Proverbs 3:32

KJV

For the froward [is] abomination to the LORD: but his secret [is] with the righteous.

KJV (with Strong's)

For the froward {H3868} is abomination {H8441} to the LORD {H3068}: but his secret {H5475} is with the righteous {H3477}.

Complete Jewish Bible

for the perverse is an abomination to ADONAI, but he shares his secret counsel with the upright.

Berean Standard Bible

for the LORD detests the perverse, but He is a friend to the upright.

American Standard Version

For the perverse is an abomination to Jehovah; But his friendship is with the upright.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 3:32 presents a profound moral and spiritual dichotomy, asserting that the individual whose character and actions are "froward" or perverse is utterly detestable to the LORD. In stark contrast, the verse reveals a privileged and intimate relationship between God and those who are "righteous," indicating that divine counsel and deep fellowship are reserved for those who walk in integrity and uprightness before Him. This proverb underscores the critical importance of moral character in one's standing and communion with the Creator.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 3 opens with a father's earnest exhortation to his son to embrace wisdom, trust in the LORD with all his heart, and not rely on his own understanding ([Proverbs 3:5](/proverbs/3-5 "Proverbs 3:5 - Trust in the Lord")). The preceding verses encourage obedience to God's commands, honoring Him with one's wealth, and not despising His discipline, promising blessings of long life, peace, and favor. Verse 32 serves as a climactic summary of the chapter's underlying principle: the path of wisdom, which is synonymous with righteousness, leads to divine favor and intimacy, while the path of perversity leads to God's abhorrence. It reinforces the wisdom literature's consistent theme of two ways—the way of life for the righteous and the way of destruction for the wicked—setting the stage for further contrasts throughout the book of [Proverbs](/proverbs/1 "The Book of Proverbs - Wisdom for Life").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Proverbs originates from ancient Israelite wisdom tradition, often attributed to King Solomon, though it contains collections from various sages. In this patriarchal society, the instruction from father to son was a primary means of transmitting cultural values, moral principles, and theological truths. The concept of "abomination" (תּוֹעֵבָה, _tôwʻêbah_) was deeply rooted in the Mosaic Law and Israelite covenant theology, signifying practices or behaviors that were repugnant to God's holiness, often associated with pagan idolatry, sexual immorality, or unjust dealings (e.g., [Deuteronomy 18:9-12](/deuteronomy/18-9 "Deuteronomy 18:9-12 - Abominable Practices")). The idea of God having a "secret" or intimate counsel with His people reflects the covenant relationship, where faithful adherence to God's commands led to a unique, privileged communion, as seen in the relationship between God and figures like Abraham ([Genesis 18:17](/genesis/18-17 "Genesis 18:17 - God's Revelation to Abraham")).

* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 3:32 highlights several pervasive themes within the book of Proverbs and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the **Moral Dualism** that permeates wisdom literature, presenting a clear contrast between the "froward" and the "righteous" and their respective destinies. This dichotomy emphasizes that moral choices have eternal consequences. Secondly, it powerfully conveys **God's Holiness and Justice**, demonstrating that God is not indifferent to human conduct; He actively detests perversity and delights in righteousness. The term "abomination" signifies the absolute incompatibility of wickedness with God's pure nature. Thirdly, the verse beautifully illustrates **Divine Intimacy and Revelation**, promising a unique fellowship and confidential relationship with God for those who walk uprightly. This "secret" (סוֹד, _çôwd_) implies a deeper understanding of God's ways and purposes, a privilege granted to those who fear Him ([Psalm 25:14](/psalm/25-14 "Psalm 25:14 - The Secret of the Lord")). These themes collectively reinforce the central message of Proverbs: true wisdom begins with the fear of the LORD and leads to a life aligned with His character, resulting in profound blessing and communion.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Froward (Hebrew, _lûwz'_):** From a primitive root meaning "to turn aside," "to depart," or "to be perverse." This term describes someone whose character is twisted, crooked, or deviant from what is morally straight and right. It implies a deliberate choice to walk contrary to God's will and established moral order, indicating an inherent perversity of heart and action.
* **Abomination (Hebrew, _tôwʻêbah'_):** This feminine active participle denotes "something disgusting (morally)," an "abhorrence," or "an idol." It is a strong theological term used to describe something utterly detestable and repugnant to God's holy nature, often associated with practices that defile or profane. Its application to the "froward" highlights God's intense moral revulsion towards a perverse character.
* **Secret (Hebrew, _çôwd'_):** From a root meaning "to found" or "to consult," this word refers to "a session," "a company of persons (in close deliberation)," and by implication, "intimacy," "consultation," or "a secret." In this context, it signifies a deep, confidential bond, a shared confidence, or intimate counsel between God and the righteous, implying a privileged and personal communion.
* **Righteous (Hebrew, _yâshâr'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be straight," this adjective describes someone who is "straight (literally or figuratively)," "just," "upright," or "pleased well right." It characterizes individuals whose conduct and character are aligned with God's moral standards, walking in integrity and obedience.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the froward [is] abomination to the LORD:"** This clause establishes a direct and unequivocal judgment from God. The "froward" person, characterized by a twisted, perverse, or deceitful nature, is not merely disliked but is an "abomination" to the LORD. This strong term signifies God's utter detestation and moral revulsion, indicating that such a character is fundamentally antithetical to His holy nature and righteous standards. It underscores the severity of God's disapproval of those who deliberately deviate from His path.
* **"but his secret [is] with the righteous."** This contrasting clause reveals the profound privilege of the upright. The "righteous" individual, whose life is characterized by integrity and obedience to God, is granted access to God's "secret." This "secret" (Hebrew _çôwd_) implies an intimate counsel, a confidential bond, or a deep fellowship. It suggests that God shares His thoughts, His heart, and His presence in a unique and privileged way with those who walk in right standing with Him, fostering a relationship of profound trust and communion.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 3:32 primarily employs **Antithetical Parallelism**, a hallmark of Hebrew wisdom literature. This device presents two contrasting lines that highlight opposing ideas or outcomes, thereby emphasizing the truth of each. Here, the "froward" and their abhorrent relationship with the LORD are set in direct opposition to the "righteous" and their intimate communion with Him. This stark **Contrast** serves to illuminate the profound difference in divine response based on human character. The term "abomination" functions as **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration used for emphasis, powerfully conveying the depth of God's revulsion toward perversity. Conversely, the phrase "his secret is with the righteous" uses **Metaphor** to describe a deep, personal, and confidential relationship, likening God's intimate fellowship to a shared secret between trusted friends.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 3:32 encapsulates a fundamental theological truth: God's character is holy, and He responds to human character accordingly. His detestation of the "froward" underscores His absolute righteousness and intolerance for sin and perversity, reflecting His unchanging moral standards. Conversely, His intimate fellowship with the "righteous" reveals His desire for deep relationship with those who align their lives with His will. This verse teaches that true wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but a way of life that leads to either alienation or intimacy with the Divine. It affirms that God is not a distant, indifferent deity but one who actively engages with humanity, drawing near to those who pursue uprightness and recoiling from those who stubbornly embrace wickedness.

* [Psalm 25:14](/psalm/25-14 "Psalm 25:14 - The Secret of the Lord")
* [Amos 3:7](/amos/3-7 "Amos 3:7 - God Reveals His Secret to His Servants")
* [John 15:15](/john/15-15 "John 15:15 - Jesus Calls His Disciples Friends")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 3:32 offers a profound challenge and comfort to every believer. It compels us to honestly examine the trajectory of our lives: are we cultivating a heart that is "froward"—twisted, deceitful, resistant to God's truth—or are we striving for "righteousness"—integrity, honesty, and obedience? The verse makes it clear that our character, not just our actions, determines the nature of our relationship with God. To be an "abomination" to the LORD is a terrifying prospect, a state of utter alienation from the source of all life and goodness. Conversely, the promise of God's "secret" with the righteous is an unparalleled invitation to divine intimacy, a deep and confidential fellowship that transcends mere religious duty. This calls us to a life of intentional pursuit of holiness, not out of legalism, but out of a desire for the deepest possible communion with our Creator, knowing that as we walk uprightly, He draws us into His very heart and counsel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be exhibiting "froward" tendencies, resisting God's will or truth?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a more "righteous" character, aligning my heart and actions with God's standards?**
* **How does the promise of God's "secret" with the righteous motivate me to pursue deeper intimacy with Him?**
* **What does it mean for me, personally, to have God's "secret" or intimate counsel? How might this manifest in my daily life?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean for the "froward" to be an "abomination" to the LORD?**

Answer: For the "froward" (the perverse, crooked, or deceitful) to be an "abomination" to the LORD means that their character and actions are utterly detestable and morally repugnant to God. The Hebrew word _tôwʻêbah_ (H8441) is a strong term often used in the Old Testament for practices that violate God's holy nature, such as idolatry, child sacrifice, or certain sexual sins ([Deuteronomy 18:9-12](/deuteronomy/18-9 "Deuteronomy 18:9-12 - Abominable Practices")). When applied to a person's character, it signifies that a perverse heart is fundamentally antithetical to God's righteousness and purity. It's not just that God disapproves of their actions, but that their very nature, as expressed through their choices, is an offense to Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 3:32 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies the "righteous" one and reveals the "secret" of God. Humanity, in its fallen state, is inherently "froward," twisted by sin and alienated from God, truly an "abomination" in its unrighteousness ([Romans 3:10-12](/romans/3-10 "Romans 3:10-12 - None is Righteous")). Yet, Christ, the perfectly righteous Son, lived a life of complete obedience, never turning aside from the Father's will ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sinless High Priest")). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, He bore the "abomination" of our sin, allowing us to be declared righteous in God's sight by faith ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Furthermore, Jesus Himself is the ultimate "secret" of God, the full revelation of the Father's heart and plan for humanity ([Colossians 2:2-3](/colossians/2-2 "Colossians 2:2-3 - Christ, in Whom Are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge")). He not only reveals God's "secret" but also invites believers, through union with Him, into that very intimacy. As those who are "in Christ," we are no longer alienated but adopted as sons and daughters, granted access to the Father's presence and His deepest counsel, fulfilling the promise that "his secret is with the righteous" in a way far beyond what the Old Testament saints could have fully comprehended ([Ephesians 3:9-12](/ephesians/3-9 "Ephesians 3:9-12 - The Mystery Revealed in Christ")).

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 25:14

The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.

Proverbs 11:20

¶ They that are of a froward heart [are] abomination to the LORD: but [such as are] upright in [their] way [are] his delight.

John 15:15

Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.

Matthew 13:11

He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.

John 14:21

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

John 14:24

He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.

Proverbs 17:15

¶ He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both [are] abomination to the LORD.