Proverbs 3:34
Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.
Original Language Analysis
אִם
H518
אִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
1 of 7
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
יָלִ֑יץ
Surely he scorneth
H3887
יָלִ֑יץ
Surely he scorneth
Strong's:
H3887
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede
הֽוּא
H1931
הֽוּא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
3 of 7
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
יָלִ֑יץ
Surely he scorneth
H3887
יָלִ֑יץ
Surely he scorneth
Strong's:
H3887
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede
וְ֝לַעֲנָיִ֗ים
unto the lowly
H6035
וְ֝לַעֲנָיִ֗ים
unto the lowly
Strong's:
H6035
Word #:
5 of 7
depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly)
Cross References
James 4:6But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.1 Peter 5:5Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.Psalms 138:6Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.Proverbs 9:12If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.Isaiah 57:15For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.Proverbs 21:24Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.Proverbs 19:29Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.
Historical Context
Throughout Scripture, God brings down the proud and exalts the humble. Pharaoh, Goliath, Nebuchadnezzar, Herod - all examples of pride's judgment. Mary's Magnificat (Luke 1:51-53) celebrates this pattern. The cross supremely demonstrates it - Christ's humiliation leads to exaltation (Philippians 2:5-11).
Questions for Reflection
- What areas of pride might be blocking God's grace in your life?
- How can you cultivate humility that positions you to receive God's favor?
- In what ways does grace operate differently for the humble versus the proud?
Analysis & Commentary
God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. The Hebrew 'luwts' (scoffer/mocker) represents proud rejection of wisdom. 'Chanan' (grace) indicates unmerited favor. This verse, quoted in James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5, establishes fundamental spiritual principle: pride blocks grace; humility receives it. God's disposition toward us correlates with our posture - arrogant self-sufficiency meets resistance; humble dependence meets generous supply.