Proverbs 3:35
The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.
Original Language Analysis
כָּ֭בוֹד
glory
H3519
כָּ֭בוֹד
glory
Strong's:
H3519
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness
יִנְחָ֑לוּ
shall inherit
H5157
יִנְחָ֑לוּ
shall inherit
Strong's:
H5157
Word #:
3 of 6
to inherit (as a (figurative) mode of descent), or (generally) to occupy; causatively, to bequeath, or (generally) distribute, instate
וּ֝כְסִילִ֗ים
of fools
H3684
וּ֝כְסִילִ֗ים
of fools
Strong's:
H3684
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
Cross References
Psalms 132:18His enemies will I clothe with shame: but upon himself shall his crown flourish.Psalms 73:24Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.1 Samuel 2:30Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.
Historical Context
Biblical eschatology consistently promises ultimate reversal - the humble exalted, the exalted humbled; the persecuted vindicated, the persecutors judged. Proverbs anticipates final judgment where true wisdom is glorified and folly exposed. This gave hope to righteous sufferers throughout Israel's history.
Questions for Reflection
- How does confidence in ultimate vindication help you endure present misunderstanding or mistreatment?
- What glory do the wise inherit, and how does that differ from earthly fame?
- In what ways should certainty of fools' eventual shame affect how you respond to their current success?
Analysis & Commentary
The wise inherit glory but fools promote shame. The Hebrew 'nachal' (inherit) suggests receiving rather than earning - glory comes as inheritance to the wise. 'Qalon' (shame/disgrace) is what fools receive or display. This verse promises ultimate vindication for the wise and ultimate exposure for fools. While fools may temporarily appear successful, their end is disgrace; while the wise may suffer temporarily, their end is honor.