King James Version

What Does Proverbs 3:35 Mean?

Proverbs 3:35 in the King James Version says “The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools. shall be: Heb. exalteth the fools” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools. shall be: Heb. exalteth the fools”

Proverbs 3:35 · KJV

Context

33

The curse of the LORD is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the just.

34

Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly .

35

The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools. shall be: Heb. exalteth the fools

Read Proverbs 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The wise inherit glory but fools promote shame. The Hebrew 'nachal' (inherit) suggests receiving rather than earning - glory comes as inheritance to the wise. 'Qalon' (shame/disgrace) is what fools receive or display. This verse promises ultimate vindication for the wise and ultimate exposure for fools. While fools may temporarily appear successful, their end is disgrace; while the wise may suffer temporarily, their end is honor.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Biblical eschatology consistently promises ultimate reversal - the humble exalted, the exalted humbled; the persecuted vindicated, the persecutors judged. Proverbs anticipates final judgment where true wisdom is glorified and folly exposed. This gave hope to righteous sufferers throughout Israel's history.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does confidence in ultimate vindication help you endure present misunderstanding or mistreatment?
  2. What glory do the wise inherit, and how does that differ from earthly fame?
  3. In what ways should certainty of fools' eventual shame affect how you respond to their current success?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
כָּ֭בוֹד1 of 6

“glory”

H3519

properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness

חֲכָמִ֣ים2 of 6

“The wise”

H2450

wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)

יִנְחָ֑לוּ3 of 6

“shall inherit”

H5157

to inherit (as a (figurative) mode of descent), or (generally) to occupy; causatively, to bequeath, or (generally) distribute, instate

וּ֝כְסִילִ֗ים4 of 6

“of fools”

H3684

properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly

מֵרִ֥ים5 of 6

“shall be the promotion”

H7311

to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

קָלֽוֹן׃6 of 6

“but shame”

H7036

disgrace; (by implication) the pudenda

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 3:35 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 3:35 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 132:18Isaiah 65:13-15Psalms 73:24Daniel 12:2-31 Samuel 2:30Proverbs 13:8

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 3 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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