Proverbs 6:14

Frowardness [is] in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord.

Frowardness {H8419} is in his heart {H3820}, he deviseth {H2790} mischief {H7451} continually {H6256}; he soweth {H7971} discord {H4066}{H4090}.

With deceit in his heart, he is always plotting evil and sowing discord.

With deceit in his heart he devises evil; he continually sows discord.

In whose heart is perverseness, Who deviseth evil continually, Who soweth discord.

Proverbs 6:14 KJV describes the inner nature and outward actions of a deceitful or worthless person, continuing the theme introduced in Proverbs 6:12. This verse highlights a heart that is inherently twisted, constantly plotting harm, and actively causing division among people.

Context

This verse is part of a broader section in Proverbs (6:12-19) that warns against various destructive behaviors, specifically identifying the characteristics of a "naughty person" or "worthless person" (KJV, belial in Hebrew). The preceding verses describe their deceptive physical cues, and verse 14 delves into their internal state and outward actions. It emphasizes that truly destructive behavior originates from a corrupted heart, not just impulsive actions.

Key Themes

  • Internal Corruption Leads to External Harm: The verse clearly links the "frowardness" in the heart to the outward actions of "devising mischief" and "sowing discord." It teaches that evil deeds stem from an evil inner disposition, reflecting a core principle found throughout scripture regarding the source of human actions.
  • Deliberate Malice: The phrase "he deviseth mischief continually" indicates not accidental wrongdoing but a persistent, intentional plotting of harm. This person actively schemes to bring about negative outcomes for others.
  • The Destructive Power of Discord: "He soweth discord" points to the active role this individual plays in creating strife, division, and contention within relationships, families, or communities. This is a behavior specifically listed among the things the Lord detests in Proverbs 6:19.

Linguistic Insights

  • The term "Frowardness" comes from the Hebrew word tahpukah (תַּהְפֻּכָה), which signifies perversity, treachery, or deceit. It describes a disposition that is twisted or inverted from what is right and true. It implies a mind that deliberately chooses wrong over right.
  • "Deviseth mischief" translates the Hebrew charash ra (חָרַשׁ רָע), which literally means "to plow evil" or "to engrave evil." This vivid imagery suggests a deep, painstaking, and continuous effort to plan and execute wickedness, much like a farmer meticulously prepares a field.
  • "Soweth discord" is from the Hebrew shalach medanim (שָׁלַח מְדָנִים), meaning "sends forth contentions" or "incites strife." It paints a picture of someone actively distributing seeds of argument and division, causing quarrels and disunity to sprout.

Practical Application

Proverbs 6:14 offers timeless wisdom for navigating human relationships and understanding character:

  • Self-Examination: This verse calls believers to examine their own hearts. Do we harbor "frowardness" or tendencies to plot harm or sow discord, even subtly? We are encouraged to seek a heart that is pure and right before God.
  • Discernment: The passage provides a clear description of a dangerous character. Recognizing these traits—a perverse heart, continuous plotting of mischief, and active sowing of discord—helps us exercise discernment in our associations and protect ourselves and our communities from harmful influences.
  • Promoting Peace: In contrast to the "sower of discord," believers are called to be peacemakers and to actively pursue unity and harmony (Romans 12:18, Ephesians 4:3). Understanding the destructive nature of discord should motivate us to build up rather than tear down.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Micah 2:1

    ¶ Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.

  • Romans 16:17

    ¶ Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

  • Hosea 8:7

    For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind: it hath no stalk: the bud shall yield no meal: if so be it yield, the strangers shall swallow it up.

  • Proverbs 6:18

    An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,

  • Proverbs 6:19

    A false witness [that] speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.

  • Proverbs 26:17

    ¶ He that passeth by, [and] meddleth with strife [belonging] not to him, [is like] one that taketh a dog by the ears.

  • Proverbs 26:22

    The words of a talebearer [are] as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

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