Proverbs 24:18
Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.
Original Language Analysis
פֶּן
H6435
פֶּן
Strong's:
H6435
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
יִרְאֶ֣ה
see
H7200
יִרְאֶ֣ה
see
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
2 of 8
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
יְ֭הוָה
Lest the LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
Lest the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
וְרַ֣ע
it and it displease
H7489
וְרַ֣ע
it and it displease
Strong's:
H7489
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
בְּעֵינָ֑יו
H5869
בְּעֵינָ֑יו
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
5 of 8
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
וְהֵשִׁ֖יב
him and he turn away
H7725
וְהֵשִׁ֖יב
him and he turn away
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
6 of 8
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
Historical Context
Jonah's anger when Nineveh repented exemplifies this principle negatively. He wanted judgment and resented mercy, revealing his hard heart. God rebuked Jonah's attitude.
Questions for Reflection
- What does your response to others' suffering reveal about your heart?
- How can you cultivate merciful attitudes even toward those who deserve judgment?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse explains why we shouldn't rejoice at enemies' falls (v. 17): 'Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.' Gloating displeases God and might prompt Him to show mercy to your enemy (humbling your pride) or turn wrath toward you instead. This reveals God's hatred of prideful vindictiveness. He alone judges righteously; our celebration of others' judgment reveals wicked hearts. The principle echoes Jesus' teaching: the measure you use will be measured to you (Matthew 7:2). Those who show no mercy receive none. Even when judgment is just, respond with sober recognition, not gleeful satisfaction. Vindictiveness invites divine discipline; mercy and humility invite divine favor.