Proverbs 30:5

KJV

Every word of God [is] pure: he [is] a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

KJV (with Strong's)

Every word {H565} of God {H433} is pure {H6884}: he is a shield {H4043} unto them that put their trust {H2620} in him.

Complete Jewish Bible

Every word of God's is pure; he shields those taking refuge in him.

Berean Standard Bible

Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.

American Standard Version

Every word of God is tried: He is a shield unto them that take refuge in him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 30:5 presents a foundational declaration concerning the inherent nature of God's revelation and His unwavering commitment to His people: it asserts the absolute purity and unfailing reliability of every divine utterance, simultaneously affirming God's steadfast role as a protective shield for all who wholeheartedly place their confidence in Him. This verse thus establishes both the trustworthiness of God's word as an infallible guide and the secure refuge found in faithful reliance upon His character and promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 30:5 is situated within the "words of Agur son of Jakeh," a distinct section of the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 30:1-33). This segment is notable for its philosophical depth, often employing numerical proverbs and rhetorical questions, setting it apart from the more direct Solomonic maxims. Immediately preceding this verse, Agur expresses profound humility and a sense of human inadequacy in comprehending the divine, confessing, "Surely I am too stupid to be a man; I have not the understanding of a man. I have not learned wisdom, nor have I the knowledge of the Holy One" (Proverbs 30:2-3). He then poses a series of unanswerable rhetorical questions about God's identity and His control over creation, such as "Who has ascended to heaven and come down? Who has gathered the wind in his fists? Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know!" ([Proverbs 30:4](/proverbs/30-4 "Proverbs 30:4 - Agur's Questions about God's Identity")). Against this backdrop of human limitation and the unsearchable greatness of God, the affirmation of God's word as "pure" and God Himself as a "shield" gains immense significance, offering a stable and trustworthy anchor in a world of human fallibility and mystery.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of "word" (Hebrew: _imrah_) in ancient Israel was far more than mere sound; it carried inherent power, authority, and efficacy, especially when emanating from a king or, preeminently, from God. A divine word was considered active, effective, and binding, capable of bringing about what it declared. The imagery of a "shield" (Hebrew: _magen_) was a common and potent metaphor in the ancient Near East, signifying protection, defense, and security in a world where physical threats from enemies and natural dangers were ever-present. Kings, deities, and even powerful individuals were often depicted as shields for their people or followers. The refining of metals, referenced by the word "pure" (Hebrew: _tsâraph_), was a familiar and vital process in ancient metallurgy, where intense heat was applied to remove dross and impurities, yielding a precious, unadulterated product. This cultural understanding of a word's inherent power, a shield's impenetrable protection, and a metal's tested purity would have resonated deeply with the original audience, underscoring the absolute reliability and protective nature of God and His revelation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes found throughout the book of Proverbs and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **Sovereignty and Transcendent Nature of God**, portraying Him as the ultimate source of truth and protection, far above human comprehension or fallibility, a theme echoed in [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes His Purpose"). Secondly, it highlights the **Infallibility and Authority of Divine Revelation**, asserting that God's word is entirely pure and trustworthy, forming a cornerstone for all wisdom and understanding, as seen in the extensive praise of God's law in [Psalm 119](/psalms/119 "Psalm 119 - The Great Psalm on God's Word"). Thirdly, it emphasizes **Divine Protection and Providence**, assuring that God actively defends those who place their reliance upon Him, a truth frequently celebrated in the Psalms, such as [Psalm 18:30](/psalms/18-30 "Psalm 18:30 - God as a Shield"). Finally, it stresses the **Primacy of Trust and Faith** as the essential human response to God's character and promises, making it clear that the benefits of God's protection are experienced by those who actively lean into Him, finding refuge in His unfailing character.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Word (Hebrew, _ʼimrâh'_):** From H565, this feminine noun, derived from a root meaning "to say," refers to "something said," a "commandment," "speech," or "word." In the context of "every word of God," it denotes the comprehensive scope of God's revealed communication, encompassing all His decrees, promises, instructions, and truths. The use of "every" emphasizes the holistic and universal purity of all divine revelation, leaving no room for error or imperfection in any part of what God has spoken or revealed.
* **Pure (Hebrew, _tsâraph'_):** From H6884, this primitive root means "to fuse (metal), i.e. refine (literally or figuratively); cast, (re-) fine(-er), founder, goldsmith, melt, pure, purge away, try." It describes a rigorous process of intense purification, typically through fire, to remove all dross and impurities, leaving behind only the unadulterated, precious substance. Applied to God's word, it signifies that His utterances have been thoroughly tested and proven absolutely flawless, without any admixture of error, deceit, or human imperfection, rendering them perfectly reliable.
* **Shield (Hebrew, _mâgên'_):** From H4043, this noun refers to a "shield (i.e. the small one or buckler)" and figuratively, "a protector." It is an essential instrument of defense in ancient warfare, used to ward off blows and protect against attack. When God is called a "shield," it means He personally provides impenetrable security and defense for those under His care, guarding them from spiritual, emotional, and sometimes physical harm, acting as their ultimate bulwark against all adversaries.
* **Trust (Hebrew, _châçâh'_):** From H2620, a primitive root meaning "to flee for protection; figuratively, to confide in; have hope, make refuge, (put) trust." This word implies an active, deliberate act of seeking refuge and finding security in someone or something. It is not a passive belief but an intentional leaning upon, a confident reliance on God's character and promises, making Him one's ultimate sanctuary and source of safety.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Every word of God is pure":** This foundational declaration asserts the absolute perfection and infallibility of all divine revelation. The term "pure" (tsâraph) implies a rigorous testing and refining process, akin to purifying precious metals, indicating that God's word is untainted by error, deceit, or human flaw. It is entirely trustworthy, reliable, and true in every aspect, forming a firm basis for faith and life, a standard against which all other claims to truth must be measured.
* **"he is a shield":** This phrase transitions from describing the nature of God's word to illuminating the character of God Himself. Using the powerful metaphor of a "shield" (mâgên), it portrays God as the ultimate protector and defender. Just as a physical shield guards against physical attacks and dangers, God Himself provides comprehensive spiritual, emotional, and existential security, safeguarding those who are His own from harm, evil, and the various assaults of life.
* **"unto them that put their trust in him":** This concluding clause specifies the recipients of God's protective nature and highlights the essential condition for experiencing it. The act of "putting trust" (châçâh) signifies a deliberate, active reliance and confident refuge-taking in God. It is a posture of faith, where an individual leans entirely on God's character, promises, and power, thereby activating His protective presence and provision in their lives, finding their ultimate security in Him alone.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 30:5 masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound truths with clarity and impact. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where God is directly referred to as a "shield." This vivid image immediately communicates His role as an active protector and defender, providing impenetrable security and safety in a world fraught with threats. The term "pure" (tsâraph) also functions as a powerful **Metaphor**, drawing on the familiar and culturally significant process of refining metals through fire to convey the absolute, unadulterated truthfulness, perfection, and tested reliability of God's word. There is also a clear element of **Synthetic Parallelism** in the verse's structure. While not strictly synonymous or antithetical, the first clause declares the inherent nature of God's word ("Every word of God is pure"), and the second clause then builds upon this by declaring the nature of God Himself in relation to those who trust Him ("he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him"), creating a complementary relationship between divine revelation and divine protection. The phrase "Every word of God" also contains a subtle **Emphasis** or **Hyperbole**, stressing the comprehensive and universal purity of all His utterances, leaving no room for exception or doubt regarding their veracity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 30:5 profoundly shapes our understanding of divine revelation and God's character. It establishes the absolute authority and trustworthiness of God's word, presenting it as an infallible standard against which all other claims to truth must be measured. This purity is not merely an absence of error but an active, refining quality that purges impurities from those who embrace it. Furthermore, the verse reveals God as an active, personal protector, demonstrating His covenant faithfulness to those who seek refuge in Him. This dual truth—of a perfect word and a protecting God—invites a life of unwavering faith and confident obedience, knowing that both our guide and our guardian are utterly reliable, providing both light for our path and shelter from the storm.

* [Psalm 12:6](/psalms/12-6 "Psalm 12:6 - The Purity of God's Words")
* [Psalm 18:30](/psalms/18-30 "Psalm 18:30 - God as a Shield and Buckler")
* [Psalm 119:140](/psalms/119-140 "Psalm 119:140 - God's Word is Very Pure")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 30:5 offers profound assurance and a clear call to action for believers in every generation. In a world saturated with conflicting narratives, half-truths, and outright deceptions, the declaration that "Every word of God is pure" provides an unshakeable foundation for our lives. It invites us to anchor our beliefs, our decisions, and our very worldview not in shifting human opinions or fleeting cultural trends, but in the unadulterated, tested, and perfectly true revelation of God. This implies a diligent commitment to studying Scripture, meditating on its truths, and allowing its purity to sanctify and transform us. Furthermore, the glorious promise that God Himself is a "shield unto them that put their trust in him" speaks directly to our deepest fears, anxieties, and vulnerabilities. It reminds us that in every challenge, every uncertainty, and every spiritual battle, our ultimate security lies not in our own strength, wisdom, or resources, but in the unfailing, sovereign protection of the Almighty. This calls us to a life of active, dependent trust, continually fleeing to Him for refuge and confidently resting in His steadfast care, knowing that He is our ultimate defense.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does believing that "Every word of God is pure" impact your approach to reading, studying, and obeying Scripture in your daily life?**
* **In what specific areas of your life (e.g., finances, relationships, health, future) do you need to more fully "put your trust in him" to experience God as your personal shield?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to deepen your reliance on God's pure word as your guide and His protective presence as your refuge?**
* **How might a greater understanding of God's absolute purity and His unwavering protective nature transform your response to fear, uncertainty, or spiritual attacks?**

### FAQ
**What does "Every word of God is pure" truly mean?**

Answer: This phrase signifies that God's entire revelation—His commandments, promises, and truths as found in Scripture—is absolutely flawless, untainted by error, deceit, or human imperfection. The Hebrew word for "pure" (tsâraph) refers to the process of refining metals, like silver or gold, by fire to remove all impurities. This implies that God's word has been thoroughly tested and found to be without any dross, making it completely reliable and trustworthy as an infallible source of truth and wisdom. It is a perfect standard for life and doctrine, as affirmed in [Psalm 119:140](/psalms/119-140 "Psalm 119:140 - Your word is very pure; therefore your servant loves it.").

**How is God a "shield" to those who trust Him?**

Answer: The imagery of God as a "shield" (mâgên) signifies that He is an active, personal protector and defender for those who place their confidence in Him. Just as a physical shield guards a warrior from an enemy's blows, God Himself provides comprehensive security and defense against spiritual attacks, emotional distress, and various dangers in life. This protection is not always the absence of hardship, but rather God's presence and provision through trials, safeguarding our ultimate well-being and eternal destiny. It speaks to His unwavering faithfulness and His commitment to guard His people, as seen in [Psalm 3:3](/psalms/3-3 "Psalm 3:3 - But you, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.") and [Psalm 84:11](/psalms/84-11 "Psalm 84:11 - For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor.").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 30:5 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the living embodiment of "every word of God" made pure and manifest. [John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - In the beginning was the Word") declares Him to be the eternal Word (Logos) who was with God and was God, and [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") states that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." In Christ, the abstract concept of God's pure word takes on human form, demonstrating its truthfulness, power, and perfection not merely in written text but in a sinless life, authoritative teaching, and redemptive death. He is the definitive revelation of God, "the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Jesus, the Radiance of God's Glory")). Furthermore, Jesus is the ultimate "shield" for all who put their trust in Him. Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross and His victorious resurrection, He provides ultimate protection from sin, death, and the power of the enemy. Believers are "shielded by God's power through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time" ([1 Peter 1:5](/1_peter/1-5 "1 Peter 1:5 - Protected by God's Power")). He is our refuge and strength, our strong tower, and the one who secures our eternal hope and guarantees our ultimate victory, fulfilling the promise of divine protection for all who lean on Him.

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 18:30

[As for] God, his way [is] perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he [is] a buckler to all those that trust in him.

Psalms 84:11

For the LORD God [is] a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good [thing] will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.

James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

Psalms 12:6

The words of the LORD [are] pure words: [as] silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

Psalms 3:3

But thou, O LORD, [art] a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.

Psalms 119:140

¶ Thy word [is] very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it.

Psalms 91:2

I will say of the LORD, [He is] my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.