King James Version
What Does Proverbs 24:29 Mean?
“Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.”
Context
27
Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.
28
Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause; and deceive not with thy lips.
29
Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
30
I went by the field of the slothful , and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;
31
And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(29) **Say not, I will do so to him as he** **hath done to me.**—A wonderful anticipation this of New Testament teaching, very different from the spirit of Leviticus 24:19-20. Comp. Proverbs 20:22, and James 2:13, “For he shall have judgment without mercy that shewed no mercy.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 24:29 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 24:29
Proverbs 20:22
→Romans 12:17-21
→1 Thessalonians 5:15
→Matthew 5:39-44
→Proverbs 25:21-22
→2 Samuel 13:22-28
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge