Proverbs 26:19
So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?
Original Language Analysis
כֵּֽן
H3651
כֵּֽן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
אִ֭ישׁ
So is the man
H376
אִ֭ישׁ
So is the man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
2 of 9
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
רִמָּ֣ה
that deceiveth
H7411
רִמָּ֣ה
that deceiveth
Strong's:
H7411
Word #:
3 of 9
to hurl; specifically, to shoot; figuratively, to delude or betray (as if causing to fall)
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הֲֽלֹא
H3808
הֲֽלֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
7 of 9
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern cultures highly valued truthful speech and considered deceptive jesting a serious moral failure. Egyptian wisdom literature warned against mockery that wounds, and Mesopotamian texts emphasized the sacredness of honest communication between neighbors. In Israel's covenant community, bearing false witness was forbidden (Exodus 20:16), and this extended to all deceptive speech—even when disguised as humor. The excuse "Am I not in sport?" would not have absolved the speaker; it would have revealed a callous heart that treats relationships carelessly and refuses to own the consequences of harmful words.
Questions for Reflection
- When have you used "I was just joking" to avoid taking responsibility for words that wounded someone?
- How does God view the difference between genuine humor that builds relationships and deceptive jesting that harms them?
- What practical steps can you take to ensure your speech reflects genuine love for your neighbor rather than careless entertainment at their expense?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse completes the metaphor begun in verse 18, revealing the deceiver's defense: "Am I not in sport?" The Hebrew 'sahaq' (sport/jest) means to laugh, play, or mock—the ancient equivalent of "just kidding!" This person wounds their neighbor through deception, then deflects accountability by claiming it was merely entertainment. The comparison to a madman hurling firebrands shows God's view: such behavior isn't innocent fun but dangerous insanity. The excuse doesn't negate the harm—it compounds the sin by adding dishonesty to injury. Someone who deceives then claims "I was only joking" is as culpable as the madman who shoots arrows randomly, because both cause real damage while denying responsibility.