King James Version
Proverbs 14:12 in the King James Version says “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.”
Proverbs 14:12 · KJV
The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy. his own: Heb. the bitterness of his soul
The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.
The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“There is”
H3426there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
“a way”
H1870a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
“which seemeth”
H6440the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
“unto a man”
H376a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
“a way”
H1870a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
“of death”
H4194death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin
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.
Proverbs 14:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Proverbs 14:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge