Proverbs 6:17 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 6:17 mean?

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.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 6:17

• "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.

Why Proverbs 6:17 matters

• 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.