Proverbs 16:5

Commentary on Proverbs 16:5 (KJV)

Proverbs 16:5 delivers a powerful warning against the sin of pride, emphasizing its detestable nature in the eyes of God and the certainty of its eventual downfall. This verse serves as a foundational principle within the broader wisdom literature of the Old Testament, which consistently contrasts the path of the righteous humble with that of the arrogant fool.

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of practical wisdom, offering divine guidance for living a righteous and blessed life. Attributed primarily to King Solomon, these proverbs often present antithetical parallelism, highlighting the contrast between good and evil, wisdom and folly, and their respective outcomes. Chapter 16, in particular, focuses on the Lord's sovereignty over human plans and intentions, frequently touching upon themes of justice, humility, and the dangers of pride. This verse fits seamlessly into this chapter's emphasis on God's ultimate authority and judgment.

Key Themes

• Pride as an Abomination to God: The phrase "proud in heart" refers to an internal attitude of self-exaltation, arrogance, and a spirit independent of or superior to God. The Hebrew word for "abomination" (to'evah - תּוֹעֵבָה) is a strong term used throughout Scripture to describe something utterly detestable and morally repugnant to the Lord, often associated with idolatry, injustice, and sexual perversion. This highlights the extreme seriousness with which God views pride, seeing it as a direct affront to His sovereignty and holiness. Such an attitude is directly opposed to the humility God desires from His people, as seen in passages like James 4:6, which states that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.
• Certainty of Divine Judgment: The latter part of the verse, "though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished," conveys a powerful message about the inescapable consequences of pride. "Hand join in hand" (Hebrew: yad leyad - יָד לְיָד) suggests solidarity, alliance, or even conspiracy among the proud. It implies that no matter how many proud individuals unite, or how much worldly power they accumulate, their collective strength will not shield them from God's inevitable judgment. This reinforces the idea that human schemes and alliances are ultimately futile against the will of the Almighty. The fall of the proud is a recurring theme, echoing Proverbs 11:2, "When pride cometh, then cometh shame."

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "proud in heart" is gaboah lev (גְּבַהּ לֵב), literally meaning "high of heart," which vividly pictures an elevated, haughty spirit. The use of to'evah (תּוֹעֵבָה) for "abomination" underscores the moral revulsion God has for this attitude. The phrase "hand join in hand," yad leyad (יָד לְיָד), is a vivid idiom signifying mutual support, partnership, or even a collective vow, emphasizing that even combined human effort cannot circumvent divine justice.

Practical Application

Proverbs 16:5 calls every individual to profound self-examination. Pride is often subtle, manifesting as self-reliance, a lack of teachability, or a refusal to acknowledge God's sovereignty in all areas of life. This verse reminds us:

• Cultivate Humility: True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord, which necessitates humility. We are called to humble ourselves before God, recognizing our dependence on Him for every breath and blessing.
• Beware of Self-Exaltation: This verse warns against any attitude that elevates self above God or others. Our achievements, talents, and successes should be attributed to God's grace, not our own merit.
• Trust in God's Justice: Even when proud individuals or groups seem to prosper and escape immediate consequences, this proverb assures us that God's justice will prevail. No one who harbors pride in their heart will ultimately escape His judgment. This truth offers comfort to the oppressed and a sober warning to the arrogant. As Proverbs 16:18 famously states, "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall."