King James Version

What Does Proverbs 22:21 Mean?

Proverbs 22:21 in the King James Version says “That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them th...” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee? to them: or, to those that send thee?”

Proverbs 22:21 · KJV

Truth

Context

19

That thy trust may be in the LORD, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee. even: or, trust thou also

20

Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,

21

That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee? to them: or, to those that send thee?

22

Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate:

23

For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

Read Proverbs 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Pursuing 'righteousness and mercy' leads to finding 'life, righteousness, and honour.' Those who seek to live justly and show compassion receive abundant blessing—true life (not mere existence), established righteousness, and honorable reputation. This isn't works-righteousness but describing the path of true discipleship. Those genuinely converted pursue godliness and mercy because they've been transformed. Such pursuit brings blessing both temporal and eternal. The threefold reward—life, righteousness, honor—encompasses comprehensive flourishing. This reflects Jesus' teaching: seek first God's kingdom and righteousness, and all necessary things will be added. Right priorities produce right outcomes.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Israelite covenant promised life and blessing for obedience. While the gospel fulfills this through Christ, the principle remains: those who pursue God find abundant life.

Reflection Questions

  1. Are you actively pursuing righteousness and mercy in daily life?
  2. What specific practices can you adopt to seek justice and show compassion more consistently?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
לְהוֹדִֽיעֲךָ֗1 of 8

“That I might make thee know”

H3045

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

קֹ֭שְׁטְ2 of 8

“the certainty”

H7189

equity (as evenly weighed), i.e., reality

אֲמָרִ֥ים3 of 8

“of the words”

H561

something said

אֱ֝מֶ֗ת4 of 8

“of truth”

H571

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

לְהָשִׁ֥יב5 of 8

“that thou mightest answer”

H7725

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

אֲמָרִ֥ים6 of 8

“of the words”

H561

something said

אֱ֝מֶ֗ת7 of 8

“of truth”

H571

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

לְשֹׁלְחֶֽיךָ׃8 of 8

“to them that send”

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

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 22:21 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 22:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Peter 3:15Luke 1:3-41 John 5:13John 20:31

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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