King James Version
What Does Proverbs 27:19 Mean?
“As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.”
Context
17
Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.
18
Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.
19
As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.
20
Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied. never: Heb. not
21
As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(19) **So the heart of man **(answereth) **to man.—**What is in our own hearts we find in others also. Whatever are the distinguishing features of our own characters we discover and elicit the same in others. The merciful, the generous, the devout, the pure, recognise the same qualities in others, and themselves feel and receive sympathy from such persons. So the evil, too, find themselves in harmony with those of like disposition.
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 27:19 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 27:19
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge