Proverbs 20:11
Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
Original Language Analysis
גַּ֣ם
H1571
גַּ֣ם
Strong's:
H1571
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
יִתְנַכֶּר
is known
H5234
יִתְנַכֶּר
is known
Strong's:
H5234
Word #:
3 of 9
properly, to scrutinize, i.e., look intently at; hence (with recognition implied), to acknowledge, be acquainted with, care for, respect, revere, or (
נָ֑עַר
Even a child
H5288
נָ֑עַר
Even a child
Strong's:
H5288
Word #:
4 of 9
(concretely) a boy (as active), from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also (by interch. of sex), a girl (of similar latit
אִם
H518
אִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
5 of 9
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
וְאִם
H518
וְאִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
7 of 9
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient pedagogy involved careful observation of children's behavior to discern their bent and guide appropriate training. Proverbs 22:6 counsels training children according to their particular way.
Questions for Reflection
- What do your actions reveal about your character, regardless of your professed beliefs?
- How can you help young people's actions increasingly reflect purity and righteousness?
Analysis & Commentary
Even children reveal their character through actions—whether pure and right. This challenges sentimental views of childhood innocence, affirming that sin manifests early. Yet it also shows the importance of observing children's conduct to guide their formation in wisdom and righteousness.