[There is] a generation [that are] pure in their own eyes, and [yet] is not washed from their filthiness.
There is a generation {H1755} that are pure {H2889} in their own eyes {H5869}, and yet is not washed {H7364} from their filthiness {H6675}.
There is a type of people clean in their own view, but not cleansed from their filth.
There is a generation of those who are pure in their own eyes and yet unwashed of their filth.
There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, Andyetare not washed from their filthiness.
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Luke 18:11
The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men [are], extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. -
Proverbs 16:2
¶ All the ways of a man [are] clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits. -
2 Timothy 3:5
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. -
Jeremiah 2:35
Yet thou sayest, Because I am innocent, surely his anger shall turn from me. Behold, I will plead with thee, because thou sayest, I have not sinned. -
1 John 1:7
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. -
1 John 1:10
If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. -
Titus 3:5
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Proverbs 30:12, a profound observation from Agur son of Jakeh, exposes a common human failing: self-deception regarding one's own moral state. It speaks of a specific kind of "generation" – not necessarily an age group, but a type of people – who are convinced of their purity despite harboring deep inner corruption. This verse challenges the notion that self-assessment alone is sufficient for spiritual cleanliness, highlighting the danger of moral blindness.
Context
Proverbs chapter 30 is distinct from the main Solomonic collection, attributed to a figure named Agur son of Jakeh. This chapter presents a series of wisdom sayings, often structured as riddles or numerical proverbs, revealing keen observations about human nature, the natural world, and divine truth. Verses 11-14 describe four types of "generations" or categories of people characterized by specific moral failings, with verse 12 focusing on those who are self-righteous and unrepentant.
This verse stands as a stark warning against spiritual pride and the lack of genuine introspection, contrasting sharply with the calls for humility and wisdom found throughout the book of Proverbs.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew phrase for "pure in their own eyes" is ṭāhôr bĕʿênāw (טהור בעיניו), literally "clean in his eyes." This emphasizes the subjective nature of their purity – it is based solely on their own perception, not on an objective standard or God's view. The word ṭāhôr signifies ritual and moral purity.
The term "filthiness" (ṣōʾâ, צואה) is quite strong, often referring to excrement or moral impurity. It denotes a deep, offensive defilement, contrasting sharply with the self-proclaimed purity. The verb "washed" (rāḥaṣ, רחץ) is used for physical washing, but here metaphorically for moral cleansing, underscoring the deep-seated nature of the corruption that mere self-justification cannot remove.
Related Scriptures
This verse resonates with other biblical passages that address self-deception and the need for true spiritual cleansing. The deceitfulness of the human heart is a recurring theme (Jeremiah 17:9). Jesus often rebuked the Pharisees for their self-righteousness, exemplified by the prayer of the Pharisee who considered himself pure compared to others (Luke 18:11-12). The need for a spiritual washing is paramount, as expressed in Psalm 51:7, where David prays, "Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." The New Testament speaks of the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5), emphasizing that true cleansing comes from God, not from self-perception.
Practical Application
Proverbs 30:12 serves as a timeless warning against spiritual pride and the dangers of an unexamined life. It calls us to:
This verse remains highly relevant, challenging individuals and societies to look beyond superficial appearances and self-congratulatory attitudes, urging a deeper pursuit of genuine moral and spiritual cleanliness.