Proverbs 17:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 17:13
13 Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 17 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, worship, love. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 17:13
13 Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.
Analysis
Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house. Meshiv ra'ah tachat tovah (מֵשִׁיב רָעָה תַּחַת טוֹבָה, returning evil instead of good). Responding to kindness with wickedness is particularly heinous. Lo-tamush ra'ah mibeytho (לֹא־תָמוּשׁ רָעָה מִבֵּיתוֹ, evil will not depart from his house). Such ingratitude curses entire households. The proverb teaches that repaying good with evil invokes persistent divine judgment. Absalom's rebellion against David who showed him mercy brought death (2 Samuel 18). Nabal's churlishness toward David nearly destroyed his house (1 Samuel 25). Christians must overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21).
Historical Context
Ancient honor cultures valued reciprocity—returning good for good, honoring benefactors. Repaying kindness with cruelty was among the worst offenses. Biblical examples include: Joseph's brothers repaying Jacob's love with selling Joseph (Genesis 37), Saul repaying David's service with murderous pursuit (1 Samuel 19-26), Judas betraying Jesus despite years of kindness (Matthew 26:47-50). Such ingratitude brought severe consequences.
Reflection
- Have you ever repaid someone's goodness with evil, and what were the consequences?
- How does recognizing God's incredible goodness toward us in Christ motivate grateful, generous living?
- What does overcoming evil with good (Romans 12:21) look like when others repay your kindness with wickedness?
Cross-References
- Evil: 1 Samuel 24:17, Psalms 35:12, 38:20, Romans 12:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:15, 1 Peter 3:9
- Parallel theme: 2 Samuel 12:10, Matthew 27:5