Proverbs 11:20
They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.
Original Language Analysis
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
are abomination
H8441
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
are abomination
Strong's:
H8441
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, something disgusting (morally), i.e., (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol
יְ֭הוָה
to the LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
to the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
לֵ֑ב
heart
H3820
לֵ֑ב
heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
4 of 7
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
Cross References
1 Chronicles 29:17I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.Psalms 119:1Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD.Proverbs 21:29A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way.Proverbs 6:14Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord.Psalms 51:6Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.Psalms 140:13Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall dwell in thy presence.Proverbs 12:22Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.Proverbs 8:13The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.Proverbs 9:7He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.Proverbs 13:6Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.
Historical Context
Reflects covenant theology where God's blessing or curse followed obedience or rebellion. Divine favor wasn't arbitrary but responded to covenant faithfulness or violation.
Questions for Reflection
- Does your character provoke God's delight or His disgust currently?
- What heart-level changes would move you from divine abhorrence toward divine favor?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
They that are of a froward heart are abomination to YHWH, but such as are upright in their way are His delight. God's emotional response to humans depends on their moral character - perverse hearts provoke His abhorrence; upright conduct brings His delight. This verse grounds ethics in theology - morality matters because it affects God's disposition toward us. Divine delight or disgust depends on human righteousness or wickedness.