King James Version

What Does Proverbs 15:13 Mean?

Proverbs 15:13 in the King James Version says “A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Proverbs 15:13 · KJV

Holy Spirit

Context

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.

14

The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

15

All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

Read Proverbs 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Merry heart produces cheerful countenance, while heartache crushes the spirit. Inner spiritual/emotional state manifests outwardly. Joy is fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), reflecting gospel transformation. Sorrow by worldly concerns versus godly sorrow producing repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10) shows different kinds of heartache.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

External appearance revealed internal state in cultures valuing honor and shame. A downcast face signaled social disgrace or personal disaster, while gladness demonstrated divine favor.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does your countenance typically reveal about your heart's condition?
  2. How can you cultivate gospel joy even amid difficult circumstances?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
לֵ֝ב1 of 8

“heart”

H3820

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

שָׂ֭מֵחַ2 of 8

“A merry”

H8056

blithe or gleeful

יֵיטִ֣ב3 of 8

“maketh a cheerful”

H3190

to be (causative) make well, literally (sound, beautiful) or figuratively (happy, successful, right)

פָּנִ֑ים4 of 8

“countenance”

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

וּבְעַצְּבַת5 of 8

“but by sorrow”

H6094

a idol; also, a pain or wound

לֵ֝ב6 of 8

“heart”

H3820

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

ר֣וּחַ7 of 8

“the spirit”

H7307

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

נְכֵאָֽה׃8 of 8

“is broken”

H5218

smitten, i.e., (figuratively) afflicted

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 15:13 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 15:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 17:22John 14:1Proverbs 18:14Proverbs 12:25Proverbs 15:152 Corinthians 7:10

Test Your Knowledge

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

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