Proverbs Chapter 13 · Verse 15
Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.
Original Language Analysis
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
יִתֶּן
giveth
H5414
יִתֶּן
giveth
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
3 of 7
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
חֵ֑ן
favour
H2580
חֵ֑ן
favour
Strong's:
H2580
Word #:
4 of 7
graciousness, i.e., subjective (kindness, favor) or objective (beauty)
וְדֶ֖רֶךְ
but the way
H1870
וְדֶ֖רֶךְ
but the way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
5 of 7
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
Cross References
Proverbs 3:4So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.Proverbs 4:19The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.Acts 7:10And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.Psalms 111:10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.Jeremiah 2:19Thine own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee: know therefore and see that it is an evil thing and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, and that my fear is not in thee, saith the Lord GOD of hosts.Romans 6:21What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.Proverbs 15:10Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.Luke 2:52And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.Proverbs 14:35The king's favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.
Historical Context
Reflects covenant theology where obedience brought blessing (favor, ease) while rebellion brought curse (hardship). The principle applied both temporally and eternally.
Questions for Reflection
- What hardship in your life flows from transgression versus circumstance?
- How has good understanding brought favor that eased your path?
Analysis & Commentary
Good understanding gives favor, but the way of transgressors is hard. Sound judgment (sekhel tov) produces grace/favor; treacherous conduct produces hardship. The verse promises that wisdom eases life's path while wickedness makes it difficult. Transgression's way is 'hard' (etan - enduring, permanent) - wickedness produces lasting difficulty. Wisdom lubricates life; sin creates friction.