King James Version

What Does Proverbs 30:11 Mean?

“There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.”

Context

Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain. deny: Heb. belie thee

Accuse not a servant unto his master, lest he curse thee, and thou be found guilty. Accuse: Heb. Hurt not with thy tongue

There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.

There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.

There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **There is a generation **. . .—The words *“*there is” are not in the Hebrew, so it is left in doubt what is the predicate of these four evil “generations,” whether Agur means by them to describe the men of his own time, or to say that such are unbearable. (Comp. Proverbs 30:21.) The same characters are to be found in the description of men of the “last days” (2Timothy 3:1 *sqq*)*.*

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 30:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.