King James Version

What Does Proverbs 12:13 Mean?

Proverbs 12:13 in the King James Version says “The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. The wicked: Heb. The snar...” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. The wicked: Heb. The snare of the wicked is in the transgression of lips”

Proverbs 12:13 · KJV

Context

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

13

The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. The wicked: Heb. The snare of the wicked is in the transgression of lips

14

A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

15

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

Read Proverbs 12 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips, but the just shall come out of trouble. Sinful speech entraps the wicked - their own words become snare. Righteous persons escape trouble that wicked words create. This verse warns that verbal sins have consequences - lying, slander, and foolish speech entrap speakers. Conversely, righteous speech enables escape from dangers wicked speech creates.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Reflects covenant community where one's words could bring guilt or provide defense. False words ensnared speakers in contradictions and consequences; truthful words provided deliverance.

Reflection Questions

  1. How have your words created traps that have snared you?
  2. How can you guard your speech to avoid self-imposed troubles?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
בְּפֶ֣שַׁע1 of 7

“by the transgression”

H6588

a revolt (national, moral or religious)

שְׂ֭פָתַיִם2 of 7

“of his lips”

H8193

the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)

מוֹקֵ֣שׁ3 of 7

“is snared”

H4170

a noose (for catching animals) (literally or figuratively); by implication, a hook (for the nose)

רָ֑ע4 of 7

“The wicked”

H7451

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

וַיֵּצֵ֖א5 of 7

“shall come out”

H3318

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

מִצָּרָ֣ה6 of 7

“of trouble”

H6869

transitively, a female rival

צַדִּֽיק׃7 of 7

“but the just”

H6662

just

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 12:13 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 12:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 21:23Proverbs 11:8Psalms 64:8Proverbs 6:2Daniel 6:242 Peter 2:9

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 12 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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