Proverbs 24:6
For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֣י
H3588
כִּ֣י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
בְ֭תַחְבֻּלוֹת
For by wise counsel
H8458
בְ֭תַחְבֻּלוֹת
For by wise counsel
Strong's:
H8458
Word #:
2 of 8
(only in plural) properly, steerage (as a management of ropes), i.e., (figuratively) guidance or (by implication) a plan
תַּעֲשֶׂה
thou shalt make
H6213
תַּעֲשֶׂה
thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
3 of 8
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
מִלְחָמָ֑ה
thy war
H4421
מִלְחָמָ֑ה
thy war
Strong's:
H4421
Word #:
5 of 8
a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., war-fare)
וּ֝תְשׁוּעָ֗ה
there is safety
H8668
וּ֝תְשׁוּעָ֗ה
there is safety
Strong's:
H8668
Word #:
6 of 8
rescue (literal or figurative, persons, national or spiritual)
Cross References
Proverbs 11:14Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.Proverbs 20:18Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.Proverbs 15:22Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.Luke 14:31Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?
Historical Context
Ancient kings employed counselors and strategists. David's counselors (like Ahithophel) were valued assets. Rehoboam's rejection of wise counsel led to kingdom division (1 Kings 12).
Questions for Reflection
- Do you seek wise counsel before major decisions, or do you proceed independently?
- Who are the godly counselors you can turn to for wisdom and perspective?
Analysis & Commentary
'By wise counsel thou shalt make thy war'—success in conflict (literal or metaphorical) requires strategic wisdom, not merely courage or weapons. 'In multitude of counsellors there is safety'—seeking advice from many wise people provides security and better decisions. This applies to military strategy and to all significant life decisions. The fool proceeds independently; the wise person seeks counsel. Pride says 'I know best'; wisdom says 'I need input.' Multiple advisers provide varied perspectives, check blindspots, and reduce error. This doesn't mean deciding by committee but gathering wisdom before deciding. Ultimately, believers should counsel with Scripture, wise saints, and through prayer—submitting all plans to God's revealed will.