Proverbs 20:29
The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the gray head.
Original Language Analysis
תִּפְאֶ֣רֶת
The glory
H8597
תִּפְאֶ֣רֶת
The glory
Strong's:
H8597
Word #:
1 of 6
ornament (abstractly or concretely, literally or figuratively)
בַּחוּרִ֣ים
of young men
H970
בַּחוּרִ֣ים
of young men
Strong's:
H970
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, selected, i.e., a youth (often collective)
כֹּחָ֑ם
is their strength
H3581
כֹּחָ֑ם
is their strength
Strong's:
H3581
Word #:
3 of 6
vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)
Cross References
1 John 2:14I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.Proverbs 16:31The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.Leviticus 19:32Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: I am the LORD.
Historical Context
Ancient cultures generally honored the elderly for their wisdom, though youth and strength were also celebrated. The fifth commandment to honor parents implied respecting age generally.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you honor and seek wisdom from those older than you, or do you despise their counsel?
- How can younger and older generations in the church better support and learn from each other?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse contrasts youth's vitality with age's dignity. 'Glory of young men is their strength'—physical vigor, energy, and prowess. But 'beauty of old men is the gray head'—accumulated wisdom, experience, and character forged through years of faithful living. Both stages have appropriate value and contribution. The young should use strength for productive work and defense; the old should offer wise counsel born of long obedience. Each generation needs the other: youth provides energy and innovation; age provides wisdom and perspective. To despise either is foolish. The church especially should honor elderly saints who have walked with God faithfully, treasuring their counsel and learning from their experience.