Proverbs 11:27
He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.
Original Language Analysis
שֹׁ֣חֵֽר
He that diligently seeketh
H7836
שֹׁ֣חֵֽר
He that diligently seeketh
Strong's:
H7836
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, to dawn, i.e., (figuratively) be (up) early at any task (with the implication of earnestness); by extension, to search for (with painstaking
ט֭וֹב
good
H2896
ט֭וֹב
good
Strong's:
H2896
Word #:
2 of 7
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
יְבַקֵּ֣שׁ
procureth
H1245
יְבַקֵּ֣שׁ
procureth
Strong's:
H1245
Word #:
3 of 7
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
וְדֹרֵ֖שׁ
but he that seeketh
H1875
וְדֹרֵ֖שׁ
but he that seeketh
Strong's:
H1875
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow (for pursuit or search); by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship
Cross References
Proverbs 17:11An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.Psalms 57:6They have prepared a net for my steps; my soul is bowed down: they have digged a pit before me, into the midst whereof they are fallen themselves. Selah.Esther 7:10So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified.
Historical Context
Reflects covenant theology where obedience brought blessing, rebellion brought curse. The principle extended beyond Israel to all humanity - God's moral governance ensures justice.
Questions for Reflection
- What are you currently 'diligently seeking' - good or mischief?
- How have you experienced receiving what you pursued, whether good or evil?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
He that diligently seeks good procures favor, but he that seeks mischief, it shall come unto him. Pursuing good brings favor; pursuing evil brings evil upon oneself. This principle presents moral universe as responsive - what you seek, you find; what you pursue, pursues you. The verse promises both reward for righteousness and retribution for wickedness built into reality's moral structure.