Proverbs 29:5
A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.
Original Language Analysis
גֶּ֭בֶר
A man
H1397
גֶּ֭בֶר
A man
Strong's:
H1397
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
3 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Cross References
Psalms 5:9For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.Psalms 12:2They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak.Job 17:5He that speaketh flattery to his friends, even the eyes of his children shall fail.Hosea 5:1Hear ye this, O priests; and hearken, ye house of Israel; and give ye ear, O house of the king; for judgment is toward you, because ye have been a snare on Mizpah, and a net spread upon Tabor.Proverbs 20:19He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.Proverbs 7:5That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.Proverbs 7:21With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him.Proverbs 1:17Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird.Proverbs 26:28A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.Romans 16:18For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.
Historical Context
Ancient courts were filled with flatterers seeking royal favor. Absalom used flattery to steal hearts from David (2 Samuel 15:2-6). Flattery was recognized as dangerous manipulation disguised as friendship.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you flatter others to gain advantage, or do you speak honest, edifying truth?
- Can you recognize when others are flattering you rather than genuinely commending you?
- How can you cultivate relationships characterized by honest encouragement rather than manipulative flattery?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
One who flatters his neighbor 'spreadeth a net for his feet.' The Hebrew 'chalaq' (flatter/make smooth) is deceptive speech. Flattery appears kind but is actually a trap ('reshet'—net). Flatterers manipulate through false praise to gain advantage or lead victims into foolish decisions. Reformed theology condemns flattery as form of lying. Genuine friends speak truth, even when difficult (27:6). Flatterers prioritize selfish gain over neighbor's welfare. This verse warns us both to avoid flattering others and to recognize when we're being flattered.