If anyone returns evil for good
This phrase highlights a moral principle deeply rooted in biblical teaching: the expectation of reciprocating good with good. The act of returning evil for good is seen as a grave injustice and a violation of the natural order established by God. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, hospitality and kindness were highly valued, and repaying good with evil would have been considered a serious breach of social and divine law. This principle is echoed in other scriptures, such as Romans 12:21, which advises believers to overcome evil with good. The idea is that such behavior disrupts the harmony intended by God and reflects a heart that is not aligned with His righteousness.

evil will never leave his house
The consequence of repaying evil for good is severe and enduring. The term "house" can be understood both literally and metaphorically, referring to one's family or household. In biblical times, the family unit was central to one's identity and legacy. The promise that evil will never leave such a house suggests a generational impact, where the consequences of one's actions affect not only the individual but also their descendants. This aligns with the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, as seen in Galatians 6:7-8, where actions have lasting repercussions. Theologically, this can be seen as a form of divine justice, where God allows the natural consequences of sin to unfold. It serves as a warning to maintain integrity and righteousness, reflecting the character of God, who is just and merciful.

1. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His proverbs often provide practical guidance for righteous living.

2. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context of Proverbs is ancient Israel, where wisdom literature was a key component of teaching and moral instruction.

3. The House
In this context, "house" refers not just to a physical dwelling but to one's family or household, indicating the broader impact of one's actions on their family and legacy.The Principle of Reciprocity
The verse highlights a fundamental biblical principle: actions have consequences. Returning evil for good disrupts the moral order and invites ongoing trouble into one's life.

Impact on the Household
Our actions affect not only ourselves but also our families. By choosing to repay good with evil, we risk bringing harm and discord into our homes.

Cultivating a Heart of Gratitude
Instead of responding to good with evil, cultivate gratitude and appreciation. Recognize and honor the good done to you by others.

The Call to Righteousness
As followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard of living, one that reflects God's righteousness and love, even in the face of wrongdoing.

The Importance of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a powerful antidote to the cycle of evil. By forgiving and choosing to do good, we break the chain of negativity and reflect God's grace.Verse 13. - Whoso rewardeth evil for good. This was David's complaint of the churlish Nabal (1 Samuel 25:21). Ingratitude shall surely he punished. Evil shall not depart from his house. Terribly has the ingratitude of the Jews been visited. They cried in their madness, "His blood be on us and on our children!" and their punishment is still going on. Injunctions on this subject are frequent in the New Testament (see Matthew 5:39; Romans 12:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Peter 3:9). The Talmud says, "Do not throw a stone into the well whose waters you have drunk." The Greeks felt the sting of ingratitude. Thus Leiodes complains to Ulysses ('Od.,' 22:319) -

Ὡς οὐκ ἔστι χάρις μετόπισθ εὐεργέων Two sayings of Publius Syrus are quoted ('Sent.,' vv. 219, 274): "Ingratus unus omnibus miseris nocet;" "Malignos fieri maxime ingrati docent."

Parallel Commentaries ...

If anyone returns
מֵשִׁ֣יב (mê·šîḇ)
Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 7725: To turn back, in, to retreat, again

evil
רָ֭עָה (rā·‘āh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 7451: Bad, evil

for
תַּ֣חַת (ta·ḥaṯ)
Preposition
Strong's 8478: The bottom, below, in lieu of

good,
טוֹבָ֑ה (ṭō·w·ḇāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2896: Pleasant, agreeable, good

evil
רָ֝עָ֗ה (rā·‘āh)
Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 7451: Bad, evil

will never
לֹא־ (lō-)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

leave
תָמ֥וּשׁ (ṯā·mūš)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 4185: To depart, remove

his house.
מִבֵּיתֽוֹ׃ (mib·bê·ṯōw)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 1004: A house


Proverbs 17:13 NIV
Proverbs 17:13 NLT
Proverbs 17:13 ESV
Proverbs 17:13 NASB
Proverbs 17:13 KJV

Proverbs 17:13 BibleApps.com
Proverbs 17:13 Biblia Paralela
Proverbs 17:13 Chinese Bible
Proverbs 17:13 French Bible
Proverbs 17:13 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Proverbs 17:13 Whoever rewards evil for good evil shall (Prov. Pro Pr)