Proverbs 17:13

Arabic SVD 1865 Version (Smith and Van Dyke)

من يجازي عن خير بشر لن يبرح الشر من بيته.

What Does This Mean?

This verse in Proverbs warns that if someone retaliates with evil when shown kindness, evil will continue to affect their home and family. The message emphasizes the consequences of returning evil for good.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your friend shared their snack with you, but you got mad and threw sand at them. The verse is like saying, if you do something bad back when someone does something nice, bad things will keep happening in your life.

Historical Background

This verse is from the Book of Proverbs, traditionally attributed to King Solomon. It was written around 950 BC, providing wisdom and guidance to the Israelites, emphasizing moral and ethical conduct.

Living It Out Today

Consider a scenario where a coworker helps you with a project, but you sabotage their efforts out of jealousy. The verse suggests that such actions will lead to ongoing negative consequences in your personal and professional life.

Topics

• justice
• forgiveness
• wisdom
• consequences
• gratitude
• evil

Related Verses

• Proverbs 20:22
• Romans 12:17
• Ephesians 4:26
• 1 Peter 3:9
• Genesis 4:7

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main lesson of Proverbs 17:13?

The main lesson is that retaliating with evil when shown kindness will bring ongoing negative consequences.

Can you give an example of someone who did good and was rewarded with evil?

In the Bible, Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery out of jealousy, even though Joseph had done nothing to harm them.

How can understanding this verse help in personal relationships?

Understanding this verse can help prevent retaliatory behavior, fostering healthier relationships by promoting kindness and forgiveness.

What are the consequences of not following the advice in Proverbs 17:13?

The consequences can include ongoing negative outcomes in one's life, affecting both personal well-being and relationships with others.