Proverbs 24:8

Authorized King James Version

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He that deviseth to do evil shall be called a mischievous person.

Original Language Analysis

מְחַשֵּׁ֥ב He that deviseth H2803
מְחַשֵּׁ֥ב He that deviseth
Strong's: H2803
Word #: 1 of 6
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
לְהָרֵ֑עַ to do evil H7489
לְהָרֵ֑עַ to do evil
Strong's: H7489
Word #: 2 of 6
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
ל֝֗וֹ H0
ל֝֗וֹ
Strong's: H0
Word #: 3 of 6
בַּֽעַל person H1167
בַּֽעַל person
Strong's: H1167
Word #: 4 of 6
a master; hence, a husband, or (figuratively) owner (often used with another noun in modifications of this latter sense)
מְזִמּ֥וֹת a mischievous H4209
מְזִמּ֥וֹת a mischievous
Strong's: H4209
Word #: 5 of 6
a plan, usually evil (machination), sometimes good (sagacity)
יִקְרָֽאוּ׃ shall be called H7121
יִקְרָֽאוּ׃ shall be called
Strong's: H7121
Word #: 6 of 6
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

Analysis & Commentary

This proverb warns against plotting evil. 'He that deviseth to do evil' (מְזִמּוֹת לְהָרֵעַ/mezimmot lehare'a, one who schemes/plans to do evil) identifies not impulsive sin but calculated wickedness. 'Shall be called a mischievous person' (בַּעַל מְזִמּוֹת יִקְרָאוּ־לוֹ/ba'al mezimmot yiqra'u-lo, literally 'master of schemes they will call him') assigns a reputation. The Hebrew בַּעַל מְזִמּוֹת could also be translated 'master of evil schemes' or 'mischief-maker.' The point is that character is revealed through actions, and reputation follows behavior. Those who consistently plot evil become known as evil. This principle operates in both directions: 'A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches' (Proverbs 22:1). Jesus taught: 'by their fruits ye shall know them' (Matthew 7:20). Actions reveal character; character determines reputation.

Historical Context

Ancient honor-shame cultures placed enormous value on reputation. A person's name represented their character and legacy. Good names brought honor across generations; shameful names brought lasting disgrace. Scripture records both: David's name remained honored despite his sin because he repented (2 Samuel 12:13). Absalom's name became synonymous with rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18). Judas's name became proverbial for betrayal. Biblical names often reflected character: Jacob ('supplanter') became Israel ('God prevails'). Simon ('hearing') became Peter ('rock'). In the early church, reputation mattered for ministry qualification: elders must have 'a good report of them which are without' (1 Timothy 3:7). Christians' behavior affected the gospel's reputation (1 Peter 2:12). Church discipline addressed persistent schemers (Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13). A good name honored Christ; a bad name brought reproach.

Questions for Reflection