When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

PROVERBS 16:7KJV
Know the Bible

Proverbs 16:7 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 16:7 mean?

Proverbs 16:7 says that when a person lives in a way that pleases the LORD, even people who would normally be against them can end up living peacefully with them. The verse highlights the idea that God can influence relationships, even turning enemies into allies, when someone’s actions align with what God values.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, offering practical guidance for daily life. The focus here is not just on personal behavior but on how God can shape the reactions of others, even those who might be hostile. The verse suggests that pleasing God has broader effects than just personal blessings—it can change the social environment around a person.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 16:7

  • "please" (רָצָה, ratsah): This word means to find favor or be pleasing. In this verse, it points to actions or a way of life that God finds acceptable or delightful, not just outward obedience but a deeper alignment with God’s will.
  • "enemies" (אֹיֵב, oyev): This word refers to those who are hostile or opposed. The proverb’s use of this word shows that the peace God brings is not just with friends or neutral parties, but even with those who might actively work against someone.
  • "peace" (שָׁלַם, shalam): This word means to make whole, restore, or bring to a state of peace. Here, it emphasizes not just the absence of conflict but a positive, restored relationship, showing the depth of the change God can bring.

Why Proverbs 16:7 matters

  • Proverbs 16:7 clarifies that pleasing God can have unexpected effects, even influencing people who might otherwise be adversaries, rather than just bringing personal rewards.
  • The verse highlights God’s active role in human relationships, suggesting that God’s favor can extend beyond the individual to shape their wider social world.
  • This proverb connects to the broader theme in Proverbs that wise, godly living affects not only the person but also the community, showing that faithfulness to God can have ripple effects in society.

Where else these words appear

“please” Hebrew H7521 · used in 55 verses

  • Genesis 33:10 And Jacob said, Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy sight, then receive my present at my hand: for therefore I have seen thy face, as though I had seen the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me.
  • 2 Chronicles 36:21 To fulfil the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah, until the land had enjoyed her sabbaths: for as long as she lay desolate she kept sabbath, to fulfil threescore and ten years.
  • Psalms 149:4 For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.

“peace” Hebrew H7999 · used in 107 verses

  • Genesis 44:4 And when they were gone out of the city, and not yet far off, Joseph said unto his steward, Up, follow after the men; and when thou dost overtake them, say unto them, Wherefore have ye rewarded evil for good?
  • 1 Kings 9:25 And three times in a year did Solomon offer burnt offerings and peace offerings upon the altar which he built unto the LORD, and he burnt incense upon the altar that was before the LORD. So he finished the house.
  • Proverbs 6:31 But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.