TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Proverbs 6:12–19. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Solomon here gives us,
I.The characters of one that is mischievous to man and dangerous to be dealt with.
If the slothful are to be condemned, that do nothing, much more those that do ill, and contrive to do all the ill they can. It is a naughty person that is here spoken of, Heb. A man of Belial; I think it should have been so translated, because it is a term often used in scripture, and this is the explication of it. Observe,
1.How a man of Belial is here described. He is a wicked man, that makes a trade of doing evil, especially with his tongue, for he walks and works his designs with a froward mouth (Pro 6:12), by lying and perverseness, and a direct opposition to God and man. He says and does every thing,
(1.)Very artfully and with design. He has the subtlety of the serpent, and carries on his projects with a great deal of craft and management (Pro 6:13), with his eyes, with his feet, with his fingers. He expresses his malice when he dares not speak out (so some), or, rather, thus he carries on his plot; those about him, whom he makes use of as the tools of his wickedness, understand the ill meaning of a wink of his eye, a stamp of his feet, the least motion of his fingers. He gives orders for evil-doing, and yet would not be thought to do so, but has ways of concealing what he does, so that he may not be suspected. He is a close man, and upon the reserve; those only shall be let into the secret that would do any thing he would have them to do. He is a cunning man, and upon the trick; he has a language by himself, which an honest man is not acquainted with, nor desires to be.
(2.)Very spitefully and with ill design. It is not so much ambition or covetousness that is in his heart, as downright frowardness, malice, and ill nature. He aims not so much to enrich and advance himself as to do an ill turn to those about him. He is continually devising one mischief or other, purely for mischief-sake - a man of Belial indeed, of the devil, resembling him not only in subtlety, but in malice.
2.What his doom is (Pro 6:15): His calamity shall come and he shall be broken; he that devised mischief shall fall into mischief. His ruin shall come,
(1.)Without warning. It shall come suddenly: Suddenly shall he be broken, to punish him for all the wicked arts he had to surprise people into his snares.
(2.)Without relief. He shall be irreparably broken, and never able to piece again: He shall be broken without remedy. What relief can he expect that has disobliged all mankind? He shall come to his end and none shall help him, Dan 11:45.
II.A catalogue of those things which are in a special manner odious to God, all which are generally to be found in those men of Belial whom he had described in the foregoing verses; and the last of them (which, being the seventh, seems especially to be intended, because he says they are six, yea, seven) is part of his character, that he sows discord. God hates sin; he hates every sin; he can never be reconciled to it; he hates nothing but sin. But there are some sins which he does in a special manner hate; and all those here mentioned are such as are injurious to our neighbour. It is an evidence of the good-will God bears to mankind that those sins are in a special manner provoking to him which are prejudicial to the comfort of human life and society. Therefore the men of Belial must expect their ruin to come suddenly, and without remedy, because their practices are such as the Lord hates and are an abomination to him, Pro 6:16. Those things which God hates it is no thanks to us to hate in others, but we must hate them in ourselves.
1.Haughtiness, conceitedness of ourselves, and contempt of others - a proud look. There are seven things that God hates, and pride is the first, because it is at the bottom of much sin and gives rise to it. God sees the pride in the heart and hates it there; but, when it prevails to that degree that the show of men's countenance witnesses against them that they overvalue themselves and undervalue all about them, this is in a special manner hateful to him, for then pride is proud of itself and sets shame at defiance.
2.Falsehood, and fraud, and dissimulation. Next to a proud look nothing is more an abomination to God than a lying tongue; nothing more sacred than truth, nor more necessary to conversation than speaking truth. God and all good men hate and abhor lying.
3.Cruelty and blood-thirstiness. The devil was, from the beginning, a liar and a murderer (Joh 8:44), and therefore, as a lying tongue, so hands that shed innocent blood are hateful to God, because they have in them the devil's image and do him service.
4.Subtlety in the contrivance of sin, wisdom to do evil, a heart that designs and a head that devises wicked imaginations, that is acquainted with the depths of Satan and knows how to carry on a covetous, envious, revengeful plot, most effectually. The more there is of craft and management in sin the more it is an abomination to God.
5.Vigour and diligence in the prosecution of sin - feet that are swift in running to mischief, as if they were afraid of losing time or were impatient of delay in a thing they are so greedy of. The policy and vigilance, the eagerness and industry, of sinners, in their sinful pursuits, may shame us who go about that which is good so awkwardly and so coldly.
6.False-witness bearing, which is one of the greatest mischiefs that the wicked imagination can devise, and against which there is least fence. There cannot be a greater affront to God (to whom in an oath appeal is made) nor a greater injury to our neighbour (all whose interests in this world, even the dearest, lie open to an attack of this kind) than knowingly to give in a false testimony. There are seven things which God hates, and lying involves two of them; he hates it, and doubly hates it.
7.Making mischief between relations and neighbours, and using all wicked means possible, not only to alienate their affections one from another, but to irritate their passions one against another. The God of love and peace hates him that sows discord among brethren, for he delights in concord. Those that by tale-bearing and slandering, by carrying ill-natured stories, aggravating every thing that is said and done, and suggesting jealousies and evil surmises, blow the coals of contention, are but preparing for themselves a fire of the same nature.
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Summary
Proverbs 6:15 delivers a stark and solemn warning, serving as the climactic declaration of inevitable and swift consequences for the individual characterized by persistent wickedness. This verse underscores the divine certainty and irreversible nature of judgment for those who reject wisdom and righteousness, emphasizing that their downfall will be sudden, unexpected, and utterly beyond any possibility of repair or recovery. It highlights the principle that a life marked by deceit and discord will culminate in a catastrophic and final ruin.
Context
Literary Context
This verse functions as the climactic pronouncement of judgment against the "worthless person, a wicked man" meticulously described in Proverbs 6:12-14. The opening Hebrew particle "Therefore" (לָכֵן, lāḵēn) establishes a direct and inescapable causal link, indicating that the calamity is a just and natural consequence of the described character's actions—walking with a "crooked mouth," communicating through furtive gestures, devising evil, and sowing discord. Following this severe warning, the passage transitions into a list of seven things that are an abomination to the Lord in Proverbs 6:16-19, which further illustrates the specific nature of the wickedness that incurs such definitive judgment. Within the broader wisdom literature of Proverbs, this verse powerfully articulates the ultimate fate of the wicked, contrasting it implicitly with the flourishing of the righteous, a prevalent theme throughout the book, as seen in the contrasting paths described in Proverbs 4:18-19.
Historical & Cultural Context
Proverbs originates from ancient Israel's rich wisdom tradition, which deeply emphasized the observation of the moral order embedded in creation and the inevitable consequences of aligning with or rebelling against it. In this cultural setting, wisdom was not merely intellectual knowledge but a practical skill for living righteously in covenant with God. The concept of swift and decisive justice, while often appearing delayed in human experience, was understood as an ultimate and certain reality in God's moral universe. The term "suddenly" implies that while human patience may wear thin, divine patience has a limit, and the consequences, though perhaps not immediate, will be inescapable and arrive without warning when that limit is reached. This reflects a worldview where divine retribution, though sometimes appearing slow, is certain and proportionate to sustained rebellion against God's established order and the principles of righteousness.
Key Themes
Proverbs 6:15 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Sudden and Inescapable Judgment, underscoring that the consequences of persistent wickedness will arrive unexpectedly and without prior warning, leaving no opportunity for preparation or escape. Secondly, the phrase "without remedy" emphasizes the theme of Irreversible Consequences, signifying a state of complete and utter brokenness from which there is no recovery, healing, or possibility of restoration. This is not a temporary setback but a final and definitive downfall. Lastly, the verse strongly affirms the theme of Divine Justice, asserting a fundamental principle of God's moral universe: actions have consequences. While God is characterized by patience and longsuffering, as seen in passages like Romans 2:4 and 2 Peter 3:9, there is a limit to His forbearance, and ultimately, justice will be served. This aligns with the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, where one's actions inevitably lead to corresponding outcomes.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word (H343) is derived from a root suggesting "bending down," which implies oppression, misfortune, or ruin. In this context, it refers to a devastating event or condition that completely overtakes a person, signifying a crushing disaster that brings one low and leads to destruction.
The verb (H7665) means to burst, shatter, or crush. It implies complete destruction, often with an emphasis on the physical or structural integrity being destroyed beyond repair. Here, it speaks to the utter collapse and ruin of the wicked person's life, plans, and very being.
This noun (H4832) signifies "curative," referring to a medicine, a cure, or healing. When combined with the negative particle "without" (אֵין, ʼên), it powerfully conveys absolute incurability, hopelessness, and the impossibility of recovery or restoration from the inflicted ruin, highlighting a state of complete and final brokenness.
Verse Breakdown
"Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly"
This opening clause establishes a direct and inevitable consequence for the wicked person described previously. The word "therefore" acts as a logical connector, indicating that the impending disaster is a just and unavoidable outcome of their persistent evil. The term "calamity" signifies a crushing misfortune or ruin, and its sudden arrival emphasizes the unexpected and swift nature of divine judgment, allowing no time for evasion or preparation.
"suddenly shall he be broken"
The repetition of "suddenly" intensifies the warning, reinforcing the unexpected and rapid onset of the judgment. The verb "broken" vividly portrays a complete shattering or crushing, indicating that the wicked person will be utterly destroyed, their life and plans collapsing entirely. This is not a minor setback but a comprehensive and devastating downfall, implying a state of irreversible collapse.
"without remedy"
This concluding phrase underscores the absolute finality and incurability of the judgment. It signifies a state of complete and utter brokenness from which there is no recovery, no healing, no possibility of restoration, and no hope of escape. The ruin is definitive and irreversible, sealing the fate of the unrepentant wicked.
Literary Devices
Proverbs 6:15 employs several potent literary devices to convey its stark and solemn warning. The most prominent is Repetition, specifically of the word "suddenly" (appearing twice). This repetition serves to emphasize the unexpected and rapid nature of the impending judgment, creating a sense of urgency and inevitability that leaves no room for doubt or escape. The verse also utilizes Parallelism, a hallmark of Hebrew poetry, where the second clause ("suddenly shall he be broken without remedy") reinforces and intensifies the first ("Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly"). This creates a cumulative effect, driving home the certainty and severity of the consequence. Furthermore, Figurative Language is evident in the word "broken," which is a powerful metaphor for complete and utter ruin, extending beyond mere physical harm to encompass the destruction of one's life, reputation, and future. The phrase "without remedy" functions as a form of Hyperbole, underscoring the absolute and irreversible nature of this destruction, leaving no room for hope or recovery.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Proverbs 6:15 stands as a powerful testament to the unwavering moral order of God's universe. It teaches that persistent and unrepentant wickedness, though it may seem to prosper for a time, ultimately leads to a divinely ordained, swift, and irreversible judgment. This principle is not merely a threat but a revelation of God's justice and holiness, demonstrating that He is not indifferent to evil. While God is patient and offers opportunities for repentance, there comes a point where His forbearance gives way to righteous judgment, ensuring that every action has its just consequence. This verse serves as a solemn warning, urging humanity to recognize the gravity of sin and the certainty of its ultimate recompense, thereby encouraging a life aligned with wisdom and righteousness.
Reflection and Application
Proverbs 6:15 serves as a profound call to introspection and a sobering reminder of the ultimate trajectory of a life lived in persistent rebellion against God's wisdom. It warns us against the deceptive allure of sin, which often promises temporary gratification or perceived advantage, only to deliver sudden, devastating, and irreversible consequences. The "suddenly" urges us to recognize that the window of opportunity for change is not infinite; judgment can arrive unexpectedly, when one least anticipates it. The phrase "without remedy" highlights the critical urgency of turning away from wickedness and embracing repentance before it is too late. It underscores that while God is merciful and gracious, there is a point of no return for those who stubbornly harden their hearts against His truth. This verse compels us to live with a keen awareness of God's moral order, understanding that deliberate and unrepentant choices against His ways will inevitably lead to ruin, and it motivates us to seek His wisdom and mercy while the opportunity remains. It challenges us to examine our own lives for any areas where we might be subtly or overtly resisting God's principles, urging us to choose the path of righteousness today, before the consequences of continued defiance become irreversible.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who is the "he" in this verse, and what kind of wickedness leads to such a severe outcome?
The "he" in Proverbs 6:15 refers to the "worthless person, a wicked man" described in Proverbs 6:12-14. This individual is characterized by deceitful speech ("froward mouth"), malicious intent ("deviseth mischief continually"), and actions that sow discord and rebellion. The wickedness is not merely isolated acts but a persistent, ingrained character of deliberate opposition to truth, justice, and community well-being, often involving treachery, lies, and a disregard for moral boundaries. It's a pattern of life that actively works against the principles of wisdom and righteousness that God has established, leading to a state of moral depravity.
Does "without remedy" mean that there is no hope for anyone who has sinned?
In the immediate context of Proverbs, "without remedy" refers to the irreversible consequence of a life of persistent, unrepentant wickedness. It speaks to a final, definitive judgment for those who continually harden their hearts against wisdom and correction, reaching a point where their destruction is complete and cannot be undone by human means. However, the broader biblical narrative, especially the New Testament, reveals that for those who repent and turn to God, there is a remedy: the grace and forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ. This verse serves as a warning against reaching that point of no return through stubborn rebellion, not as a statement that God's mercy is universally unavailable to all who have sinned. God's offer of salvation is for all who believe, providing a remedy for the deepest human condition of sin.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 6:15, with its stark warning of sudden, irremediable calamity for the wicked, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment not in a direct prophecy, but in the profound theological truths revealed through Jesus. While the verse speaks of the wicked facing judgment, Christ Himself became the "remedy" for humanity's sin, taking upon Himself the very "calamity" that we deserved. The breaking "without remedy" that awaits the unrepentant sinner was, in a profound sense, experienced by Christ on the cross, where He was "broken for our iniquities" and bore the punishment that was due to us (Isaiah 53:5). He, who knew no sin, became sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). Thus, for those who believe and accept His sacrifice, the "calamity" of sin's judgment has been averted, and the "remedy" of eternal life and reconciliation with God has been provided through His atoning work (John 3:16). For those who reject this divine remedy, however, the warning of Proverbs 6:15 remains chillingly true, as the ultimate judgment for unbelief will be sudden and without recourse, a truth echoed in New Testament warnings about the sudden coming of the Lord for judgment for those who are not ready.