wisdom, urging us to consider the long-term consequences of our choices. It serves as a potent warning against the deceptive allure of sin, which often promises freedom but delivers bondage. Every compromise with integrity, every deliberate act of rebellion against God's truth, weaves another strand into the "snare" that ultimately entangles and restricts. For those who may feel caught in destructive patterns or cycles of guilt, this verse illuminates the source of their predicament and points towards the path of liberation found in repentance and righteousness. Conversely, for those striving to live uprightly, it provides profound encouragement, assuring them that their commitment to God's ways is not in vain. The "singing and rejoicing" of the righteous is a testament to the deep, abiding joy and peace that transcends circumstances, a joy that is the fruit of a clear conscience and a life lived in alignment with divine principles. It challenges us to pursue genuine contentment by prioritizing spiritual integrity over fleeting worldly gratifications.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways might "transgression" create a "snare" in our lives, leading to unforeseen or unwanted consequences?**
* **What does "singing and rejoicing" look like for a righteous person in the midst of life's challenges and difficulties?**
* **How can we intentionally cultivate a deeper, more consistent joy that is rooted in our walk with God, rather than external circumstances?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse imply that righteous people never face difficulties or sorrow?**

Answer: No, this verse does not suggest that righteous people are exempt from suffering, trials, or sorrow in life. The Bible is clear that all people, regardless of their moral standing, experience hardship in a fallen world (e.g., [Job 14:1](/job/14-1 "Job 14:1 - Man is of Few Days and Full of Trouble")). Instead, Proverbs 29:6 highlights the *internal state* and *ultimate outcome* of the righteous person compared to the wicked. The joy and singing of the righteous stem from a clear conscience, freedom from the self-inflicted snares of sin, and a right relationship with God. This joy is a spiritual fruit, a deep contentment and peace that can exist even amidst external adversity, as seen in the apostles who rejoiced even in persecution (e.g., [Acts 5:41](/acts/5-41 "Acts 5:41 - Rejoicing in Suffering for Christ")). Their joy is not circumstantial happiness, but a profound spiritual reality rooted in God's presence and promises.

**What does "snare" mean in a practical sense for an evil person today?**

Answer: In a practical sense, the "snare" for an evil person refers to the self-inflicted, often unforeseen, and binding consequences of their sinful choices. This can manifest in numerous ways:
1. **Guilt and Shame:** A constant inner turmoil, lack of peace, and a burdened conscience.
2. **Broken Relationships:** Sin often alienates individuals from family, friends, and community, leading to isolation.
3. **Legal and Financial Troubles:** Unethical or illegal actions can lead to imprisonment, fines, and economic ruin.
4. **Addiction and Compulsion:** What starts as a choice can become a powerful, enslaving habit (e.g., substance abuse, gambling, pornography), creating a literal "snare" from which escape is difficult.
5. **Spiritual Deadness:** A hardening of the heart against God, leading to a loss of spiritual discernment and a diminished capacity for true joy and peace.
6. **Loss of Freedom:** The need to conceal, lie, and manipulate to maintain a sinful lifestyle creates a complex web that restricts genuine liberty.
Ultimately, the "snare" means that sin, which promises freedom, delivers bondage, leading to a life characterized by increasing entanglement and misery, as [Romans 6:23](/romans/6-23 "Romans 6:23 - The Wages of Sin is Death") states, "the wages of sin is death."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 29:6 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential "Righteous One" (e.g., [1 John 2:1](/1_john/2-1 "1 John 2:1 - Jesus Christ the Righteous")), who perfectly embodied justice and integrity, never falling into the "snare" of transgression. Unlike the evil man, Christ lived a life of absolute obedience to the Father, fulfilling all righteousness ([Matthew 3:15](/matthew/3-15 "Matthew 3:15 - Fulfilling All Righteousness")). Furthermore, Christ came precisely to free humanity from the "snare" that sin creates. Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, He bore the full weight of our transgressions, breaking the power of sin and death that held us captive ([Romans 8:2](/romans/8-2 "Romans 8:2 - Freedom from the Law of Sin and Death")). Our "righteousness" is not achieved by our own efforts, but is graciously imputed to us through faith in Him ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Our Righteousness in Christ")). As a result, those who are "in Christ" are no longer caught in sin's snare but are set free to "sing and rejoice" with a joy that is eternal and Spirit-filled ([Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22 - Fruit of the Spirit: Joy")). His resurrection is the ultimate triumph over the snare of death, inviting all who believe to share in His victory and experience true, unblemished joy in His presence ([John 15:11](/john/15-11 "John 15:11 - Jesus' Joy in Believers")).

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

2 Timothy 2:26

And [that] they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Ecclesiastes 9:12

For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so [are] the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.

Exodus 15:1

¶ Then sang Moses and the children of Israel this song unto the LORD, and spake, saying, I will sing unto the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.

Psalms 97:11

Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.

Psalms 11:6

Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest: [this shall be] the portion of their cup.

Job 18:7

The steps of his strength shall be straitened, and his own counsel shall cast him down.

Job 18:10

The snare [is] laid for him in the ground, and a trap for him in the way.