King James Version

What Does Proverbs 11:2 Mean?

Proverbs 11:2 in the King James Version says “When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.”

Proverbs 11:2 · KJV

Wisdom

Context

1

A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight. A false: Heb. Balances of deceit just: Heb. perfect stone

2

When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

3

The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.

4

Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This proverb contrasts pride and humility: 'When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.' The sequence is causal—pride leads inevitably to shame. The Hebrew word for pride (zadon) denotes arrogance, presumption, and insolence. Shame (qalon) refers to disgrace, dishonor, and humiliation. Pride sets one up for a fall because it distorts reality, refuses correction, and overestimates one's abilities. The contrasting phrase presents humility (tsanu'im—the lowly, humble ones) as possessing wisdom. Humility enables learning, accepts correction, and maintains accurate self-assessment. This principle appears throughout Scripture: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient honor-shame cultures made this proverb particularly relevant. Public shame was a devastating social consequence, while honor was zealously guarded. Yet Proverbs insists that pursuing honor through pride backfires—only humility preserves true honor. This countercultural wisdom challenged ancient Mediterranean values just as it challenges modern self-promotion and image management.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what areas of your life does pride set you up for potential shame by refusing to acknowledge limitations or accept help?
  2. How can you cultivate genuine humility that leads to wisdom rather than false humility that is actually pride in disguise?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וַיָּבֹ֣א1 of 7

“cometh”

H935

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

זָ֭דוֹן2 of 7

“When pride”

H2087

arrogance

וַיָּבֹ֣א3 of 7

“cometh”

H935

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

קָל֑וֹן4 of 7

“shame”

H7036

disgrace; (by implication) the pudenda

וְֽאֶת5 of 7
H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

צְנוּעִ֥ים6 of 7

“but with the lowly”

H6800

to humiliate

חָכְמָֽה׃7 of 7

“is wisdom”

H2451

wisdom (in a good sense)

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 11:2 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 11:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 29:23Proverbs 16:18-19Proverbs 15:33Luke 18:14Proverbs 18:12Proverbs 3:34-35

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