Proverbs 11:20 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 11:20 mean?

Proverbs 11:20 says that people whose hearts are twisted or dishonest are deeply offensive to the LORD, but those who live honestly and with integrity bring Him joy. The verse draws a clear line between crookedness and uprightness, showing what God values in a person's character.

This proverb comes from a collection of wise sayings, likely compiled by King Solomon, and is addressed to anyone seeking wisdom for daily life. The verse uses strong language to highlight how much God detests a "froward heart"—meaning a heart that is stubbornly wrong or perverse—while making it clear that God takes pleasure in those who are "upright in their way," or consistently doing what is right.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 11:20

• "froward" (עִקֵּשׁ, 'iqqēsh): This word means twisted, crooked, or perverse. It describes someone who deliberately chooses a dishonest or morally bent path, not just someone who makes mistakes.
• "heart" (לֵב, lēv): In Hebrew thought, the heart is the center of a person's thoughts, will, and emotions—not just feelings. So a "froward heart" means a person whose whole inner life is bent away from what is right.
• "abomination" (תּוֹעֵבָה, toʿēvah): This is a very strong word in Hebrew, often used for things that are utterly detestable or repulsive to God, not just mildly disliked.
• "upright" (תָּמִים, tāmîm): This word means whole, complete, or blameless. It describes someone whose life is marked by integrity, not just outwardly but in their whole way of living.
• "way" (דֶּרֶךְ, derek): This refers to a person's path or manner of life, not just a single action.
• "delight" (רָצוֹן, rāṣôn): This word means pleasure or favor. It shows that God doesn't just tolerate upright people—He truly enjoys and approves of them.

Why Proverbs 11:20 matters

• Proverbs 11:20 makes it clear that God cares deeply about a person's inner character, not just their outward actions or reputation.
• The verse helps clear up the idea that being "good" is only about following rules; it points to the importance of integrity and honesty in every part of life.
• In the flow of Proverbs 11, this verse fits into a series of contrasts between the righteous and the wicked, showing the practical and spiritual consequences of each path.