King James Version
Proverbs 20:22 in the King James Version says “Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.”
Proverbs 20:22 · King James Version
Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness. lamp: or, candle
An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.
Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good. a false: Heb. balance of deceit
Man's goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way?
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
“not thou I will recompense”
H7999to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate
“but wait on”
H6960to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e., collect; (figuratively) to expect
“the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
“and he shall save”
H3467properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor
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 20:22 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 20:22 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge