King James Version
What Does Proverbs 12:10 Mean?
“A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. tender: or, bowels”
Context
8
A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised. of a: Heb. perverse of heart
9
He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.
10
A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. tender: or, bowels
11
He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.
12
The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit. the net: or, the fortress
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **Regardeth the life of his beast.—**Rather, *knows their feelings *(comp. Exodus 23:9), and so can feel for them. God’s own care for the brute creation (Jonah 4:11) was shown in the merciful provisions of the Law, by which cattle shared the rest of the Sabbath, and had their portion of the corn as it was being trodden out (Deuteronomy 25:4).
**Tender mercies**.—What the wicked calls tenderness and kind treatment is really cruelty, as he takes no thought for the comfort of his beast.
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 12:10 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 12:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge