Proverbs 17:22
A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
Original Language Analysis
לֵ֣ב
heart
H3820
לֵ֣ב
heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
1 of 8
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
יֵיטִ֣יב
doeth good
H3190
יֵיטִ֣יב
doeth good
Strong's:
H3190
Word #:
3 of 8
to be (causative) make well, literally (sound, beautiful) or figuratively (happy, successful, right)
וְר֥וּחַ
spirit
H7307
וְר֥וּחַ
spirit
Strong's:
H7307
Word #:
5 of 8
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
Cross References
Proverbs 15:13A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.Proverbs 12:25Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.Proverbs 18:14The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?2 Corinthians 7:10For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.2 Corinthians 2:7So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.Psalms 22:15My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.
Historical Context
Ancient medicine lacked modern understanding of psychosomatic connections, yet experiential wisdom recognized that joy and sorrow affect physical health. Biblical anthropology views humans holistically—body and spirit intertwined, not separate compartments. Greek dualism would later separate physical and spiritual, but Hebrew thought maintained their integration. This proverb reflects that holistic perspective.
Questions for Reflection
- What spiritual or emotional burdens are you carrying that may be affecting your physical health and vitality?
- How can you cultivate a 'merry heart' rooted in joy in the Lord rather than mere positive thinking?
Analysis & Commentary
This proverb connects emotional state to physical health: 'A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.' The 'merry heart' (lev sameach—joyful, cheerful heart) produces beneficial effects comparable to medicine (gehah—healing). Modern medicine confirms the connection between mental/emotional health and physical wellbeing. Conversely, 'a broken spirit' (ruach nekhe'ah—crushed, discouraged spirit) causes physical deterioration—'drieth the bones' suggests weakening one's core vitality. This wisdom validates the profound interconnection of body, soul, and spirit, recognizing that spiritual and emotional health affect physical health.