Bible Verse:What does Proverbs chapter 29 mean?
Chapter Context
This concludes the collection of Solomon's proverbs which King Hezekiah's men collected (Proverbs 25:1). Like previous passages, chapter 29 contrasts wisdom and folly, the benefits of heeding God's law and the devastating consequences of disobeying it, and the blessings of righteousness compared to the curses of sin.
What does Proverbs chapter 29 mean?
Chapter 25 began with a note indicating that King Hezekiah's men collected proverbs associated with Solomon (Proverbs 25:1). This passage concludes that compilation.
This chapter begins with one of Scripture's most dire warnings: those who stubbornly refuse to be corrected will face sudden, inescapable harm. Other lessons contrast righteous and ungodly governments and the effect they have on their nations. Sin brings consequences; often the person who plans evil is harmed by their own scheme. Solomon also notes the chaotic danger of foolish thinking. He reiterates the need for discretion in who we argue with—and when (Proverbs 29:1–11).
Similar themes appear in the last verses of the passage. Solomon warns about the need for godly wisdom and the dangers of letting wickedness take over a culture. As God is the ultimate source of all truth and goodness, He is the only reliable source of justice. The divide between those who honor God and those who seek their own sin is drastic: both sides are thoroughly repulsed by how the other lives (Proverbs 29:12–27).
The last two chapters of the book of Proverbs include wisdom associated with a man named Agur, a king named Lemuel, and a famous description of a godly woman.
