Proverbs 11:29
He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.
Original Language Analysis
עֹכֵ֣ר
He that troubleth
H5916
עֹכֵ֣ר
He that troubleth
Strong's:
H5916
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, to roil water; figuratively, to disturb or affict
בֵּ֭יתוֹ
his own house
H1004
בֵּ֭יתוֹ
his own house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
2 of 8
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
יִנְחַל
shall inherit
H5157
יִנְחַל
shall inherit
Strong's:
H5157
Word #:
3 of 8
to inherit (as a (figurative) mode of descent), or (generally) to occupy; causatively, to bequeath, or (generally) distribute, instate
ר֑וּחַ
the wind
H7307
ר֑וּחַ
the wind
Strong's:
H7307
Word #:
4 of 8
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
Historical Context
Reflects patriarchal household structure where inheritance was critical. Causing domestic turmoil could result in disinheritance or reduced portion. Wisdom secured favor; folly brought judgment.
Questions for Reflection
- How might you be 'troubling your house' in ways that will produce empty results?
- What wisdom do you need to develop to avoid servitude to others' folly?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
He that troubles his own house shall inherit the wind, and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart. Domestic strife brings empty inheritance - 'wind' suggests vanity, nothing of substance. The fool's folly results in servitude to the wise. This verse warns that family dysfunction produces lasting harm while wisdom produces lasting advantage. Troubling one's house forfeits inheritance; wisdom secures position.