Proverbs 3:29
Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.
Original Language Analysis
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
1 of 9
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
3 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
רָעָ֑ה
Devise
H2790
רָעָ֑ה
Devise
Strong's:
H2790
Word #:
5 of 9
to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad
וְהֽוּא
H1931
וְהֽוּא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
6 of 9
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
יוֹשֵׁ֖ב
seeing he dwelleth
H3427
יוֹשֵׁ֖ב
seeing he dwelleth
Strong's:
H3427
Word #:
7 of 9
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern culture depended on honor and trust for social cohesion. Betraying neighbors violated fundamental social contract and reflected Canaanite rather than Israelite ethics. The Ten Commandments' second table regulated neighbor relations, and prophets consistently condemned those who exploited trust for gain.
Questions for Reflection
- Have you ever exploited someone's trust in you, and what restitution might be needed?
- How can you become more trustworthy in relationships where others depend on you?
- What safeguards prevent us from rationalizing harm against those who trust us?
Analysis & Commentary
Devising harm against trusting neighbors is wicked. The Hebrew 'charash' (devise/plot) indicates deliberate scheming, while 'betach' (dwells securely/trustingly) describes vulnerability. Betraying someone who trusts you multiplies wickedness - you exploit their vulnerability. This verse condemns predatory relationships where trust becomes weapon. God's people must be trustworthy, especially toward those who depend on us.