King James Version
What Does Proverbs 11:31 Mean?
“Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.”
Context
29
He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.
30
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. winneth: Heb. taketh
31
Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(31) **Behold the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth.**—That is, even he shall be punished for his misdeeds, as were Jacob, Moses, David; how much more shall “the wicked and the sinner.” The LXX. translates freely, “If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?” a rendering adopted in 1Peter 4:18.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
Text Courtesy of BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission.
Bible Hub
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 11:31 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 11:31
1 Peter 4:17-18
→Jeremiah 25:29
→1 Corinthians 11:30-32
→2 Samuel 12:9-12
→Proverbs 13:21
→2 Samuel 7:14-15
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge