Proverbs 11:21
Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.
Original Language Analysis
לְ֭יָד
Though hand
H3027
לְ֭יָד
Though hand
Strong's:
H3027
Word #:
1 of 8
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
לְ֭יָד
Though hand
H3027
לְ֭יָד
Though hand
Strong's:
H3027
Word #:
2 of 8
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
3 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יִנָּ֣קֶה
shall not be unpunished
H5352
יִנָּ֣קֶה
shall not be unpunished
Strong's:
H5352
Word #:
4 of 8
to be (or make) clean (literally or figuratively); by implication (in an adverse sense) to be bare, i.e., extirpated
Cross References
Acts 2:39For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.Jeremiah 32:39And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them:Proverbs 16:5Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.Psalms 37:26He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.Proverbs 13:22A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.Exodus 23:2Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment:
Historical Context
The imagery of hand joining hand suggests conspiracy or solemn agreement. Yet even unified wickedness can't escape divine judgment, while righteousness's blessing extends generationally.
Questions for Reflection
- What wickedness are you participating in with others that you assume will escape consequences?
- How does your righteousness or wickedness affect your descendants' spiritual welfare?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished; but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered. Even united wickedness can't escape judgment - conspiracies don't provide protection from divine justice. In contrast, the righteous's descendants will be delivered. This verse promises both comprehensive judgment on evil and comprehensive blessing on righteousness, extending to future generations.