Question 1

What does Proverbs 6:17 mean?

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 6:17 lists three things that God hates: a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. Each phrase points to a specific kind of wrongdoing—arrogance, dishonesty, and violence against those who have done no wrong. In Proverbs, these warnings come from a father teaching his son about the kinds of behavior that are deeply offensive to God. The verse is part of a longer list describing actions that disrupt community and trust. The focus is on attitudes and actions that harm others and break down relationships.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 6:17

Accepted Answer

"Proud" (רָם, rām, H7311) describes someone who lifts themselves up above others, often with arrogance or self-importance. This word highlights the attitude behind the "proud look"—not just outward appearance but an inner sense of superiority. "Look" (עַיִן, ʿayin, H5869) literally means "eye," so "a proud look" is more like "haughty eyes," suggesting a way of seeing others with contempt. "Lying" (שֶׁקֶר, sheqer, H8267) means falsehood or deception. This word covers all forms of dishonesty, not just spoken lies. "Tongue" (לָשׁוֹן, lashon, H3956) is the organ of speech, so "a lying tongue" points to someone who uses words to deceive. "Hands" (יָד, yad, H3027) is a common word for the physical hand, but here it stands for actions—specifically violent ones. "Shed" (שָׁפַךְ, shafakh, H8210) means to pour out or spill, often used for bloodshed. "Innocent" (נָקִי, naqiy, H5355) means someone free from guilt or wrongdoing. "Blood" (דָּם, dam, H1818) is literal blood, but in this context, it means taking a life unjustly.

Question 3

Why Proverbs 6:17 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse makes clear that God’s concern is not just with outward actions but with the attitudes and motives behind them, such as pride and deceit. By naming "innocent blood," Proverbs 6:17 emphasizes that violence against those who have done no wrong is especially serious in God’s eyes. The verse is part of a list (verses 16–19) showing the kinds of behavior that destroy trust and community, helping the reader see the bigger picture of what God values and what He opposes.

Proverbs 6:17 (KJV)