Proverbs 18:24
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Original Language Analysis
אִ֣ישׁ
A man
H376
אִ֣ישׁ
A man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
1 of 7
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)
לְהִתְרֹעֵ֑עַ
must shew himself friendly
H7489
לְהִתְרֹעֵ֑עַ
must shew himself friendly
Strong's:
H7489
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
וְיֵ֥שׁ
and there is
H3426
וְיֵ֥שׁ
and there is
Strong's:
H3426
Word #:
4 of 7
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
Cross References
Proverbs 17:17A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.Proverbs 27:9Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.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.2 Samuel 21:7But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, because of the LORD'S oath that was between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.2 Samuel 16:17And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why wentest thou not with thy friend?
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern culture valued kinship bonds as primary social structure. For friendship to exceed brotherhood was remarkable, indicating covenant-level commitment. David and Jonathan exemplified such friendship (1 Samuel 18:1-4, 20:17). The verse warns against confusing numerous acquaintances with genuine friendship while celebrating the rare treasure of true, loyal friends.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you have a friend who 'sticks closer than a brother,' and are you that kind of friend to anyone?
- How can you move beyond superficial acquaintances to cultivate deeper, more loyal friendships?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
This verse contrasts shallow acquaintances with true friendship: 'A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: but there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.' The first phrase likely means: one who has many companions may come to ruin (some manuscripts read 'may be broken to pieces'), suggesting that numerous shallow friendships can be harmful. The contrast presents 'a friend that sticketh closer than a brother'—a loyal, committed friend whose bond exceeds even family ties. This rare friendship demonstrates covenant loyalty (ahev—love characterized by commitment). Ultimately, Christ is the friend who sticks closer than a brother (John 15:13-15), laying down His life for friends.