Proverbs 14:2
He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.
Original Language Analysis
הוֹלֵ֣ךְ
He that walketh
H1980
הוֹלֵ֣ךְ
He that walketh
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
1 of 7
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
4 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
וּנְל֖וֹז
but he that is perverse
H3868
וּנְל֖וֹז
but he that is perverse
Strong's:
H3868
Word #:
5 of 7
to turn aside , i.e., (literally) to depart, (figuratively) be perverse
Cross References
Acts 10:35But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.Proverbs 28:6Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.Job 28:28And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
Historical Context
The 'fear of the Lord' is foundational to Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh. It combines reverence, awe, obedience, and trust—not servile terror but covenant faithfulness responding to God's character.
Questions for Reflection
- Does your daily conduct demonstrate genuine fear of the Lord, or do your actions contradict your profession?
- In what specific areas might you be walking 'perversely' while claiming to honor God?
- How does understanding the inseparability of faith and works challenge you to examine your life?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
This verse presents a foundational principle: your behavior reveals your theology. Walking 'in his uprightness' (Hebrew 'yosher'—straightness, integrity) demonstrates fear of the Lord, while 'perverse in his ways' (Hebrew 'naloz'—twisted, crooked) shows contempt. Reformed theology emphasizes that genuine faith produces corresponding works (James 2:26). We cannot claim to fear God while living perversely. The connection between vertical relationship (fear of the Lord) and horizontal conduct (walking uprightly) is inseparable. True piety affects every dimension of life.