Proverbs 17:19 meaning

In the pursuit of wisdom, understanding the consequences of one's actions is crucial. This proverb highlights how transgressing God's will invites conflict, while pride leads to one's downfall. The phrase “making his doorway high” symbolizes an ostentatious display of wealth and status, a practice common in the ancient Near East. Such actions not only draw attention but also attract potential destruction, indicating a lack of regard for the necessary humility required in a person's character.

Those who revel in wrongdoing set themselves up for strife; the person who seeks to elevate themselves often overlooks the latent dangers of pride. As noted, historical figures like Shebna and Haman serve as examples of those whose grand ambitions ultimately led to their destruction. Leaving a strong warning, this verse underscores the necessity of humility in life. This is particularly relevant today, reminding us that the allure of status and recognition can lead to one's precarious downfall, aligning with the broader biblical themes of humility and the perils of pride—as echoed in other wisdom literature. In the words of Proverbs 17:19, the risks of strife and destruction beckon those who forsake wisdom for self-exaltation.

This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Matthew 22:15-22 meaning. The Pharisees send spies to trap Jesus into saying something against Rome. They bring along some pro-Roman Herodians as conspirators in their plot. They ask Jesus whether it is lawful to pay poll-taxes to Caesar or not. Jesus perceives their trap and calls them on it before answering their question. He asks for a coin and whose likeness it bears. When he is told the image belongs to Caesar, Jesus answers "to render to Caesar the things that belong to Caesar's and to God the things that are God's."
  • Matthew 22:23-28 meaning. The Sadducees ask Jesus a loaded question about the resurrection. They introduce their question with an extreme scenario about a woman seven-times married. Their scenario was intended to show the ridiculousness of the resurrection.
  • Luke 3:10-14 meaning. After John's fiery warnings, the crowds come to John asking what they should do in order to receive forgiveness and avoid the wrath to come. John tells them to put God's commandment to love your neighbor as yourself into practice by being generous with your possessions. When reviled tax collectors and hated soldiers come and ask John the same question as it applies to them, he gives them a similar answer.
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