Proverbs 27:14
He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him.
Original Language Analysis
מְבָ֘רֵ֤ךְ
He that blesseth
H1288
מְבָ֘רֵ֤ךְ
He that blesseth
Strong's:
H1288
Word #:
1 of 9
to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as
גָּ֭דוֹל
with a loud
H1419
גָּ֭דוֹל
with a loud
Strong's:
H1419
Word #:
4 of 9
great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent
בַּבֹּ֣קֶר
in the morning
H1242
בַּבֹּ֣קֶר
in the morning
Strong's:
H1242
Word #:
5 of 9
properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning
הַשְׁכֵּ֑ים
rising early
H7925
הַשְׁכֵּ֑ים
rising early
Strong's:
H7925
Word #:
6 of 9
literally, to load up (on the back of man or beast), i.e., to start early in the morning
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern court culture included professional flatterers seeking patronage. The Proverbs consistently warn against smooth words used manipulatively (26:28, 29:5). Early morning hours were especially sacred for prayer and reflection, making loud intrusions particularly offensive.
Questions for Reflection
- When are you tempted to use excessive praise to manipulate others rather than speak truth in love?
- How can you distinguish between genuine encouragement and flattery in what others say to you?
- What does this proverb teach about the importance of timing and sincerity in our words?
Analysis & Commentary
He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him—This proverb exposes insincere flattery disguised as blessing. The Hebrew bārak (בָּרַך, blesseth) combined with qôl gādôl (קוֹל גָּדוֹל, loud voice) and inappropriate timing (early morning disturbance) reveals ulterior motives.
The excessive, ill-timed praise is counted a curse (qĕlālâ, קְלָלָה) because it's recognized as manipulation, not genuine goodwill. True friendship speaks truthful words at appropriate times (27:6, 'Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful'). This warns against both giving and receiving flattery—it corrupts relationships.