King James Version

What Does Proverbs 15:11 Mean?

Proverbs 15:11 in the King James Version says “Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?”

Proverbs 15:11 · KJV

Context

9

The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

10

Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die. Correction: or, Instruction

11

Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?

12

A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.

13

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

Read Proverbs 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men? She'ol va'avaddon neged YHVH (שְׁאוֹל וַאֲבַדּוֹן נֶגֶד יְהוָה, Sheol and Abaddon before the LORD). She'ol (שְׁאוֹל, the grave, realm of death) and Avaddon (אֲבַדּוֹן, destruction, place of ruin) lie open (neged, נֶגֶד, before, in front of) God's sight. Af ki levey veney-adam (אַף כִּי לִבֵּי בְנֵי־אָדָם, how much more the hearts of sons of man). If even death's hidden realm is visible to God, certainly human hearts are. Nothing escapes God's omniscience—an awesome and sobering truth. Hebrews 4:13 declares all things are naked and open to Him.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient peoples viewed Sheol as mysterious and inaccessible—the realm beyond death's door. This proverb asserts God's complete knowledge penetrates even there. Job 26:6 states: "Hell is naked before him, and destruction hath no covering." Psalm 139:7-12 celebrates inability to hide from God. This truth comforted the righteous (God knows their faithfulness) and warned the wicked (hidden sins are fully known).

Reflection Questions

  1. How should God's complete knowledge of your heart—every thought, motive, desire—affect your daily life?
  2. Does God's omniscience bring comfort (He understands you fully) or fear (He sees all sin), and why?
  3. How does Jesus' atonement address the problem of God seeing all your heart's wickedness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 9 words
שְׁא֣וֹל1 of 9

“Hell”

H7585

hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates

וַ֭אֲבַדּוֹן2 of 9

“and destruction”

H11

abstract, a perishing; concrete, hades

נֶ֣גֶד3 of 9
H5048

a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before

יְהוָ֑ה4 of 9

“are before the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אַ֝֗ף5 of 9
H637

meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though

כִּֽי6 of 9
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

לִבּ֥וֹת7 of 9

“how much more then the hearts”

H3826

the heart

בְּֽנֵי8 of 9

“of the children”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אָדָֽם׃9 of 9

“of men”

H120

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

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 15:11 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 15:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 44:21Hebrews 4:13Psalms 139:82 Chronicles 6:30Job 26:6Revelation 2:23

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 15 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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