Proverbs 17:17
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Original Language Analysis
בְּכָל
H3605
בְּכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
עֵ֭ת
at all times
H6256
עֵ֭ת
at all times
Strong's:
H6256
Word #:
2 of 7
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
וְאָ֥ח
and a brother
H251
וְאָ֥ח
and a brother
Strong's:
H251
Word #:
5 of 7
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
Cross References
Proverbs 18:24A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.1 Samuel 20:17And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul.1 Samuel 18:3Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul.Hebrews 2:11For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,Proverbs 19:7All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.Ruth 1:16And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:2 Samuel 1:26I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women.Esther 4:14For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?1 Samuel 23:16And Jonathan Saul's son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God.
Historical Context
Ancient covenant relationships (like David and Jonathan's) exemplified loyal love that persisted through persecution and adversity. In a culture where kinship bonds were essential for survival, this proverb elevated friendship to the same level of loyalty.
Questions for Reflection
- Who in your life demonstrates this kind of faithful friendship, and how can you cultivate it?
- Are your relationships primarily based on convenience and mutual benefit, or genuine covenant love?
Analysis & Commentary
True friendship, marked by constant love ('at all times'), transcends circumstances and convenience, reflecting God's own covenant faithfulness. The phrase 'born for adversity' suggests that brotherly loyalty finds its purpose and full expression during trials, not prosperity. This proverb distinguishes genuine friendship from fair-weather relationships based on mutual advantage.