Proverbs 25:3
The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unsearchable.
Original Language Analysis
שָׁמַ֣יִם
The heaven
H8064
שָׁמַ֣יִם
The heaven
Strong's:
H8064
Word #:
1 of 8
the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r
Cross References
Isaiah 55:9For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.Psalms 103:11For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.1 Kings 4:29And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.
Historical Context
Ancient courts were notoriously inscrutable. Understanding a king's true intentions was nearly impossible for subjects, making wisdom in approaching rulers essential for survival.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing the limits of your knowledge of others' hearts promote humility?
- What does it mean to judge righteous judgment of actions while leaving heart-judgment to God?
- How should awareness of your own heart's complexity affect how you view and judge others?
Analysis & Commentary
Heaven's height, earth's depth, and 'the heart of kings are unsearchable.' The Hebrew 'ein cheqer' (unsearchable/without investigation) applies natural mysteries to human complexity, especially rulers' hearts. This counsels humility—we cannot fully know others' motives or thoughts, particularly those in power. Reformed theology affirms God alone searches hearts (Jeremiah 17:10). This verse warns against presuming to judge others' hearts and counsels caution in dealing with authority. Only God knows the heart; we see only external actions.