King James Version

What Does Proverbs 16:1 Mean?

Proverbs 16:1 in the King James Version says “The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. preparations: or, disposings” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. preparations: or, disposings”

Proverbs 16:1 · KJV

Context

1

The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. preparations: or, disposings

2

All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.

3

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. Commit: Heb. Roll

Read Proverbs 16 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This proverb addresses the relationship between human agency and divine sovereignty: 'The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD.' Humans prepare their hearts (ma'arakhei lev)—they plan, deliberate, and form intentions. Yet 'the answer of the tongue' (ma'aneh lashon) comes from the LORD. We may prepare what to say, but God determines what actually comes out and what effect it has. This balances human responsibility with divine providence. We must plan and prepare, yet recognize that God ultimately controls outcomes. This principle appears throughout chapter 16, which emphasizes God's sovereignty over human affairs (vv.2,4,7,9,33).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern wisdom often emphasized careful planning and human control over outcomes. Proverbs acknowledges the value of planning while insisting on God's ultimate sovereignty. This theological distinctiveness separated Israel's wisdom from surrounding cultures' humanistic approaches. The same tension between human responsibility and divine sovereignty runs through all Scripture, finding resolution in God's good providence.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you balance careful planning and preparation with trust in God's sovereign control over outcomes?
  2. Can you recall times when you planned one thing but God directed your words or actions differently, for His purposes?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
לְאָדָ֥ם1 of 6

“in man”

H120

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

מַֽעַרְכֵי2 of 6

“The preparations”

H4633

an arrangement, i.e., (figuratively) mental disposition

לֵ֑ב3 of 6

“of the heart”

H3820

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

וּ֝מֵיְהוָ֗ה4 of 6

“is from the LORD”

H3068

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

מַעֲנֵ֥ה5 of 6

“and the answer”

H4617

a reply (favorable or contradictory)

לָשֽׁוֹן׃6 of 6

“of the tongue”

H3956

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

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 16:1 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 16:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 19:21Proverbs 16:9Luke 21:14-15Philippians 2:13Proverbs 20:24Matthew 10:19-20

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 16 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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