King James Version

What Does Proverbs 11:18 Mean?

Proverbs 11:18 in the King James Version says “The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward. — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.

Proverbs 11:18 · KJV


Context

16

A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.

17

The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

18

The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.

19

As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.

20

They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The wicked works a deceitful work, but to him that sows righteousness shall be a sure reward. Wicked labor is deceitful (sheqer - false, illusory) - appearing profitable but ultimately empty. Sowing righteousness brings certain (emet - true, faithful) reward. The agricultural metaphor emphasizes both effort (sowing) and harvest (reward). Righteousness may require patient cultivation, but the harvest is guaranteed.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Agricultural imagery pervaded wisdom literature in agrarian society. The principle that sowing determines harvest was self-evident and applied to moral life - sow righteousness, reap blessing.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are you currently sowing that will determine your future harvest?
  2. How does confidence in certain reward for righteousness sustain faithful labor?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
רָשָׁ֗ע1 of 8

The wicked

H7563

morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person

עֹשֶׂ֥ה2 of 8

worketh

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

פְעֻלַּת3 of 8

work

H6468

(abstractly) work

שָׁ֑קֶר4 of 8

a deceitful

H8267

an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)

וְזֹרֵ֥עַ5 of 8

but to him that soweth

H2232

to sow; figuratively, to disseminate, plant, fructify

צְ֝דָקָ֗ה6 of 8

righteousness

H6666

rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)

שֶׂ֣כֶר7 of 8

reward

H7938

wages

אֱמֶֽת׃8 of 8

shall be a sure

H571

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 11:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Proverbs 11:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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