Proverbs 15:15

¶ All the days of the afflicted [are] evil: but he that is of a merry heart [hath] a continual feast.

All the days {H3117} of the afflicted {H6041} are evil {H7451}: but he that is of a merry {H2896} heart {H3820} hath a continual {H8548} feast {H4960}.

For the poor, every day is hard; but the good-hearted have a perpetual feast.

All the days of the oppressed are bad, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

All the days of the afflicted are evil; But he that is of a cheerful heart hath a continual feast.

Commentary

Context of Proverbs 15:15

Proverbs is a book of wisdom, offering concise, often contrasting, observations about life, morality, and the nature of God. This particular verse exemplifies the book's frequent use of antithetical parallelism, where two opposing ideas are presented to highlight a profound truth. Here, it contrasts the inner experience of two different individuals, regardless of their external circumstances. It suggests that one's internal disposition significantly shapes their perception of reality and overall quality of life, a central theme in biblical wisdom literature.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Power of Perspective: The verse powerfully illustrates that outward circumstances do not solely determine happiness. An "afflicted" person, perhaps poor, oppressed, or simply downcast, perceives all days as "evil" or troublesome. In contrast, someone with a "merry heart" finds joy and abundance, akin to a "continual feast," irrespective of external hardship. This highlights the transformative power of one's inner outlook.
  • Inner State Over External Circumstance: This proverb emphasizes that true contentment and well-being stem from one's internal attitude and spirit, rather than from material possessions or the absence of difficulties. It underscores the profound impact of cultivating a joyful and grateful disposition on one's daily experience.
  • The Blessings of Cheerfulness: A cheerful heart is presented as a source of ongoing celebration and satisfaction. This aligns with other proverbs that commend a joyful spirit, such as Proverbs 17:22, which states, "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." A positive spirit fosters an environment of perpetual joy and abundance.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV translates the Hebrew word for "afflicted" as ʿānî (עָנִי), which can mean poor, humble, or miserable, describing someone in a state of suffering or oppression. The word for "evil" is raʿ (רַע), which in this context doesn't necessarily mean morally evil, but rather calamitous, troublesome, or unpleasant. The phrase "merry heart" comes from śāmēaḥ lēḇ (שָׂמֵחַ לֵב), literally "joyful heart," indicating an inner state of cheerfulness and delight. "Continual feast" is mišeteh tāmîd (מִשְׁתֶּה תָּמִיד), conveying the idea of an ongoing, unbroken celebration, a state of constant enjoyment and abundance, rather than a single event.

Practical Application

Proverbs 15:15 offers timeless wisdom for modern life. It encourages us to cultivate a joyful and grateful heart, recognizing that our perspective profoundly impacts our experience. Even when facing challenges or "affliction," choosing to focus on blessings and maintain a positive outlook can transform our days from burdensome to bountiful. This principle resonates with the teaching to seek the peace of God that surpasses all understanding and to find strength in joy, as seen in Nehemiah 8:10, "the joy of the LORD is your strength." The verse reminds us that true richness is often found not in what we have, but in the attitude with which we live, making it a powerful guide for seeking contentment and well-being.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 6:10 (13 votes)

    As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and [yet] possessing all things.

  • Romans 12:12 (11 votes)

    Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

  • Proverbs 15:13 (10 votes)

    ¶ A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

  • Proverbs 17:22 (9 votes)

    ¶ A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

  • Romans 5:11 (8 votes)

    And not only [so], but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

  • Romans 5:2 (5 votes)

    By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

  • Romans 5:3 (5 votes)

    And not only [so], but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;