Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version The king of Israel answered, “Tell him: ‘One who puts on his armor should not boast like one who takes it off.’” New Living Translation The king of Israel sent back this answer: “A warrior putting on his sword for battle should not boast like a warrior who has already won.” English Standard Version And the king of Israel answered, “Tell him, ‘Let not him who straps on his armor boast himself as he who takes it off.’” Berean Standard Bible And the king of Israel replied, “Tell him: ‘The one putting on his armor should not boast like one taking it off.’” Berean Literal Bible And the king of Israel answered and said, “Declare: ‘Let not him who is girding boast as him who is loosing.’” King James Bible And the king of Israel answered and said, Tell him, Let not him that girdeth on his harness boast himself as he that putteth it off. New King James Version So the king of Israel answered and said, “Tell him, ‘Let not the one who puts on his armor boast like the one who takes it off.’ ” New American Standard Bible Then the king of Israel replied, “Tell him, ‘He who straps on his weapons had better not boast like one who takes them off.’” NASB 1995 Then the king of Israel replied, “Tell him, ‘Let not him who girds on his armor boast like him who takes it off.’” NASB 1977 Then the king of Israel answered and said, “Tell him, ‘Let not him who girds on his armor boast like him who takes it off.’” Legacy Standard Bible Then the king of Israel answered and said, “Speak to him, ‘Let not him who girds on his armor boast like him who takes it off.’” Amplified Bible The king of Israel answered, “Tell him, ‘A man who puts on [his armor to go to battle] should not boast like the man who takes it off [after the battle has been won].’” Berean Annotated Bible And the king of Israel (he wrestles with God) replied, “Tell him: ‘The one putting on his armor should not boast like one taking it off. Christian Standard Bible The king of Israel answered, “Say this: ‘Don’t let the one who puts on his armor boast like the one who takes it off.’ ” Holman Christian Standard Bible The king of Israel answered, “Say this: ‘Don’t let the one who puts on his armor boast like the one who takes it off.’” American Standard Version And the king of Israel answered and said, Tell him, Let not him that girdeth on his armor boast himself as he that putteth it off. Contemporary English Version Ahab then answered, "Benhadad, don't brag before the fighting even begins. Wait and see if you live through it." English Revised Version And the king of Israel answered and said, tell him, Let not him that girdeth on his armour boast himself as he that putteth it off. GOD'S WORD® Translation The king of Israel answered, "The saying goes, 'Don't brag about a victory before you have even dressed for battle.'" Good News Translation King Ahab answered, "Tell King Benhadad that a real soldier does his bragging after a battle, not before it." International Standard Version But the king of Israel replied, "Tell him, 'The one who is starting to strap on his battle armor should never brag like the one who is taking it off.'" NET Bible The king of Israel replied, "Tell him the one who puts on his battle gear should not boast like one who is taking it off." New Heart English Bible The king of Israel answered, "Tell him, 'Do not let him who puts on his armor brag like he who takes it off.'" Webster's Bible Translation And the king of Israel answered and said, Tell him, Let not him that girdeth on his harness boast himself as he that putteth it off. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleAnd the king of Israel replied, “Tell him: ‘The one putting on his armor should not boast like one taking it off.’” World English Bible The king of Israel answered, “Tell him, ‘Don’t let him who puts on his armor brag like he who takes it off.’” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd the king of Israel answers and says, “Speak: Do not let him who is girding on boast himself as him who is loosing [his armor].” Berean Literal Bible And the king of Israel answered and said, “Declare: ‘Let not him who is girding boast as him who is loosing.’” Young's Literal Translation And the king of Israel answereth and saith, 'Speak ye: let not him who is girding on boast himself as him who is loosing his armour.' Smith's Literal Translation And the king of Israel will answer and say, Speak ye. He binding shall not boast as he loosening. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd the king of Israel answering, said: Tell him: Let not the girded boast himself as the ungirded. Catholic Public Domain Version And responding, the king of Israel said, “Tell him that one who is girded should not boast the same as one who is ungirded.” New American Bible The king of Israel replied, “Tell him, ‘Let not one who puts on armor boast like one who takes it off.’ ” New Revised Standard Version The king of Israel answered, “Tell him: One who puts on armor should not brag like one who takes it off.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd the king of Israel answered and said, Let him talk; nevertheless, the one who ties a knot is not more able than the one who can untie it. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And the King of Israel answered and said: “They have said, ‘He who binds is not able as he who loosens.’” OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And the king of Israel answered and said: 'Tell him: Let not him that girdeth on his armour boast himself as he that putteth it off.' Brenton Septuagint Translation And the king of Israel answered and said, Let it be sufficient; let not the humpbacked boast as he that is upright. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Ben-Hadad Attacks Samaria…10Then Ben-hadad sent another message to Ahab: “May the gods deal with me, and ever so severely, if enough dust remains of Samaria for each of my men to have a handful.” 11And the king of Israel replied, “Tell him: ‘The one putting on his armor should not boast like one taking it off.’” 12Ben-hadad received this message while he and the kings were drinking in their tents, and he said to his servants, “Take your positions.” So they stationed themselves against the city.… Cross References And the king of Israel replied, 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 “Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged before the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater One with us than with him. / With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles.” So the people were strengthened by the words of Hezekiah king of Judah. 1 Samuel 17:45-47 But David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. / This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand. This day I will strike you down, cut off your head, and give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the creatures of the earth. Then the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. / And all those assembled here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give all of you into our hands.” “Tell him: 1 Kings 18:18-19 “I have not troubled Israel,” Elijah replied, “but you and your father’s house have, for you have forsaken the commandments of the LORD and have followed the Baals. / Now summon all Israel to meet me on Mount Carmel, along with the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal and the four hundred prophets of Asherah who eat at Jezebel’s table.” 2 Kings 1:16 And Elijah said to King Ahaziah, “This is what the LORD says: Is there really no God in Israel for you to inquire of His word? Is that why you have sent messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron? Therefore you will not get up from the bed on which you are lying. You will surely die.” ‘The one putting on his armor 1 Samuel 17:38-39 Then Saul clothed David in his own tunic, put a bronze helmet on his head, and dressed him in armor. / David strapped his sword over the tunic and tried to walk, but he was not accustomed to them. “I cannot walk in these,” David said to Saul. “I am not accustomed to them.” So David took them off. Ephesians 6:11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes. should not boast Jeremiah 9:23-24 This is what the LORD says: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. / But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things,” declares the LORD. 2 Corinthians 10:17 Rather, “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” like one taking it off.’” Proverbs 24:17-18 Do not gloat when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart rejoice when he stumbles, / or the LORD will see and disapprove, and turn His wrath away from him. Obadiah 1:12 But you should not gloat in that day, your brother’s day of misfortune, nor rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction, nor boast proudly in the day of their distress. Proverbs 27:1 Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Luke 14:11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” James 4:6 But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Proverbs 25:14 Like clouds and wind without rain is the man who boasts of gifts never given. 2 Chronicles 25:19 You have said, ‘Look, I have defeated Edom,’ and your heart has become proud and boastful. Now stay at home. Why should you stir up trouble so that you fall—you and Judah with you?” Treasury of Scripture And the king of Israel answered and said, Tell him, Let not him that girds on his harness boast himself as he that puts it off. came [heb] approached 2 Kings 6:8-12 Then the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In such and such a place shall be my camp… 2 Kings 7:1 Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria. 2 Kings 13:23 And the LORD was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet. and thou shalt 1 Kings 20:28 And there came a man of God, and spake unto the king of Israel, and said, Thus saith the LORD, Because the Syrians have said, The LORD is God of the hills, but he is not God of the valleys, therefore will I deliver all this great multitude into thine hand, and ye shall know that I am the LORD. 1 Kings 18:37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again. Exodus 14:18 And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I have gotten me honour upon Pharaoh, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen. Jump to Previous Armor Armour Arms Boast Girdeth Girding Girds Harness Israel Loud Puts Putteth Putting Speak Talk TimeJump to Next Armor Armour Arms Boast Girdeth Girding Girds Harness Israel Loud Puts Putteth Putting Speak Talk Time1 Kings 20 1. Ben-Hadad, not content with Ahab's homage, besieges Samaria13. By the direction of a prophet, the Syrians are slain 22. As the prophet forewarned Ahab, the Syrians come against him in Aphek 28. By the word of the prophet, and God's judgment, the Syrians are smitten again 31. The Syrians submit; Ahab sends Ben-Hadad away with a covenant 35. The prophet, under the parable of a prisoner, 39. making Ahab judge himself, denounces God's judgment against him And the king of Israel replied This phrase refers to King Ahab, who was the ruler of the northern kingdom of Israel during the time of the divided monarchy. Ahab is often remembered for his marriage to Jezebel and his subsequent promotion of Baal worship, which led to significant conflict with the prophet Elijah. In this context, Ahab is responding to a message from Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram, who was threatening Israel. This interaction highlights the political tensions and frequent warfare between Israel and its neighboring nations during this period. Tell him: ‘The one putting on his armor should not boast like one taking it off.’” Persons / Places / Events 1. King AhabThe king of Israel during this time, known for his complex character and often criticized for his idolatry and disobedience to God. 2. Ben-Hadad The king of Aram (Syria), who was a powerful adversary of Israel and sought to conquer it. 3. Samaria The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where King Ahab reigned. 4. Aram (Syria) A neighboring kingdom to Israel, often in conflict with Israel during this period. 5. The Battle The context of this verse is a confrontation between Israel and Aram, where Ben-Hadad threatens Israel with war. Teaching Points Humility in ConflictAhab's response to Ben-Hadad teaches the importance of humility, especially in the face of conflict. We should not boast about victories before they are won. Trust in God's Sovereignty The verse reminds us to trust in God's control over the outcomes of our battles, whether they are physical, spiritual, or emotional. Wisdom in Speech Ahab's reply is a lesson in using wisdom and restraint in our words, particularly when provoked or threatened. Preparation and Prudence The imagery of putting on and taking off armor suggests the need for preparation and prudence in our spiritual and daily lives. Avoiding Presumption This passage warns against presumption and overconfidence, encouraging believers to remain grounded and realistic. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Kings 20:11?2. How does 1 Kings 20:11 teach us about humility in spiritual battles? 3. What does "let not him who puts on his armor boast" mean practically? 4. How can we apply the warning in 1 Kings 20:11 to our daily lives? 5. In what ways does 1 Kings 20:11 connect with Proverbs 16:18 about pride? 6. How can we ensure our confidence is in God, not ourselves, per 1 Kings 20:11? 7. What does 1 Kings 20:11 reveal about pride and humility in leadership? 8. How does 1 Kings 20:11 reflect the theme of overconfidence in the Bible? 9. What historical context surrounds the events of 1 Kings 20:11? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Kings 20? 11. Is there external evidence outside the Bible confirming Israel's victories over Aram recorded in 1 Kings 20? 12. How do the details of King Ahab's military campaigns in 1 Kings 20 align or conflict with other biblical passages about his reign? 13. Who was King Baasha in the Bible? 14. How plausible is it that just 232 junior officers could rout a massive Aramean army (1 Kings 20:15-21)? What Does 1 Kings 20:11 Mean And the king of Israel repliedAhab has just received Ben-Hadad’s arrogant demand for surrender (1 Kings 20:2-6). • The reply shows that even a flawed king can voice a timeless truth (cf. Numbers 22:38; John 11:51). • God had already sent a prophet promising victory (1 Kings 20:13), so Ahab speaks with divinely backed confidence, not empty bravado. Tell him The message is directed straight to Ben-Hadad, who is feasting and drinking in camp (1 Kings 20:12). • Proverbs 25:11 reminds us that a word “fitly spoken” is like apples of gold—Ahab’s sentence is brief, pointed, and memorable. • It echoes David’s respectful yet fearless answer to Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-47), shifting the focus from human strength to God-given outcome. The one putting on his armor Armor goes on before the battle, when the future is still uncertain. • Compare Saul dressing David in armor he had not tested (1 Samuel 17:38-39); preparation does not guarantee success. • 2 Chronicles 20:17 reminds Judah that victory is the Lord’s, even while they stand “armed and ready.” Should not boast The Bible consistently warns against pre-battle swagger. • Proverbs 27:1—“Do not boast about tomorrow.” • Psalm 20:7—“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” • James 4:13-16 exposes the folly of confident predictions that leave God out. Like one taking it off Armor comes off only after the conflict is settled. • Paul’s “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race” (2 Timothy 4:7) is the legitimate moment for reflection on victory. • Elijah’s calm dismissal of Ahab’s chariot in 1 Kings 18:46 illustrates post-battle composure rooted in God’s deliverance. • 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 urges believers to run so as to obtain the prize, not to assume it prematurely. summary 1 Kings 20:11 teaches that true confidence rests in God, not in human preparation or early bragging rights. Victory can only be claimed after the battle is over and the armor comes off. Until then, humility, reliance on the Lord, and measured words mark the faithful response. Verse 11. - And the king of Israel answered and said, Tell him Let not him that girdeth on his harness bout himself as he that putteth it off. [This proverb consists of four words in the Hebrew. The commentators cite the Latin, Ne triumphum canas ante victoriam, but proverbs to the same effect are found in most languages.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew And the kingמֶֽלֶךְ־ (me·leḵ-) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 4428: A king of Israel יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (yiś·rā·’êl) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 3478: Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc replied, וַיַּ֤עַן (way·ya·‘an) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 6030: To answer, respond “Tell him: דַּבְּר֔וּ (dab·bə·rū) Verb - Piel - Imperative - masculine plural Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue ‘The one putting on [his armor] חֹגֵ֖ר (ḥō·ḡêr) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular Strong's 2296: To gird, gird on, gird oneself should not אַל־ (’al-) Adverb Strong's 408: Not boast יִתְהַלֵּ֥ל (yiṯ·hal·lêl) Verb - Hitpael - Imperfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 1984: To shine like one taking [it off].’” כִּמְפַתֵּֽחַ׃ (kim·p̄at·tê·aḥ) Preposition-k | Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine singular Strong's 6605: To open wide, to loosen, begin, plough, carve Links 1 Kings 20:11 NIV1 Kings 20:11 NLT 1 Kings 20:11 ESV 1 Kings 20:11 NASB 1 Kings 20:11 KJV 1 Kings 20:11 BibleApps.com 1 Kings 20:11 Biblia Paralela 1 Kings 20:11 Chinese Bible 1 Kings 20:11 French Bible 1 Kings 20:11 Catholic Bible OT History: 1 Kings 20:11 The king of Israel answered Tell him (1Ki iKi i Ki 1 Kg 1kg) |
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