Proverbs 14:12
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
Original Language Analysis
יֵ֤שׁ
There is
H3426
יֵ֤שׁ
There is
Strong's:
H3426
Word #:
1 of 8
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
דַּרְכֵי
a way
H1870
דַּרְכֵי
a way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
2 of 8
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
לִפְנֵי
which seemeth
H6440
לִפְנֵי
which seemeth
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
4 of 8
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
אִ֑ישׁ
unto a man
H376
אִ֑ישׁ
unto a man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
5 of 8
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
וְ֝אַחֲרִיתָ֗הּ
but the end
H319
וְ֝אַחֲרִיתָ֗הּ
but the end
Strong's:
H319
Word #:
6 of 8
the last or end, hence, the future; also posterity
Cross References
Proverbs 16:25There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.Proverbs 12:15The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.Galatians 6:3For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.Romans 6:21What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.Luke 13:24Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.Proverbs 30:12There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.James 1:22But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.Ephesians 5:6Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
Historical Context
Israel constantly faced temptation to adopt surrounding nations' religious practices that 'seemed right'—fertility cults promised prosperity, military alliances promised security. The prophets repeatedly warned that these seemingly wise paths led to death and exile.
Questions for Reflection
- What decisions in your life feel 'right' but may not align with God's Word?
- How can we test whether a path truly leads to life or merely seems right in the moment?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
This sobering proverb warns that subjective feelings ('seemeth right') are unreliable guides for life's most important decisions, as the end is death—not merely physical death but spiritual ruin. The repetition of this exact verse in Proverbs 16:25 emphasizes its critical importance. It directly contradicts the modern maxim 'follow your heart,' insisting instead on objective truth and divine wisdom as life's foundation.