Proverbs 17:13

13 He who 1returns evil for good, 2Evil will not depart from his house.

Proverbs 17:13 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 17:13

Whoso rewardeth evil for good
As the enemies of David and Christ rewarded them, ( Psalms 35:12 ) ( 109:5 ) ; this is base ingratitude, contrary to the law and light of nature; worse than beastly, is really devilish; evil shall not depart from his house;
from him and his family; they shall be continually visited with one disease and calamity or another; so hateful and offensive is the sin of ingratitude to God, and therefore ought to be carefully avoided. This might be illustrated by the judgments of God on the nation of the Jews, for their ingratitude to Christ.

Proverbs 17:13 In-Context

11 A rebellious man seeks only evil, So a cruel messenger will be sent against him.
12 Let a man meet a bear robbed of her cubs, Rather than a fool in his folly.
13 He who returns evil for good, Evil will not depart from his house.
14 The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.
15 He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous, Both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD .

Cross References 2

  • 1. Psalms 35:12; Psalms 109:5; Jeremiah 18:20
  • 2. 2 Samuel 12:10; 1 Kings 21:22; Proverbs 13:21
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