Proverbs 26:11
As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.
Original Language Analysis
שָׁ֣ב
returneth
H7725
שָׁ֣ב
returneth
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
2 of 7
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
3 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כְּ֝סִ֗יל
so a fool
H3684
כְּ֝סִ֗יל
so a fool
Strong's:
H3684
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
Cross References
2 Peter 2:22But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.Matthew 12:45Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.Exodus 8:15But when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he hardened his heart, and hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.
Historical Context
The comparison to dogs would resonate in ancient Near Eastern contexts where dogs were scavengers, not beloved pets. The imagery deliberately revolts to emphasize folly's repulsiveness. The proverb warns against the dangerous pattern of cycling through the same destructive behaviors without learning or changing. True wisdom involves learning from consequences and pursuing different paths.
Questions for Reflection
- What patterns of folly do you repeatedly return to despite knowing their destructive consequences?
- How can you break cycles of habitual sin or foolishness rather than perpetually returning to them?
Analysis & Commentary
This proverb uses vivid, disgusting imagery to describe foolishness: 'As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.' A dog eating its own vomit exemplifies revolting, self-destructive behavior. Similarly, fools repeatedly return to foolish patterns despite experiencing their harmful consequences. They learn nothing from failure, repeating the same mistakes cyclically. This reveals folly as more than intellectual error—it's moral stubbornness and willful rejection of wisdom. Peter quotes this proverb (2 Peter 2:22) to describe false teachers and apostates who return to sinful lifestyles after professing faith, demonstrating they never truly changed.